Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour
Wellington to Christchurch
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Pure Discoveries

Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour

This tour squeezes more jaw- dropping scenery into two weeks than any other! The South Island has an unparalleled variety of landscapes from the majestic Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, to the stunning views across Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown, to the Remarkable Mountains.

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Quick Itinerary Details

Small Group Tour Escorted

This suggested tour costs from NZD$7,950 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Wellington, finishes in Christchurch

14 days/13 nights

Hotel 4 star

 Pre and post tour options? YES

 Viewed 25 times in the last 7 days

Tour Inclusions

Arrowtown Lakes Distrit Museum
Christchurch Tram
Punting on the River Avon
Cruise on the Interislander Ferry
Half day Marlborough wine tour
Walk in the Abel Tasman National Park
Punakaiki Rocks
Lake Wanaka Cruise and Island Nature Walk
Wanaka 4WD Tour
Milford Sound Cruise and Lunch
13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
Tour at a glance

Day 1: Arrive into Wellington
Accommodation: James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor Wellington (or similar)

Day 2: Wellington to Nelson
Accommodation: Heritage Rutherford Hotel Nelson (or similar)

Day 3: Abel Tasman National Park
Accommodation: Heritage Rutherford Hotel Nelson (or similar)

Day 4: Nelson to Punakaiki
Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Punakaiki (or similar)

Day 5: Punakaiki to Fox Glacier
Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Fox Glacier Te Weheka Hotel (or similar)

Day 6: Fox Glacier to Wanaka
Accommodation: Edgewater Resort Wanaka (or similar)

Day 7: Wanaka Free Day
Accommodation: Edgewater Resort Wanaka (or similar)

Day 8: Wanaka to Te Anau
Accommodation: Distinction Hotels Luxmore, Te Anau (or similar)

Day 9: Te Anau to Milford Sound to Queenstown
Accommodation: Scenic Suites Queenstown (or similar)

Day 10: Queenstown Free Day
Accommodation: Scenic Suites Queenstown (or similar)

Day 11: Queenstown to Mt Cook to Twizel
Accommodation: MacKenzie Country Hotel, Twizel (or similar)

Day 12: Twizel to Christchurch
Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch (or similar)

Day 13: Christchurch Free Day
Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch (or similar)

Day 14: Depart Christchurch

Tour full itinerary

Detailed itinerary: 14 day tour starting in Wellington

Day 1 - Arrive into Wellington
Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour - Day 1
Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour

This tour squeezes more jaw- dropping scenery into two weeks than any other! The South Island has
an unparalleled variety of landscapes from the majestic Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, to the stunning
views across Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown, to the Remarkable
Mountains

Pure Discoveries Arrive into Wellington

Haere mai– welcome! Today is yours to explore New Zealand’s friendly capital city. Wander along Oriental Parade and around the bays, or explore Cuba Street with its eclectic mix of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. A visit to Te Papa, the national museum and one of the most exciting museums in the world, is highly recommended for insights into New Zealand's history, culture, wildlife, and landscapes

Your accommodation: James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor Wellington (or similar)

At the heart of Wellingtons commercial and retail districts the James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor has 260 well appointed rooms and suites. Located on The Terrace, nearby to the Cable Car, Parliament, TSB Arena, Te Papa and Westpac Stadium, this is a great base to explore New Zealand's thriving capital city.
Day 2 - Wellington to Nelson
Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour - Day 2
Wellington to Nelson

Your day commences with one of the most beautiful ferry journeys in the world. Traveling through the waters of Cook Strait and Queen Charlotte Sound the ferry is often accompanied by dolphins riding the bow waves. Disembarking in Picton travel the short distance to Blenheim in the heart of the Marlborough wine country. What better way to enjoy this region famous for its Sauvignon Blanc than with a wine tasting at one of Marlborough’s premier wineries? From Marlborough cross to the Nelson district a corner of the South Island is blessed with a sunny microclimate and your base for the next two nights.

Your accommodation: Heritage Rutherford Hotel Nelson (or similar)

The Rutherford Hotel Nelson offers luxurious accommodation with a full complement of features designed to help you achieve the most from your stay. Situated at the doorstep of three national parks and an unmatched range of sandy beaches, blue seas and mountain wilderness.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 3 - Abel Tasman National Park
Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour - Day 3
Abel Tasman National Park

Paradise found! Abel Tasman National Park is a mosaic of golden coves and turquoise lagoons sheltered by forested ranges to the south. With few roads in this pristine wilderness, most journeys are made by boat. This morning from Kaiteriteri, your tour includes a choice of one activity from these three options:

A) Non-Walking Option: Full Park Scenic Cruise (3-4 hour cruise) Enjoy a morning cruise exploration of New Zealand’s smallest National Park. View world-famous Split Apple Rock, New Zealand Fur Seals, the golden sands and turquoise waters of Anchorage, Bark Bay, Tonga Quarry, Awaroa and Tōtaranui Beach. Enjoy time at your leisure in Kaiteriteri, and return to Nelson on the late afternoon transfer.

B) Walking Option 1: Astrolabe Beaches and Bays (7km, 2.5 hour walk) After the Full Park Scenic Cruise, disembark at Apple Tree Bay for a self - guided walk to fabulous Anchorage Beach. Late afternoon shuttle transfer back to Nelson.

C) Walking Option 2: Forest and Swing-Bridge (10.5km, 4 hour walk) After the Full Park Scenic Cruise, disembark at Medlands Beach for a rewarding and varied self-guided walk to Anchorage Beach including the scenic highlights of the South Head lookout, the famous Falls River swing-bridge and Cleopatra’s Pool. Late afternoon shuttle transfer back to Nelson.

Your accommodation: Heritage Rutherford Hotel Nelson (or similar)

The Rutherford Hotel Nelson offers luxurious accommodation with a full complement of features designed to help you achieve the most from your stay. Situated at the doorstep of three national parks and an unmatched range of sandy beaches, blue seas and mountain wilderness.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 4 - Nelson to Punakaiki
Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour - Day 4
Nelson to Punakaiki

Journey south along the Great Coast Road which was recently voted one of the top ten coastal drives in the world by Lonely Planet. Pass through historic towns reaching Hokitika and its galleries specialising in pounamu (greenstone) jewellery and artworks. Stretch your legs at the dramatic Hokitika Gorge where the blue/green waters pass through the rugged rocks. Continue south through forests and farmland, with views of the Alps to the east and the Tasman Sea to the west, to Franz Josef then on to the small remote village of Fox. The huge rivers of snow and ice of the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers flow from vast snowfields high in the Southern Alps, down almost to sea level. Weather permitting, an optional helicopter ride with a snow landing is a terrific way to experience the sheer grandeur of these West Coast glaciers (extra cost).

Your accommodation: Scenic Hotel Punakaiki (or similar)

Scenic Hotel Punakaiki is a modern, award-winning hotel complex, architecturally designed to harmonious with the local environment. Nestled in the foothills of Papaproa National Park the resort has spectacular views of the Wild West Coast beaches while all rooms have rainforest and/or ocean views.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 5 - Punakaiki to Fox Glacier
Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour - Day 5
Punakaiki to Fox Glacier

Journey south along the Great Coast Road which was recently voted one of the top ten coastal drives in the world by Lonely Planet. Pass through historic towns reaching Hokitika and its galleries specialising in pounamu (greenstone) jewellery and art works. Stretch your legs at the dramatic Hokitika Gorge where the blue/green waters pass through the rugged rocks. Continue south through forests and farmland, with views of the Alps to the east and the Tasman Sea to the west, to Franz Josef then on to the small remote village of Fox. The huge rivers of snow and ice of the Franz Josef and FoxGlaciers flow from vast snowfields high in the Southern Alps, down almost to sea level. Weather permitting, an optional helicopter ride with a snow landing is a terrific way to experience the sheer grandeur of these West Coast glaciers (extra cost).

Your accommodation: Distinction Hotel Fox Glacier Te Weheka Hotel (or similar)

A modern, purpose built boutique Fox Glacier hotel. Distinctions Te Weheka Boutique Hotel provides a balance of luxury, privacy and location, while being only a short stroll to Fox Glacier village.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 6 - Fox Glacier to Wanaka
Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour - Day 6
Fox Glacier to Wanaka

Have your camera ready for your visit to nearby Lake Matheson for a morning stroll -when conditions are right the lake perfectly mirrors beautiful Mt. Cook in its still waters. Head over the Haast Pass along the river road beside the icy river and deep into Mt. Aspiring National Park. The atmosphere lightens as we reach lovely Lake Wānaka, reflecting the mountain peaks that in winter offer superb skiing, and the pretty resort town of Wānaka

Your accommodation: Edgewater Resort Wanaka (or similar)

Edgewater is Wanaka's leading hotel located right on the edge of Lake Wanaka. A short stroll to the town centres shops, cafes and restaurants and close to many walking trails the resort is ideal to explore this wonderful Alpine setting.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 7 - Wanaka Free Day
Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour - Day 7
Wanaka Day

This morning you have your choice of one of two excursions:

A) Today, join a passionate local eco-guide. Depart Wānaka by boat and quickly leave civilisation behind as you cruise across the lake to a predator-free island. A walking track leads from the landing and climbs steadily through native vegetation, filled with very vocal birdlife, to the top of the “island’s secret”; a lake on top of the island with a small island in it! Music will fill your ears, as the echo of birdsong here is astounding. Carrying on a little further you come to the very top of the island and have a sweeping 360-degree view of Lake Wānaka, its surrounding mountains and valleys, and the Arethusa Pool below. This is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the panorama. The flightless Buff Weka often join visitors on the island; this rare flightless bird has been extinct on Mainland NZ since 1920.

B) Experience New Zealand's most authentic 4WD adventure, the perfect mix of incredible scenery, history, heritage and farming life. Explore remote and seldom-travelled back roads of an authentic New Zealand High Country farm overlooking sparkling Lake Wānaka. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, glaciers and wild river valleys, you'll see farm animals including Red Deer, cattle and sheep up close. Visit historical sites and experience what life was like for Wānaka's first farmers. With two optional walks through pristine alpine meadows and ancient lakeside forests, this journey offers a unique insight into Wānaka’s rich history, heritage, modern-day farming life and breath-taking scenery.

This afternoon is at your leisure to relax or enjoy your own choice of activities.

Your accommodation: Edgewater Resort Wanaka (or similar)

Edgewater is Wanaka's leading hotel located right on the edge of Lake Wanaka. A short stroll to the town centres shops, cafes and restaurants and close to many walking trails the resort is ideal to explore this wonderful Alpine setting.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 8 - Wanaka to Te Anau
Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour - Day 8
Wanaka to Te Anau

Depart Wānaka with our first stop at the much- photographed Cardrona Pub before traversing the Crown Range road to visit historic Arrowtown – a delightful gold rush village nestled below the beautiful peaks that surround the sparkling Arrow River. Continue your journey via the road pinned between the base of the Remarkables mountain range and the spectacular Lake Wakatipu. Journey through a glacial formed valley that is now farmland, to reach Lake Te Anau, the largest (by volume) freshwater lake in the South Island and gateway to Fiordland National Park.

Your accommodation: Distinction Hotels Luxmore, Te Anau (or similar)

The Te Anau Hotel and Villas offers a range of accommodation from hotel rooms and suites to villas. Ideally located on the lake front the hotel is just a few minutes stroll for the shops. cafes and activities on offer.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 9 - Te Anau to Milford Sound to Queenstown
Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour - Day 9
Te Anau to Milford Sounds to Queenstown

The journey from Te Anau to Milford Sound is one of the most scenic experiences you can have on four wheels. Fiordland National Park, part of the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Areais on of the great wilderness areas of the Southern Hemisphere. The scenery is spectacular with lofty mountains and deep valleys carved out by Ice Age glaciers. Described by Rudyard Kipling as the ‘eighth wonder of the world’, Milford Sound is breath- taking in any weather. Board a comfortable vessel for a cruise past towering Mitre Peak to the Tasman Sea. Keep an eye peeled for seals and dolphins which are often seen in the waters of the fiord. Following the cruise, retrace your journey back to Te Anau travelling via the Cleddeau Gorge, Homer Tunnel and the lovely Eglinton Valley then across the Southland farmlands and around spectacular Lake Wakatipu to Queenstown

Your accommodation: Scenic Suites Queenstown (or similar)

Scenic Suites Queenstown offers guests exquisite style, comfort and spectacular views over Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps. The hotel prides itself on its four star hospitality that will make your stay in Queenstown even more memorable.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 10 - Queenstown Free Day
Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour - Day 10
Queenstown free day

Surrounded by majestic mountains and set on the shores of crystal -clear Lake Wakatipu, the natural beauty and the unique energy of Queenstown create the perfect backdrop for a visit full of adventure, exploration or relaxation. Today is free for you to do your own thing: thrill seekers may choose to zip- line at Bob’s Peak, get drenched on a Shotover jet -boat ride or go white -water rafting. Other enjoyable but less hair -raising activities include the gondola ride up to Bob’s Peak, or a 4WD safari to Skippers Canyon. Boutique wineries and local gardens welcome visitors and the classic steamship TSS Earnslaw is an elegant way to discover Lake Wakatipu during a cruise to Walter Peak High Country Farm.

Your accommodation: Scenic Suites Queenstown (or similar)

Scenic Suites Queenstown offers guests exquisite style, comfort and spectacular views over Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps. The hotel prides itself on its four star hospitality that will make your stay in Queenstown even more memorable.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 11 - Queenstown to Mt Cook to Twizel
Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour - Day 11
Queenstown to Mt Cook to Twizel

Continue north through the rugged Kawarau Gorge, past pretty Lake Dunstan and across the distinctive Central Otago countryside to the Lindis Pass. Descend into the unique Mackenzie Basin where the Southern Alps dominate the horizon. Take a beautiful drive along Lake Pukaki to Mt. Cook Village, home to New Zealand’s tallest peak, Aoraki/Mt. Cook. We stay overnight in the rural town of Twizel

Your accommodation: MacKenzie Country Hotel, Twizel (or similar)

Located in the heart of the Mackenzie region the hotel's natural stone architecture compliments the mountains and rivers of New Zealand's Southern Alps. With 108 well equipped rooms the hotel can offer every facility needed for a comfortable stay.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 12 - Twizel to Christchurch
Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour - Day 12
Twizel to Christchurch

Visit a local home set on the shores of Lake Tekapo and learn the secrets of making a Pavlova - a truly Kiwi dessert! For morning tea, enjoy the taste of your pavlova as you drink in the views of this beautiful lake. View the Church of the Good Shepherd, one of New Zealand’s most -photographed spots; a tiny church set against a majestic backdrop of the Southern Alps. Pass across the high country’s tussock plains, through the small rural towns of Fairlie and Geraldine, and onto Ashburton. From here travel across the fertile Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. Most English of New Zealand cities suffered a succession of terrible earthquakes in 2010/11. Post-earthquake the city combines urban regeneration and innovation with heritage, culture, and creativity.

Your accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch (or similar)

This 4 star hotel is centrally located in the revitalised Cathedral Square. Ideally positioned, only a few minutes walk from the brand new Christchurch Convention Centre.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 13 - Christchurch Free Day
Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour - Day 13
Christchurch free day

This morning we join punting boatmen, resplendent with straw boaters and traditional Edwardian dress for a relaxing cruise in flat-bottomed punts along the River Avon through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Enjoy a journey in style onboard a beautifully restored heritage tram through the changing face of Christchurch’s city centre. This is the final part of our journey together so tonight we enjoy a relaxed farewell dinner at a local restaurant

Your accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch (or similar)

This 4 star hotel is centrally located in the revitalised Cathedral Square. Ideally positioned, only a few minutes walk from the brand new Christchurch Convention Centre.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 14 - Depart Christchurch
Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour - Day 14
Depart Christchurch

Haere rā– farewell from New Zealand. After breakfast you are transferred to the Christchurch Airport for your return home, taking with you your fond memories of your time in New Zealand. Alternatively, should you wish to extend your stay, we can assist you with additional travel arrangements

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Pure Discoveries 14 Day Mount Cook Lily Tour

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Remember - we can create this itinerary with any style of accommodation or customise to suit your interests and timeframe. Just contact us here.

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This tour has 9 departure dates.
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Starts Status Twin/Double (2 people sharing) Single occupancy You save  
Sep 29, 2023
(Friday)
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NZD$8,000 NZD$10,600 Enquire Book
Nov 3, 2023
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NZD$8,600 NZD$11,300 Enquire Book
Dec 1, 2023
(Friday)
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NZD$9,200 NZD$12,050
Jan 19, 2024
(Friday)
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Feb 2, 2024
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Feb 16, 2024
(Friday)
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Mar 1, 2024
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Mar 29, 2024
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Apr 26, 2024
(Friday)
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May 17, 2024
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