Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour
Auckland to Christchurch
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Pure Discoveries

Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour

Join us for a three -week Small Group Journey that will take you on an adventure like no other. Experience the breath - taking scenery of snow-capped Alps, wander through lush tropical rainforests and relax on wide sandy beaches. You will learn how this beautiful land has been shaped by ancient volcanoes and southern seas, by Māori warriors and colonial settlers. Friendly local guides will share their cultural, historical and ecological expertise as you travel throughout Aotearoa– ‘the land of the long white cloud’

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Quick Itinerary Details

Small Group Tour Escorted

This suggested tour costs from NZD$12,250 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Christchurch

23 days/22 nights

Hotel 4 star

 Pre and post tour options? YES

 Viewed 49 times in the last 7 days

Tour Inclusions

Introducing Te Papa Museum Tour
Wellington Cable Car
Half day Marlborough wine tour
Cruise on the Interislander Ferry
Walk in the Abel Tasman National Park
Punakaiki Rocks
Lake Matheson and Blue Pools walk, Mt Aspiring National Park
Wanaka 4WD Tour
Lake Wanaka Cruise and Island Nature Walk
Milford Sound Cruise and Lunch
Arrowtown Lakes Distrit Museum
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Christchurch Tram
Punting on the River Avon
Cape Reinga and 90 Mile Beach Day Tour
Cruise to Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock, Bay of Islands
Auckland War Memorial Museum
Hot Water Beach visit
Te Puia Maori Arts & Crafts
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
Huka Falls
Mission Bay Estate Dinner
23 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners
Tour at a glance

Day 1: Arrive into Auckland
Accommodation: M Social Hotel Auckland (or similar)

Day 2: Auckland to Bay of Islands
Accommodation: Duke of Marlborough Hotel, Russell (or similar)

Day 3: Bay of Island free day
Accommodation: Duke of Marlborough Hotel, Russell (or similar)

Day 4: Bay of Islands to Auckland
Accommodation: Fable Auckland (or similar)

Day 5: Auckland to Coromandel Peninsula
Accommodation: Oceans Resort (or similar)

Day 6: Coromandel Peninsula free day
Accommodation: Oceans Resort (or similar)

Day 7: Coromandel Peninsula to Rotorua
Accommodation: Princes Gate Hotel (or similar)

Day 8: Rotorua free day
Accommodation: Princes Gate Hotel (or similar)

Day 9: Rotorua to Napier
Accommodation: Pure Discoveries Scenic Hotel Te Pania (or similar)

Day 10: Napier to Wellington
Accommodation: James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor Wellington (or similar)

Day 11: Wellington to Nelson
Accommodation: Heritage Rutherford Hotel Nelson (or similar)

Day 12: Abel Tasman National Park free day
Accommodation: Heritage Rutherford Hotel Nelson (or similar)

Day 13: Nelson to Punakaiki
Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Punakaiki (or similar)

Day 14: Punakaiki to Fox Glacier
Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Fox Glacier Te Weheka Hotel (or similar)

Day 15: Fox Glacier to Wanaka
Accommodation: Edgewater Resort Wanaka (or similar)

Day 16: Wanaka Free day
Accommodation: Edgewater Resort Wanaka (or similar)

Day 17: Wanaka to Te Anau
Accommodation: Distinction Hotels Luxmore, Te Anau (or similar)

Day 18: Te Anau to Milford Sound to Queenstown
Accommodation: Scenic Suites Queenstown (or similar)

Day 19: Queenstown free day
Accommodation: Scenic Suites Queenstown (or similar)

Day 20: Queenstown to Mt Cook to Twizel
Accommodation: MacKenzie Country Hotel, Twizel (or similar)

Day 21: Twizel to Christchurch
Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch (or similar)

Day 22: Christchurch free day
Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch (or similar)

Day 23: Depart Christchurch

Tour full itinerary

Detailed itinerary: 23 day tour starting in Auckland

Day 1 - Arrive into Auckland
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 1
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour

Join us for a three -week Small Group Journey that will take you on an adventure like no other. Experience the breath-taking scenery of snow -capped Alps, wander through lush tropical rainforests and relax on wide sandy beaches. You will learn how this beautiful land has been shaped by ancient volcanoes and southern seas, by Māori warriors and colonial settlers. Friendly local guides will share their cultural, historical and ecological expertise as you travel throughout Aotearoa – ‘the land of the long white cloud’.

Arrive into Auckland

Haere mai – welcome! Arrive in Auckland where you will be met and transferred to your accommodation. Spend the afternoon and evening at your leisure exploring the ‘City of Sails’.

Your accommodation: M Social Hotel Auckland (or similar)

A contemporary hotel for the curious, the explorers and those who thrive on new experiences. Functionally chic, this contemporary hotel overlooks the vibrant Princes Wharf that is home to a good array of dining, entertainment and shopping experiences.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 2 - Auckland to Bay of Islands
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 2
Auckland to Bay of Islands

Travel north via Auckland’s iconic Harbour Bridge visiting the Reed Memorial Park. Here walk along an elevated canopy walkway through a remnant of the original kauri forests– some kauri trees are known to be at least 500 years old. Take in the picturesque Whangārei Falls formed more than 2 million years ago, before continuing to the Bay of Islands, a stunning region of 144 sub-tropical islands scattered through warm shallow waters and bays abundant in natural wonders and marine life. Regarded as the birthplace of New Zealand, the Bay of Islands is rich in both Māori culture and early European history. You are welcomed to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, to learn the story of Waitangi including the signing of the 1840 treaty between Māori tribes and British settlers; the magnificent meeting house; the interactive and contemporary museum; and the war canoe (waka). Next, take a ferry to the seaside village of Russell spending the next two nights at the historic Duke of Marlborough Hotel.

Your accommodation: Duke of Marlborough Hotel, Russell (or similar)

The historic Duke of Marlborough Hotel is located on the waterfront in the charming village of Russell. Choose from a range of rooms including the Waterfront rooms with their spectacular views across to Paihia or the family rooms for those needing extra space. The onsite restaurant and bar is also a great place to relax and take in the views.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 3 - Bay of Island free day
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 3
Bay of Island free day

Today you have your choice of two excursions:

A) Discover the Far North of New Zealand. Journey along the magnificent 90 Mile Beach to Cape Reinga, the northern tip of New Zealand, where the Tasman Sea collides with the Pacific Ocean. This full day tour includes a picnic lunch.

B) Enjoy a Hole in the Rock Cruise. On the way to the Cape Brett Lighthouse, hold your breath as the skipper skilfully navigates through the famous Hole in the Rock and into Grand Cathedral Cave (conditions permitting). Return to Russell to meet a local guide for an insight into this historic town’s rip-roaring past!

Your accommodation: Duke of Marlborough Hotel, Russell (or similar)

The historic Duke of Marlborough Hotel is located on the waterfront in the charming village of Russell. Choose from a range of rooms including the Waterfront rooms with their spectacular views across to Paihia or the family rooms for those needing extra space. The onsite restaurant and bar is also a great place to relax and take in the views.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 4 - Bay of Islands to Auckland
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 4
Bay of Islands to Auckland

Head south through rural towns and past delightful beaches before arriving in Auckland; New Zealand’s largest and most cosmopolitan city to enjoy a sightseeing tour of the ‘City of Sails’ including panoramic views from Bastion Point; trendy Parnell Village the lovely bays of the waterfront drive; and the vibrant Viaduct Harbour area. Also enjoy a guided tour of the Auckland Museum which gives an excellent introduction to the artistic legacy and cultures of the indigenous peoples of the Pacific

Your accommodation: Fable Auckland (or similar)

Located right on Queen Street the Fable Auckland is boutique and stylish property with an ideal location to enjoy and explore the vibrant heart of the 'City of Sails'.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 5 - Auckland to Coromandel Peninsula
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 5
Auckland to Coromandel Peninsula

Travel across the fertile Hauraki Plains to Thames then head up the western side of the Coromandel Peninsula. This coastal drive is quite spectacular and on a clear day, keep an eye out for the SkyTower which can be seen across the Firth of Thames. Visit the nearby Driving Creek Railway climbing 120m on a narrow - gauge line to the ‘EyeFull’ Tower for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and back over the Hauraki Gulf. Drive east across the Peninsula through beautiful scenery to reach the resort of Whitianga on Mercury Bay.

Your accommodation: Oceans Resort (or similar)

Only a stone’s throw from the golden sands of Buffalo Beach, you will find the relaxed luxury Whitianga Apartments of Oceans Resort. All apartments have a full kitchen including oven, cook top, microwave as well as their own personal laundry with washing machine and laundry necessities provided.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 6 - Coromandel Peninsula free day
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 6
Coromandel Peninsula

White cliffs, golden beaches, inviting turquoise waters and green forests are the colours of the Coromandel, with scarlet highlights courtesy of the flowers of Pōhutukawa trees in summer, making this one of our favourite regions. Rightly famous is Hot Water Beach, where warm springs bubble up through the sand, and when the tide is right you can dig out your very own ‘spa’ pool for a wallow in the warm waters. Walk down into Cathedral Cove– your efforts are rewarded with one of the most photogenic beaches in New Zealand. Depart by water taxi back to Hahei where your driver will be waiting to take you to Cooks Beach – named after Captain James Cook who sailed on the HMS Endeavour into Mercury Bay in 1769 – famous for its long golden sandy beach which is now a popular retreat for Kiwis during summer month.

Your accommodation: Oceans Resort (or similar)

Only a stone’s throw from the golden sands of Buffalo Beach, you will find the relaxed luxury Whitianga Apartments of Oceans Resort. All apartments have a full kitchen including oven, cook top, microwave as well as their own personal laundry with washing machine and laundry necessities provided.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 7 - Coromandel Peninsula to Rotorua
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 7
Coromandel Peninsula to Rotorua

Taking the Pacific Coast Highway through the beachside towns of Whangamata and Tauranga in the beautiful Bay of Plenty before turning inland to visit a well-formed bushwalk with scenic lookouts over Okere Falls. Rotorua is the epicenter not only of New Zealand’s geothermal activity but of Māori heritage. No visit to Rotorua would be complete without including Te Puia, not only an active geothermal site but the nation’s cente for indigenous arts and crafts and a Kiwi conservation project. At Te Puia, it’s part of their culture to welcome, guide, entertain, and treat you like part of the family and you are treated to a private guide throughout your time here.

Your accommodation: Princes Gate Hotel (or similar)

The most famous hotel in Rotorua built in 1897 this 107 year old beautiful hotel is privately owned and operated. The Prince's Gate Hotel is not just a hotel but also an attraction and proudly deserves the phrase 'a hotel so good; they built the City around it.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 8 - Rotorua free day
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 8
Rotorua day

Today you have your choice of two excursions:

1. Visit the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, the site of the eruption of Mt. Tarawera in 1886. This devastating eruption buried local Māori villages and destroyed the world-famous ‘Pink and White’ silica terraces, once considered to be the eighth wonder of the world. This catastrophic event changed the landscape forever and created the valley you can now walk through, past boiling craters and jewel-coloured steaming lakes. Take a cruise across Lake Rotomahana to the site of the old silica terraces, hear the story of Guide Sophia and see the new terraces of silica slowly forming.

2. Experience the real Middle-Earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set. Visit the delightful setting for The Shire featured in Peter Jackson’s film trilogy, The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film series. Your Hobbiton guide will escort you through the ten-acre site, recounting fascinating details of how the movie set was created. The Hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, The Millhouse and other structures created for the films can be viewed, and you will see how this beautiful piece of Waikato farmland was transformed into The Shire from Middle-Earth.
This evening visit Tamaki Māori Village for Te Pā Tū. The evening experience and feast is aligned to and changes with the maramataka (Māori lunar calendar). Feast on Māori song, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within the forest Pā (village) amidst towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and forest - formed amphitheatre. Hākari (feasting) begins with forest horotai (canapes) and culminates in a lavish 4-course fusion feast. Hāngī is featured in varied seasonal menus designed by Māori chefs served to table, al fresco when weather is warm, or in the wharekai (dining room) if cooler. During summer months, Tū Te Rā celebrates harvest and concepts concerning ancient Māori warfare and peace. Over winter months, Tū Te Ihi celebrates the Matariki star cluster with mystical ritual, energy, and passion. Return hotel transfers included –other travellers will be on board.

Your accommodation: Princes Gate Hotel (or similar)

The most famous hotel in Rotorua built in 1897 this 107 year old beautiful hotel is privately owned and operated. The Prince's Gate Hotel is not just a hotel but also an attraction and proudly deserves the phrase 'a hotel so good; they built the City around it.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9 - Rotorua to Napier
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 9
Rotorua to Napier

Visit the powerful Huka Falls then view the vast Lake Taupō– more inland sea than lake, though its fresh waters teem with trout. Across the lake stands the mighty volcanic peaks of Ruapehu, Ngāuruhoe and Tongariro within the Tongariro National Park. Onto Napier to view one of the world’s most complete examples of Art Deco architecture, second (arguably) only to Miami Beach. This joyful seaside town had a tragic birth, being virtually levelled by fierce fires that followed the devastating 1931 earthquake. Napier was rebuilt in the most up -to- date style of the time, which today is referred to as Art Deco. This afternoon your local guide brings history and architecture alive with entertaining stories as you discover Napier on foot. Today’s journey has brought us to the North Island’s wine country, so this evening’s treat is dinner at New Zealand’s oldest winery, Mission Estate, where you enjoy dinner in the restored seminary buildings with sweeping views of Napier.

Your accommodation: Pure Discoveries Scenic Hotel Te Pania (or similar)

Scenic Hotel Te Pania offers 4-star accommodation of a truly international standard. The hotel's slender, curved form echoes the shape of the bay. Enjoy sweeping views out over the water from a premium waterfront location on Marine Parade.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10 - Napier to Wellington
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 10
Napier to Wellington

Travel through the vineyards and orchards of Hawke’s Bay and the bush- clad ranges of the Wairarapa into New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington. On arrival view New Zealand’s magnificent Parliament Buildings including the iconic ‘Beehive’ building. From the Kelburn lookout take the Wellington Cable Car down into the central city precinct before visiting Te Papa– one of the most exciting museums in the world, featuring New Zealand insights; the shaping of its land, the spirit of its diverse peoples, its unique wildlife, landscapes and its distinctive popular culture.

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.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 11 - Wellington to Nelson
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 11
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 12 - Abel Tasman National Park free day
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 12
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 13 - Nelson to Punakaiki
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 13
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 14 - Punakaiki to Fox Glacier
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 14
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 15 - Fox Glacier to Wanaka
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 15
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 in to 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 16 - Wanaka Free day
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 16
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 17 - Wanaka to Te Anau
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 17
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 18 - Te Anau to Milford Sound to Queenstown
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 18
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 19 - Queenstown free day
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 19
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 20 - Queenstown to Mt Cook to Twizel
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 20
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 21 - Twizel to Christchurch
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 21
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 22 - Christchurch free day
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 22
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 23 - Depart Christchurch
Pure Discoveries 23 Day Kauri Tour - Day 23
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 23 Day Kauri Tour

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Sep 20, 2023
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departure date
NZD$14,250 NZD$18,725 Enquire Book
Jan 24, 2024
(Wednesday)
Sold out
NZD$14,250 NZD$18,725
Feb 7, 2024
(Wednesday)
Sold out
NZD$14,250 NZD$18,725
Feb 21, 2024
(Wednesday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$14,250 NZD$18,725 Enquire Book
Mar 20, 2024
(Wednesday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$14,250 NZD$18,725 Enquire Book
Apr 17, 2024
(Wednesday)
Guaranteed
departure date
NZD$13,250 NZD$17,450 Enquire Book
May 8, 2024
(Wednesday)
Guaranteed
departure date
NZD$12,250 NZD$16,250 Enquire Book
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