Pure Discoveries 12 Day Totara Tour
Auckland to Christchurch
Breadcrumb
New Zealand tour itinerary name and information
Pure Discoveries

Pure Discoveries 12 Day Totara Tour

Ready to tick some amazing New Zealand adventures off your bucket list? This comprehensive small group tour is jam-packed with a vast range of stunning experiences and journeys through Aotearoa New Zealand. You will get close-ups of fascinating historic events, amazing geothermal activities, and authentic Māori culture and hospitality. Your journey will include a cruise on the breath-taking Milford Sound and a train ride on the famous Tranz Alpine across the Southern Alps.

Currency selector
All prices are in
Tour summary and feature
Quick Itinerary Details

Small Group Tour Escorted

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

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Christchurch

12 days/11 nights

Hotel 4 star

 Pre and post tour options? YES

 Viewed 23 times in the last 7 days

Tour Inclusions

Christchurch Tram
Punting on the River Avon
Auckland City Tour
Maori Village Experience & Hangi (dinner), Rotorua
Rotorua City and Lakes Tour
Lake Wanaka Cruise and Island Nature Walk
Wanaka 4WD Tour
Milford Sound Cruise and Lunch
Arrowtown Lakes Distrit Museum
11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
Tour at a glance

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

Day 2: Auckland to Rotorua
Accommodation: Princes Gate Hotel (or similar)

Day 3: Rotorua to Christchurch
Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch (or similar)

Day 4: Christchurch to Fox Glacier
Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Fox Glacier Te Weheka Hotel (or similar)

Day 5: Fox Glacier to Wanaka
Accommodation: Edgewater Resort Wanaka (or similar)

Day 6: Wanaka free day
Accommodation: Edgewater Resort Wanaka (or similar)

Day 7: Wanaka to Te Anau
Accommodation: Distinction Hotels Luxmore, Te Anau (or similar)

Day 8: Te Anau to Milford Sound to Queenstown
Accommodation: Scenic Suites Queenstown (or similar)

Day 9: Queenstown free day
Accommodation: Scenic Suites Queenstown (or similar)

Day 10: Queenstown to Mt Cook to Twizel
Accommodation: MacKenzie Country Hotel, Twizel (or similar)

Day 11: Twizel to Christchurch
Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch (or similar)

Day 12: Depart Christchurch

Tour full itinerary

Detailed itinerary: 12 day tour starting in Auckland

Day 1 - Arrive in Auckland
Pure Discoveries 12 Day Totara Tour - Day 1
Pure Discoveries 12 Day Totara Tour

Ready to tick some amazing New Zealand adventures off your bucket list? This comprehensive small group tour is jam - packed with a vast range of stunning experiences and journeys through Aotearoa New Zealand. You will get close- ups of fascinating historic events, amazing geothermal activities, and authentic Māori culture and hospitality. Your journey will include a cruise on the breath-taking Milford Sound and a train ride on the famous TranzAlpine across the Southern Alps.

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.
Day 2 - Auckland to Rotorua
Pure Discoveries 12 Day Totara Tour - Day 2
Auckland to Rotorua

This morning, enjoy an Auckland City tour including panoramic views from Bastion Point, the informative Māori and Pacific Islands displays at the Auckland Museum, quaint Parnell Village, and some of the most popular waterfront areas. Departing Auckland we travel to Rotorua – the heart of New Zealand’s famous thermal and cultural region. On arrival, we will enjoy a city tour, before checking into our central accommodation. This afternoon we have some time out to relax before travelling to a local Marae (Māori Village). 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 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 3 - Rotorua to Christchurch
Pure Discoveries 12 Day Totara Tour - Day 3
Rotorua to Christchurch

Rotorua is the epicentre not only of New Zealand’s geothermal activity but of Māori heritage. No visit to Rotorua would be complete without including Te Puia, an active geothermal site and the nation’s centre 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. You are treated to a private guide throughout your time here. Next travel out to visit the Blue and Green Lakes, and Lake Tarawera- the site of Buried Village to see remains of the Māori village Te Wairoa that was devastated by the volcanic eruption of Mt. Tarawera during the night of June 10, 1886. The excavated village offers a first- hand insight into the chaos and destruction that ensued following the eruption of Mt. Tarawera. This eruption also destroyed the famed Pink and White Terraces, once considered to be the eighth wonder of the world. This afternoon fly to Christchurch. This afternoon 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.

Included- Flight to Christchurch

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
Day 4 - Christchurch to Fox Glacier
Pure Discoveries 12 Day Totara Tour - Day 4
Christchurch to Fox Glacier

From Christchurch traverse the Southern Alps aboard the famous Tranz-Alpine rail journey to Greymouth. From your carriage you’ll see the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland, followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. Your train then climbs into the Southern Alps. Once you have crossed into the Southern Alps you descend into the lush rainforests of Westland, to conclude the rail journey at the town of Greymouth. 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 Fox Glaciers flow from vast snowfields high in the Southern Alps, down almost to sea level

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 5 - Fox Glacier to Wanaka
Pure Discoveries 12 Day Totara Tour - Day 5
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 6 - Wanaka free day
Pure Discoveries 12 Day Totara Tour - Day 6
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 7 - Wanaka to Te Anau
Pure Discoveries 12 Day Totara Tour - Day 7
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 8 - Te Anau to Milford Sound to Queenstown
Pure Discoveries 12 Day Totara Tour - Day 8
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 9 - Queenstown free day
Pure Discoveries 12 Day Totara Tour - Day 9
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 10 - Queenstown to Mt Cook to Twizel
Pure Discoveries 12 Day Totara Tour - Day 10
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 11 - Twizel to Christchurch
Pure Discoveries 12 Day Totara Tour - Day 11
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
Day 12 - Depart Christchurch
Pure Discoveries 12 Day Totara Tour - Day 12
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

Tour quick quote
Instant quote or Book this tour

Pure Discoveries 12 Day Totara Tour

Step 1: Choose a preferred start date here
Step 2: Select number of guests and room configuration
Select the number of adults per room type
Double room (based on 2 adults in 1 room, 1 bed)
Twin room (based on 2 adults sharing 1 room with 2 beds)
Single occupancy (based on 1 adult in one room)
No pricing loaded - please choose another date or contact us
Your quote for this tour:
Start date:
End date:
Guests:
Rooms:
Total cost for ALL guests is:
NZD$0
This quote is based on vehicles to accommodate your party in the vehicle type. We suggest changing the car type or contacting us for the best options.
Save and send a copy of this quote to
or

NOTE: Instant quotes are subject to availability of specific accommodation and other inclusions. Our NZ touring experts will be in touch with you regarding this. Costs quoted in currencies other than New Zealand dollars (NZ$) are based on todays exchange rate and are  subject to change. Refer to our terms and conditions.

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

Tour departure list
See all departure dates & prices
Departure dates and prices
This tour has 8 departure dates.
All prices are in
Starts Status Twin/Double (2 people sharing) Single occupancy You save  
Sep 30, 2023
(Saturday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$7,950 NZD$10,250 Enquire Book
Nov 4, 2023
(Saturday)
Sold out
NZD$8,550 NZD$10,950
Dec 2, 2023
(Saturday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$9,150 NZD$11,650 Enquire Book
Jan 20, 2024
(Saturday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$9,150 NZD$11,650 Enquire Book
Feb 3, 2024
(Saturday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$9,150 NZD$11,650 Enquire Book
Feb 17, 2024
(Saturday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$9,150 NZD$11,650 Enquire Book
Mar 2, 2024
(Saturday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$9,150 NZD$11,650 Enquire Book
Mar 30, 2024
(Saturday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$9,150 NZD$11,650 Enquire Book
Apr 27, 2024
(Saturday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$8,550 NZD$10,950 Enquire Book
May 18, 2024
(Saturday)
Sold out
NZD$7,950 NZD$10,250
All prices are in
Contact form
Send enquiry about this tour
Your contact information
Subscribe to our Regular Newsletter for Inspiring Holiday Ideas
Tour recommendation

Some similar tours to this one

12 days Map
Pure Discoveries 12 Day Manuka Tour
View Tour
 
12 days Map
12 Days Inspiring Journeys - The Southern Drift 23/24
View Tour
 
10 days Map
10 Day Inspiring Journeys - Inspiring New Zealand 23/24
View Tour