Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour
Auckland to Christchurch
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Pure Discoveries

Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour

This Small Group Journey takes you through some of our favourite places and spaces in the North and South Islands, discovering fantastic coastlines and immersing you in Māori culture and history. Explore the geothermal wonders of the bubbling mud pools and ferocious geysers of Rotorua and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Abel Tasman National Park with opportunities to swim in its dazzling turquoise lagoons.

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Tour summary and feature
Quick Itinerary Details

Small Group Tour Guided

This suggested tour costs from NZD$11,250 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Christchurch

20 days/19 nights

Hotel 4 star

 Pre and post tour options? YES

 Viewed 100 times in the last 7 days

Tour Inclusions

Punakaiki Rocks
Lake Wanaka Cruise and Island Nature Walk
Wanaka 4WD Tour
Milford Sound Cruise and Lunch
Arrowtown Lakes Distrit Museum
Punting on the River Avon
Christchurch Tram
Hot Water Beach visit
Te Puia Maori Arts & Crafts
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
Huka Falls
Mission Bay Estate Dinner
Wellington Cable Car
Introducing Te Papa Museum Tour
Cruise on the Interislander Ferry
Half day Marlborough wine tour
Walk in the Abel Tasman National Park
19 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners
Tour at a glance

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

Day 2: Auckland to Coromandel Peninsula
Accommodation: Oceans Resort (or similar)

Day 3: Coromandel Peninsula free day
Accommodation: Oceans Resort (or similar)

Day 4: Coromandel Peninsula to Rotorua
Accommodation: Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Day 5: Rotorua free day
Accommodation: Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Day 6: Rotorua to Napier
Accommodation: Pure Discoveries Scenic Hotel Te Pania (or similar)

Day 7: Napier to Wellington
Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Wellington

Day 8: Wellington to Nelson
Accommodation: Heritage Rutherford Hotel Nelson (or similar)

Day 9: Abel Tasman free day
Accommodation: Heritage Rutherford Hotel Nelson (or similar)

Day 10: Nelson to Punakaiki
Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Punakaiki (or similar)

Day 11: Punakaiki to Fox Glacier
Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Fox Glacier Te Weheka Hotel (or similar)

Day 12: Fox Glacier to Wanaka
Accommodation: Edgewater Resort Wanaka (or similar)

Day 13: Wanaka free day
Accommodation: Edgewater Resort Wanaka (or similar)

Day 14: Wanaka to Te Anau
Accommodation: Distinction Hotels Luxmore, Te Anau (or similar)

Day 15: Te Anau to Milford Sound to Queenstown
Accommodation: Scenic Suites Queenstown (or similar)

Day 16: Queenstown free day
Accommodation: Scenic Suites Queenstown (or similar)

Day 17: Queenstown to Mt Cook to Twizel
Accommodation: Distinction MacKenzie Country Hotel, Twizel (or similar)

Day 18: Twizel to Christchurch
Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch (or similar)

Day 19: Christchurch free day
Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch (or similar)

Day 20: Depart Christchurch

Tour full itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 1
Pure Discoveries 20 day Pohutakawa Tour

This Small Group Journey takes you through some of our favourite places and spaces in the North and South Islands, discovering fantastic coastlines and immersing you in Māori culture and history. Explore the geothermal wonders of the bubbling mud pools and ferocious geysers of Rotorua and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Abel Tasman National Park with opportunities to swim in its dazzling turquoise lagoons.

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.
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 2
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
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 3
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
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 4
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 epicentre 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 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 and you are treated to a private guide throughout your time here.

Your accommodation: Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Rotorua's largest 4 star deluxe hotel is perfectly situated in the heart of the city overlooking Lake Rotorua. Five levels of accommodation offer guests a wide variety of scenic views.
Meals included: Breakfast
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 5
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: Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Rotorua's largest 4 star deluxe hotel is perfectly situated in the heart of the city overlooking Lake Rotorua. Five levels of accommodation offer guests a wide variety of scenic views.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 6
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
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 7
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: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Wellington

Located less than five minutes away from the waterfront in Wellington, this modern hotel offers luxury and convenience.  Adjacent to Wellington Cable Car, leading to the Botanic Garden, offering panoramic views of the city and home to a variety of dining and waterside activities.
Meals included: Breakfast
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 8
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.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Optional - Interislander Ferry: with Premium Plus

Enjoy the journey with the Premium lounges upgrade providing comfortable seating with free buffet and bar included. There really is no better way...

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Enjoy the journey with the Premium lounges upgrade providing comfortable seating with free buffet and bar included. There really is no better way to cross Cook Strait on our ferries!

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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
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 9
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
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 10
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
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 11
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).

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Optional - Neve Discoverer Scenic Flight with The Helicopter Line

The perfect opportunity to get up close to the glaciers and touch snow. You'll be captivated as you lift off and fly up and over the Franz Josef and e...

Read more

The perfect opportunity to get up close to the glaciers and touch snow. You'll be captivated as you lift off and fly up and over the Franz Josef and experience the solitude of a landing in this natural alpine wonderland. Duration - 20 Minutes. Should weather not be suitable to take this flight you are able to transfer your booking onto a similar tour on any of the Helicopter Line's operations in Queenstown or Mt Cook.

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SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Optional - Twin Glacier Scenic Helicopter Flight with The Helicopter Line

Explore the glacial icefalls of not one but two glaciers - Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier. Discover up close their neve and unusual ice formation...

Read more

Explore the glacial icefalls of not one but two glaciers - Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier. Discover up close their neve and unusual ice formations - landing on the snowfields is a highlight and will make for superb photos, snowballs and memories. A 30 minute flight with snow landing. Should weather not be suitable to take this flight you are able to transfer your booking onto a similar tour on any of the Helicopter Line's operations in Queenstown or Mt Cook.

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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
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 12
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

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Optional - Twin Glacier Scenic Helicopter Flight with The Helicopter Line

Explore the glacial icefalls of not one but two glaciers - Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier. Discover up close their neve and unusual ice formation...

Read more

Explore the glacial icefalls of not one but two glaciers - Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier. Discover up close their neve and unusual ice formations - landing on the snowfields is a highlight and will make for superb photos, snowballs and memories. A 30 minute flight with snow landing. Should weather not be suitable to take this flight you are able to transfer your booking onto a similar tour on any of the Helicopter Line's operations in Queenstown or Mt Cook.

Hide

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
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 13
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
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 14
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
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 15
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
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 16
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.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Optional - Skippers Canyon 4WD Adventure Tour

Nomad Safaris offers a complete 4WD tour into the historic Skippers Canyon. The Nomad Safaris Skippers Canyon adventure is a half-day heritage tour th...

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Nomad Safaris offers a complete 4WD tour into the historic Skippers Canyon. The Nomad Safaris Skippers Canyon adventure is a half-day heritage tour that follows the rugged and once treacherous Skippers Road. Travel the road that was hacked by hand into the sheer cliff sides of the Shotover River Valley making this an exciting adventure the whole family will enjoy. As your guide navigates this awe-inspiring canyon you will visit many historic sites such as the Skippers Suspension Bridge and the township of Skippers. Visit the restored school house where you will gain a real insight into the local heritage through photos and histories of life in this tough environment. British Automobile Association voted Skippers Canyon Road as one of the 25 most scenic roads in the world.

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SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Optional - Safari of the Scenes Queenstown Tour

For those keen on the Hobbit and Lord of The Rings films, join Nomad Safaris for an unexpectedly delightful journey. In safari-equipped 4WD vehicles, ...

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For those keen on the Hobbit and Lord of The Rings films, join Nomad Safaris for an unexpectedly delightful journey. In safari-equipped 4WD vehicles, you will be taken on a true off-road adventure. Experienced guides will take you on a breathtaking excursion through diverse scenery around the Whakatipu Basin. See historic Arrowtown and go over the Arrow River, as well as experiencing the truly remarkable views of the lake and mountain surround from the Skippers Canyon Saddle. Although no sets remain intact, the landscapes are instantly recognisable. Some of the sites you will visit during this tour include the Misty Mountains, Pillars of Kings and the Ford of Bruinen.

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SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Optional - TSS Earnslaw cruise to Walter Peak including gourmet BBQ dinner and a farm tour

Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience, a delicious gourmet BBQ buffet meal and a farm demonstration in a stunning lakeside setting. Take in the stunn...

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Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience, a delicious gourmet BBQ buffet meal and a farm demonstration in a stunning lakeside setting. Take in the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and its surroundings as you cruise across the lake to the historic Walter Peak high country farm aboard the TSS Earnslaw Steamship.
Enjoy the ambience of the heart of the stately homestead while your Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant chef prepares a gourmet BBQ dinner. Your seasonal menu includes an extensive selection of local New Zealand produce, including succulent meats and a selection of delicious vegetables and salads. Complete your meal with your choice of delicious desserts, New Zealand cheeses, tea and coffee.
After dinner, watch the farm dogs in action with a sheep-herding demonstration and say hello to the other farm animals. Finally, cruise home under the southern stars and enjoy the fresh night air as the lights of Queenstown draw ever closer.

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SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Optional - TSS Earnslaw cruise to Walter Peak including gourmet BBQ Lunch and a farm tour

Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience a delicious barbeque lunch and a farm tour in a stunning lakeside setting. First, take a scenic cruise from Que...

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Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience a delicious barbeque lunch and a farm tour in a stunning lakeside setting. First, take a scenic cruise from Queenstown to Walter Peak High Country Farm on board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw, one of the last remaining fully functional coal-fired passenger ships in the southern hemisphere.
Disembark and take in the picturesque shores of the Station. Relax on the lakeside terrace at the Colonel's Homestead Restaurant and savour the aromas of the best local produce being cooked on the grill. The seasonal menu has plenty to choose from salads, vegetables and succulent meat. If you're vegetarian, you will be well catered for also. Finish your meal with a scrumptious dessert before joining an entertaining farm demonstration or exploring the beautiful lakeside gardens.

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SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Optional - Queenstown Panaroma with The Helicopter Line

Fly above Queenstown over the Whakatipu Basin and capture the stunning panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Whakatipu and Glenorchy. Experience a seren...

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Fly above Queenstown over the Whakatipu Basin and capture the stunning panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Whakatipu and Glenorchy. Experience a serene and remote alpine landing with views of mountaintops, the glacially formed shores and sweeping high country grasslands.

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SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Optional - Glacier Explorers Mt. Cook

Experience 500 year old icebergs up-close on the Mt Cook terminal lake. The Glacier Explorers tour is the only one of its kind in New Zealand and one ...

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Experience 500 year old icebergs up-close on the Mt Cook terminal lake. The Glacier Explorers tour is the only one of its kind in New Zealand and one of only three in the world! Very few glaciers terminate into lakes and even fewer of them are accessible. See towering ice cliffs and floating icebergs from the safety of a specially designed boat. These boats provide a safe way to view unseen and inaccessible areas of New Zealand's largest glacier The Tasman.

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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
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 17
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

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Optional - Alpine Vista Heli Flight and Snow Landing with The Helicopter Line

This short scenic option is the ideal opportunity to touch snow and experience the thrill of a helicopter flight. Sweep through the rugged high-countr...

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This short scenic option is the ideal opportunity to touch snow and experience the thrill of a helicopter flight. Sweep through the rugged high-country landscape of the Ben Ohau Mountain Range to a landing site on a snow field high in the mountains. Enjoy the fantastic vista from this alpine setting as you look out to the mountains and glaciers and down into the valleys that were carved out by glaciers centuries ago. Should weather not be suitable to take this flight you are able to transfer your booking onto a similar tour on any of the Helicopter Line's operations in Queenstown or Mt Cook.

Hide
SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Optional - Glacier Explorers Mt. Cook

Experience 500 year old icebergs up-close on the Mt Cook terminal lake. The Glacier Explorers tour is the only one of its kind in New Zealand and one ...

Read more

Experience 500 year old icebergs up-close on the Mt Cook terminal lake. The Glacier Explorers tour is the only one of its kind in New Zealand and one of only three in the world! Very few glaciers terminate into lakes and even fewer of them are accessible. See towering ice cliffs and floating icebergs from the safety of a specially designed boat. These boats provide a safe way to view unseen and inaccessible areas of New Zealand's largest glacier The Tasman.

Hide

Your accommodation: Distinction 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
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 18
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
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 19
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
Pure Discoveries Pohutukawa Tour - Day 20
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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Apr 20, 2024
(Saturday)
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May 11, 2024
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Oct 26, 2024
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Jan 11, 2025
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Jan 25, 2025
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Feb 15, 2025
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Mar 8, 2025
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Apr 19, 2025
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May 10, 2025
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