South Island Explorer - 12 days

South Island Explorer - 12 days

56 Views
12 Days From

$5565

$5128

South Island Explorer - 12 days

12 Days Starting in Auckland, New Zealand and ending in Christchurch, New Zealand

Visiting: Auckland, Rotorua, Fox Glacier, Wanaka, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Twizel, Christchurch

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 16

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

From: $5565 $5128 Operator discount: -$278 Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$159

NB: Prices correct on 13-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a 12-day South Island Explorer tour through New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture. Begin in Auckland with a guided city tour, then journey to Rotorua for a Te Pa Tu Maori cultural evening and explore the geothermal wonders of Te Puia. Experience the majestic Redwood Forest before flying to Christchurch for a punting experience and a heritage tram ride. Traverse the Southern Alps on the iconic Tranz-Alpine Rail Journey, visit the stunning Fox Glacier, and choose between an eco-tour or a 4WD adventure in Wanaka. Cruise the awe-inspiring Milford Sound, explore Queenstown's thrilling activities, and savor the serene beauty of Lake Tekapo. Conclude your adventure in Christchurch, enriched by the diverse experiences and natural wonders of New Zealand's South Island. Enjoy comfortable 4-star accommodations, guided tours, and seamless transfers throughout this unforgettable journey.

Highlights

  • Auckland - Enjoy the view from Bastion Point and visit Auckland Museum on a guided city tour

  • Rotorua - Visit the Te Puia geothermal site and experience a Te Pa Tu Maori cultural evening

  • Redwood Forest - Walk among towering redwood trees on suspension bridges and elevated walkways

  • Christchurch - Experience punting on the River Avon and ride a restored heritage tram

  • Tranz-Alpine Rail Journey - Cross the Southern Alps and enjoy breathtaking scenery

  • Milford Sound - Cruise through Fiordland National Park and look out for dolphins

  • Lake Tekapo - Visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd against a majestic backdrop

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Auckland

Location: Auckland

Accommodation Name: hotel

Upon arrival into Auckland you will be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel. The rest of the day offers free time to explore the local area.

Day 2: Auckland

Location: Rotorua

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Auckland – Rotorua. This morning we enjoy an Auckland City tour with panoramic views from Bastion Point, Maori and Pacific Island displays at the Auckland Museum, the quaint Parnell Village, and the picturesque waterfront. Following this we leave Auckland and head to Rotorua, the heart of New Zealand's thermal and cultural region. When we arrive we will take part in a city tour before heading to our nights accommodation.





In the afternoon we have some time to relax before we visit Tamaki Maori Village for Te Pa Tu, an evening experience and feast that changes with the Maori lunar calendar. We experience Maori culture and feast on seasonal cuisine in the forest Pa surrounded by Tawa trees and bonfires. The 4-course fusion feast includes Hangi dishes served al fresco or in the dining room, depending on the weather.





In the summer, Tu Te Ra celebrates harvest and ancient Maori concepts of warfare and peace, whilst in winter, Tu Te Ihi celebrates the Matariki star cluster with rituals, energy, and passion. Return hotel transfers are included; other travellers will be on board.



Day 3: Rotorua

Location: Rotorua

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Rotorua – Christchurch. In Rotorua, we'll experience both New Zealand's geothermal wonders and rich Maori heritage. Te Puia is a must-visit, featuring active geothermal sites, indigenous arts, crafts, and a Kiwi conservation project. Their welcoming culture means they treat you like family and we are treated with a private guide whilst we are here.





Following this we head to the Redwood Forest for a Redwood Treewalk Day Walk with 28 suspension bridges among 120-year-old Californian coastal redwoods. These elevated walkways offer a unique view of the undergrowth from 12 meters above the ground.





In the afternoon we fly to Christchurch. On arrival, we join punting boatmen in traditional Edwardian dress for a leisurely River Avon cruise through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. We then enjoy a stylish journey on a heritage tram through the ever-changing city centre.



Day 4: Christchurch

Location: Fox Glacier

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Christchurch – Fox Glacier. Today we embark on the renowned Tranz-Alpine rail journey through the Southern Alps to Greymouth. We'll see the vast Canterbury Plains and farmland which is followed by the breathtaking gorges and valleys of the Waimakariri River. We then ascend into the Southern Alps which we then cross to reach the lush rainforests of Westland before concluding the journey at the town of Greymouth.





Driving further south we visit the town of Hokitika and its galleries of greenstone jewellery and artwork. Continuing to Hokitika Gorge we stretch our legs and discover the blue/green waters that pass through the rugged rocks. Following the road south we reach Franz Josef and then on to the Village of Fox which is where 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. If the weather allows there is the option of a helicopter ride over the glaciers at an extra cost.

Day 5: Fox Glacier

Location: Wanaka

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Fox Glacier – Wanaka. First thing today we visit nearby Lake Matheson which, when weather conditions are just right, perfectly mirrors Mount Cook in its waters creating a stunning visual effect. From here we head up over the Haast Past along the river road, which took more than 40 years to complete, travelling deep into Mt Aspiring National Park to Lake Wanaka and the picturesque resort town of Wanaka.

Day 6: Wanaka

Location: Wanaka

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your choice of activity today must be made at the time of booking. Please let our Reservations team know which included activity you would like to partake in.





Today we have a choice of two included excursions. Option 1 sees you join an eco tour. Depart Wanaka by boat and escape civilisation as we cruise to an island where we hike through vibrant native vegetation to find a hidden mountaintop lake surrounded by small islands. We trek on to reach the island's summit for a 360-degree view of Lake Wanaka, its mountains and valleys, and the Arethusa Pool. Look out for the rare Buff Weka, a flightless bird extinct on Mainland NZ since 1920, which often joins visitors.





Option 2 is a 4WD adventure. We will explore a perfect mix of stunning scenery, history, and farm life in New Zealand's High Country. We will traverse remote back roads on an authentic farm with Lake Wanaka as our backdrop, surrounded by nature's beauty. We get up close to farm animals and visit historical sites, all while enjoying optional hikes through alpine meadows and lakeside forests, offering a unique insight into Wanaka's history, heritage, modern farming, and breathtaking landscapes.





When we return to Wanaka we have the afternoon at leisure to relax or enjoy the town.

Day 7: Wanaka

Location: Te Anau

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Wanaka – Te Anau. We begin our day from Wanaka, stopping at the iconic Cardrona Pub. Then we venture through the Crown Range road to explore historic Arrowtown, a charming gold rush village nestled beneath majestic peaks near the Arrow River. We carry on along the scenic road between the Remarkables mountain range and stunning Lake Wakatipu before traversing a glacial valley turned farmland to reach Lake Te Anau, the South Island's largest freshwater lake and the entry point to Fiordland National Park.

Day 8: Te Anau

Location: Milford Sound

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Te Anau – Queenstown. The journey from Te Anau to Milford Sound is one of the most scenic drives you can experience. Fiordland National Park, part of the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Area is awe-inspiring, and features towering mountains and deep valleys sculpted by ancient glaciers. Milford Sound, famously dubbed the 'eighth wonder of the world' by Rudyard Kipling, is a breathtaking destination in any weather.





Following this we embark on a comfortable cruise, passing the iconic Mitre Peak to reach the Tasman Sea. Keep a lookout for seals and dolphins, which often grace the fiord's waters. After the cruise we retrace our route back to Te Anau and then journey through the Southland farmlands and circle the stunning Lake Wakatipu to reach Queenstown.

Day 9: Queenstown

Location: Queenstown

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Nestled amid majestic mountains and on the pristine shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown's natural beauty and unique ambiance provide an ideal setting for a visit filled with adventure, exploration, or relaxation. Today, we have the freedom to choose our own activities: thrill-seekers might opt for activities like zip-lining at Bob's Peak, a heart-pounding Shotover jet-boat ride, or white-water rafting. For those of us seeking a more leisurely experience, we can enjoy a gondola ride to Bob's Peak or embark on a 4WD safari to Skippers Canyon. Queenstown also offers boutique wineries, local gardens, and a chance to cruise Lake Wakatipu on the elegant steamship TSS Earnslaw for a visit to Walter Peak High Country Farm.

Day 10: Queenstown

Location: Twizel

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Queenstown – Twizel. This morning we head north through Kawarau Gorge and past the scenic Lake Dunstan. We cross the Central Otago Countryside to the Lindis Pass where we descend into the Mackenzie Basin where the Southern Alps dominate the horizon. We enjoy a picturesque drive along Lake Pukaki to arrive at Mt. Cook Village, nestled at the base of New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mt. Cook. Our overnight stay awaits in the charming town of Twizel.

Day 11: Twizel

Location: Christchurch

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Twizel – Christchurch. Today we get to experience Kiwi culture by visiting a local home on Lake Tekapo's shores to learn the art of making Pavlova, a beloved New Zealand dessert. We enjoy our Pavlova during morning tea, taking in the stunning lake views. We admire the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, beautifully situated against the backdrop of the Southern Alps. Continuing our journey through the high country's tussock plains, passing through charming towns like Fairlie and Geraldine, en route to Ashburton we then travel across the fertile Canterbury Plains. Returning to Christchurch, there is free time to further explore.

Day 12: Christchurch

Location: Christchurch

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today our adventure in New Zealand comes to an end. A transfer takes you to Christchurch Airport for your flight home.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    4-star hotels

  • 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 1 dinner

    The tour includes 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner.

  • 11 nights 4 star hotels

    Accommodation for 11 nights in 4-star hotels is included.

  • Airport arrival and departure transfers on day 1 and day 12

    Transfers from and to the airport on the first and last day are included.

  • Escorted by an expert local guide/driver with specialist local guides at some sites

    The tour is escorted by an expert local guide/driver, with specialist local guides at some sites.

  • All relevant transfers and transportation in modern air-conditioned vehicle

    All necessary transfers and transportation in a modern air-conditioned vehicle are included.

  • Economy class flight from Rotorua - Christchurch

    An economy class flight from Rotorua to Christchurch is included.

  • Christchurch Edwardian punt & heritage tram experience

    The tour includes a Christchurch Edwardian punt and heritage tram experience.

  • Tranz-Alpine rail journey from Christchurch - Greymouth

    The Tranz-Alpine rail journey from Christchurch to Greymouth is included.

  • Touring of Auckland & Rotorua

    Guided tours of Auckland and Rotorua are included.

  • Te Pa Tu Maori experience

    The Te Pa Tu Maori cultural experience is included.

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What's Not Included

  • International flights and visas

    International flights and visas are not included in the tour package.

  • Items of a personal nature (telephone calls, laundry, travel insurance etc)

    Personal items such as telephone calls, laundry, and travel insurance are not included.

  • Optional activities

    Optional activities are not included in the tour package.

  • Tip for your tour guide / driver

    Tips for your tour guide/driver are not included.

    It is recommended to allow $4 - 7 USD per day per traveler.

Age Policy

18+The average age of passengers on these tours is between 55-75yrs. Pure Discoveries do not permit children.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with modern air-conditioned vehicles for all relevant transfers and transportation. Experience the iconic Tranz-Alpine rail journey, and enjoy an economy class flight from Rotorua to Christchurch, ensuring a seamless and scenic travel experience.

Accommodation

Enjoy 11 nights in 4-star hotels, offering comfort and convenience throughout your South Island adventure. Each hotel provides a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a restful stay after a day of exploration and discovery.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of cultural experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a Te Pa Tu Maori cultural evening in Rotorua, where you can experience Maori culture and enjoy a seasonal feast. Additionally, there is a visit to a local home on the shores of Lake Tekapo to learn the art of making Pavlova, a beloved New Zealand dessert.

  • Are there any unique transportation experiences during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes a Tranz-Alpine rail journey through the Southern Alps, a punting experience on the River Avon in Christchurch, and a ride on a restored heritage tram in Christchurch.

  • What wildlife might I see during the tour?

    During the Milford Sound cruise, you may see dolphins and seals. Additionally, on the eco tour option in Wanaka, you might encounter the rare Buff Weka, a flightless bird.

  • What are the accommodation arrangements during the tour?

    The tour includes 11 nights in 4-star hotels, ensuring comfortable accommodation throughout your journey.

  • Is there any flexibility in the activities offered during the tour?

    Yes, on Day 6 in Wanaka, you have the choice between an eco-guided tour to a serene island or a 4WD adventure exploring the countryside.

  • What meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour includes 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner. Additionally, there is a morning tea experience at a local home on the shores of Lake Tekapo.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Simla Patel (Google Reviewer)  

This company doesn’t deserve even...

26-Nov-2024

This company doesn’t deserve even 1 star. I would not recommend this company. There are hidden fees which means the cost of the holiday ends up being very expensive. We recently came back from our trip to China where it is not customary to tip in restaurants & hotel staff. Yet we had to make a payment upfront in cash to to the guide for more than £100. The hotel service was appalling. Just think £100 from each person. The trip was suppose to be a Tour yet we had to pay for all entrance fees. We complained about the poor condition of the hotels but no one responded to our emails to date. The after sales service is non existent. Do not use this company. Far far too expensive for what you get. Not competitive at all. They messed up our booking; repeatedly asked for the same information. We spent so much time correcting their errors. Very difficult to get hold of anyone because they all work in S Africa or New Zealand. Absolute nightmare

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Wednesday

Jan 18, 2025 - Jan 29, 2025
$6385 $5884

Operator discount: -$319

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$182

Saturday - Wednesday

Feb 01, 2025 - Feb 12, 2025
$6385 $5884

Operator discount: -$319

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$182

Saturday - Wednesday

Feb 22, 2025 - Mar 05, 2025
$6385 $5884

Operator discount: -$319

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$182

Saturday - Wednesday

Mar 01, 2025 - Mar 12, 2025
$6385 $5884

Operator discount: -$319

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$182

Saturday - Wednesday

Mar 15, 2025 - Mar 26, 2025
$6385 $5884

Operator discount: -$319

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$182

Saturday - Wednesday

Mar 29, 2025 - Apr 09, 2025
$6385 $5884

Operator discount: -$319

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$182

Saturday - Wednesday

Apr 26, 2025 - May 07, 2025
$5975 $5506

Operator discount: -$299

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$170

Saturday - Wednesday

May 17, 2025 - May 28, 2025
$5565 $5128

Operator discount: -$278

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$159

Saturday - Wednesday

Oct 18, 2025 - Oct 29, 2025
$6415 $5911

Operator discount: -$321

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$183

Saturday - Wednesday

Nov 01, 2025 - Nov 12, 2025
$7025 $6474

Operator discount: -$351

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$200

Saturday - Wednesday

Nov 15, 2025 - Nov 26, 2025
$7025 $6474

Operator discount: -$351

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$200

Saturday - Wednesday

Dec 06, 2025 - Dec 17, 2025
$7025 $6474

Operator discount: -$351

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$200

Saturday - Wednesday

Jan 24, 2026 - Feb 04, 2026
$7025 $6474

Operator discount: -$351

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$200

Saturday - Wednesday

Feb 07, 2026 - Feb 18, 2026
$7025 $6474

Operator discount: -$351

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$200

Saturday - Wednesday

Feb 21, 2026 - Mar 04, 2026
$7025 $6474

Operator discount: -$351

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$200

Saturday - Wednesday

Mar 07, 2026 - Mar 18, 2026
$7025 $6474

Operator discount: -$351

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$200

Saturday - Wednesday

Mar 21, 2026 - Apr 01, 2026
$7025 $6474

Operator discount: -$351

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$200

Saturday - Wednesday

Apr 04, 2026 - Apr 15, 2026
$6415 $5911

Operator discount: -$321

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$183

Saturday - Wednesday

Apr 25, 2026 - May 06, 2026
$6415 $5911

Operator discount: -$321

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$183

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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