Small Groups, Big Experiences
With a maximum of 16 guests, you enjoy an intimate atmosphere where your driver-guide knows your name, your interests, and exactly how to make your day special.
Our Story
Enriching Lives Through Great Travel Experiences
For nearly 40 years, we have been crafting intimate New Zealand journeys for travellers who want more than a standard tour.
How It All Started
A Family Passion for New Zealand
It began in 1987, when the founders of Leisure Time Group set out with a straightforward idea: that the best way for senior travellers to see New Zealand was in a small group with a knowledgeable guide, on a well-paced journey designed to make the most of every day. No feeling like a number on a manifest.
From those early days, the vision evolved into Pure Discoveries®, a touring brand built for travellers with a sense of adventure and curiosity. Our content-rich itineraries combine iconic destinations, lesser-known places and memorable experiences with the flexibility and personal attention of small-group travel.
Today, every journey we design reflects that founding philosophy. Our team lives and breathes New Zealand. Drawing on years of local knowledge and experience, our driver-guides share hidden corners and local stories that transform a good holiday into something truly unforgettable.
Surprise and Delight
The most memorable journeys are often shaped by the unexpected. Whether it's a breathtaking view, a special local experience, or a moment of genuine connection, we believe travel should inspire, delight, and leave you with stories you'll be talking about long after you return home.
Your Journey, Your Way
Customisable days let you choose activities that match your energy and interests. Time at leisure gives you the freedom to explore independently, relax or enjoy the moment in your own way.
The Human Touch
Our driver-guides have the discretion to go off-script. An impromptu stop at a farm gate, a detour to a waterfall nobody else knows about. These unplanned moments often become the highlight of the trip.
Guaranteed Departures
When you book, you go. Book flights with confidence. Every departure is guaranteed, no matter the group size.
By the Numbers
What nearly four decades add up to
Nearly 40
Years of Experience
8
Handcrafted Tours
16
Maximum Group Size
100%
Guaranteed Departures
4-4.5
Star Accommodation (Predominantly)
23
Days on Our Longest Journey
1,000s
Travel Memories Created
15
Regions Explored
Every Departure Guaranteed
When you book a Pure Discoveries® tour, it runs. No minimum numbers, no anxious waiting to see if your trip will be confirmed. You can book flights, arrange travel insurance, and plan your holiday with complete confidence.
This commitment means you are never left scrambling for alternatives. Your dates are locked in from the moment you reserve your place.
We Own Our Coaches
Unlike most tour operators, we own and maintain every vehicle in our fleet. That means we control the quality of your experience from the moment you step on board. Comfortable seating, panoramic windows and air conditioning come standard, so you can sit back, relax and take in the scenery along the way.
Our coaches are purpose-built for small groups and New Zealand roads. They are nimble enough to access scenic routes that larger vehicles simply cannot reach.
Not a Large Coach Tour Scaled Down
We did not start with a large coach tour and remove seats. Pure Discoveries® was designed from scratch for small groups.
Every itinerary choice is made with 16 guests in mind, not 48.
The result is an experience that feels closer to travelling with well-connected friends than joining a standard group tour.
What Our Travellers Say
Real reviews from real guests
We have travelled extensively, but I’ve never had such an amazing experience with such a qualified and attentive guide. Our guide could not have done anything more for us than he did. He considered everybody’s individual needs and somehow managed to satisfy the whole group. I would recommend Pure Discoveries® to anyone wanting a South Island tour.
Our driver-guide was the absolute best! This was our first trip abroad and he made us feel welcome, safe and taken care of. He went above and beyond to make sure we knew what was going on and when. He has a great sense of humor and a very caring person.
We had a fantastic driver/tour guide - great experience - good local knowledge - made everyone feel welcomed - just the right amount of push to get going with a bit of humour. She is a "keeper"! Made the trip highly enjoyable.
Through Our Travellers' Eyes
Our Affiliations
The industry bodies and standards we hold ourselves to.
