Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2025 - Sept 2026

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2025 - Sept 2026

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21 Days From

$3865

$3260

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2025 - Sept 2026

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

Visiting: Auckland, Paihia, Rotorua, Taupō, Mount Ruapehu, Wellington, Picton, Kaikōura, Christchurch, Franz Josef, Haast, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Kingston, Lake Ohau, Lake Tekapo

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

GZAD25

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

From: $3865 $3260 Operator discount: -$605 -16%

NB: Prices correct on 23-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

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

Tour Overview

Geysers and glaciers. Maori settlements, mighty cities and majestic mountains. If NZ doesn't impress you with its diverse beauty, nothing will. Cruising from Auckland in the north to Christchurch in the South – with stop-offs in Rotorua, Wellington, Queenstown and more top class adventure spots along the way – this one is the ultimate adventure, offering up over 65 optional activities from whale watching to skydiving and beyond.

Highlights

  • Rotorua: Visit the National Kiwi Hatchery to learn about efforts to protect New Zealand's national bird.

  • Kaikoura: Meet eco-warrior Sabrina Leucht and learn about the region's first wildlife hospital.

  • Hokitika: Discover the connection between Pounamu (greenstone) and the Maori people with a local guide.

  • Te Anau: Support the Fairlight Foundation and learn about farming and advancing women in agriculture.

  • Paihia: Explore the Bay of Islands and visit the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

  • Huka Falls: Experience the power of 220,000 liters of water gushing over the falls per second.

  • Milford Sound: Cruise through this stunning UNESCO World Heritage site with breathtaking views.

  • Franz Josef: Take a heli ride over the glacier or carve your own Pounamu pendant with a Maori mastercraftsman.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Auckland To Paihia Via Whangārei

Location: Auckland

Accommodation: Bounty Motel (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Bounty Motel (or similar)

Meals Included: Dinner

Welcome to the land of the long white cloud: New Zealand! Time to meet your Contiki crew in Auckland (Tāmaki Makaurau) and cross the Harbor Bridge admiring the 'City of Sails' harbor before starting our journey north to Paihia.We'll stop off at the stunning yacht marina in Whangārei and check out the quirky exterior of the Hunderwasser art center, a unique architectural project dedicated to the ecological activist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. After lunch we'll hit the road again towards the Bay of Islands.On arrival to the Bay of Islands we're starting off with a dose of Kiwi history on a guided tour at Waitangi Treaty grounds where in 1840 New Zealand officially became a nation of two communities. And because we like to give you that something extra, how about a free admission at the Treaty museum, in case you seek a bit more detail on Kiwi history. Tonight we'll feast like the locals as we enjoy a true Kiwiana fish'n'chips as we overlook the glittering Bay of Islands.

Day 2: Paihia

Location: Paihia

Accommodation: Bounty Motel (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Bounty Motel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Whether it's parasailing or cruising the Bay of Islands while sailing on Carino - today's (idyllic) list of optionals reads like a who's who of adventure. This area is filled with natural beauty and is sure to inspire your inner wild child. Make the most of the Free Time Add-On experiences on offer - tomorrow we head back to the big city vibes.

Day 3: Paihia To Auckland

Location: Auckland

Accommodation: Lylo (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Lylo (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast this morning, feeling full, salty and sun-kissed we wave goodbye to Paihia & sashay our way back down NZ in the direction of Auckland. Arriving in Auckland we've got a array of awesome Free-Time Add-Ons to choose from. Adrenaline junkies, get ready for a bungee jump, climb over the iconic harbor bridge or sky jump off the Skywalk. For those who prefer to keep two feet on the ground, why not get your taste buds tingling with a multi-sensory icecream experience at Giapo?

Day 4: Auckland To Rotorua

Location: Auckland

Accommodation: Sudima Lake Rotorua (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Sudima Lake Rotorua (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

We'll drive through the lush farmlands of Waikato, an area that produces many of New Zealand's best Rugby players for the All Blacks. We'll visit the world’s largest kiwi bird conservation project, watch the birds roam, stand in a human-sized kiwi burrow and even visit the incubation center where over 2,100 kiwi chicks have been born. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a traditional Māori dinner and performance (you’ll also have the chance to get involved in the world-famous HAKA).

Day 5: Rotorua

Location: Rotorua

Accommodation: Sudima Lake Rotorua (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Sudima Lake Rotorua (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

The day is yours to roam free in this geothermal paradise. Soak in a hot spring, go white water rafting or hike up a volcano. The options are limitless and the decisions are yours. We recommend the Rotorua Dawn Canopy Tour, exclusive to Contiki, where you'll watch the sun rise, eat some breakfast and drink coffee up in the towering trees as the birds make start their morning calls. Then, you'll get to soar 1200m through the forest on the ultimate zipline adventure.

Day 6: Rotorua To Lake Taupō Via Huka Falls

Location: Taupō

Accommodation: Lakeland Resort Taupo (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Lakeland Resort Taupō (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

From Rotorua, we make our way to Lake Taupō, but not before a cheeky stop-off at the awesome Huka Falls. 220,000 litres (that's 58 000 gallons) of water gush over Huka Falls per second. Just let that sink in for a minute. Wild, right? Even wilder still is the Hukafalls Jet experience - a thrilling ride that will get you experiencing the full force of the falls and leave you with even more of a taste for adventure. A good thing really, given Lake Taupō is on the horizon. We arrive at Lake Taupō (Taupō Nui a Kiwa), the largest freshwater lake in Australasia. Volcanic peak views & trout fishing will seamlessly slip us into quaint lake life. But don't be fooled by the seemingly still scenery - a skydive is on the menu if that adrenaline itch needs scratching.This evening we jump on a cruise on the lake to watch the sun set, go fishing and enjoy some eats with our Contiki fam.

Day 7: Lake Taupō To Mount Ruapehu

Location: Taupō, Mount Ruapehu

Accommodation: Kings Ohakune (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Kings Ohakune (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

We drive through the central plateau to the southern end of the Tongariro National Park, Ohakune is known as the aprés ski capital of the North Island. Today you have the option to go mountain biking along one of NZ's most picturesque track, "the Old Coach Rd".Tonight we stay in a heritage listed building built in 1913 which is now a vibrant modern ski lodge, located at the base of a volcano, Mount Ruapehu (Ruapehu) with views unlike any other you've seen.

Day 8: Mount Ruapehu To Wellington

Location: Mount Ruapehu, Wellington

Accommodation: Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

These landscapes are unique and the sights will leave you breathless. On route to the windy capital Wellington where we'll show you the sights of this city.As much as we've been loving the nature time, the change of scenery to New Zealand's well-cultured capital will prove an utter delight. After an orientation through the narrow streets of Wellington (Te Whanganui a Tara), and a chance to explore the great food scene, a night on the town will be on the cards.

Day 9: Wellington

Location: Wellington

Accommodation: Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Ready to explore Wellington in all its glory? Today, why not head to a local cafe and try the famed flat white coffee in its city of origin (sorry Australians). Caffeinated and refreshed, we'll take a trip to Zealandia, a 225-hectare (basically massive) eco-sanctuary that protects over 40 rare native wildlife species. Because Zealandia is fully fenced, you'll be able to walk alongside incredibly rare birds like the hihi and the takahē. Look out for the tuatara, a prehistoric reptile known as a 'living fossil', which can only be found in New Zealand!

Day 10: Wellington To Kaikōura Via Picton

Location: Wellington, Picton

Accommodation: Sudima Kaikoura (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Sudima Kaikōura (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

So long north island! Today we're making tracks for your southern brother, darting across the Cook Strait via the Inter-Island ferry. Our first port of call on the South Island will be Picton (Waitohi), the gateway to wine country. Sauv blanc, anyone? Kaikōura is known for its marine life (among many other things), so keep your eyes peeled for whales, dolphins and seals – which we’ll check out along the way. Next up, we'll visit Kaikōura Wildlife Rescue to meet Sabrina Leucht, a local biologist who’ll teach us about local wildlife, the threats they face and how we can make a difference. Tonight, we’ll check into our seafront hotel for a relaxing evening.

Day 11: Kaikōura

Location: Kaikōura

Accommodation: Sudima Kaikoura (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Sudima Kaikōura (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We all love a free day - especially one spent in beautiful Kaikōura! We recommend taking a whale watching tour, where you'll have the opportunity to see giant sperm whales in action, as well cute seals and dusky dolphins. Other free time add-ons include a thrilling helicopter ride over the Kaikōura Peninsula, a kayak trip across the coastline, Quadbiking through Glenstrae Farm, and more. We'll stay another night in Kaikōura after an action-packed day, before heading to Christchurch tomorrow morning.

Day 12: Kaikōura To Christchurch

Location: Christchurch

Accommodation: The Breakfree on Cashel (or similar)

Accommodation Name: The Breakfree on Cashel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We're onto our next destination, so long Kaikōura!  We'll arrive in Christchurch (Ōtautahi) by lunch-time, where we'll take an inspiring tour of the city that was totally rebuilt after the Christchurch earthquake. Look out for the Cardboard Cathedral, the only cathedral in the world to be built mostly from plain old cardboard!

Day 13: Christchurch To Franz Josef Via Hokitika And Arthur's Pass

Location: Christchurch, Franz Josef

Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Christchurch, it was short and sweet, but with with ice age action on the horizon we gots to move on. Take in the beautiful scenery as we wind our way across the highest and most spectacular mountain pass across the Southern Alps. In the gold rush town of Hokitika, we'll meet with a local Māori guide who’ll teach us all about pounamu on a unique tour. We’ll learn about the history of the illustrious green stones (which the South Island is named after) and its connection with the Māori people. Back on the coach, we're coastline bound to one of the island’s most jaw-droppingly beautiful spots (and that’s saying something…) We'll pull up for the night in glorious Franz Josef (Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere), probably one of the most beautiful places you'll ever of clapped eyes on. A bold statement we know, but well deserved.

Day 14: Franz Josef

Location: Franz Josef

Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we take to the ice of Franz Josef Glacier. We've got a heli ride over the glacier up for grabs, or the opportunity to carve your own Pounamu (jade) pendant, under the tuition of a Māori mastercraftsman. Pounamu is sacred to the Māori people, and this is a great way to learn about its cultural significance, while also creating a beautiful please of jewelery.

Day 15: Franz Josef To Queenstown Via Haast And Wānaka

Location: Franz Josef, Haast, Queenstown

Accommodation: Lylo (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Lylo (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

With a new appreciation for frozen water, we'll hop on the coach & continue to Queenstown, with a few cheeky stops along the way.Our first piece of NZ eye-candy comes in the form of Haast Pass (Tioripatea), beautified by ancient rainforests, small glaciers and waterfalls. Note how the scenery changes as we roll towards Queenstown through the Southern Alps and region of Otago.We'll stop for lunch in Wānaka, a pretty ski resort town situated on a lake front and dwarfed by mountains. This town is fast becoming one of NZ's most popular spots, and a trip to the 'Dough Bin' for a luscious pie should be high on the list.Welcome to the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown (Tāhuna)! First stop is the legendary Kawarau Bungy Bridge, get your adrenaline hit with a heart pounding jump. Tonight you can choose to jump on a gondola and to wine & dine atop of the highest restaurant in Queenstown, Skyline. Rest up tonight - the next few days are going to be BIG.

Day 16: Queenstown

Location: Queenstown

Accommodation: Lylo (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Lylo (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is yours to get acquainted with Queenstown and check out the activities up for grabs in the next two days. Take a stroll around beautiful this stunning town, nestled in the Southern Alps that has so much to offer.

Day 17: Queenstown

Location: Queenstown

Accommodation: Lylo (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Lylo (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

It's times like this that you really start to work out what sort of traveler you are. And human for that matter. You might be the one trailing through wine country and exploring wine cellars and caves, or you may be that guy that crams in a bungy jump and ziplining & still craves more. It's your holiday - run wild as you see fit. Please note: If you're here during ski season, you can opt for an exclusive Ski day-trip to Cardrona. Check out ‘Dates & Pricing’ to see these "Special Departures".

Day 18: Queenstown

Location: Queenstown

Accommodation: Lylo (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Lylo (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

With our last day in adrenalin city edging closer, this is the time to push yourself to the limits and jump over any mental barriers you've put up around yourself. Embrace the spirit of adventure and conquer those niggling fears once and for all. For those who did their dash yesterday, a day staying mellow and enjoying this beautiful region will prove more than sufficient.

Day 19: Queenstown To Te Anau Via Milford Sound

Location: Queenstown, Milford Sound

Accommodation: The Village Inn Hotel (or similar)

Accommodation Name: The Village Inn Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Alright, it's time to return our adrenaline levels to a normal level and make tracks to the spectacular natural wonder of Milford Sound. Welcome to New Zealand's most stunning attraction, with a magical combination of mountain peaks, forest-clad cliffs and deep dark waters. We take an included cruise of the fiord and experience the beauty of this pristine destination by boat, the best way to see Milford Sound (Piopiotahi) in all its glory. Arriving in the stunning lakeside town of Te Anau, why not opt to take a guided jet boat trip to explore the Fiordland National Park. From Te Anau through Lake Manapouri, it's a pretty exhilirating way to soak up the scenery. Prefer to keep you feet (or wheels) on dry land. You can also take a trip to the ethereal glow worm caves (woaahhh) or simply cycle the gorgeous trails through native bush.

Day 20: Te Anau To Lake Ōhau Via Kingston And Arrowtown

Location: Kingston, Lake Ohau

Accommodation: Lake Ohau Lodge (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Lake Ōhau Lodge (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

So long, Te Anau. It's been fun. Our first stop today is Kingston (Takerehaka) for an authentic and important NZ farm experience. Where a charity helps local girls to learn practical farming skills and gain qualifications. Contiki makes a donation on behalf of every traveler who visits the farm, so you can help more NZ women and girls plough through barriers and get ahead in their ‘field’ just by turning up. We make a quick stop for lunch in the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown (Kā Muriwai) before heading onto Lake Ōhau. For our last night, we'll go out with a bang. Or perhaps a splash. Sketchbooks at the ready folks - we'll spend our final night by Lake Ōhau (Ōhau), with a spectacular view of Mt Cook in the distance!

Day 21: Lake Ōhau To Christchurch Via Lake Tekapo

Location: Lake Ohau, Lake Tekapo, Christchurch

Meals Included: Breakfast

We're moving on to Christchurch but not before one final stop.We’ll kick off our final day with a visit to the glacier-fed Lake Tekapo (Takapō), admiring the crystal clear water. Next, it's time for a Dark Sky experience - a multimedia exhibition that combines stargazing, science and traditional Māori astronomy. Here we'll learn how the Māori people would use the stars to help aid their harvests, plus why reducing light pollution is so important. And then the adventure ends in Christchurch. Sure, there'll be some sadness, but that's normal when awesome things end. And this has been more than awesome. On a brighter note, the memories will put a smile on your face for years to come.

What's Included

  • Guided Tour at Waitangi Treaty Grounds

    Enjoy a guided tour at Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where New Zealand officially became a nation of two communities in 1840.

  • Traditional Maori Dinner and Performance

    Experience a traditional Maori dinner and performance, including the chance to participate in the world-famous HAKA.

  • Cruise on Milford Sound

    Take an included cruise of the fiord and experience the beauty of Milford Sound by boat.

  • Visit to Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary

    Explore Zealandia, a 225-hectare eco-sanctuary that protects over 40 rare native wildlife species.

  • Visit to Kaikoura Wildlife Rescue

    Meet Sabrina Leucht, a local biologist, and learn about local wildlife and conservation efforts at Kaikoura Wildlife Rescue.

  • Visit to National Kiwi Hatchery

    Visit the world's largest kiwi bird conservation project and learn about kiwi bird conservation efforts.

  • Visit to Maori Guide in Hokitika

    Meet with a local Maori guide in Hokitika to learn about the connection between Pounamu (greenstone) and the Maori people.

  • Visit to Fairlight Foundation Farm

    Visit a local farm in Te Anau to support the Fairlight Foundation, which works to advance women in agriculture.

  • Dark Sky Experience at Lake Tekapo

    Enjoy a Dark Sky experience at Lake Tekapo, combining stargazing, science, and traditional Maori astronomy.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as parasailing, bungee jumping, and helicopter rides are not included and can be purchased separately.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included in the tour package.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights to and from New Zealand are not included in the tour package.

Dining Summary

  • 6 Dinner (D)
  • 20 Breakfast (B)

FAQs

  • Christchurch: Which Version is Northbound vs Southbound? Southbound trips start in Auckland and end in Christchurch. Northbound trips start in Christchurch and finish in Auckland. They’re both the same itineraries, just in reverse.

Included Experience

  • Auckland: Cameras at the ready folks, the views will be extraordinary here.
  • Auckland: With sailboats at every angle, this is a beaut view indeed.
  • Whang??rei: See the work of the visionary Austrian painter, architect and ecological activist who made New Zealand his spiritual home.
  • Paihia: The Waitangi Treaty Grounds might just be NZ's most important historical site, marking the place where the British Crown and the Maori people signed their first accords back in 1840.
  • Paihia: A dinner of fish 'n' chips, enjoyed while overlooking the Bay of Islands in Paihia. Is this heaven? No sir, it's just salt and vinegar.
  • Rotorua: A traditional Maori cultural performance, topped off with a traditional Maori feast... this ought to satisfy even the keenest of culture vultures.
  • Rotorua: Wait til you see 'em. Wait til you smell 'em. These geothermic mudpools are a thing to behold.
  • Rotorua: On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, we'll head to National Kiwi Hatchery near Rotorua to learn all about the locals' efforts to protect New Zealand's adorable national bird.
  • Huka Falls: Huka falls is a jaw-jutting display of natural hydro power. Here you'll see 220,000 litres of water tumble over the waterfall... per second that is(!)
  • Mount Ruapehu: Today we'll check out Mt Ruapehu, an active stratovolcano elevated almost 2,800 meters into the air!
  • Mount Ruapehu: See even more of the sights made famous by "The Lord of the Rings."
  • Kaikoura: We'll take a spectacular drive along the Kaikoura Coast, and pay a visit to a nearby seal colony. Yup, it's a coastal cuteness overload.
  • Kaikoura: On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, we'll meet eco-warrior Sabrina Leucht, who has dedicated many years of her life to helping New Zealand's injured native birds... and is now working to establish the region's first wildlife hospital.
  • Hokitika: The South Island is known for Pounamu (in fact, it’s even named after the stuff.) Today in Hokitika, we’ll meet with a local Maori Guide, who’ll tell us all about the connection between the illustrious greenstone and the Maori people. After that, we’ll go and check some out for ourselves.
  • Arthur's Pass: Check out the village that has been a haven for mountain climbers for over a century. Better keep your camera ready and eyes peeled - because this is spot where you might be able to get a glimpse of rare alpine parrots AKA Keas.
  • Wanaka: A lake town with views for days, surrounded by beech forests, alpine lakes, and wilderness glaciers.
  • Milford Sound: Cruise along the glassy waters and get the kind of view people write poems about. You'll soon see why it's a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Te Anau: Today we’ll visit a local farm in Te Anau to support the Fairlight Foundation, which works to advance women in Agriculture. We’ll learn all about farming, as well as the Fairlight Foundation and the work that they do.
  • Arrowtown: A historic gold mining town, Arrowtown is known as one of the cutest towns in New Zealand, so see for yourself on a walking tour that covers all the best things to see in Arrowtown.
  • Lake Tekapo: See the church on the shores of Lake Tekapo with a backdrop of snow-capped peaks - and get that iconic Insta pic too!
  • Lake Tekapo: We'll stop at Lake Pukaki, Lake Tekapo and Geraldine... and watch happily on as NZ's astonishing natural beauty takes your breath away.
  • Lake Tekapo: The Dark Sky Experience combines Maori astronomy, storytelling and science together in one truly unique interactive display.

Mode of Transport

Travel across New Zealand with ease, starting from Auckland and ending in Christchurch, with scenic drives through lush farmlands, mountain passes, and coastal routes. Enjoy ferry rides, coach transfers, and optional thrilling experiences like jet boating and helicopter rides.

Accommodation

Experience a variety of accommodations throughout New Zealand, including stays at the Bounty Motel in Paihia, Lylo in Auckland and Queenstown, Sudima Lake Rotorua, and the Rainforest Retreat in Franz Josef, among others, offering comfort and convenience during your journey.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique cultural experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes several unique cultural experiences such as a traditional Māori dinner and performance in Rotorua, a visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds in Paihia, and a meeting with a local Māori guide in Hokitika to learn about the significance of Pounamu (greenstone) to the Māori people.

  • Are there any opportunities to learn about wildlife conservation during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes visits to the National Kiwi Hatchery near Rotorua to learn about kiwi bird conservation and the Kaikōura Wildlife Rescue to meet a local biologist who educates about local wildlife and conservation efforts.

  • What adventure activities are available during the tour?

    The tour offers a variety of adventure activities including parasailing and cruising in the Bay of Islands, bungee jumping and sky jumping in Auckland, white water rafting and ziplining in Rotorua, and a heli ride over Franz Josef Glacier.

  • What is the significance of the visit to the Fairlight Foundation in Te Anau?

    The visit to the Fairlight Foundation in Te Anau is significant as it supports the advancement of women in agriculture. The foundation provides education and training to help women gain practical farming skills and qualifications.

  • What natural wonders can be explored on this tour?

    The tour includes visits to several natural wonders such as the geothermal areas in Rotorua, Huka Falls, the Tongariro National Park, the Kaikōura Coast, Milford Sound, and the glacier-fed Lake Tekapo.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

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

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

Feefo Trusted Reviews

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Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

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Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

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Operator discount: -$443

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

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$4035 $3403

Operator discount: -$632

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

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Jan 23, 2025 - Feb 12, 2025
$4035 $3403

Operator discount: -$632

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Friday - Thursday

Jan 31, 2025 - Feb 20, 2025
$4035 $3403

Operator discount: -$632

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

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Feb 04, 2025 - Feb 24, 2025
$4035 $3403

Operator discount: -$632

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Saturday - Friday

Feb 08, 2025 - Feb 28, 2025
$4035 $3403

Operator discount: -$632

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Wednesday - Tuesday

Feb 12, 2025 - Mar 04, 2025
$4035 $3403

Operator discount: -$632

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Sunday - Saturday

Feb 16, 2025 - Mar 08, 2025
$4035 $3403

Operator discount: -$632

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Monday - Sunday

Feb 24, 2025 - Mar 16, 2025
$4035 $3403

Operator discount: -$632

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Tuesday - Monday

Mar 04, 2025 - Mar 24, 2025
$4035 $3403

Operator discount: -$632

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Thursday - Wednesday

Mar 20, 2025 - Apr 09, 2025
$4035 $3403

Operator discount: -$632

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Saturday - Friday

Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 25, 2025
$3975 $3353

Operator discount: -$622

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Monday - Sunday

Apr 21, 2025 - May 11, 2025
$3975 $3353

Operator discount: -$622

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Wednesday - Tuesday

May 07, 2025 - May 27, 2025
$3975 $3353

Operator discount: -$622

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Friday - Thursday

May 23, 2025 - Jun 12, 2025
$3975 $3353

Operator discount: -$622

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Friday - Thursday

Jun 06, 2025 - Jun 26, 2025
$3975 $3353

Operator discount: -$622

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Friday - Thursday

Jun 20, 2025 - Jul 10, 2025
$3975 $3353

Operator discount: -$622

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Friday - Thursday

Jul 04, 2025 - Jul 24, 2025
$3865 $3260

Operator discount: -$605

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Friday - Thursday

Jul 11, 2025 - Jul 31, 2025
$3865 $3260

Operator discount: -$605

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Friday - Thursday

Jul 18, 2025 - Aug 07, 2025
$3865 $3260

Operator discount: -$605

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Friday - Thursday

Jul 25, 2025 - Aug 14, 2025
$3865 $3260

Operator discount: -$605

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Friday - Thursday

Aug 01, 2025 - Aug 21, 2025
$3865 $3260

Operator discount: -$605

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Friday - Thursday

Aug 15, 2025 - Sep 04, 2025
$3865 $3260

Operator discount: -$605

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Friday - Thursday

Aug 29, 2025 - Sep 18, 2025
$3865 $3260

Operator discount: -$605

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Friday - Thursday

Sep 12, 2025 - Oct 02, 2025
$3865 $3260

Operator discount: -$605

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Friday - Thursday

Sep 26, 2025 - Oct 16, 2025
$3865 $3260

Operator discount: -$605

Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sept 2025

Monday - Sunday

Oct 06, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025
$4125 $3479

Operator discount: -$646

Tuesday - Monday

Oct 14, 2025 - Nov 03, 2025
$4125 $3479

Operator discount: -$646

Wednesday - Tuesday

Oct 22, 2025 - Nov 11, 2025
$4125 $3479

Operator discount: -$646

Thursday - Wednesday

Oct 30, 2025 - Nov 19, 2025
$4125 $3479

Operator discount: -$646

Friday - Thursday

Nov 07, 2025 - Nov 27, 2025
$4125 $3479

Operator discount: -$646

Saturday - Friday

Nov 15, 2025 - Dec 05, 2025
$4125 $3479

Operator discount: -$646

Sunday - Saturday

Nov 23, 2025 - Dec 13, 2025
$4235 $3572

Operator discount: -$663

Monday - Sunday

Dec 01, 2025 - Dec 21, 2025
$4235 $3572

Operator discount: -$663

Tuesday - Monday

Dec 09, 2025 - Dec 29, 2025
$4235 $3572

Operator discount: -$663

Wednesday - Tuesday

Dec 17, 2025 - Jan 06, 2026
$4235 $3572

Operator discount: -$663

Sunday - Saturday

Dec 21, 2025 - Jan 10, 2026
$4235 $3572

Operator discount: -$663

Thursday - Wednesday

Dec 25, 2025 - Jan 14, 2026
$4235 $3572

Operator discount: -$663

Monday - Sunday

Dec 29, 2025 - Jan 18, 2026
$4235 $3572

Operator discount: -$663

Friday - Thursday

Jan 02, 2026 - Jan 22, 2026
$4235 $3812

Operator discount: -$423

Tuesday - Monday

Jan 06, 2026 - Jan 26, 2026
$4235 $3812

Operator discount: -$423

Saturday - Friday

Jan 10, 2026 - Jan 30, 2026
$4235 $3812

Operator discount: -$423

Wednesday - Tuesday

Jan 14, 2026 - Feb 03, 2026
$4235 $3812

Operator discount: -$423

Sunday - Saturday

Jan 18, 2026 - Feb 07, 2026
$4235 $3812

Operator discount: -$423

Thursday - Wednesday

Jan 22, 2026 - Feb 11, 2026
$4235 $3812

Operator discount: -$423

Monday - Sunday

Jan 26, 2026 - Feb 15, 2026
$4235 $3812

Operator discount: -$423

Friday - Thursday

Jan 30, 2026 - Feb 19, 2026
$4235 $3812

Operator discount: -$423

Tuesday - Monday

Feb 03, 2026 - Feb 23, 2026
$4235 $3812

Operator discount: -$423

Saturday - Friday

Feb 07, 2026 - Feb 27, 2026
$4235 $3812

Operator discount: -$423

Wednesday - Tuesday

Feb 11, 2026 - Mar 03, 2026
$4235 $3812

Operator discount: -$423

Sunday - Saturday

Feb 15, 2026 - Mar 07, 2026
$4235 $3812

Operator discount: -$423

Thursday - Wednesday

Feb 19, 2026 - Mar 11, 2026
$4235 $3812

Operator discount: -$423

Friday - Thursday

Feb 27, 2026 - Mar 19, 2026
$4235 $3812

Operator discount: -$423

Saturday - Friday

Mar 07, 2026 - Mar 27, 2026
$4235 $3812

Operator discount: -$423

Monday - Sunday

Mar 23, 2026 - Apr 12, 2026
$4235 $3812

Operator discount: -$423

Wednesday - Tuesday

Apr 08, 2026 - Apr 28, 2026
$4165 $3749

Operator discount: -$416

Friday - Thursday

Apr 24, 2026 - May 14, 2026
$4165 $3749

Operator discount: -$416

Sunday - Saturday

May 10, 2026 - May 30, 2026
$4165 $3749

Operator discount: -$416

Tuesday - Monday

May 26, 2026 - Jun 15, 2026
$4165 $3749

Operator discount: -$416

Saturday - Friday

Jun 06, 2026 - Jun 26, 2026
$4165 $3749

Operator discount: -$416

Saturday - Friday

Jun 20, 2026 - Jul 10, 2026
$4165 $3749

Operator discount: -$416

Saturday - Friday

Jun 27, 2026 - Jul 17, 2026
$4165 $3749

Operator discount: -$416

Saturday - Friday

Jul 04, 2026 - Jul 24, 2026
$4045 $3641

Operator discount: -$404

Saturday - Friday

Jul 11, 2026 - Jul 31, 2026
$4045 $3641

Operator discount: -$404

Saturday - Friday

Jul 18, 2026 - Aug 07, 2026
$4045 $3641

Operator discount: -$404

Saturday - Friday

Jul 25, 2026 - Aug 14, 2026
$4045 $3641

Operator discount: -$404

Saturday - Friday

Aug 01, 2026 - Aug 21, 2026
$4045 $3641

Operator discount: -$404

Saturday - Friday

Aug 15, 2026 - Sep 04, 2026
$4045 $3641

Operator discount: -$404

Saturday - Friday

Aug 29, 2026 - Sep 18, 2026
$4045 $3641

Operator discount: -$404

Saturday - Friday

Sep 12, 2026 - Oct 02, 2026
$4045 $3641

Operator discount: -$404

Saturday - Friday

Sep 26, 2026 - Oct 16, 2026
$4045 $3641

Operator discount: -$404

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 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 contiki charges.

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.

    At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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