21 Days Ultimate New Zealand

The one that unearths the best of NZ, covering both islands in 21 unforgettable days

Geysers and glaciers. Māori 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.

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DAY 1 AUCKLAND TO PAIHIA VIA WHANGĀREI

Auckland

Welcome to the land of the long white cloud: New Zealand! Time to meet your Contiki crew in Auckland (Tāmaki Makaurau) and cross the Harbour Bridge admiring the 'City of Sails' harbour before starting our journey north to Paihia.

Whangārei

We'll stop off at the stunning yacht marina in Whangārei and check out the quirky exterior of the Hunderwasser art centre, a unique architectural project dedicated to the ecological activist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. Aer lunch we'll hit the road again towards the Bay of Islands.

Paihia

We're starting off with a dose of Kiwi history on a 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. Tonight we'll feast like the locals as we enjoy a true Kiwiana fish'n'chips as we overlook the gliering Bay of Islands.

Meals: Dinner

Included Experiences

- Cross Auckland's Harbour Bridge

- See the Iconic 'City of Sails' Harbour

- View the Hundertwasser Art Center

- Discover the Waitangi Treaty Grounds with a Local Guide

- Eat Fish and Chips Kiwi Style in Paihia

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DAY 2 PAIHIA

Paihia

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.

Meals: Breakfast

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

Discover NZ’s Northernmost Point - On this full-day tour, you’ll get the background on the region & travel from Paihia to Cape Reinga, New Zealand’s most northern point. With off-roading, a drive up 90 mile beach & amazing Northland scenery, this is a full experience. Cap it all off with a local favourite – fish ’n’ chips.

Adult: 175.00 NZD

Set Sail in Carino - This is the perfect way to explore the Bay of Islands. Board a catamaran & island hop around the region. Cool off in the crystal-clear waters, try some snorkelling & keep your eyes open for the resident dolphins. Once you've worked up that appetite, there’s a delicious BBQ lunch waiting for you.

Adult: 198.00 NZD

Discover the Bay of Islands - Cruise among the 144 islands visiting the iconic Hole in the Rock potentially viewing marine mammals (dolphins, orcas or whales) along the way. For lunch we stop at Urupukapuka Island, here you can explore the rich & long history at the Otehei Bay Island Conservation Centre. Also learn about the restorative work of Project Island Song to return native bird life back to the Bay.

Adult: 180.00 NZD

Parasail Over the Bay of Islands - Take off over the stunning Bay of Islands in New Zealand’s highest parasail ride. Choose to fly by yourself or with a friend as a jet boat pulls you through the open waters. Take in the fantastic views & enjoy the ride.

Adult: 115.00 NZD

Skydive over the Bay of Islands - The journey begins with a scenic flight, taking in views of the subtropical islands that give the Bay of Islands its name. Your excitement climbs with the altitude. Exiting the plane at up to 15,000 feet, you experience the exhilaration of free falling at 200 kilometres per hour! Catch your breath as you enjoy a spectacular parachute ride back to Earth.

Adult: 329.00 NZD

Tour the Breathtaking Cape Reinga - Join a half-day tour of Cape Reinga and tour the beautiful beaches of Coopers Beach, Doubtless Bay (and of course the famous Ninety Mile Beach!). You can even choose to fly for the best views.

Adult: 495.00 NZD

Ride on a Helicopter over the Famous Hole in the Rock - Catch some incredible views of the serene turquoise waters of Pahia. It’s 20 minutes of sheer wonder!

Adult: 295.00 NZD

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DAY 3 PAIHIA TO AUCKLAND

Paihia

Aer 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.

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 harbour 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?

Meals: Breakfast

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

Go Behind the Scenes at Giapo’s - Experience the amazing creations of the ice-cream artist, Giapo. Walk through his kitchen to learn, see & most importantly taste his most spectacular & crazy treats.

Adult: 80.00 NZD

Join the All Blacks Experience of Rugby - Journey through New Zealand's culture and history via the national sport. Test your rugby skills, learn all about the glorious Haka, and the All Blacks team of New Zealand (one of the world's most successful teams).

Adult: 65.00 NZD

Bungy Jump off Harbour Bridge - Featuring stunning views of the Waitemata Harbour & an exclusive bridge walk out to our specially constructed Bungy pod, this experience will thrill & surprise you, especially if you opt for a water-touch & enjoy a nice ocean dip!

Adult: 260.00 NZD

Go Bungee Jumping from the Harbour Bridge - Jump off the Auckland Harbour bridge, straight into the ocean below - something you won’t be able to do ANYWHERE else in the world. You can also choose to climb up the bridge with a guided tour.

Adult: 325.00 NZD

Take a Sky Walk Across Sky Tower - Inch along a narrow walkway around the Sky Tower, 192 metres above Auckland. Our guides point out Auckland aractions, tell you stories and challenge you to daredevil tricks. For a big adventure, 360° panoramic views of Auckland & extraordinary memoires, Skywalk the ledge.

Adult: 215.00 NZD

Try New Zealand’s Highest Jump - Skyjump is an incredible adrenaline rush in the heart of Auckland, New Zealand's highest jump & only base jump by wire. Plummet 192 metres off the Sky Tower at 85km an hour! Completely safe & uerly unforgeable.

Adult: 330.00 NZD

Sky Walk (and Jump) from the Sky Tower - This amazing adventure isn’t for the faint-hearted! You’ll navigate the ledge of New Zealand’s tallest building and jump down almost 200 metres.

Adult: 445.00 NZD

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DAY 4 AUCKLAND TO ROTORUA

Auckland

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.

Rotorua

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 centre 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).

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Included Experiences

- Watch a Traditional Māori Cultural Performance

- See Mud Pools in Rotorua

- Visit the New Zealand Kiwi Hatchery MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

Go Zorbing - Get ready to roll as you travel downhill in a large transparent ball, either on your own or with a friend. Please note: Price varies between $40-$120 depending on the zorb you select.

Adult: 40.00 NZD

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DAY 5 ROTORUA

Rotorua

The day is yours to roam free in this geothermal paradise. Soak in a hot spring, go white water raing 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.

Meals: Breakfast

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

Go White Water Raing in Kaituna - Get out on the Kaituna river on a raing adventure. With your expert guide on hand, share the adventure with your mates as you feel the thrills! We’ll provide all the safety gear you need – so get ready for action.

Adult: 135.00 NZD

Take a Hike in Mt Tarawera - Experience the unique landscape & history of Mt Tarawera. Infamous for its eruption on June 10th, 1886, Mt Tarawera created the world's youngest geothermal valley of Waimangu. This fully guided walking experience gives you unmatched scenic vistas, 360 panoramic views & includes an optional run in to the heart of the volcanic crater.

Adult: 175.00 NZD

Take the Rotorua Ultimate Canopy Tour - Canopy tours zipline adventure activity is the experience of a lifetime. It's a magnificent environment you will visit - a long forgoen ancient forest just like the whole of New Zealand once was, it's a low impact mode of transport to get you high in the ancient canopy!

Adult: 259.00 NZD

Tour the Hobbiton Movie Set - Experience the real Middle-earth at the Hobbiton Movie Set, where you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. You will be fully guided on a walking tour around the set; past Hobbit Holes, the Mill and into the world-famous Green Dragon Inn, where you will be presented with a complimentary, exclusive Hobbit Southfarthing beverage to conclude your own Middle-earth adventure. The trip includes return transfer from Rotorua.

Adult: 189.00 NZD

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DAY 6 ROTORUA TO LAKE TAUPŌ VIA HUKA FALLS

Rotorua

From Rotorua, we make our way to Lake Taupō, but not before a cheeky stop-off at the awesome Huka Falls.

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.

Taupō

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.

Meals: Breakfast

Included Experiences

- Feel the Power of Huka Falls

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

Take a Huka Jet Ride Along the Waikato River - Jump into a jet boat & hit the Waikato river in a thrilling ride. Cruise along at high speeds up to the surging Huka Falls. Our experienced professional driver will show the group a few tricks along the way, including some 360º turns.

Adult: 145.00 NZD

Skydive Above the Southern Hemisphere’s Largest Lake - The journey begins with a scenic flight above the central plateau, taking in views of the Southern Hemisphere's largest lake. Your excitement climbs with the altitude. Exiting the plane at up to 15,000 feet, you experience the exhilaration of free falling at 200 kilometres per hour! Catch your breath as you enjoy a spectacular parachute ride back to Earth.

Adult: 329.00 NZD

Bungee-jump at Taupō - Craving some thrill? How about a leap from New Zealand’s only cliff-top bungy. Jump solo, or tandem with a friend. And that’s not all. You can even touch the Waikato River.

Adult: 275.00 NZD

Ride a Mega Swing over the Waikato River - Swoop through the air on an epic mega swing right over the beautiful Waikato River. We’re talking 70 kmph over mighty cliffs. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Adult: 240.00 NZD

Experience the Taupō Bungy & Swing - Wanna double down on the adventure? You can choose to do the Bungy jump and Canyon swing on the same day!

Adult: 415.00 NZD

Take a Cruise on Lake Taupō - Get out on Lake Taupō in a luxury cruise boat & try your hand at fishing – the local sport. If the weather is right, tuck into dinner on deck - the perfect way to start the night off.

Adult: 110.00 NZD

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DAY 7 LAKE TAUPŌ TO MOUNT RUAPEHU

Taupō

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 biking along the Mangawhero cycle track.

Mount Ruapehu

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.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Included Experiences

- See an Active Stratovolcano

- Check out some LOTR Filming Spots

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

Explore Old Coach Road by Bike - Mountain Bike on a historic historic "horse & cart" trail. With the stunning back drop of Mt Ruapehu, you will traverse through native bush, farmland & over an old train viaduct.

Adult: 129.00 NZD

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DAY 8 MOUNT RUAPEHU TO WELLINGTON

Mount Ruapehu

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.

Wellington

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. Aer 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.

Meals: Breakfast

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DAY 9 WELLINGTON

Wellington

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) ecosanctuary 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!

Meals: Breakfast

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

Meet NZ’s Amazing Wildlife MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience - The ultimate way to experience New Zealand's rare and amazing wildlife! Join one of the experienced guides on an engaging and informative walk through the picturesque sanctuary to witness the native wildlife that is once again living on the mainland. With everything in ZEALANDIA living wild, the nature-guru guides will use their knowledge of birdsong, habitats, and local flora to track down even the rarest of NZ's unique animals.

Adult: 64.00 NZD

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DAY 10 WELLINGTON TO KAIKŌURA VIA PICTON

Wellington

So long north island! Today we're making tracks for your southern brother, darting across the Cook Strait via the Inter-Island ferry.

Picton

Our first port of call on the South Island will be Picton (Waitohi), the gateway to wine country. Sauv blanc, anyone?

Kaikōura

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.

Meals: Breakfast

Included Experiences

- See Seals IRL

- Visit Kaikōura Wildlife Rescue MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience

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DAY 11 KAIKŌURA

Kaikōura

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 addons 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 aer an action-packed day, before heading to Christchurch tomorrow morning.

Meals: Breakfast

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

Take a Flight Over the Pacific Ocean - Enjoy a scenic flight above the Kaikōura Penninsula and up to the mountains for a landing. This spot provides 360 degrees of breathtaking panoramic views over the Pacific Ocean and Seaward Kaikōura Ranges. If you are lucky enough to be here in the winter months you will get a bonus snow landing.

Adult: 350.00 NZD

See Seals on a Kayak Tour - Enjoy the New Zealand Fur Seals as they play around and under your kayak in their natural habitat, while you are able to take pictures with ease.

Adult: 135.00 NZD

Go Whale Watching in Kaikōura - Every Whale Watch tour is a unique experience and the sightings vary. Giant Sperm Whales are the stars of the show and year-round residents. These Sperm Whales share these waters with up to 14 other species of whales and dolphins that migrate past at different times of the year. This unique marine experience also provides an opportunity to sight highspirited Dusky Dolphins, the rare and endangered Hectors Dolphin, New Zealand Fur Seals and a wide variety of sea birds including the Royal Albatross. Whale Watch takes you on an unforgeable journey, in purpose built vessels that provide great viewing and photographic opportunities. Whale Watch have a 95% success rate with viewing whales and guarantee an 80% refund if your tour does not see a whale.

Adult: 175.00 NZD

View Whales from the Air - View whales and dolphins in their natural environment, and gain an insight into their world. Kaikōura is home to sperm whales year round, as well as a popular migratory and feeding route for many other species of whales and dolphins. From the air passengers can experience the true magnitude of the world’s largest mammal, the whale. These animals can reach an impressive 18 metres in length and weigh up to 60 tonne!

Adult: 225.00 NZD

Take the Drive of your Life - Speeding through Glenstrae farm and hill country farmland, dashing through manuka glades and checking out the seals at Haumuri Bluffs, and even riding through the native rainforests and rivers... it’s a wild ride, but don’t worry – we’ll calm our engines with a tea and cookie break under the sumptuous sun.

Adult: 179.00 NZD

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DAY 12 KAIKŌURA TO CHRISTCHURCH

Kaikōura

We're onto our next destination, so long Kaikōura! 

Christchurch

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!

Meals: Breakfast

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DAY 13 CHRISTCHURCH TO FRANZ JOSEF VIA ARTHUR'S PASS AND HOKITIKA

Christchurch

Christchurch, it was short and sweet, but with with ice age action on the horizon we gots to move on.

Arthur's Pass

Take in the beautiful scenery as we wind our way across the highest and most spectacular mountain pass across the Southern Alps.

Hokitika

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 aer) 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…)

Franz Josef

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.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Included Experiences

- Learn about Pounamu with a Local Māori Guide MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience

- Visit Arthur's Pass Village

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DAY 14 FRANZ JOSEF

Franz Josef

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 mastercrasman. 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 jewellery.

Meals: Breakfast

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

Make Your Own Pounamu Pendant - Carve your own Pounamu (Jade) pendant using traditional Māori methods with a master carver.

Adult: 104.00 NZD

Check Out Glaciers on a Heli Ride - Take in sweeping aerial views of this area of spectacular natural beauty before getting up close to this icy formation with a glacier landing. Flight covers Franz Josef Glacier and is 20min in length.

Adult: 330.00 NZD

Travel to Franz Josef Glacier by Helicopter and Hike on a Glacier - 'One stop shopping' with a short helicopter flight onto Franz Josef Glacier followed by two hours of exploring this spectacular natural wonder on foot. You'll be fully kied out on the ice as your Local Guide gives you the low-down on how the glacier was formed.

Adult: 799.00 NZD

Get off the Beaten Path at the Franz Josef Glacier - Single or double squad bike? Or maybe even an adventure buggy. Whatever you choose, ride through the Jurassic rainforest with the backdrop of the spectacular Southern Alps. Best part? You’ll get some cool included photos too!

Adult: 210.00 NZD

Skydive over the Franz Josef & Fox Glacier - Jump into the incredible scenery of Franz Josef & Fox Glacier. Feel the freefall hiing your skin. Why would you ever wanna miss out on this…

Adult: 429.00 NZD

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DAY 15 FRANZ JOSEF TO QUEENSTOWN VIA HAAST AND WĀNAKA

Franz Josef

With a new appreciation for frozen water, we'll hop on the coach & continue to Queenstown, with a few cheeky stops along the way.

Haast

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.

Wānaka

We'll stop for lunch in Wānaka, a prey 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.

Queenstown

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.

Meals: Breakfast

Included Experiences

- Discover Wānaka

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

Dine at the Skyline Restaurant - With a cable car ride up to the Skyline restaurant, you can take in the stunning views of Queenstown & the surrounding mountains. Then, enjoy panoramas & the night lights of the town below as you feast on a large buffet meal & enjoy some live entertainment.

Adult: 142.00 NZD

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DAY 16 QUEENSTOWN

Queenstown

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.

Meals: Breakfast

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

Take the Canyon Swing Over Shotover River - Experience the rush of a free fall as you jump from 109 metres (360 feet) up above the Shotover River. Then break into a cable-controlled swing in an exhilarating finish to this adrenaline-pumping activity.

Adult: 295.00 NZD

Climb Waterfalls (Available Oct - Apr Departures Only) - Climb up gorges and waterfalls with your expert guiding team. This is the perfect opportunity to unleash that ultimate adventurer by abseiling down some seriously unique landscapes.

Adult: 229.00 NZD

Explore Queenstown on Two Wheels - A local guide will show us some hidden secrets, unveiling lots of Queenstown’s history as we go. Truly beautiful scenery incoming!

Adult: 225.00 NZD

Boogie at an Ice Bar - Take a virtual trip to the Arctic at Ice Bar, Queenstown. The entire bar is craed purely of crystal-clear ice from the walls, furniture & statues, to the bar & even the glasses! Don your included jackets, gloves & cosy warm footwear and hit the bar for some cocktails.

Adult: 25.00 NZD

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DAY 17 QUEENSTOWN

Queenstown

It's times like this that you really start to work out what sort of traveller you are. And human for that maer. 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".

Meals: Breakfast

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

Take a Ride on the Shotover Jet - The world-famous Queenstown jet boat ride, Shotover Jet is the ultimate in water sports excitement, and has been thrilling millions of people since hiing the crystal clear waters of New Zealand in 1965. So hold on tight and take a spin in the iconic Big Red. Marvel as the jaw-dropping scenery passes you by while you power your way through the narrow Shotover River Canyons.

Adult: 169.00 NZD

Walter Peak Horse Trek - Unwind on a scenic horse trek through Queenstown’s stunning scenery at Walter Peak High Country Farm.

Adult: 249.00 NZD

Tour Otago's finest vineyards - A classic and fun half day wine tour visiting some of Central Otago’s finest and off the beaten track cellar doors, including a visit to New Zealand’s famous Gibbston Valley underground wine cave.

Adult: 199.00 NZD

Take the Ziptrek Zipline - Ziptek is a must-do, multi award-winning adventure ecotourism business renowned for delivering awareness & appreciation of the natural environment along with a good dose of ziplining adventure.

Adult: 209.00 NZD

Ski in Cardrona (Seasonal) - Here during the Tiki winter? This is your chance to spend a full day skiing over the beautiful mountain of Cardrona. New Zealand's largest ski slope. Grab your 1-day Ski Li Pass (with the option to hire equipment, clothing, and geing some lessons too!). We'll take you from Queenstown and back again, so you can spend all your time on the snowy slopes.  Check out our 'Dates & Pricing' to see which special departures offer the option to ski!

Fly over the Mountains in Queenstown - Take your spirit of adventure a level above (quite literally) and fly over shores of Lake Whakatipu on a helicopter. It's a view you don't wanna miss. Please note: prices start from $330.

Adult: 330.00 NZD

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DAY 18 QUEENSTOWN

Queenstown

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.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

Take a Kayak Trip to Paradise with Funyaks - In this full-day excursion, venture into the beautiful, untouched world known as ‘Paradise’ & made famous in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Speed in with a jet boat ride & cruise out at your own pace in a canoe. Average standard of fitness required.

Adult: 499.00 NZD

Take the Nevis Bungy Jump - Turn up the action levels with & bungy jump 134 metres (440 feet) from a platform suspended across a river at Nevis Bluff. This is a truly spine-tingling experience.

Adult: 395.00 NZD

Take the Nevis Swing - Not for the faint-hearted, you’ll be blown away by this adrenaline-pumping & high velocity giant swing. At 125 metres up, speed past rock faces on this thrilling ride before swinging out into the Doolan’s Creek valley for amazing views.

Adult: 325.00 NZD

Experience the Nevis Catapult - Get ready for an insane ride on the biggest and most extreme catapult in the world! You’ll be propelled 150m up and out across the Nevis Valley, experiencing up to 3Gs of force as you reach speeds of almost 100kms an hour in 1.5 seconds flat. A hair-raising drop will have your blood pumping and you’ll be screaming for another hit!

Adult: 295.00 NZD

Experience the Nevis Thrillogy (Bungy, Swing & Catapult) - Experience everything that the Nevis Playground has to offer, this is the most ultimate of adreniline rushes and not for the faint hearted - Bungy, Swing & Catapult. As the AJ Hacke saying goes "Live More, Fear Less!" 

Adult: 805.00 NZD

Skydive over Lake Wakatipu - This is the perfect adventure activity for those adrenaline-junkies in the adventure capital of the world. Tandem skydive with a professional, experienced jump master & feel the rush of free fall before floating over Lake Wakitipu & the Remarkables mountain range (12,000 /3,657m).

Adult: 430.00 NZD

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DAY 19 QUEENSTOWN TO TE ANAU VIA MILFORD SOUND

Queenstown

Alright, it's time to return our adrenaline levels to a normal level and make tracks to the spectacular natural wonder of Milford Sound.

Milford Sound

Welcome to New Zealand's most stunning araction, 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.

Te Anau

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 prey 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.

Meals: Breakfast

Included Experiences

- Cruise Milford Sound Fjord

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

Visit Glowworm caves - Take an evening cruise along Lake Te Anau to visit underground caves with a twisting network of limestone passages filled with sculpted rock, whirlpools & a roaring underground waterfall. Deep inside the caves, you will be taken by small boat into a silent hidden groo inhabited by thousands of glowworms, unique to New Zealand.

Adult: 135.00 NZD

Explore the Fiordland on a JetBoat - Enjoy the thrill of jet boating down the majestic trout filled Waiau River, to the serene Lake Manapouri, step foot into ancient beach forests and learn all about this unique location among Fiordland National Park.

Adult: 189.00 NZD

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DAY 20 TE ANAU TO LAKE ŌHAU VIA KINGSTON AND ARROWTOWN

Te Anau

So long, Te Anau. It's been fun.

Kingston

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 traveller 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.

Arrowtown

We make a quick stop for lunch in the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown (Kā Muriwai) before heading onto Lake Ōhau.

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!

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Included Experiences

- Support Women in Agriculture MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience

- Discover Arrowtown

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DAY 21 LAKE ŌHAU TO CHRISTCHURCH VIA LAKE TEKAPO

Lake Ōhau

We're moving on to Christchurch but not before one final stop.

Lake Tekapo

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.

Christchurch

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.

Meals: Breakfast

Included Experiences

- See the Church of the Good Shepard

- Marvel at the Epic NZ Landscapes

- Visit the Dark Sky Experience