Kiwiana Panorama Plus Kaikoura - Auckland to Queenstown (Oct 2024 to Sep 2025)
Kiwiana Panorama Plus Kaikoura - Auckland to Queenstown (Oct 2024 to Sep 2025)
Kiwiana Panorama Plus Kaikoura - Auckland to Queenstown (Oct 2024 to Sep 2025)
16 Days Starting in Auckland and ending in Queenstown (Nz)
Visiting: Auckland, Rotorua, Huka Falls, Lake Taupo, Mount Ruapehu, Wellington, Picton Harbour, Kaikoura, Christchurch, Arthur's Pass, Hokitika, Franz Josef, Haast, Wanaka, Queenstown
Tour operator:
Tour code:
NBZADM24
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Activities:
From:
$3290
$2961 (USD)
Operator discount: -$329
Tour Overview
Ready for the ultimate 2 week adrenaline rush? Eat with the Maori in Rotorua, hike up an active volcano, cruise on Lake Taupo and head to the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown. Ever tried bungy jumping, sky diving, canyon swinging? Now's your chance.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Auckland To Rotorua
Location: Auckland, Rotorua
Accommodation: Sudima Lake Rotorua (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
All aboard the Contiki bus! Starting in Auckland, we'll drive through the lush farmlands of Waikato, an area famous for rugby - many of New Zealand's best players for the All Blacks are trained in this town.
We'll stop off at the New Zealand Kiwi Hatchery, the world's largest conservation project for the kiwi bird. Watch these adorable little birds roam around, stand in a human-sized kiwi burrow, and visit the incubation centre, where over 2100 kiwi chicks have been born. Who knows, maybe you'll see a newly-hatched kiwi chick!
Day 2: Rotorua
Location: Rotorua
Accommodation: 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 3: Rotorua To Lake Taupo
Location: Rotorua, Huka Falls, Lake Taupo
Accommodation: Lakeland Resort Taupo (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
From Rotorua, we make our way to Lake Taupo, 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 Taupo is on the horizon.
We arrive at Lake Taupo, 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 4: Lake Taupo To Ruapehu
Location: Lake Taupo, Mount Ruapehu
Accommodation: 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, Mt Ruapehu with views unlike any other you've seen.
Day 5: Mount Ruapehu To Wellington
Location: Mount Ruapehu, Wellington
Accommodation: 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 delights. After an orientation through the narrow streets of Wellington a night on the town will be on the cards, plus an optional dinner to start the night off as we mean to go on.
Day 6: Wellington
Location: Wellington
Accommodation: Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Ready to explore Wellington in all its glory? Today, we'll 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 7: Wellington To Kaikoura
Location: Wellington, Picton Harbour, Kaikoura
Accommodation: Sudima Kaikoura (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, the gateway to wine country. Sauv blanc, anyone?
Our next drive takes us through Marlborough’s wine country along the rugged east coast. Arriving in Kaikoura will see us amongst a seaside settlement known for whales & dolphins, so the camera needs to be on 110% charge as we roll around the coast. We'll stop at a seal colony, where you'll struggle not to break into a collective 'cuuuute' as you watch these guys sunning themselves on the rocks.
Next up, we'll visit Kaikoura Wildlife Rescue to meet a local wildlife biologist, Sabrina Leucht, who has been working to build a dedicated wildlife hospital in Kaikoura. We'll learn about the types of wildlife we might encounter here, which threats they face, and what we can all do to make a difference - locally and in our own hometowns.
After a busy day of wildlife wonders, we'll check into our seafront hotel, before heading out for a spot of dinner. Did you know that Kaikoura literally translates into 'eat (kai) crayfish (koura)'? So, no prizes for guessing what type of local cuisine we'll be trying!
Day 8: Kaikoura
Location: Kaikoura
Accommodation: Sudima Kaikoura (Or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We all love a free day - especially one spent in beautiful Kaikoura! 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 Kaikoura Peninsula, a kayak trip across the coastline, and more. We'll stay another night in Kaikoura after an action-packed day, before heading to Christchurch tomorrow morning.
Day 9: Kaikoura To Christchurch
Location: Kaikoura, Christchurch
Accommodation: The Breakfree on Cashel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We're onto our next destination, so long Kaikoura!
We'll arrive in Christchurch 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 10: Christchurch To Franz Josef Glacier
Location: Christchurch, Arthur's Pass, Hokitika, Franz Josef
Accommodation: 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, probably one of the most beautiful places you'll ever of clapped eyes on. A bold statement we know, but well deserved.
Day 11: Franz Josef Glacier
Location: Franz Josef
Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning will be another big ol' tick off the list as 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 Maori 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 jewellery.
Day 12: Franz Josef Glacier To Queenstown
Location: Franz Josef, Haast, Wanaka, Queenstown
Accommodation: Jucy Snooze (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Armed with a new found appreciation for frozen water, we'll hop back on the coach & start making our way to Queenstown, making a few cheeky stops along the way. Our first piece of NZ eye-candy comes in the form of Haast Pass, 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. Intermitting our scenic drive we'll stop for lunch in Wanaka, 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 today. Welcome to the adventure capital of the world - Queenstown. We hit the ground running because tonight you can choose to jump on a gondola, to wine & dine atop of the highest restaurant in Queenstown, Skyline. What a way to start our time here! Rest up tonight - the next few days are going to be BIG.
Day 13: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation: Jucy Snooze (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is yours to get acquainted with Queenstown and spend some time mulling over the activities up for grabs in the next two days. First stop is the legendary Kawarau Bungy Bridge, get your morning adrenaline hit with a heart pounding jump at the world home of the bungy. Later, take a stroll around beautiful Queenstown, nestled in the Southern Alps this stunning town has plenty to offer other than adventure activities.
Day 14: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation: Jucy Snooze (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
It's times like this that you really start to work out what sort of traveller 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, a skydive and a heliraft & still craves more. It's your holiday - run wild as you see fit.
Day 15: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation: Jucy Snooze (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 16: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning our adventure comes to an end (sob). Hug it out with your new bff's, with plans no doubt in place for Contiki 2.0. NZ, you've been real.
Check out our Q&As
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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.
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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.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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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.
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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
Dates & Availability
Sunday - Monday
Oct 06, 2024 - Oct 21, 2024Monday - Tuesday
Oct 14, 2024 - Oct 29, 2024Tuesday - Wednesday
Oct 22, 2024 - Nov 06, 2024Thursday - Friday
Nov 07, 2024 - Nov 22, 2024Friday - Saturday
Nov 15, 2024 - Nov 30, 2024Saturday - Sunday
Nov 23, 2024 - Dec 08, 2024Sunday - Monday
Dec 01, 2024 - Dec 16, 2024Monday - Tuesday
Dec 09, 2024 - Dec 24, 2024Tuesday - Wednesday
Dec 17, 2024 - Jan 01, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Dec 21, 2024 - Jan 05, 2025Wednesday - Thursday
Dec 25, 2024 - Jan 09, 2025Sunday - Monday
Dec 29, 2024 - Jan 13, 2025Thursday - Friday
Jan 02, 2025 - Jan 17, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Jan 06, 2025 - Jan 21, 2025Friday - Saturday
Jan 10, 2025 - Jan 25, 2025Tuesday - Wednesday
Jan 14, 2025 - Jan 29, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jan 18, 2025 - Feb 02, 2025Wednesday - Thursday
Jan 22, 2025 - Feb 06, 2025Sunday - Monday
Jan 26, 2025 - Feb 10, 2025Thursday - Friday
Jan 30, 2025 - Feb 14, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Feb 03, 2025 - Feb 18, 2025Friday - Saturday
Feb 07, 2025 - Feb 22, 2025Tuesday - Wednesday
Feb 11, 2025 - Feb 26, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Feb 15, 2025 - Mar 02, 2025Wednesday - Thursday
Feb 19, 2025 - Mar 06, 2025Thursday - Friday
Feb 27, 2025 - Mar 14, 2025Friday - Saturday
Mar 07, 2025 - Mar 22, 2025Sunday - Monday
Mar 23, 2025 - Apr 07, 2025Tuesday - Wednesday
Apr 08, 2025 - Apr 23, 2025Thursday - Friday
Apr 24, 2025 - May 09, 2025Saturday - Sunday
May 10, 2025 - May 25, 2025Monday - Tuesday
May 26, 2025 - Jun 10, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Jun 09, 2025 - Jun 24, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Jun 23, 2025 - Jul 08, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Jul 07, 2025 - Jul 22, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Jul 14, 2025 - Jul 29, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Jul 21, 2025 - Aug 05, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Jul 28, 2025 - Aug 12, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Aug 04, 2025 - Aug 19, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Aug 18, 2025 - Sep 02, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 16, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Sep 15, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Sep 29, 2025 - Oct 14, 2025Book with Confidence
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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.
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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.
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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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Terms and Conditions