Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness and endurance.
Starts
Auckland, New Zealand
Ends
Christchurch, New Zealand
Get Trip Brochure & Exclusive Discount
Download a detailed PDF brochure and unlock an exclusive discount for this tour
Do you need help from our trip consultants?
If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.
Our travel experts are ready to help.
Why Book with Bookmundi
Earn USD 104+ in travel credits.
Best price guaranteed.
No credit card or booking fees.
100% financial protection.Bookmundi is a member of the Danish Travel Fund which guarantees for any payment made via us. Our guarantee covers all travelers, irrespective of nationality.
Carbon neutral tours.Algorithms and machine learning enables Bookmundi to calculate the carbon footprint for each tour. We then subsequently offset carbon emissions for all tour bookings on Bookmundi via investments in carbon reduction projects to help combat climate change.
25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.
What are customers saying about Bookmundi
4.67/5
Excellent based on 815 customer reviews from
Maggy
I found using the website & booking on Bookmundi easy to follow & efficient. Lots of good tours to decide between and clear information available
6 days ago
Ultimate New Zealand
5.0Based on
Carbon neutral
CO2 emissions resulting from all trips on Bookmundi will be offset via investments in carbon reduction projects.
Tour Availability
Select your preferred departure date and secure your spot
Loading availability...
Highlights
Auckland: Cameras at the ready folks, the views will be extraordinary here.
Auckland: With sailboats at every angle, this is a beaut view indeed.
Whangārei: 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 Māori 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 Māori cultural performance, topped off with a traditional Māori 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(!)
Ohakune: Tucked just 250m from the Ohakune Mountain Road, Kings Ohakune is peak Kiwiana vibes. We’re talking roaring fireplaces, classic BBQs, hot tubs with epic Mount Ruapehu views and a cosy lodge that’s been welcoming adventurers since 1913. Think: motel-style charm, retro-cute decor, sports on the telly, pool tables, karaoke, darts and local legends repping the Warriors with pride.
Mount Ruapehu: Today we'll check out Mt Ruapehu, an active stratovolcano elevated almost 2,800 metres into the air!
Mount Ruapehu: See even more of the sights made famous by "The Lord of the Rings."
Marlborough Sounds: Check out the sunken river valleys of Marlborough Sounds from an iconic Interislander Ferry. You'd wanna get your camera for this one!
Kaikōura: We'll take a spectacular drive along the Kaikōura Coast, and pay a visit to a nearby seal colony. Yup, it's a coastal cuteness overload.
Kaikōura: 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 home to Pounamu (greenstone) – so special the island’s even named Te Wai Pounamu, the greenstone waters. In Hokitika, we’ll meet a local Māori guide from the region, who’ll share the history, sacred sites and cultural significance of this treasured stone. Then it’s off to see if we can spot some Pounamu. All of this, while supporting the local trust that keeps the river healthy.
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.
Wānaka: 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 Māori astronomy, storytelling and science together in one truly unique interactive display.
Rotorua: A traditional Māori cultural performance, topped off with a traditional Māori 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(!)
Ohakune: Tucked just 250m from the Ohakune Mountain Road, Kings Ohakune is peak Kiwiana vibes. We’re talking roaring fireplaces, classic BBQs, hot tubs with epic Mount Ruapehu views and a cosy lodge that’s been welcoming adventurers since 1913. Think: motel-style charm, retro-cute decor, sports on the telly, pool tables, karaoke, darts and local legends repping the Warriors with pride.
Mount Ruapehu: Today we'll check out Mt Ruapehu, an active stratovolcano elevated almost 2,800 metres into the air!
Mount Ruapehu: See even more of the sights made famous by "The Lord of the Rings."
Marlborough Sounds: Check out the sunken river valleys of Marlborough Sounds from an iconic Interislander Ferry. You'd wanna get your camera for this one!
Kaikōura: We'll take a spectacular drive along the Kaikōura Coast, and pay a visit to a nearby seal colony. Yup, it's a coastal cuteness overload.
Kaikōura: 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 home to Pounamu (greenstone) – so special the island’s even named Te Wai Pounamu, the greenstone waters. In Hokitika, we’ll meet a local Māori guide from the region, who’ll share the history, sacred sites and cultural significance of this treasured stone. Then it’s off to see if we can spot some Pounamu. All of this, while supporting the local trust that keeps the river healthy.
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.
Wānaka: 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 Māori astronomy, storytelling and science together in one truly unique interactive display.
Why choose between North and South Island when you can do it all? The "New Zealand Multisport" tour is a 22-day adventure tailor-made for young adults and experienced travelers keen on moderate activity. Hike, kayak, and cycle your way through jaw-dropping landscapes—from the volcanic peaks of Tongariro to the tranquil waters of Whanganui National Park. Alongside outdoor thrills, enjoy boat cruises and opportunities to connect with local culture. With accommodation, transport, and meals included, this tour ensures you don’t miss a highlight. Its USP is the seamless blend of adrenaline-pumping activities and scenic downtime, creating an unforgettable, all-encompassing Kiwi adventure.
Discover New Zealand’s wild beauty on foot with the Walking in New Zealand tour, a 19-day adventure crafted for experienced travelers. Starting in Auckland and ending in Christchurch, this trip takes you through the North Island’s volcanic wonders and rich Maori heritage to the South Island’s dramatic alpine scenery. Highlights include a scenic boat ride in Milford Sound, hikes beneath Mount Cook’s soaring peaks, and the unforgettable Tongariro Crossing. The real standout? A meticulously planned itinerary that balances challenging walks with cultural immersion and breathtaking landscapes, perfect for those seeking both adventure and insight.
Embark on a 19-day odyssey through New Zealand with Amplified (Southbound), a tour crafted for adventurous spirits who crave both action and variety. Starting in Auckland and ending in Christchurch, this trip takes you from the beaches of the Coromandel and the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, to the wild beauty of the South Island—Queenstown’s adrenaline activities and the icy majesty of Franz Josef Glacier.
The itinerary is designed for easy physical activity, ensuring accessibility while still offering plenty of adventure. Multi-share hostels foster a vibrant community vibe, perfect for connecting with fellow travelers as you discover each region’s unique charm.
What sets this tour apart is its sweeping scope—crossing both islands and showcasing a stunning array of landscapes, cultures, and outdoor pursuits. For those who want it all, this is the ultimate New Zealand journey.
Leap into the ultimate Kiwi adventure with New Zealand Amplified (Northbound)—a 19-day, action-packed trip designed for energetic explorers eager to see it all. Start in Christchurch, where free time allows you to soak up gardens or museums, and get acquainted with fellow travelers before embarking on an epic journey.
This small group tour whisks you from the dramatic South Island to Auckland in the north, offering a seamless blend of city excitement, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Accommodation is in sociable, multi-share hostels, perfect for making new friends as you traverse volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and vibrant urban centers.
The USP of this tour is its comprehensive route and lively pace—ideal for those who want to experience New Zealand’s highlights, from the Franz Josef Glacier to Rotorua’s bubbling pools, all in one unforgettable trip.
Discover New Zealand’s most spectacular contrasts on this 18-day premium sightseeing tour, spanning both the North and South Islands. Starting in Auckland and ending in Queenstown, experienced travelers and seniors will marvel at Rotorua’s geothermal wonders, the mystical landscapes of Hobbiton, and the volcanic beauty of Tongariro. Taste local wines, search for endemic kiwis, and relish the grandeur of Milford Sound. With seamless travel and expert local leaders, every day brings a new highlight. The tour’s USP is its comprehensive exploration of New Zealand’s diverse landscapes and cultures, promising an adventure that’s as varied as it is unforgettable.
New Zealand’s spellbinding wilderness takes center stage on the "New Zealand Explorer," a 19-day moderate activity tour tailored for experienced travelers. Starting in Auckland and ending in Christchurch, this adventure blends thrilling outdoor pursuits—like rafting, sailing Doubtful Sound, and hiking glacial valleys—with immersive cultural experiences, from Maori heritage encounters to wine tasting in Hawke’s Bay. Witness wildlife along rugged coasts, walk the streets of vibrant cities, and even step into the world of Hobbiton. What makes this journey stand out is its unique fusion of jaw-dropping scenery and authentic local interactions, giving you a comprehensive taste of Aotearoa’s magic.
Set out on an epic journey across New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes with the "New Zealand Uncovered" tour. Spanning 20 days from Christchurch to Auckland, this national parks trip is crafted for those eager to experience the country’s unmissable highlights—geothermal marvels, glaciers, beaches, and vibrant cities—at a relaxed, immersive pace.
Tailored for travelers in their mid-thirties and up, you’ll enjoy special experiences like a scenic train journey, a boat cruise to remote Mou Waho Island, a guided Hobbiton tour, a traditional Māori meal, and a walk among illuminated treetops. Optional adventures—from glacier climbing to hot pool kayaking—let you personalize your trip, while comfortable 3–4 star accommodations provide a restful base each night.
This tour package’s unique selling point is its blend of flexibility and depth: you can pick your own adventure mix, all while gaining genuine insight into New Zealand’s culture and natural wonders. Whether you’re snapping photos of golden beaches or exploring dense rainforests, "New Zealand Uncovered" promises a transformative trip for curious explorers.
New Zealand’s stunning landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities await on the "Ultimate New Zealand" tour, an epic 21-day adventure designed especially for young adults. From Auckland to Christchurch, this group trip delivers everything from bungee jumps and jet boating in Queenstown to hiking active volcanoes, savoring a Māori hangi feast in Rotorua, and exploring Hobbiton. Discover the magic of Milford Sound and stroll through vineyards—each day offering a new thrill. The unique selling point is its all-encompassing itinerary, ensuring you experience the best of New Zealand’s awe-inspiring nature, vibrant culture, and legendary adventure sports in one seamless journey.
day 1 - Auckland to Paihia via Whangrei
Welcome to the land of the long white cloud: New Zealand! Time to meet your Contiki crew in Auckland (Tmaki Makaurau) and cross the Harbour Bridge admiring the 'City of Sails' harbour before starting our journey north to Paihia.We'll stop off at the stunning yacht marina in Whangrei and check out the quirky exterior of the Hunderwasser art centre, 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.
Meals:Dinner
Location Visited:Auckland, Whangārei, Paihia
Accommodation:Bounty Motel (or similar)
day 2 - 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
Location Visited:Paihia
Accommodation:Bounty Motel (or similar)
day 3 - Paihia to Auckland
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 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
Location Visited:Paihia, Auckland
Accommodation:Lylo (or similar)
day 4 - Auckland to Rotorua
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 worlds 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, well enjoy a traditional Mori dinner and performance (youll also have the chance to get involved in the world-famous HAKA).
Meals:Breakfast, Dinner
Location Visited:Auckland, Rotorua
Accommodation:Sudima Lake Rotorua (or similar)
day 5 - Rotorua
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.
Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Rotorua
Accommodation:Sudima Lake Rotorua (or similar)
day 6 - Rotorua to Lake Taup via Huka Falls
From Rotorua, we make our way to Lake Taup, 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 Taup is on the horizon. We arrive at Lake Taup (Taup Nui a Tia), 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
Location Visited:Rotorua, Huka Falls, Taupō
Accommodation:Lakeland Resort Taupō (or similar)
day 7 - Lake Taup to Mount Ruapehu
We drive through the central plateau to the southern end of the Tongariro National Park, Ohakune is known as the aprs ski capital of the North Island. Today you have the option to go biking along the Mangawhero cycle track.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
Location Visited:Taupō, Mount Ruapehu
Accommodation:Kings Ohakune (or similar)
day 8 - Mount Ruapehu to Wellington
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.
Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Mount Ruapehu, Wellington
Accommodation:Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman (or similar)
day 9 - 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) 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 takah. Look out for the tuatara, a prehistoric reptile known as a 'living fossil', which can only be found in New Zealand!
Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Wellington
Accommodation:Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman (or similar)
day 10 - Wellington to Kaikura via Picton
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? Kaikura is known for its marine life (among many other things), so keep your eyes peeled for whales, dolphins and seals which well check out along the way. Next up, we'll visit Kaikura Wildlife Rescue to meet Sabrina Leucht, a local biologist wholl teach us about local wildlife, the threats they face and how we can make a difference. Tonight, well check into our seafront hotel for a relaxing evening.
Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Wellington, Picton, Kaikōura
Accommodation:Sudima Kaikōura (or similar)
day 11 - Kaikura
We all love a free day - especially one spent in beautiful Kaikura! We recommend taking a dolphin watching tour, where you'll have the opportunity to see (or swim with) dusky dolphins. Or even kayaking across the coastline! We'll stay another night in Kaikura after an action-packed day, before heading to Christchurch tomorrow morning.
Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Kaikōura
Accommodation:Sudima Kaikōura (or similar)
day 12 - Kaikura to Christchurch
We're onto our next destination, so long Kaikura! We'll arrive in Christchurch (tautahi) 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
Location Visited:Kaikōura, Christchurch
Accommodation:Drifter Christchurch (or similar)
day 13 - Christchurch to Franz Josef via Arthur's Pass and Hokitika
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 Mori guide wholl teach us all about pounamu on a unique tour. Well learn about the history of the illustrious green stones (which the South Island is named after) and its connection with the Mori people. Back on the coach, we're coastline bound to one of the islands most jaw-droppingly beautiful spots (and thats saying something) We'll pull up for the night in glorious Franz Josef (K 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
Location Visited:Christchurch, Arthur's Pass, Hokitika, Franz Josef
Accommodation:Rainforest Retreat (or similar)
day 14 - 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 Mori mastercraftsman. Pounamu is sacred to the Mori people, and this is a great way to learn about its cultural significance, while also creating a beautiful please of jewellery.
Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Franz Josef
Accommodation:Rainforest Retreat (or similar)
day 15 - Franz Josef to Queenstown via Haast and Wnaka
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 Wnaka, 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 (Thuna)! 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. Please Note: Free Time Add Ons in Queenstown can be done on any day. Your Trip Manager will arrange this for you.
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
Location Visited:Queenstown
Accommodation:Lylo (or similar)
day 17 - Queenstown
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 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
Location Visited:Queenstown
Accommodation:Lylo (or similar)
day 18 - 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
Location Visited:Queenstown
Accommodation:Lylo (or similar)
day 19 - Queenstown to Te Anau via Milford Sound
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.
Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Queenstown, Milford Sound, Te Anau
Accommodation:The Village Inn Hotel (or similar)
day 20 - Te Anau to Lake hau via Kingston and Arrowtown
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 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. We make a quick stop for lunch in the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown (K Muriwai) before heading onto Lake hau. 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 hau (hau), with a spectacular view of Mt Cook in the distance!
Meals:Breakfast, Dinner
Location Visited:Te Anau, Kingston, Arrowtown, Lake Ōhau
Accommodation:Lake Ōhau Lodge (or similar)
day 21 - Lake hau to Christchurch via Lake Tekapo
We're moving on to Christchurch but not before one final stop.Well kick off our final day with a visit to the glacier-fed Lake Tekapo (Takap), admiring the crystal clear water. Next, it's time for a Dark Sky experience - a multimedia exhibition that combines stargazing, science and traditional Mori astronomy. Here we'll learn how the Mori 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.
Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Lake Ōhau, Lake Tekapo, Christchurch
A
AnonymousVerified Traveler
5.0 out of 5
Honestly best experience of my life so far!! I love that i really didn’t have to worry about anything at all and if anything came up my trip manager responded to me so quickly. I made so many friends and those people became like my family! Devo that it’s over and wish i could go back right now
A
AnonymousVerified Traveler
5.0 out of 5
A beautiful country and an amazing experience! The incredible Contiki road team made the trip seamless and ensured we ticked everything off our bucket list! 100% would recommend this trip, you will not regret it!
