New Zealand Panorama | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sep 2025
New Zealand Panorama | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sep 2025
New Zealand Panorama | Southbound | Oct 2024 - Sep 2025
16 Days Starting in Auckland and ending in Queenstown (Nz)
Visiting: New Zealand
Tour operator:
Tour code:
NBZADM24
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Photography, Wildlife Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "Kiwiana Panorama Plus Kaikoura" tour, spanning from Auckland to Queenstown. This 16-day adventure through New Zealand offers a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and adrenaline-pumping activities. Witness the awe-inspiring Huka Falls, explore the geothermal marvels of Rotorua, and marvel at the active stratovolcano Mount Ruapehu. Enjoy a traditional Maori feast, visit the world's first bungy jump site in Queenstown, and meet eco-warrior Sabrina Leucht in Kaikoura. From the bustling streets of Wellington to the serene beauty of Lake Taupo and the majestic Franz Josef Glacier, this tour promises an enriching and exhilarating experience.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Auckland To Rotorua
Accommodation Name: 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 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 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).
Day 2: Rotorua
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 3: Rotorua To Lake Taupō Via Huka Falls
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, 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
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, Mt Ruapehu with views unlike any other you've seen.
Day 5: Mount Ruapehu To Wellington
Accommodation: Hotel
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, and a chance to explore the great food scene, a night on the town will be on the cards.
Day 6: Wellington
Accommodation: Hotel
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 7: Wellington To Kaikoura Via Picton
Accommodation Name: 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? Kaikoura 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 Kaikoura 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 8: Kaikoura
Accommodation Name: 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, Quadbiking through Glenstrae Farm, 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
Accommodation Name: 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 Via Hokitika And Arthur's Pass
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, 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
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 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 Via Haast Pass And Wanaka
Accommodation Name: Lylo (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. 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. Tonight you can choose to jump on a gondola and 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
Accommodation Name: Lylo (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
Accommodation Name: Lylo (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 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 15: Queenstown
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 16: 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.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels and lodges throughout the tour.
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Meals
Meals are included as specified in the itinerary.
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Transport
Transport is provided by a Contiki bus for the duration of the tour.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours and experiences are included as part of the itinerary.
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Entry Fees
Entry fees to various attractions and sites are included.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as the Rotorua Dawn Canopy Tour, Hukafalls Jet experience, and skydiving are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Flights
International and domestic flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and any related travel documentation costs are not included.
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels and lodges throughout the tour, including stays at Sudima Lake Rotorua, Lakeland Resort Taupo, Kings Ohakune, Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman, Sudima Kaikoura, The Breakfree on Cashel, Rainforest Retreat, and Lylo.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the tour?
You can expect to see a variety of wildlife including kiwi birds at the New Zealand Kiwi Hatchery, rare native birds like the hihi and the takahē at Zealandia, seals at a seal colony in Kaikoura, and possibly giant sperm whales, dusky dolphins, and more during a whale watching tour in Kaikoura.
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Are there any unique cultural experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes several unique cultural experiences such as learning about the conservation efforts for the kiwi bird at Rainbow Springs, meeting a local Maori guide in Hokitika to learn about the significance of Pounamu (greenstone) to the Maori people, and the opportunity to carve your own Pounamu pendant under the tuition of a Maori mastercraftsman.
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What kind of adventure activities are available during the tour?
The tour offers a variety of adventure activities including the Rotorua Dawn Canopy Tour, white water rafting, hiking up a volcano, the Hukafalls Jet experience, skydiving over Lake Taupo, mountain biking along the Old Coach Rd, a heli ride over Franz Josef Glacier, and bungy jumping at the Kawarau Bungy Bridge in Queenstown.
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What are some of the scenic highlights of the tour?
Scenic highlights of the tour include visiting Huka Falls, seeing Mount Ruapehu, exploring the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, enjoying the views of Lake Taupo, driving through the central plateau to Tongariro National Park, crossing the Cook Strait, and experiencing the beautiful landscapes of Haast Pass and the Southern Alps.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
Accommodation during the tour includes stays at Sudima Lake Rotorua, Lakeland Resort Taupo, Kings Ohakune, Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman, Sudima Kaikoura, The Breakfree on Cashel in Christchurch, Rainforest Retreat in Franz Josef, and Jucy Snooze in Queenstown.
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Are there any optional activities that are not included in the tour price?
Yes, optional activities such as the Rotorua Dawn Canopy Tour, Hukafalls Jet experience, skydiving, whale watching tours, helicopter rides over the Kaikoura Peninsula, and kayaking trips are not included in the tour price.
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What meals are included during the tour?
The tour includes a mix of meals, with some days providing breakfast and dinner, while other days may only include breakfast. Specific meal details are provided for each day in the itinerary.
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What is the significance of the visit to Kaikoura Wildlife Rescue?
At Kaikoura Wildlife Rescue, you will meet a local wildlife biologist, Sabrina Leucht, who is working to build a dedicated wildlife hospital in Kaikoura. You will learn about the types of wildlife in the area, the threats they face, and what can be done to make a difference in wildlife conservation.
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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.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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