New Zealand Panorama | Northbound | Oct 2024 - May 2025
New Zealand Panorama | Northbound | Oct 2024 - May 2025
New Zealand Panorama | Northbound | Oct 2024 - May 2025
16 Days Starting in Queenstown (Nz) and ending in Auckland
Visiting: Queenstown, Wanaka, Haast, Franz Josef, Hokitika, Arthur's Pass, Christchurch, Kaikoura, Wellington, Mount Ruapehu, Lake Taupo, Huka Falls, Rotorua, Auckland
Tour operator:
Tour code:
NBZCDM24
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the Kiwiana Panorama Reverse tour from Queenstown to Auckland, an exhilarating journey through New Zealand's most iconic landscapes and cultural experiences. This adventure-packed tour includes adrenaline-pumping activities like the world-famous Kawarau Bungy Jump in Queenstown, scenic stops in the picturesque lake town of Wanaka, and a visit to the awe-inspiring Franz Josef Glacier. Discover the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, witness the majestic Huka Falls, and immerse yourself in Maori culture with a traditional performance and hangi dinner. Along the way, you'll meet eco-warriors, explore vibrant cities like Wellington, and enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Ruapehu. This tour promises unforgettable memories and a deep connection with New Zealand's natural beauty and rich heritage.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: Lylo (or similar)
Kia Ora and welcome to Queenstown. After checking in to your hotel the rest of the afternoon is yours to start discovering why Queenstown is best known as the adventure capital of the world. Tonight you'll meet up with the rest of the crew, no doubt swapping notes on which thrill seeking activity to tick off first. Let the adventure commence...
Day 2: Queenstown
Location: 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 3: Queenstown
Location: 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, a skydive and a heliraft & still craves more. It's your holiday - run wild as you see fit.
Day 4: Queenstown
Location: 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. 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 end our time here!
Day 5: Queenstown To Franz Josef Glacier
Location: Queenstown, Wanaka, Haast, Franz Josef
Accommodation Name: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Time to return our adrenalin levels to normal and make tracks to the wild (and often wet) West Coast and it's towering glaciers.
Enjoying 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.
Our first piece of NZ eye-candy comes in the form of Hasast Pass, beautified by ancient rainforests, small glaciers and waterfalls. Note how the scenery changes as we roll away from Queenstown through the Southern Alps.
Playing host tonight is the town of Franz Josef, home to some of NZ's finest natural beauty with bushlands and glaciers that almost reach the sea. Tomorrow we'll be out and about making the most of it - who's excited?
Day 6: Franz Josef Glacier
Location: Franz Josef
Accommodation Name: 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 7: Franz Josef Glacier To Christchurch
Location: Franz Josef, Hokitika, Arthur's Pass, Christchurch
Accommodation Name: The Breakfree on Cashel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Armed with a new found appreciation for frozen water, we hop back on the coach & start making our way back to Christchurch.
In the gold rush town of Hokitika we'll watch authentic carvers get to work on green jade and take a look at traditional Maori art. Back on the coach we're coastline bound to one of the islands most jaw-droppingly beautiful spots...
Take in the beautiful scenery as we wind our way across the highest and most spectacular mountain pass across the Southern Alps.
Tonight we'll sleep well in Christchurch, drifting off to the pleasant memories of NZ's natural beauty that seasoned our day.
Day 8: Christchurch To Kaikoura
Location: Christchurch, Kaikoura
Accommodation Name: Sudima Kaikoura (Or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We'll set off on an inspiring tour of Christchurch this morning, the city that was totally rebuilt after the Christchurch earthquake. Look out for the Cardboard Cathedral, which as the name suggests, is the only cathedral in the world to be built mostly from plain old cardboard!
After that, it's another jaw-dropping drive up to the top of the South Island. The coach cuts across the Canterbury Plains to Kaikoura.
Arriving in Kaikoura will see us amongst a seaside settlement known for whales & dolphins, so have those cameras at the ready 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 9: Kaikoura
Location: 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 seas 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 10: Kaikoura To Wellington
Location: Kaikoura, Wellington
Accommodation Name: Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, we'll head back on the Contiki coach, destination Wellington: the capital of NZ since 1865, when it replaced Auckland. Almost thirty years later, Wellington parliament was the first in the world to allow women the right to vote. A pretty cool city all in all. By the afternoon, we'll have reached Wellington, just in time for a tour of the city. After our orientation through the narrow streets, 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 11: Wellington
Location: Wellington
Accommodation Name: 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 12: Wellington To Mount Ruapehu
Location: Wellington, Mount Ruapehu
Accommodation Name: Kings Ohakune (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We wave goodbye to Wellington and its beautiful scenery and we prepare ourselves for our next adventure – and trust us, this one is bucket-list worthy. Known as the après-ski capital of the North island, Ohakune is a tranquil town with stupendous view. Today you have the option to go mountain biking along one of NZ's most picturesque track, "the Old Coach Rd" or spend the day bettering your skills on the slopes or generally treating yourself to all the snowy based activities on offer, then tonight snuggle down in our Special Stay ski lodge, located in prime position at the base of Mt. Ruapehu.
Day 13: Mount Ruapehu To Lake Taupo
Location: Mount Ruapehu, Lake Taupo
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Lakeland Resort Taupō (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake up in the spectacular surroundings of Mt. Ruapehu with the epic views of the volcano, and you have the option this morning to go mountain biking along one of NZ's most picturesque track, "the Old Coach Rd" before we head to Taupo. 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 14: Lake Taupo To Rotorua
Location: Lake Taupo, Huka Falls, Rotorua
Accommodation Name: Sudima Lake Rotorua (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
As we leave Lake Taupo keep an eye out for even more recognisable ‘The Lord of the Rings’ backdrops. 220,000 litres (58 000 gallons) of water gush over Huka Falls per second. Just let that sink in for a minute. Wild, right? When you catch your first whiff of that… ‘unusual’ sulphur smell, you’ll know we’ve arrived in Rotorua. Upon arrival in Rotorua we get to learn some fascinating info on NZ's national birds, as well as watch new lives hatch right in front of our eyes! How impressed are you right now? Soak in a hotspring, go skydiving or take a canopy tour - there's plenty of time for you to make the best of this town. Tonight we enjoy a Maori cultural performance and feast on a Hāngi dinner that is sweetly roasted in the ground.
Day 15: Rotorua
Location: 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 16: Rotorua To Auckland
Location: Rotorua, Auckland
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast and a bit of caffeine, we'll head to Auckland and arrive by lunch to explore the city. Contiki coach song ideas anyone?
We'll end our Contiki trip in Auckland, but not before a day of sightseeing and activities across the city. Here 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 Chef's Table? Or if you prefer, walk the city and explore at your own pace - what will grab your attention today in this vibrant city?
A evening draws near, it's time to say our goodbyes, as your trip ends here in Auckland. New Zealand, we'll never forget you!
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels and lodges throughout the tour, including Jucy Snooze, Rainforest Retreat, The Breakfree on Cashel, Sudima Kaikoura, Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman, Kings Ohakune, Lakeland Resort Taupo, and Sudima Lake Rotorua.
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Meals
Meals are included on various days of the tour, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.
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Activities
Various activities are included such as a visit to the New Zealand Kiwi Hatchery, a traditional Maori cultural performance and hangi dinner, and a cruise on Lake Taupo.
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Transportation
Transportation is provided throughout the tour, including scenic drives and coach transfers between locations.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as bungy jumping, skydiving, heli rides, and mountain biking are not included and may incur additional costs.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included in the tour package.
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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 New Zealand are not included in the tour package.
Mode of Transport
Transportation is provided throughout the tour, including scenic drives and coach transfers between locations.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
Accommodation is provided at various hotels and lodges throughout the tour, including Jucy Snooze, Rainforest Retreat, The Breakfree on Cashel, Sudima Kaikoura, Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman, Kings Ohakune, Lakeland Resort Taupo, and Sudima Lake Rotorua.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, meals are included on various days of the tour, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.
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What activities are included in the tour?
Various activities are included such as a visit to the New Zealand Kiwi Hatchery, a traditional Maori cultural performance and hangi dinner, and a cruise on Lake Taupo.
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Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, transportation is provided throughout the tour, including scenic drives and coach transfers between locations.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, optional activities such as bungy jumping, skydiving, heli rides, and mountain biking are available but are not included in the tour package and may incur additional costs.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Are flights included in the tour package?
No, international and domestic flights to and from New Zealand are not included in the tour package.
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What can I expect on the first day of the tour in Queenstown?
On the first day, you will check into your hotel in Queenstown and have the rest of the afternoon to start discovering the city. In the evening, you will meet up with the rest of the crew to discuss the upcoming activities.
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What kind of experiences are available in Rotorua?
In Rotorua, you can visit the New Zealand Kiwi Hatchery, experience a traditional Maori cultural performance, and feast on a ground-smoked hangi dinner. You can also soak in a hot spring, go skydiving, or take a canopy tour.
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What wildlife experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a visit to the New Zealand Kiwi Hatchery, a stop at a seal colony in Kaikoura, and a visit to Kaikoura Wildlife Rescue to learn about local wildlife and conservation efforts.
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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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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