12-Day New Zealand: Northern Choice | Southbound
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US$2214 ￥14896 €1912 C$3081 Rs.211273
US$2460 ￥16551 €2124 C$3423 Rs.234747
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Packages
A
Southbound | Oct 2025 - Sep 2026
B
Southbound | Oct 2026 - Sep 2027
Price a Trip, Book Now
room-based
Room, adult, and child counts are sent to the cart for final pricing, including any room-based supplement.
Child age: 0-12
Highlights
Just how much mind-boggling can be packed into a 12-day holiday? Quite a lot when you're prancing around New Zealand. We'll sojourn our way from Auckland to Christchurch, chowing fish'n'chips and Māori hāngi meals, watching geothermic mud pools boil & signing up for adrenalin rushes that will buzz on in our minds 'til we're old and grey.
Dates & Prices
Price in USD (per person, based on double occupancy)
Itinerary
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.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. 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.
Auckland, New Zealand
Commonly referred to as the City of Sails, Auckland is a populous urban area in New Zealand. An isthmus (narrow strip of land connecting two larger land areas) Auckland's harbors offer beautiful views and a wide range of water activities.
Whangarei, New Zealand
Whangarei is the regional capital of the Northland region in New Zealand. This urban city is home to Northland Taniwha (a rugby union team) and is also a bustling center for arts, culture, architecture, and more.
Paihia, New Zealand
The main tourist destination in the Bay of Islands, Paihia is a seaside town with beautiful beaches. Visitors can explore the city center's many shops, cafes, and restaurants, take a ferry to nearby Russell, or enjoy swimming, fishing, and more.
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.
Paihia, New Zealand
The main tourist destination in the Bay of Islands, Paihia is a seaside town with beautiful beaches. Visitors can explore the city center's many shops, cafes, and restaurants, take a ferry to nearby Russell, or enjoy swimming, fishing, and more.
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?
Paihia, New Zealand
The main tourist destination in the Bay of Islands, Paihia is a seaside town with beautiful beaches. Visitors can explore the city center's many shops, cafes, and restaurants, take a ferry to nearby Russell, or enjoy swimming, fishing, and more.
Auckland, New Zealand
Commonly referred to as the City of Sails, Auckland is a populous urban area in New Zealand. An isthmus (narrow strip of land connecting two larger land areas) Auckland's harbors offer beautiful views and a wide range of water activities.
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).
Rotorua, New Zealand
Located in the Bay of Plenty region, Rotorua is New Zealand's 10th largest urban city. Tourists can visit the Government Gardens and the Rotorua Museum of Art and History. Other popular activities include mountain biking, boating, and fishing.
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.
Rotorua, New Zealand
Located in the Bay of Plenty region, Rotorua is New Zealand's 10th largest urban city. Tourists can visit the Government Gardens and the Rotorua Museum of Art and History. Other popular activities include mountain biking, boating, and fishing.
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 (Taupō 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.
Rotorua, New Zealand
Located in the Bay of Plenty region, Rotorua is New Zealand's 10th largest urban city. Tourists can visit the Government Gardens and the Rotorua Museum of Art and History. Other popular activities include mountain biking, boating, and fishing.
Huka Falls
Experience the natural beauty of Haku Falls, a set of cascading waterfalls that drain into Taupo Lake, the largest lake in New Zealand. Located on the Waikato River, visitors can walk trails, jetboat, or admire views from various observation points.
Taupo, New Zealand
Located at the center of the North Islands, Taupo resides along the shores of New Zealand's largest lake. In recent years, the town has become a popular venue for outdoor sporting events like sailing, cross country, biking, and more.
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.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.
Mount Ruapehu, New Zealand
The highest peak on the North Island, an active volcano with renowned ski fields and volcanic landscapes.
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.
Wellington, New Zealand
As the capital of New Zealand, Wellington is a populous urban center that offers tourists an array of activities and attractions. Visitors can enjoy museums, architecture, theatre, and the arts, as well as music festivals, world class cuisine, and more.
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!
Wellington, New Zealand
As the capital of New Zealand, Wellington is a populous urban center that offers tourists an array of activities and attractions. Visitors can enjoy museums, architecture, theatre, and the arts, as well as music festivals, world class cuisine, and more.
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? 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.
Picton, New Zealand
Picton is possibly New Zealand’s most pretty seaside town with its relaxed island feel, secluded bays and crystal clear waters. The waterfront has one of the world’s best water views known for its ever changing colours and its marinas are a stunning testament to the importance of boats to this charming waterside village.
Kaikoura, New Zealand
Kaikoura offers activities all year round. By sea, visitors can swim with dolphins, whale watch or enjoy kayaking and surfing. By land, guests can enjoy wining and dining, shopping, bird watching, spas, hiking, and festivals. The possibilities are endless.
We all love a free day - especially one spent in beautiful Kaikōura! 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 Kaikōura after an action-packed day, before heading to Christchurch tomorrow morning.
Kaikoura, New Zealand
Kaikoura offers activities all year round. By sea, visitors can swim with dolphins, whale watch or enjoy kayaking and surfing. By land, guests can enjoy wining and dining, shopping, bird watching, spas, hiking, and festivals. The possibilities are endless.
So long Kaikōura! Arriving into Christchurch (Ōtautahi) almost marks the end of our adventure (sob). But not before 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. Our time together has been nothing short of perfect, so don't leave it to long before coming back to hang with us for Contiki 2.0.
Christchurch, New Zealand
The largest city on the South Island of New Zealand, Christchurch is an urban center in the Canterbury region. Nicknamed the Garden City, Christchurch is known for its Anglican cathedral, arts, museums, and as being a gateway for Antarctic expeditions.
Includes & Excludes
Price Includes
Additional Notes
- DAY 1: Trip starts in Auckland at 08:00. Travellers to arrive into Auckland Airport (AKL). The kick-start meeting starts at 18:00. It is not recommended to book flights arriving on the first day of the trip. Pre night is recommended in Auckland.
- DAY 12: Trip ends in Christchurch at 15:00. Travellers to depart from Christchurch Airport (CHC). It is not recommended to book flights prior to 19:00 on the last day of the trip. Post night is recommended in Christchurch.
- TRANSFERS: Both complimentary and chargeable transfers are not offered through Contiki. Travellers should make their own way from/to the airport at their own expense.
- NEW ZEALAND: USA passport holders require a visa for New Zealand. Visa must be obtained prior to departure. We recommend applying 60 days prior to departure.
- IMPORTANT: Please see important visa details sent with your invoice.
Policies
All purchases are subject to re-confirmation within 2-3 business days after booking. Please do not book airline tickets until you have received the confirmation.
Complete operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, is included on your e-ticket. You must print the e-tickets and take them along on your trip; they are your proof of purchase.
Travel Documents
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Cancellation penalties per person (request day and departure day are not counted)
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
Q & A
Popular FAQs
Christchurch: Southbound trips start in Auckland and end in Christchurch. Northbound trips start in Christchurch and finish in Auckland. They’re both the same itineraries, just in reverse.
Sydney: A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
Sydney: A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
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