21-Day Ultimate New Zealand | Southbound
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Packages
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Southbound | Oct 2025 - Sept 2026
B
Southbound | Oct 2026 - Sept 2027
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Room, adult, and child counts are sent to the cart for final pricing, including any room-based supplement.
Child age: 0-12
Highlights
This is New Zealand’s greatest hits, packed into 21 days spanning the North Island, the South Island and all the must-sees along the way. Start in Auckland, then take in Paihia, Rotorua and Taupō before ferrying south to Wellington. Spot wildlife in Kaikōura, cross Arthur’s Pass, see Franz Josef Glacier and dive into Queenstown’s adventure scene. Milford Sound, Lake Ōhau, Lake Tekapo and Mt Cook bring the big alpine finish. Icons, fjords, glaciers, beaches and geothermal wonders - all in one bold NZ journey.
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.
We're onto our next destination, so long Kaikōura! We'll arrive in Christchurch (Ōtautahi) 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!
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.
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 (Kā 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.
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.
Hokitika, New Zealand
Once the center of the West Coast Gold Rush, Hokitika is a rural township whose major industries include greenstone and a growing ecotourism economy. On a clear day, visitors can see the stunning views of Mount Cook.
Franz Josef, New Zealand
A small town on New Zealand's West Coast, known for the nearby Franz Josef Glacier and rainforest scenery.
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 Māori 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.
Franz Josef, New Zealand
A small town on New Zealand's West Coast, known for the nearby Franz Josef Glacier and rainforest scenery.
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 Wānaka, 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 (Tāhuna)! 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: The Free Time Add-Ons which take place in Queenstown can be booked for any day you are there. Just let your Trip Manager know, and they'll arrange this for you.
Franz Josef, New Zealand
A small town on New Zealand's West Coast, known for the nearby Franz Josef Glacier and rainforest scenery.
Haast, New Zealand
Haast is an area in the Westland District territorial authority on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. The main economic activities in the Haast region are farming, fishing and tourism.
Wanaka, New Zealand
Located in the Otago region, Wanaka is a popular resort town that attracts tourists all year round. From cross-country skiing to water skiing, Wanaka offers endless outdoor activities no matter the season, as well as gorgeous views of mountain ranges, lakes, and more.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Located in the South Island of New Zealand along Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is an urban, resort town popularized for its adventure tourism, which includes snowboarding, skiing, mountain biking, and paragliding. The Lord of the Rings film trilogy also features locations from Queenstown and surrounding locations.
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.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Located in the South Island of New Zealand along Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is an urban, resort town popularized for its adventure tourism, which includes snowboarding, skiing, mountain biking, and paragliding. The Lord of the Rings film trilogy also features locations from Queenstown and surrounding locations.
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 exploring wine country and uncovering local cellar doors, or you may be the one squeezing in a bungy jump, zipline and anything else that gets the adrenaline going. Looking to slow things down? You can also unwind with an optional session at Watershed Sauna, complete with incredible views over Lake Wakatipu and the chance to brave a cold plunge. It's your holiday, so make it your own. 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".
Queenstown, New Zealand
Located in the South Island of New Zealand along Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is an urban, resort town popularized for its adventure tourism, which includes snowboarding, skiing, mountain biking, and paragliding. The Lord of the Rings film trilogy also features locations from Queenstown and surrounding locations.
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.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Located in the South Island of New Zealand along Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is an urban, resort town popularized for its adventure tourism, which includes snowboarding, skiing, mountain biking, and paragliding. The Lord of the Rings film trilogy also features locations from Queenstown and surrounding locations.
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 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.
Milford Sound
Described as the Eighth Wonder of the World, Milford Sound offers breathtaking views and recreation. Visitors can admire staggering cliffs and waterfalls, kayak in the sea, take a helicopter flight, or enjoy a day or overnight boat cruise.
Te Anau, New Zealand
Located in the Southland region of New Zealand, Te Anau is a scenic town that borders the Fiordland National Park. Experience the beauty of numerous mountain ranges, Lake Te Anau, bird watching, and easy access to Queenstown and the Milford Sounds.
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 (Kā Muriwai) before heading onto Lake Ōhau. 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 Ōhau (Ōhau), with a spectacular view of Mt Cook in the distance!
Te Anau, New Zealand
Located in the Southland region of New Zealand, Te Anau is a scenic town that borders the Fiordland National Park. Experience the beauty of numerous mountain ranges, Lake Te Anau, bird watching, and easy access to Queenstown and the Milford Sounds.
Kingston, New Zealand
A small lakeside community in New Zealand's South Island, at the southern end of Lake Wakatipu, a gateway to Fiordland, ideal for a peaceful retreat.
Arrowtown, New Zealand
Once a key town in the Central Otago Gold Rush and home to the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement, Arrowtown has a rich, unique history. A popular tourist destination, guests can also explore historic buildings as well as resorts, golf courses, boutiques and restaurants.
Lake Ōhau, New Zealand
A stunning alpine lake on New Zealand's South Island, with turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offering picturesque scenery.
We're moving on to Christchurch but not before one final stop.We’ll kick off our final day with a visit to glacier-fed Lake Tekapo (Takapō), taking in the crystal-clear water and those unreal surrounding peaks. Take a wander along the lakefront, snap the famous views, and stop by the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, perched on the lakeshore against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. A last lakeside moment to lock in the memories before the trip wraps up.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.
Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo is the second-largest of three roughly parallel lakes running north-south along the northern edge of the Mackenzie Basin in the South Island of New Zealand (the others are Lake Pukaki and Lake Ohau).
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 21: Trip ends in Christchurch at 16:00. Travellers to depart from Christchurch Airport (CHC). It is not recommended to book flights prior to 20:00 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
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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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