12-Day New Zealand: Northern Choice | Northbound
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US$2205 ￥14836 €1904 C$3068 Rs.210414
US$2450 ￥16484 €2116 C$3409 Rs.233793
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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
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 sashay our way from Auckland to Christchurch, chowing down on 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 Christchurch (Ōtautahi)! Contiki crew, are you ready?! We'll board the coach, travelling through South Island to reach Kaikōura by lunch. We'll stop off at a seal colony on the seafront to get our daily fix of cuteness, before heading to Kaikōura Wildlife Rescue to meet a local wildlife biologist, Sabrina Leucht. She has been working to build a dedicated wildlife hospital in Kaikōura and Contiki has been helping with the fundraising! 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 Kaikōura literally translates into 'eat (kai) crayfish (koura)'? So, no prizes for guessing what type of local cuisine we'll be trying!
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.
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 Wellington 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.
After breakfast, we'll head back on the Contiki coach and head to our next destination. On our way, you'll struggle not to break into a collective 'cuuuute' as you watch seals sunning themselves on the rocks as we drive by. We'll continue on to 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 (Te Whanganui a Tara), just in time for a tour of the city. 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.
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, you can opt to 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.
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, "Te Mangawhero Trail". Tonight, snuggle down in our Special Stay ski lodge, located in prime position at the base of Mount Ruapehu (Ruapehu).
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.
Wake up in the spectacular surroundings of Mt. Ruapehu with epic views of the volcano. Today we head off to Lake Taupō!Here we are in Lake Taupō (Taupō Nui a Tia). 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 lake cruise to watch the sunset, go fishing and enjoy some eats with our Contiki fam.
Mount Ruapehu, New Zealand
The highest peak on the North Island, an active volcano with renowned ski fields and volcanic landscapes.
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.
As we leave Lake Taupō 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 or take a canopy tour - there's plenty of time for you to make the best of this town. Tonight we enjoy a Māori cultural performance and feast on a Hāngi dinner that is sweetly roasted in the ground.
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.
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.
Today is yours to roam free in this geothermal paradise. Soak in a hot spring, go rafting or hike up a volcano. Opt for the Rotorua Dawn Canopy Tour (exclusive to Contiki) and watch the sunrise, enjoy breakfast and coffee up in the trees as the birds make their morning calls. Then, 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.
Ma-Te-Wa, Rotorua! We're headed to Auckland, where there's an array of awesome Free-Time Add-Ons to choose from.Welcome to Auckland (Tāmaki Makaurau)! 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 ice cream experience at Giapo?
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 cross Aucklands 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 to check out the quirky exterior of the weird and wonderful Hunderwassert art centre, a unique architectural project dedicated to the ecological activist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. After lunch we'll hit the road again onwards to the Bay of Islands.We'll start 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 included admission to the Treaty museum for more detail on Kiwi history. Tonight we'll feast like the locals and 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.
Whether it's parasailing or a catamaran cruise - 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.
Feeling salty and sun-kissed we'll wave goodbye to beautiful Paihia & sashay our way back down NZ in the direction of Auckland. Our adventure comes to an end in Auckland today. Make sure you swap contact deets and start planning the next adventure. Anyone for 'Straya?
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.
Includes & Excludes
Price Includes
Additional Notes
- DAY 1: Trip starts in Christchurch at 09:00. Travellers to arrive into Christchurch Airport (CHC). 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 Christchurch.
- DAY 12: Trip ends in Auckland at 15:00. Travellers to depart from Auckland Airport (AKL). It is not recommended to book flights prior to 19:00 on the last day of the trip. Post night is recommended in Auckland.
- 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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