Grand Adventurer (Reverse Start Queenstown)
Featuring: North Island and South Island, including Auckland, Christchurch and Milford Sound
Print Itinerary Itinerary & Map
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Day
Depart for New ZealandFly over the international date line on your way to New Zealand. -
Day
Queenstown to Milford SoundMeet your Contiki crew this morning and travel south to Fiordland National Park where we head through the Homer Tunnel (D'OH!) for our first view of Mitre Peak and Milford Sound. Then it's all aboard the Milford Wanderer, for an overnight cruise taking in all the beauty of the fjord. There's the chance to kayak and see whales, dolphins and penguins along with towering mountains and breathtaking waterfalls. It'll be an evening to treasure!
Please note: Your tour will start at the Queenstown airport. Overnight Cruise (D) -
Day
Milford Sound to QueenstownWe'll breakfast on board and then hop back on the coach to travel through the picturesque former gold mining centre of Arrowtown. Need an andrenalin boost? We'll take you to a bridge to jump off! The bungy jumping bridge provides a hair-raising, gob-stopping adrenalin rush. It is one of the options on this tour that separates the tourists from the purists. Pure fun. Pure rush. Why don't you try it? After all the excitement, tonight we'll chill out at our lodge, overlooking Lake Wakatipu. Lodge (B,D) -
Day
QueenstownLeisure is probably the wrong word as Queenstown is known as the 'Adventure-Adrenaline capital of the world', one of those places that you can literally do as much or as little as you like. A number of options to astound you await! Ever tried Bungy jumping, Sky diving, Jet boating, River boarding, White water rafting, Helicopter riding, Luging, Canyon Swinging, Four wheeldriving, Hiking???? Be extreme! Action by day, action by night - that's Queenstown. Yes, when you've dried off and caught your breath, it'll be time to experience Queenstown's legendary nightlife, and there's no shortage of venues for dining and socialising - why not try an optional meal at the world famous Skyline gondola complex. Lodge (B)(B) -
Day
Queenstown to Franz Josef GlacierWe'll travel today through the Kawarau Gorge, past glacial lakes and via the Haast Pass to reach the South Island's rugged West Coast. In the Westland National Park there's a chance to lace up your hiking boots and explore the icy terrain of this region on a guided glacier walk with the professional guides who will be on hand to show you the beauty of this natural wonder Hotel (B,D) -
Day
Franz Josef Glacier to ChristchurchThis morning we'll see the art of jade greenstone carving at Hokitika. We'll cross the Southern Alps via majestic Arthur's Pass and head towards the "Cathedral City" of Christchurch. Hotel (B) -
Day
Christchurch to WellingtonHeading north, make sure your camera is handy for the spectacular views along the Kaikoura Coastline. If we're lucky, we'll spot one of the many Seal colonies in this area. Boarding the Inter-Island ferry we'll do the South to North Island hop through Marlborough Sound and the Cook Strait. Back on terra firma it's a drive along the scenic waterfront and up to Mt Victoria, before arriving in Wellington, a cosmopolitan city famed for its cafes, restaurants and trendy bars. Hotel (B) -
Day
WellingtonA full day to explore the city and its surrounding area. Take your time to enjoy the amazing Museum of New Zealand, known as Te Papa 'Our House'. Maybe do some shopping or see the sights of the Lord of the Rings trilogy or just relax in one of the city's many cafes. Later this evening join us for a walkabout dinner. Hotel (B) -
Day
Wellington to TaupoToday we travel the Kapiti coast northwards towards the Tongariro National park, past the spectacular central volcanoes of the North Island to our resort beside New Zealand's largest lake - Taupo. This afternoon you're free to wonder the shops, enjoy a parasail high over the lake or challenge gravity on the Rock n' Ropes. Tonight maybe try fishing and later enjoy the famous local nightlife. Resort (B) -
Day
Taupo to RotoruaWe continue via forest and farmland to Rotorua, the heart of Maori culture. Here we'll learn more about their history which dates back to the 10th century. Maybe try the Zorb or end the day by relaxing in a Polynesian thermal pool, before taking in an optional Maori Hangi style meal and Cultural concert. Lodge (B) -
Day
Rotorua to WaitomoWe start the day with a visit to the Agrodome farm show, on our way to our special overnight stay at Waitomo, home of the world famous limestone formations and sparkling Glow worms. There will be time today, if you wish, to visit the Glow worm grotto or try underground cave rafting. Tonight there's the chance to meet the local characters. Lodge (B,D) -
Day
Waitomo to AucklandToday we drive through lush Waikato countryside on our way to Auckland where it's time to say a final farewell as your tour ends on arrival into Auckland at midday. (B)
Highlights
All these highlights along with city sightseeing are included in your tour price!
Included
- Milford Sound: Travel through the Homer Tunnel; Unique overnight cruise on Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park; Cruise past towering cliffs & spectacular waterfalls; See the awe inspiring Mitre Peak
- Queenstown: City sightseeing tour; View the Remarkables Mountains & Coronet Peak; Stop at AJ Hackett's Kawarau Bridge; Visit Arrowtown, the historic gold mining town
- Haast Pass: Stunning drive through the Southern Alps; See Lake Hawea & the Crown Range
- Franz Josef & Fox Glacier: Coastal drive through Westland National Park with views of the glaciers & rainforests
- Hokitika: See traditional Maori Greenstone carving
- Arthur's Pass: Scenic drive through Arthur's Pass National Park
- Christchurch: City sightseeing tour
- Kaikoura Coast: Spectacular coastal drive & visit a seal colony
- Picton: Drive through New Zealand's largest wine growing region
- Cook Strait: Cruise the scenic Marlborough & Queen Charlotte Sounds
- Wellington: City sightseeing tour; Visit Mt. Victoria & enjoy the panoramic views; See more of the sights made famous in the 'Lord of the Rings'
- Tongariro National Park: Dramatic drive through the Volcanic landscape made famous in the 'Lord of the Rings'; See the active volcano Mt. Ruapehu
- Taupo: View Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake
- Huka Falls: Visit the mighty falls
- Rotorua: City sightseeing tour; Visit Te Puia Cultural Centre to learn of Maori arts, crafts & weaponry; Visit the Agrodome farm to see the World renown sheep show
- Waitomo: Visit Waitomo & a traditional New Zealand country pub; Enjoy a pizza party
Accommodations
- Accommodations as per itinerary
- Breakfasts (B) and Dinners (D) as per itinerary
Contiki Difference
- Experienced Tour Managers and Drivers
- Modern air-conditioned coach
- Free Contiki ëTravellers Guideí information book
- Free Contiki document wallet.
Optional Excursions
Queenstown
- Nzone Skydiving (9,000 ft. NZ$245 / 12,000 ft. NZ$295 / 15,000 ft NZ$395)
- Tandem skydive with a qualified jumpmaster from 9,000 ft. (2,743m) over Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables Mountain Range. Chance to upgrade to 12,000 ft. (3,657m) or 15,000 ft. (4,572m) NB: Video and/or photos additional cost of NZ$245. www.nzone.biz
- Moonlight Stables Horse Riding (NZ$89)
- 1.5 hour guided horse trek through Doonholme Farmland in the Wakatipu Basin. Any level of rider welcome but will only go as fast as the slowest member. www.moonlightcountry.co.nz
- Shotover Jet (NZ$99)
- 40 minute jet boat ride on the Shotover River. An icon adventure product in NZ with 360's and fast corners etc. www.shotoverjet.co.nz
- Shotover Rafting (NZ$159)
- Rafting on the Shotover River. 2 hrs www.rafting.co.nz
- Twin Challenge (NZ$259)
- 40 minute jet boat ride on the Shotover River, an icon adventure product in NZ with 360's and fast corners etc., plus white water rafting (grade 3) on the Shotover River. 3 hours www.rafting.co.nz
- Triple Challenge (NZ$299)
- 40 minute jet boat ride on the Shotover River, an icon adventure product in NZ with 360's and fast corners etc., plus white water rafting (grade 3) on the Shotover River plus 6 minute helicopter flight. www.rafting.co.nz
- Thrillogy (NZ$359)
- All 3 AJ Hackett jumps - Kawarau Bridge, The Ledge & Nevis incl. T shirt. www.AJHackett.com
- Skyline Restaurant (NZ$65)
- Includes large buffet meal, entertainment, gondola (cable car) ride to restaurant.
- Kawarau Rafting (NZ$159)
- Rafting on the Kawarau River (grade 3). 2 hrs www.rafting.co.nz
- Canyon Swing (NZ$165)
- Freefall from platform, 109m (360ft) above the Shotover River, then break into a cable controlled swing. www.canyonswing.co.nz
- AJ Hackett Skyswing - The Ledge (NZ$99)
- Swing from the Ledge at the Skyline restaurant, Bobs Peak. 47m (158ft) jump but 400m (1320ft) above town. www.AJHackett.com
- Aj Hackett Bungy - The Ledge (NZ$139)
- Bungy jump from the Ledge at the Skyline restaurant, Bobs Peak. 47m (158ft) jump but 400m (1320ft) above town. Incl. T shirt. www.AJHackett.com
- Aj Hackett Bungy - Nevis (NZ$209)
- 134m (440ft) bungy from a platform suspended across a river at Nevis Bluff. Incl. T shirt. www.AJHackett.com
- Aj Hackett Bungy - Kawarau Bridge (NZ$155)
- The original bungy jump in Queenstown and often referred to as 'the home of bungy'. 43m (142ft) jump incl. T shirt. www.AJHackett.com
- Dart River Jet Boat Safari (NZ$195)
- 30 km jet boat ride up the Dart River from Glenorchy into the Mt Aspiring National Park - locations for LOTR. Includes a short bush walk. www.dartriver.co.nz
- Heliraft (NZ$209)
- Rafting on the Kawarau River (grade 3) and heli flight. www.rafting.co.nz
- Group Photograph (NZ$15)
- In specially designed Queenstown souvinier folder. Photo taken by lakeside in warmer climes, at the Lodge during winter. www.queenstowngroupphotos.co.nz
- Funyaks (NZ$275)
- Full day excursion into this beautiful untouched world, known as 'Paradise' and made famous in the LOTR trilogy. Jetboat in and canoe out at your leisure. Average standard of fitness required. www.dartriver.co.nz
- 'Mad Dog' River Boarding (NZ$129)
- Swimming with wetsuit, helmet, flippers and 'boogie board' down the Kawarau River. Allow 3 hrs.
- Fly By Wire (NZ$145 (5min), NZ$95 (3min))
- Feel adrenalin flood your body as you release the tow, diving towards the valley floor at exhilarating speeds, before you rocket up the other side. Feed the control freak inside, where you’re firmly in the pilot's seat.
- Paradise Found Hike (NZ$95)
- Explore the majestic Mt Aspiring National Park, visit film locations from Lord of the Rings. Fully guided, half day.
- Routeburn Trail Hike (NZ$155)
- A full day hike offering plenty of swing bridge crossings, lush beech forest, beautiful waterfalls and magnificent alpine scenery, in the Mt Aspiring National Park. Departs 8am.
Waitomo
- Ruakuri Caves Tour (NZ$45)
- Newly opened caves with a tour that gives you a more extensive insight into cave formations and glowworm activity. 3 hour. www.tradeinfo-thlonline.com
- Waitomo Caves Tour (NZ$32)
- One hour guided tour of the famous glowworm caves at Waitomo. Fully guided, walking tour with exit by boat. www.waitomocaves.co.nz
- Black Water Rafting (NZ$89)
- Following a cave system underground whilst sitting in a tyre inner tube (rubber ring). Some walking, some floating, some glowworm spotting. 3.5 hour tour. www.blackwaterrafting.co.nz
Taupo
- Rock'N'Ropes (NZ$65)
- Adventure 'confidence' course with series of trapezes, high wires, tight ropes etc. Allow 3 hours.
- Parasailing (NZ$89)
- On Lake Taupo, winch system so you don't get wet.
- Contiki Huka Combo - Jet Boat & Scenic Flight (NZ$169)
- 40 minute jet boat ride on the Waikato River to Huka Falls. Includes 360 degree turns plus 7 minute scenic helicopter flight.
- Dinner / Party Cruise (NZ$65)
- Evening launch trip on Lake Taupo with the opportunity to fish, dine and karaoke. Approx. 4 hours (6pm - 10pm).
- Huka Jet (NZ$89)
- 30 minute jet boat ride on the Waikato River to Huka Falls. Includes 360 degree turns.
Rotorua
- Rainbow Springs (NZ$22)
- Beautiful walk through native bush, aviaries and trout filled streams. Chance to see Kiwi and Tuatara.
- Zorbing (NZ$44)
- Become a zorbonaut as you travel in a large transparent ball down a hillside, either on your own, with a friend (or two) or with a bucket of water. Prices range from $44 depending on dry, wet, multiple, with Zorb Pak / without etc. www.zorb.com
- Skyline Gondola And Luge Rides (NZ$32)
- Skyline cable car and 2 included rides on the worlds first commercial luging track.
- Hangi And Concert (NZ$49)
- Traditional Maori feast and cultural performance at the Lake Plaza Hotel in Rotorua. Duration 2 hours.
- Te Puia (NZ$35)
- Enter the world of the Maori at the epicentre of native culture in NZ, and discover what makes this area and it’s people unique. www.tepuia.com
Wellington
- Optional Dinner (NZ$27)
- At 'Blend' restaurant and bar. Lively, funky venue for dining and socialising with 'special' Contiki menu and welcome drink.
- Seal Coast Safaris (NZ$75)
- Eco-touring in a 4WD vehicle along DOC (Department of Conservation) coast line, viewing unusual rock formations, seal colonies and other native bird and animal life. Duration 2 hours.
- Wellington Rover ('Hop on / hop off' NZ$40/ 'Rover Ring Tour NZ$150)
- An extended Wellington sightseeing tour with the opportunity to 'hop on / hop off' along the way. Or you can also book the 'Rover Rings Tour' which is an all day tour to LOTR locations incl. lunch.
- Kapiti Quad Bikes (NZ$125)
- Hotel pick up, than along the Kapiti Coast to rugged bushland for an hour and a half long quad bike experience in the bush. Includes morning / a'noon tea.
- Wairarapr Wine Trail (NZ$129)
- A full day excursion from Wellington by taxi, coach and train to Martinborough and Wairarapa 'wine country'. Includes hotel pick ups / drop offs, lunch, afternoon tea and, of course, some sampling.
Franz Josef & Fox Glacier
- Fox Glacier Heli (NZ$180)
- Helicopter flight to discover the twin glaciers with glacier landing. www.scenic-flights.co.nz
- Helihike 'Flying Fox' (NZ$315)
- Helicopter flight up to and on to the glacier, then brief hike in that area of the glacier. Not strenuous. 3 hours. www.foxguides.co.nz
- Glacier Hike 'Fox Trot' (NZ$79)
- 4 hour trek to the terminal face of the glacier and then climb up onto the glacier itself. All boots, picks, crampons provided. Reasonable level of fitness required. www.foxguides.co.nz
- Fox Glacier Heli / Mt Cook (NZ$240)
- Helicopter flight to view Mt Cook and Fox Glacier, including glacier landing. www.scenic-flights.co.nz
Fox Glacier
- Hukawai Ice Climbing Centre (NZ$85)
- Try your hand at something you don’t get to do every day, and that’s climbing a 10m high ice wall! www.hukawai.co.nz
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Recent Tips
For ladies I would definitely recommend finding some slightly nicer than normal black flats... I bought some in Prague for super cheap and still wear them all the time!
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As far as one big long party - to each their own. Some of the people stay up all night partying. Others of us are more tempered, came for the culture of the day time - and chose to get some sleep to be ready for the events planned on the tour.
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