Tune out of the everyday humdrum and get in touch with nature on this incredible NZ escapade. Contiki’s New Zealand Off-Grid trip takes you on an authentic adventure through the North and South Island, to discover heritage sites, natural wonders and beautiful retreats and surf towns.
Scroll through to find out what you can expect in some of the stops on the New Zealand Off-Grid trip – which can also be taken in the South Island Off-Grid and North Island Off-Grid modules.
1. RAGLAN – NORTH ISLAND
Welcome to the laid-back eco-conscious surf town of Raglan, where you can take surf lessons, try stand up paddle boarding (SUP) and learn about the town’s green initiatives. In the evening, kick back and watch the sunset along Manu Bay with a dinner cruise. This chilled town is the perfect place to start your off-grid adventure.
Image source:Contiki
2. ROTORUA – NORTH ISLAND
The New Zealand Off-Grid trip is FILLED with incredible adventures, and at the end of each day you’ll rest your head inside unique lodging. In Rotorua, you’ll have a Special Stay in a lakeside Marae – which is a traditional, ornately carved Māori home. You’ll help prepare a traditional Hangi feast and learn about Māori arts, culture and spirituality.
While you’re staying in the Marae, you’ll also get to explore the sights of Rotorua with Free Time Add-Ons including hiking the volcanic Mt Tarawera, white-water rafting down the Kaituna River or visiting a Māori Jade Carver to carve your own masterpiece. Plus, everyone on the trip will take a behind-the-scenes tour of the incredible kiwi bird conservation project at the Rainbow Springs Kiwi Encounter, part of our Contiki Cares programme.
Image source:Contiki
3. BLUE DUCK STATION – NORTH ISLAND
In the Ruapehu District you’ll enjoy another Contiki Special Stay at Blue Duck Station, surrounded by the mountains of Whanganui National Park. Hiking trails, horse-riding adventures through pine forests, ATV bush safari rides, kayak and jet boat trips are all in a day’s work here.
Oh, did we mention that there are two incredible dinners? One sustainably-sourced farm-to-table feast and another Chef’s Table 10-course fine dining experience under the stars in Tongariro.
Image source:Contiki
4. MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS – SOUTH ISLAND
How does spending two nights in a unique Special Stay surrounded by pristine beaches, vibrant turquoise waters and endless nature trails sound? Pretty epic, right?
On the Off-Grid trip, you’ll stay in Lochmara Lodge in the heart of Marlborough Sounds. You can hike, swim, kayak, paddleboard or just chill by the waters in this incredible natural wonder, where adventure meets relaxation.
Image source:Contiki
5. GLENORCHY – SOUTH ISLAND
Another Special Stay, the Camp Glenorchy eco-retreat will be your home for two action-packed days. Surrounded by lush scenery, the retreat is close to the famous Routeburn Track and Lake Wakatipu Islands. From skydiving to a safari kayak adventure, the activities will keep you living life to the fullest.
Image source:Contiki
6. QUEENSTOWN – SOUTH ISLAND
Ahhh, Queenstown! One of the most famous places to visit in New Zealand, this adventure capital is a thrill from the moment you take your bags off the bus. Take a leap on the world-famous AJ Hackett’s Kawarau Bridge bungy-jump. Drink in the beauty of Lake Wakatipu with Funyaks kayaking. Go for a thrill ride on Queenstown’s Shotover Jet. Take on the AJ Hackett Nevis Swing. Or experience life amongst the treetops on a Ziptrek Zipline tour. Think you’ve had enough adrenaline for one day? Indulge in a feast at the famous Fergburger or simply marvel at the views from the Queenstown’s Skyline restaurant.
Image source:Contiki
Want to know more? Check out the New Zealand Off-Grid trip here.
