Ultimate New Zealand | Northbound | Oct 2025 - May 2026

Ultimate New Zealand | Northbound | Oct 2025 - May 2026

22 Views
21 Days From

$3965

$3172

Ultimate New Zealand | Northbound | Oct 2025 - May 2026

21 Days Starting in Christchurch, New Zealand and ending in Auckland, New Zealand

Visiting: Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Lake Ohau, Arrowtown, Kingston, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Haast, Franz Josef, Kaikōura, Wellington, Mount Ruapehu, Taupō, Rotorua, Auckland, Paihia

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

GZCD25

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

From: $3965 $3172 Barrhead discount: -$793 -20%

NB: Prices correct on 19-Oct-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

This epic trip uncovers every inch of these enchanting islands. Bungee and jet boat in the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown, feast on a ground-smoked Maori 'hangi' in Rotorua, stroll wine trails, visit Hobbiton, hike active volcanoes and experience the otherworldly beauty of Milford Sound in an unforgettable 21 day adventure. Drastic in beauty but humble in charm, New Zealand is here to steal your heart. Get ready for the ultimate adrenaline rush.

Highlights

  • Te Anau: Visit a local farm to support the Fairlight Foundation and learn about farming and women's roles in agriculture.

  • Hokitika: Meet a local Maori guide and explore the connection between greenstone (Pounamu) and the Maori people.

  • Kaikoura: Meet eco-warrior Sabrina Leucht and learn about efforts to establish the region's first wildlife hospital.

  • Rotorua: Visit the National Kiwi Hatchery to learn about efforts to protect New Zealand's national bird.

  • Lake Tekapo: Experience the Dark Sky exhibition, combining stargazing, science, and Maori astronomy.

  • Milford Sound: Cruise along the glassy waters and enjoy the stunning views of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Queenstown: Visit the legendary Kawarau Bungy Bridge and explore the adventure capital of the world.

  • Franz Josef: Take a heli ride over the glacier or carve your own Pounamu pendant with a Maori mastercraftsman.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Christchurch To Lake Ōhau Via Lake Tekapo

Location: Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Lake Ohau

Accommodation: Lake Ohau Lodge (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Lake Ōhau Lodge (or similar)

Meals Included: Dinner

Welcome to Christchurch (Ōtautahi)! New Zealand's South Island is the home to adventure, adrenaline and good times and we're here to take it all on. We'll stop off to see the intense milky blue waters of glacially-fed Lake Tekapo (Takapō). Here we'll also get to enjoy an unforgettable Dark Sky experience, an interactive multimedia exhibition that mixes stargazing, science and traditional Māori astronomy, teaching us how the Māori people used to use stars to harvest food, and about the importance of reducing light pollution. Onto Lake Ōhau (Ōhau), with its glorious views of Mt. Cook. Yet another swoon-worthy location where you'll have to pick that jaw up off the ground.

Day 2: Lake Ōhau To Te Anau Via Arrowtown And Kingston

Location: Lake Ohau, Arrowtown, Kingston

Accommodation: The Village Inn Hotel (or similar)

Accommodation Name: The Village Inn Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Another day, another natural wonder to discover. We make a quick stop for lunch in the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown (Kā Muriwai) before heading on.Our next stop today is Kingston 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.Arriving in the stunning lakeside town of Te Anau, why not opt to take a guided jet boat trip to Fiordland National Park. From Te Anau through Lake Manapouri, it's a pretty exhilarating way to soak up the scenery. Prefer to keep you feet (or wheels) 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.

Day 3: Te Anau To Queenstown Via Milford Sound

Location: Milford Sound, Queenstown

Accommodation: Lylo (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Lylo (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

It's time to 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. Welcome to the adventure capital of the world - Queenstown (Tāhuna). Rest up tonight - the next few days are going to be BIG.

Day 4: Queenstown

Location: Queenstown

Accommodation: Lylo (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Lylo (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is yours to get acquainted with Queenstown and spend some time mulling over the activities up for grabs in the next two days. First stop is the legendary Kawarau Bungy Bridge, get your morning adrenaline hit with a heart pounding jump at the world home of the bungy. Later, take a stroll around beautiful Queenstown, nestled in the Southern Alps this stunning town has plenty to offer other than adventure activities.

Day 5: Queenstown

Location: Queenstown

Accommodation: Lylo (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Lylo (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

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 trailing through wine country and exploring wine cellars and caves, or you may be that one that crams in a bungy jump and ziplining & still craves more. It's your holiday - run wild as you see fit.

Day 6: Queenstown

Location: Queenstown

Accommodation: Lylo (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Lylo (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

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. Tonight you can choose to jump on a gondola and to wine & dine atop of the highest restaurant in Queenstown, Skyline. What a way to end our time here!

Day 7: Queenstown To Franz Josef Via Wānaka And Haast

Location: Queenstown, Haast, Franz Josef

Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Time to return our adrenalin levels to normal and make tracks to the wild (and often wet) West Coast and it's towering glaciers. Enjoying our scenic drive 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 today. 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 away from Queenstown through the Southern Alps.Playing host tonight is the town of Franz Josef (Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere), home to some of NZ's finest natural beauty with bushlands and glaciers that almost reach the sea. Tomorrow we'll be out and about making the most of it - who's excited?

Day 8: Franz Josef

Location: Franz Josef

Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning will be another big ol' tick off the list as 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.

Day 9: Franz Josef To Christchurch Via Hokitika And Arthur's Pass

Location: Franz Josef, Christchurch

Accommodation: The Breakfree on Cashel (or similar)

Accommodation Name: The Breakfree on Cashel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Armed with a new found appreciation for frozen water, we hop back on the coach & start making our way back to Christchurch.In the gold rush town of Hokitika we'll watch authentic carvers get to work on green jade and take a look at traditional Maori art. Back on the coach we're coastline bound to one of the islands most jaw-droppingly beautiful spots...Take in the beautiful scenery as we wind our way across the highest and most spectacular mountain pass across the Southern Alps.Tonight we'll sleep well in Christchurch, drifting off to the pleasant memories of NZ's natural beauty that seasoned our day.

Day 10: Christchurch To Kaikōura

Location: Christchurch

Accommodation: Sudima Kaikoura (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Sudima Kaikoura (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We'll set off on an inspiring tour of Christchurch this morning, the city that was totally rebuilt after the Christchurch earthquake. Look out for the Cardboard Cathedral, which is the only cathedral in the world to be built mostly from plain old cardboard! After that, it's another jaw-dropping drive up to the top of the South Island. The coach cuts across the Canterbury Plains to Kaikoura. We'll arrive in Kaikōura, known for whales & dolphins, so have those cameras at the ready as we roll around the coast. We'll visit Kaikōura Wildlife Rescue to meet a local wildlife biologist, Sabrina Leucht, who has been working to build a dedicated wildlife hospital. We'll learn about the wildlife we might encounter here, the threats they face, and what we can do to make a difference. After a busy day, we'll check into our seafront hotel, then head out for dinner. Did you know that Kaikōura literally translates into 'eat (kai) crayfish (koura)'? So, no prizes for guessing what type of cuisine we'll be trying!

Day 11: Kaikōura

Location: Kaikōura

Accommodation: Sudima Kaikoura (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Sudima Kaikoura (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We all love a free day - especially one spent in beautiful Kaikōura! We recommend taking a whale watching tour, where you'll have the opportunity to see giant sperm whales in action, as well cute seas and dusky dolphins. Other free time add-ons include a kayak trip across the coastline, and more. We'll stay another night in Kaikōura after an action-packed day, before heading to Wellington tomorrow morning.

Day 12: Kaikōura To Wellington

Location: Wellington

Accommodation: Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, we'll head back on the Contiki coach and head to our next destination. We'll stop at a seal colony, where you'll struggle not to break into a collective 'cuuuute' as you watch these guys sunning themselves on the rocks. Afterwards 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.

Day 13: Wellington

Location: Wellington

Accommodation: Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

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!

Day 14: Wellington To Mount Ruapehu

Location: Wellington, Mount Ruapehu

Accommodation: Kings Ohakune (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Kings Ohakune (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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, "the Old Coach Rd" or spend the day bettering your skills on the slopes or generally treating yourself to all the snowy based activities on offer, then tonight snuggle down in our Special Stay ski lodge, located in prime position at the base of Mount Ruapehu (Ruapehu).

Day 15: Mount Ruapehu To Lake Taupō

Location: Mount Ruapehu, Taupō

Accommodation: Lakeland Resort Taupo (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Lakeland Resort Taupo (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Wake up in the spectacular surroundings of Mt. Ruapehu with the epic views of the volcano. Today we head off to Lake Taupō!Here we are in Lake Taupō (Taupō Nui a Kiwa). 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.

Day 16: Lake Taupō To Rotorua Via Huka Falls

Location: Taupō

Accommodation: Sudima Lake Rotorua (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Sudima Lake Rotorua (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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, go skydiving 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.

Day 17: Rotorua

Location: Rotorua

Accommodation: Sudima Lake Rotorua (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Sudima Lake Rotorua (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

Day 18: Rotorua To Auckland

Location: Auckland

Accommodation: Lylo (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Lylo (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Ta-ra, 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?

Day 19: Auckland To Paihia Via Whangārei

Location: Auckland

Accommodation: Bounty Motel (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Bounty Motel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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.

Day 20: Paihia

Location: Paihia

Accommodation: Bounty Motel (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Bounty Motel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

Day 21: Paihia To Auckland

Location: Auckland

Meals Included: Breakfast

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?

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided at various locations including Lake Ohau Lodge, The Village Inn Hotel, Lylo, Rainforest Retreat, Sudima Kaikoura, Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman, Kings Ohakune, Lakeland Resort Taupo, Sudima Lake Rotorua, and Bounty Motel.

  • Meals

    The tour includes 5 dinners and 20 breakfasts.

  • Included Experiences

    Experiences such as a cruise on Milford Sound, a visit to the Dark Sky Experience at Lake Tekapo, and a guided tour at Waitangi Treaty Grounds are included.

  • Transport

    Transport is provided throughout the tour, including scenic drives and coach transfers.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as bungy jumping, ziplining, and whale watching tours are not included and may incur additional costs.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included in the tour package.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights to and from New Zealand are not included in the tour package.

Dining Summary

  • 5 Dinner (D)
  • 20 Breakfast (B)

FAQs

  • Christchurch: Which Version is Northbound vs Southbound? 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.

Included Experience

  • Lake Ohau: Looking out at the peaks of Mt Cook across the glacial waters of Lake Ohau... It was once a dream, but today we'll make it your reality. (You're welcome.)
  • Lake Tekapo: See the church on the shores of Lake Tekapo with a backdrop of snow-capped peaks - and get that iconic Insta pic too!
  • Lake Tekapo: We'll stop at Lake Pukaki, Lake Tekapo and Geraldine... and watch happily on as NZ's astonishing natural beauty takes your breath away.
  • Lake Tekapo: The Dark Sky Experience combines Maori astronomy, storytelling and science together in one truly unique interactive display.
  • Te Anau: Today we’ll visit a local farm in Te Anau to support the Fairlight Foundation, which works to advance women in Agriculture. We’ll learn all about farming, as well as the Fairlight Foundation and the work that they do.
  • Milford Sound: Cruise along the glassy waters and get the kind of view people write poems about. You'll soon see why it's a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Queenstown: Check out the epic views of the valley from the world's first ever (and some would say most famous) bungy jump bridge. You might even witness some epic bungy jumps!
  • Wanaka: A lake town with views for days, surrounded by beech forests, alpine lakes, and wilderness glaciers.
  • Haast: Ready for some incredible views? We'll drive through the gorgeous mountains of the Gates of Haast and catch once-in-a-lifetime views of the river below. Seems like Mother nature does have a favourite!
  • Hokitika: The South Island is known for Pounamu (in fact, it’s even named after the stuff.) Today in Hokitika, we’ll meet with a local Maori Guide, who’ll tell us all about the connection between the illustrious greenstone and the Maori people. After that, we’ll go and check some out for ourselves.
  • Arthur's Pass: Check out the village that has been a haven for mountain climbers for over a century. Better keep your camera ready and eyes peeled - because this is spot where you might be able to get a glimpse of rare alpine parrots AKA Keas.
  • Kaikoura: On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, we'll meet eco-warrior Sabrina Leucht, who has dedicated many years of her life to helping New Zealand's injured native birds... and is now working to establish the region's first wildlife hospital.
  • Marlborough Sounds: Check out the sunken river valleys of Marlborough Sounds from an iconic Interislander Ferry. You'd wanna get your camera for this one!
  • Mount Ruapehu: It's not a real carrot, just a statue. But standing at 7.5 metres tall, it still impresses. This famous spot in Ohakune represents all of the carrot farms (and there are plenty here) in town.
  • Mount Ruapehu: Today we'll check out Mt Ruapehu, an active stratovolcano elevated almost 2,800 metres into the air!
  • Mount Ruapehu: See even more of the sights made famous by "The Lord of the Rings."
  • Huka Falls: Huka falls is a jaw-jutting display of natural hydro power. Here you'll see 220,000 litres of water tumble over the waterfall... per second that is(!)
  • Rotorua: Wait til you see 'em. Wait til you smell 'em. These geothermic mudpools are a thing to behold.
  • Rotorua: On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, we'll head to National Kiwi Hatchery near Rotorua to learn all about the locals' efforts to protect New Zealand's adorable national bird.
  • Rotorua: A traditional Maori cultural performance, topped off with a traditional Maori feast... this ought to satisfy even the keenest of culture vultures.
  • Auckland: Cameras at the ready folks, the views will be extraordinary here.
  • Auckland: With sailboats at every angle, this is a beaut view indeed.
  • Whangarei: See the work of the visionary Austrian painter, architect and ecological activist who made New Zealand his spiritual home.
  • Paihia: The Waitangi Treaty Grounds might just be NZ's most important historical site, marking the place where the British Crown and the Maori people signed their first accords back in 1840.
  • Paihia: A dinner of fish 'n' chips, enjoyed while overlooking the Bay of Islands in Paihia. Is this heaven? No sir, it's just salt and vinegar.

Mode of Transport

Travel across New Zealand in a comfortable Contiki coach, with scenic drives through stunning landscapes, including the Southern Alps and coastal routes. Enjoy included cruises and optional activities, ensuring a seamless and adventurous journey from Christchurch to Auckland.

Accommodation

Experience a variety of accommodations throughout New Zealand, including the Lake Ohau Lodge, The Village Inn Hotel, Lylo, Rainforest Retreat, and Sudima Kaikoura, among others. Each offers a unique stay, from lakeside views to rainforest retreats, ensuring comfort and local charm.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique cultural experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes several unique cultural experiences such as visiting a local farm in Te Anau to support the Fairlight Foundation, learning about the connection between Pounamu and the Maori people in Hokitika, meeting eco-warrior Sabrina Leucht in Kaikoura, and visiting the National Kiwi Hatchery near Rotorua to learn about efforts to protect New Zealand's national bird.

  • What activities are available in Queenstown during the tour?

    In Queenstown, you can experience the legendary Kawarau Bungy Bridge for a heart-pounding jump, explore the town nestled in the Southern Alps, and enjoy various adventure activities. You can also choose to explore wine country, go ziplining, or enjoy a gondola ride to dine at the highest restaurant in Queenstown.

  • What can I expect to see at Milford Sound?

    At Milford Sound, you will experience a magical combination of mountain peaks, forest-clad cliffs, and deep dark waters. The tour includes a cruise of the fiord, which is the best way to see Milford Sound in all its glory.

  • What wildlife experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a visit to Kaikoura Wildlife Rescue to learn about local wildlife and the threats they face, a whale watching tour in Kaikoura where you might see giant sperm whales, seals, and dusky dolphins, and a visit to Zealandia in Wellington to see rare native wildlife species.

  • What is the significance of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds visit?

    The Waitangi Treaty Grounds is one of New Zealand's most important historical sites, marking the place where the British Crown and the Maori people signed their first accords in 1840. The tour includes a guided tour and admission to the Treaty museum for more detail on Kiwi history.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

Feefo Trusted Reviews

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Barrhead discount: -$396

Ultimate New Zealand | Northbound | Oct 2024 - May 2025

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Barrhead discount: -$396

Ultimate New Zealand | Northbound | Oct 2024 - May 2025

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Mar 02, 2025 - Mar 22, 2025
$3965 $3569

Barrhead discount: -$396

Ultimate New Zealand | Northbound | Oct 2024 - May 2025

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Mar 18, 2025 - Apr 07, 2025
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Barrhead discount: -$396

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$3915 $3524

Barrhead discount: -$391

Ultimate New Zealand | Northbound | Oct 2024 - May 2025

Monday - Sunday

May 05, 2025 - May 25, 2025
$3915 $3524

Barrhead discount: -$391

Ultimate New Zealand | Northbound | Oct 2024 - May 2025

Wednesday - Tuesday

May 21, 2025 - Jun 10, 2025
$3915 $3524

Barrhead discount: -$391

Ultimate New Zealand | Northbound | Oct 2024 - May 2025

Saturday - Friday

Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025
$4065 $3659

Barrhead discount: -$406

Sunday - Saturday

Oct 12, 2025 - Nov 01, 2025
$4065 $3659

Barrhead discount: -$406

Monday - Sunday

Oct 20, 2025 - Nov 09, 2025
$4065 $3659

Barrhead discount: -$406

Tuesday - Monday

Oct 28, 2025 - Nov 17, 2025
$4065 $3659

Barrhead discount: -$406

Wednesday - Tuesday

Nov 05, 2025 - Nov 25, 2025
$4065 $3659

Barrhead discount: -$406

Thursday - Wednesday

Nov 13, 2025 - Dec 03, 2025
$4065 $3659

Barrhead discount: -$406

Friday - Thursday

Nov 21, 2025 - Dec 11, 2025
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Saturday - Friday

Nov 29, 2025 - Dec 19, 2025
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Sunday - Saturday

Dec 07, 2025 - Dec 27, 2025
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Monday - Sunday

Dec 15, 2025 - Jan 04, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Friday - Thursday

Dec 19, 2025 - Jan 08, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Tuesday - Monday

Dec 23, 2025 - Jan 12, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Saturday - Friday

Dec 27, 2025 - Jan 16, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Wednesday - Tuesday

Dec 31, 2025 - Jan 20, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Sunday - Saturday

Jan 04, 2026 - Jan 24, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Thursday - Wednesday

Jan 08, 2026 - Jan 28, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Monday - Sunday

Jan 12, 2026 - Feb 01, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Friday - Thursday

Jan 16, 2026 - Feb 05, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Tuesday - Monday

Jan 20, 2026 - Feb 09, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Saturday - Friday

Jan 24, 2026 - Feb 13, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Wednesday - Tuesday

Jan 28, 2026 - Feb 17, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Sunday - Saturday

Feb 01, 2026 - Feb 21, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Thursday - Wednesday

Feb 05, 2026 - Feb 25, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Monday - Sunday

Feb 09, 2026 - Mar 01, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Friday - Thursday

Feb 13, 2026 - Mar 05, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Tuesday - Monday

Feb 17, 2026 - Mar 09, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Wednesday - Tuesday

Feb 25, 2026 - Mar 17, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Thursday - Wednesday

Mar 05, 2026 - Mar 25, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Saturday - Friday

Mar 21, 2026 - Apr 10, 2026
$4165 $3749

Barrhead discount: -$416

Monday - Sunday

Apr 06, 2026 - Apr 26, 2026
$4105 $3695

Barrhead discount: -$410

Wednesday - Tuesday

Apr 22, 2026 - May 12, 2026
$4105 $3695

Barrhead discount: -$410

Friday - Thursday

May 08, 2026 - May 28, 2026
$4105 $3695

Barrhead discount: -$410

Sunday - Saturday

May 24, 2026 - Jun 13, 2026
$4105 $3695

Barrhead discount: -$410

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Why book with Barrhead?

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Fully Protected

All our holidays are fully financially protected.


Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.

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Range

Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.


We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.


Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.

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Expert Knowledge

We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.


Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.

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Trusted Agent

Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.


Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.


We look after you every step of the way.


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