Northern Highlights (Reverse Start Wellington)
A 9-Day Contiki Tours tour starting from $680
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| Starting Price: | $680 |  |
| Tour Length: | 9 Days | |
| Countries Visited: | New Zealand | |
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Cities Visited: Featuring: Northern New Zealand |
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* Accommodations as per itinerary * Breakfasts (B) and Dinners (D) as per itinerary
The Contiki Difference
* Experienced Tour Managers and Drivers * Modern air-conditioned coach * Free Contiki ëTravellers Guideí information book * Free Contiki document wallet.
Fly over the international date line on your way to New Zealand.
Arrive Wellington (1 Days)
Check into the Abel Tasman Hotel, spend the rest of the day at leisure to explore Wellington.
Wellington to Taupo (Breakfast Days)
Kia Ora! Meet up with your Contiki Crew in New Zealand’s funky capital, Wellington, before we hit the road. Spot the dramatic volcanic landscapes that were used as backdrops in the Lord of the Rings, when we drive past World Heritage listed Tongariro National Park. The park is also home to the still active volcano, Mt Ruapehu, which doubles as NZ’s biggest ski field. Continue on to the popular low-key resort town of Taupo. Here, there’s some of the best trout fishing in the country and some of the most amazing long-distance views of Tongariro National Park’s three volcanic peaks. Kick start your travels with our optional dinner cruise out on New Zealand’s largest lake – Taupo. You can have a go at fishing and after dinner, karaoke! It’s the perfect way to get to know the other travellers and your Tour Manager. Later, back on land, play some pool at one of Taupo’s lakeside bars or explore this town’s legendary nightlife with some of the group.
Taupo to Rotorua (Breakfast Days)
On the way out of Taupo, a visit to the raging Huka Falls will impress. Tonnes of water surge over these falls at a rate of 220,000 litres (58 000 gallons) per second. It’s a short drive to Rotorua, famous for its spurting geysers, boiling mud pools, hot springs and ‘interesting’ sulphur smell. For some crazy ‘Kiwi ingenuity’, try an optional called zorbing. It’s an activity where you get inside a huge plastic ball and roll down a 200m hill, either by yourself or with a friend. Rotorua is an important hub of Maori culture. To recognise this, we have an optional authentic cultural experience, complete with a fantastic Maori hangi and traditional dance concert. Some of the foods you can try from the hangi are sweet potato and chicken cooked on hot rocks in an underground pit - just as they have been for centuries. Listen to stories, songs and chants while learning about ancient Maori mythology and beliefs.
Rotorua to Waitomo (Breakfast, Dinner Days)
This morning, we stop at the Agrodome farm show for an interactive introduction into farming and agriculture, which is New Zealand’s main industry. You’ll see sheep-shearing and watch an impressive sheepdog demo. These dogs are highly-trained and skilled at controlling livestock. Next up is Waitomo and the Waitomo Caves. Famous for their incredible limestone formations and glow-worms, the caves are a stunning subterranean world. You’ll see the Glow-worm Grotto, where the cave roof is covered with twinkling insects. For adventure, you can head deeper into the caves in an optional activity and see them either on foot or by tubing down an underground river. Tonight, it’s a pizza dinner and a visit to a typical country pub. Kick back with your new friends and some of the locals. Maybe try out the local beer – it’s good!
Waitomo to Bay of Islands (Breakfast, Dinner Days)
Northbound, we drive through the lush farmlands of Waikato – an area that produces many of New Zealand’s best rugby players for the All Blacks, before stopping for lunch in Auckland. New Zealand’s largest and most cosmopolitan city is surrounded by volcanoes, islands and a stunning harbour. You’ll soon understand why this is the “City of Sails” and was once home to the America’s Cup. We’ll see the Sky Tower downtown, before crossing the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge. There are full-blown vistas of the harbour, Rangitoto, and other neighbouring volcanic islands on the way. With a stop at Parry Kauri Park, there’s time to walk through this famous reserve and see many of New Zealand’s ancient Kauri (a native tree). Some of the Kauri are 50ms high and over 1000 years old. The final stop today is the small coastal town of Paihia. It’s the gateway to the Bay of Islands, one of New Zealand’s photogenic natural playgrounds. Your Tour Manager will show you the colonial style Treaty House at Waitangi. This is where modern-era New Zealand was born when the British Crown and Maori signed a treaty in 1840. You’ll also find out about local Maori culture as you check out the Nga Puhi tribal lands. Tonight, hang out with the other Contiki travellers, your Tour Manager and Driver over a typical ‘Kiwi’ dinner – a BBQ – where you can eat outdoors under the night sky if the weather is good. After dinner, head out to a local music venue in Paihia with the group.
Bay of Islands (Breakfast Days)
With a full free day here, you’ll really get to enjoy the laid-back, natural beauty of the Bay of Islands. Chill out, or choose from loads of activities on offer here. There’s a catamaran cruise where you can stop off at remote islands, swim and feast on a tasty BBQ lunch. If you’re lucky, you’ll even spot some dolphins. Or you could use your free time to head off with some friends to learn about New Zealand’s settler history. Jump on a ferry out to New Zealand’s former capital, the pretty township of Russell. Grab an ice-cream, relax in its cute cafes and walk past some of the town’s historic cottages. We also offer you the option of a day trip to Cape Reinga, New Zealand’s most northern point where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean merge. Our Local Guide can tell you all about the Maori beliefs associated with this site. Then it’s off to the sand dunes of Ninety Mile beach and a drive through the Northland Region. Lastly, for the adrenaline-junkies, there’s a chance to go parasailing - perfect for getting views of the awesome surrounding bay scenery
Bay of Islands to Auckland (Breakfast Days)
This morning we head south, past the rolling Northland countryside, arriving back in to Auckland where it's time to say a final farewell as your tour ends around lunchtime.
Touring Date |
Land Only |
Land + Air |
Single (Land Only) |
Single (Land + Air) |
3/23/2010 - 3/31/2010 |
$680 |
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4/4/2010 - 4/12/2010 |
$670 |
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4/16/2010 - 4/24/2010 |
$670 |
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4/28/2010 - 5/6/2010 |
$670 |
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5/10/2010 - 5/18/2010 |
$670 |
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5/22/2010 - 5/30/2010 |
$670 |
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6/3/2010 - 6/11/2010 |
$670 |
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6/15/2010 - 6/23/2010 |
$670 |
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6/27/2010 - 7/5/2010 |
$670 |
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7/9/2010 - 7/17/2010 |
$665 |
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7/21/2010 - 7/29/2010 |
$665 |
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8/2/2010 - 8/10/2010 |
$665 |
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8/14/2010 - 8/22/2010 |
$665 |
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8/26/2010 - 9/3/2010 |
$665 |
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9/7/2010 - 9/15/2010 |
$665 |
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9/19/2010 - 9/27/2010 |
$665 |
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10/1/2010 - 10/9/2010 |
$665 |
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10/13/2010 - 10/21/2010 |
$680 |
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10/25/2010 - 11/2/2010 |
$680 |
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11/2/2010 - 11/10/2010 |
$680 |
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11/10/2010 - 11/18/2010 |
$680 |
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11/18/2010 - 11/26/2010 |
$700 |
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11/26/2010 - 12/4/2010 |
$700 |
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12/4/2010 - 12/12/2010 |
$700 |
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12/12/2010 - 12/20/2010 |
$700 |
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12/16/2010 - 12/24/2010 |
$700 |
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12/20/2010 - 12/28/2010 |
$710 |
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12/24/2010 - 1/1/2011 |
$710 |
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12/28/2010 - 1/5/2011 |
$710 |
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1/1/2011 - 1/9/2011 |
$710 |
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1/5/2011 - 1/13/2011 |
$710 |
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1/9/2011 - 1/17/2011 |
$710 |
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1/13/2011 - 1/21/2011 |
$700 |
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1/17/2011 - 1/25/2011 |
$700 |
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1/21/2011 - 1/29/2011 |
$700 |
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1/25/2011 - 2/2/2011 |
$700 |
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1/29/2011 - 2/6/2011 |
$700 |
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2/2/2011 - 2/10/2011 |
$700 |
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2/6/2011 - 2/14/2011 |
$700 |
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2/10/2011 - 2/18/2011 |
$700 |
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2/14/2011 - 2/22/2011 |
$700 |
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2/18/2011 - 2/26/2011 |
$700 |
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2/22/2011 - 3/2/2011 |
$700 |
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2/26/2011 - 3/6/2011 |
$700 |
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3/2/2011 - 3/10/2011 |
$700 |
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3/6/2011 - 3/14/2011 |
$700 |
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3/10/2011 - 3/18/2011 |
$700 |
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3/22/2011 - 3/30/2011 |
$700 |
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4/3/2011 - 4/11/2011 |
$700 |
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Airfare Disclaimer Documents |
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Dramatic drive through the Volcanic landscape made famous in the 'Lord of the Rings'
Tongariro National Park
See the active volcano Mt. Ruapehu
Taupo
View Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake
Huka Falls
Visit the mighty falls
Christchurch
City sightseeing tour
Waitomo
Visit Waitomo & a traditional New Zealand country pub
Waitomo
Enjoy a pizza party
Parry Kauri Park
Walk through native Kauri Forest
Bay of Islands
Paihia & Waitangi sightseeing tour
Bay of Islands
See the Tribal Lands of the Nga Puhi Maori
Auckland
Cross Auckland's Harbour Bridge
Auckland
See the impressive city skyline & Sky Tower
Auckland
See the 'City of Sails' harbor made famous by the America's Cup
$150 off Europe Trips of 8 days or more
Save $300 on Airfare - Find out how
Book a Contiki to Europe & save $300 on airfare per couple. They've got deals for solo travelers also.
Valid for new bookings made between March 1st-30th only and must pay air portion in full by March 30, 2010. Offer is valid for $300 off airfare per couple or $150 off if single traveler. All travel myst be completed by NOv 30, 2010. Offer is valid on major airlines. Air tickets are non-refundable and non-changeable after purchase. Once payment is received, 100% cancellation penalties apply. No name changes allowed once a reservation is made. Offer is subject to availability at the time of booking. Offer can be combined with all brochure discounts and $150 Spring Flin tour promo. Promotion can be withdrawn at any time.
CONTIKI MILITARY DISCOUNT
5% Off for Military Members and Spouses...
Valid for any Contiki trip 8 days or longer. Active or non-active members are eligible, as long as a valid military ID is provided for each person applying the discount. Mention promo code MILITARY0910 to redeem.
Applies to new bookings only. Verification is required. Good for travel through 12/31/2010 Spouses must be traveling at the same time as the military member to apply the discount. Other restrictions may apply.
5% off for Contiki Alumni
So you've experienced your Contiki and are ready to go again? You lived it up with travelers from around the world and want more Contiki. Now book another trip 8 days or longer and get 5% off!
Offer valid through August 31, 2010. Valid for trips 8 days or longer. Please call uoo-942-3301 for more details. Verification of previous trip required.
Travel With Friends and Save Big!
Save 5%
Get 4 or more people to book at the same time and each save 5% off the land.
Save 7.5%
Book 7 or more on the same vacation at the same time and score a 7.5% discount per person.
Round up 10 friends or more, booking the same trip at the same time, and each person saves 10% OR the 11th person travels for FREE.
Book 3 in a room and save 5% on most superior tours.
Early Payment and Other Amazing Contiki Discounts
Early Payment Discount
Offer #1: Save up to US$399
Must book and pay in full at least 12
months prior to trip departure date.
Valid for select trips only. Offer #2: Save up to US$319
Must book and pay in full at least 6
months prior to departure date.
Valid for select trips only.
Multiple Trip Discounts - Save $100
Book any 2 Contiki trips 10 days or longer, at the same time & get up to US$100 off the cost of the second tour.
Europe Europe – Save US$100
Europe America – Save US$100
Europe + Great Britain – Save US$100
Tours may be in different countries or regions.
Australia & New Zealand - Save $100
Book an Australia and New Zealand vacation at the same time and save US$100 off the total cost.
Tours must be a minimum of 10 days.
Refer a Friend and You Both Save $100
Share the love! Now that you’ve traveled Contiki and had a great time, it’s time to spread the word and earn some cash! Tell your friends about Contiki and earn up to $100* for each person you refer that books.
Your friends score from the deal too – each one that books a trip eight days or longer will receive $100 in excursion vouchers (good for activities like bungee jumping, gondola cruises and wine tasting).
You can refer up to 10 friends (which equals $1,000 for you!) Simply complete this form and you're on your way. Remember, no cheating ("me, myself and I" do not qualify.)
Terms and Conditions:
1.The referral program is valid for new trips booked as of May 1, 2009.
2.You can refer as many passengers as you’d like! You must provide valid names and e-mail addresses (e.g. you may not enter your own e-mail address or repeat the same address more than once). We will issue up to 10 $100 gift cards per Referrer per calendar year. Referees must be new passengers. Not combinable with Past Passenger discount.
3.Referee must between 18-35 years old at the time of travel.
4.Referee must have been referred online and must mention "Refer a Friend" and Referrer's name when booking their trip.
5.Upon booking their trip, the Referee will receive in their travel documentation $100 in Optional Excursion vouchers. The original Optional Excursion vouchers can be redeemed while on their trip and cannot be exchanged for cash reimbursement.
6.The Referred passenger(s) are responsible for reviewing their travel documentation and making sure they received the Optional Excursion Vouchers prior to their departure from the United States. Contiki will not issue a cash refund to passenger(s) for any Optional Excursion because the Referred passenger(s) paid the tour manager directly, forgot to pack or bring the vouchers on the tour, did not use the entire value of the vouchers, looses the vouchers, or advises us after their travel that they did not receive the vouchers.
7.If booking is made within 14 days of the departure, we cannot guarantee receipt of physical vouchers unless traveler expedites their documents at an additional cost. Scanned copies are not available
8.Contiki is not responsible if a Referrer fails to properly identify a Referee. Contiki will not retroactively record a friend who was not identified at the time of sign-up.
9.Contiki will not allow a Referee to be claimed by more than one Referrer. Once a Referee’s e-mail address has been given, it may not be changed.
10.Cash will be given out in the form of a gift card from a major credit card company with a value of $100. Gift card will be issued to Referrer only after Referee completes travel on their trip of 8 days or longer. If a Referee cancels for any reason, the referral reward is forfeited.
11.Offer is not valid for tour purchases made outside the U.S.
12.Contiki reserves the right to resolve any disputes at its sole discretion.
$100 Referral cash will be received as a $100 American Express cash gift card.
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All prices are per person, double occupancy, subject to availability. These pages are not endorsed or supported by the tour operator in any way. All information presented is based on promotional material provided by the tour operator. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time by the tour operators. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. The prices on this website are not guaranteed. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in pricing. Please call us toll free at 1-800-942-3301 to confirm availability and pricing.