Contiki > Grand Explorer (Reverse Start Queenstown)

Grand Explorer (Reverse Start Queenstown)
16 Days starting from $1,649

Countries Visited:
New Zealand

 

Length: 16 Days
Type:
Category: Regional New Zealand
Operator: Contiki
Tour Code: CONTIKI84
   
 
About This Tour


Featuring: New Zealand's North Island and South Island, including Auckland, Christchurch and Milford Sound
Starting In Queenstown and ending in Auckland

 
  • What's Included
  • Itinerary
  • Dates & Prices
  • Sightseeing Highlights
  • SPECIALS
Accomodations
* 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.

Depart for New Zealand (2 Days)
Fly over the international date line on your way to New Zealand.

Queenstown to Milford Sound (1 Days)
Meet 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.

Milford Sound to Queenstown (1 Days)
We'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.

Queenstown (2 Days)
Leisure 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.

Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier (1 Days)
We'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

Franz Josef Glacier to Christchurch (1 Days)
This 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.

Christchurch to Wellington (1 Days)
Heading 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.

Wellington (1 Days)
A 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.

Wellington to Taupo (1 Days)
Today 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.

Taupo to Rotorua (1 Days)
We 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.

Rotorua to Waitomo (1 Days)
We 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.

Waitomo to Bay of Islands (1 Days)
We begin today with a drive through lush Waikato countryside, on our way to Auckland, for a lunch stop before heading across the Auckland Harbour Bridge to the semitropical region of Northland. After a visit to parry Kauri Park we travel to our resort in Pahia.

Bay of Islands (1 Days)
A day of adventure and fun. The day is yours to enjoy the overwhelming beauty of the Bay of Islands. How about a Catamaran cruise through the "Hole-in-the-Rock", maybe sail to a deserted island for lunch, perhaps travel along Ninety Mile Beach to Cape Reinga at "lands end".

Bay of Islands to Auckland (1 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.


To speak to one of our live, experienced travel consultants, Call us now at 1-800-942-3301.

Airfare Disclaimer
A NOTE ABOUT AIRFARE: We encourage you to buy your airfare from the tour operator, because if your tour cancels then your airlines tickets will be covered. Purchasing flights separately at a lesser rate and incorporating it with a Non-Guaranteed Departure Date can result in loss of total cost of your flight investment. Depending on the fare rules, flights may be Non-Refundable and/or Non-Transferable. Neither the tour operator and/or Atlas Cruises & Tours will be held responsible for loss if a tour is cancelled for Lack of Participation. If you would like to check for discounted fares on Guaranteed Departures or for competitive pricing on air and hotel packages, we invite you to follow this link.

Documents
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: Necessary Travel Documents such as Passports and Visas is the responsibility of the traveler. Passports must be valid six months from your return travel date.

         
Touring Date
Land Only
Land + Air
Single
(Land Only)
Single
(Land + Air)
5/5/2008 - 5/20/2008
$1,649
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
5/17/2008 - 6/1/2008
$1,649
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
5/29/2008 - 6/13/2008
$1,649
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
6/10/2008 - 6/25/2008
$1,649
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
6/22/2008 - 7/7/2008
$1,649
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
7/4/2008 - 7/19/2008
$1,635
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
7/16/2008 - 7/31/2008
$1,635
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
7/28/2008 - 8/12/2008
$1,635
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
8/9/2008 - 8/24/2008
$1,635
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
8/21/2008 - 9/5/2008
$1,635
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
9/2/2008 - 9/17/2008
$1,635
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
9/14/2008 - 9/29/2008
$1,635
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
9/26/2008 - 10/11/2008
$1,635
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
10/8/2008 - 10/23/2008
$1,669
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
10/20/2008 - 11/4/2008
$1,669
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
10/28/2008 - 11/12/2008
$1,669
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
11/5/2008 - 11/20/2008
$1,669
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
11/13/2008 - 11/28/2008
$1,669
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
11/21/2008 - 12/6/2008
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
11/29/2008 - 12/14/2008
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
12/7/2008 - 12/22/2008
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
12/11/2008 - 12/26/2008
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
12/15/2008 - 12/30/2008
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
12/19/2008 - 1/3/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
12/23/2008 - 1/7/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
12/27/2008 - 1/11/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
12/31/2008 - 1/15/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
1/4/2009 - 1/19/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
1/8/2009 - 1/23/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
1/12/2009 - 1/27/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
1/16/2009 - 1/31/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
1/20/2009 - 2/4/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
1/24/2009 - 2/8/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
1/28/2009 - 2/12/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
2/1/2009 - 2/16/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
2/5/2009 - 2/20/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
2/9/2009 - 2/24/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
2/13/2009 - 2/28/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
2/17/2009 - 3/4/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
2/21/2009 - 3/8/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
2/25/2009 - 3/12/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
3/1/2009 - 3/16/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
3/5/2009 - 3/20/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
3/17/2009 - 4/1/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
3/29/2009 - 4/13/2009
$1,715
Call Us
Call Us
Call Us
         
Milford Sound
Travel through the Homer Tunnel

Milford Sound
Unique overnight cruise on Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park

Milford Sound
Cruise past towering cliffs & spectacular waterfalls

Queenstown
City sightseeing tour

Queenstown
View the Remarkables Mountains & Coronet Peak

Queenstown
Stop at AJ Hackett's Kawarau Bridge

Queenstown
Visit Arrowtown, the historic gold mining town

Haast Pass
Stunning drive through the Southern Alps

Haast Pass
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

Tongariro National Park
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

Rotorua
City sightseeing tour

Rotorua
Visit the Agrodome farm to see the World renown sheep show

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

CURRENT SPECIALS:

Mix and Match Discounts

Early payment discounts

Offer #1: Save up to US$559

off the cost of your trip when you book and pay in full at least 12 months prior to departure.

Offer #2: Save up to US$279

off the cost of your trip when you book and pay in full at least 6 months prior to departure.

Offer #3: Save up to US$139

off the cost of your trip when you book and pay in full at least 4 months prior to departure.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Multiple Trip Discounts – Save US$50

You can save an extra $50 when you book a second Contiki tour at the same time of booking your first tour.

* Tours may be in different countries/regions and must be a minimum of 7 days.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Europe Plus Great Britian – Save US$150

Combine a Contiki Europe vacation at least 25 days long with a Contiki Great Britain tour booked at the same time and get a special US$100 discount. Add that to your US$50 extra tour discount and you’ve saved US$150.

* All discounts apply to land tour price only.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Group Discounts

Funky Four – Save 5%

Save 5% Our “Funky Four” discount means a 5% saving per person when 4 or more people book at the same time on the same trip.

Super Seven – Save 7.5%

Book a group of 7 people traveling on the same vacation at the same time and get a 7.5% discount per person. Super Seven – Save 7.5%

Perfect 10 – Travel for Free!

Experience Contiki’s Europe with a group of 10 friends booked on the same trip at the same time and the 11th person travels for free or everyone in your group gets 10% off.

* All group discounts apply to land tour price only. Funky 4, Super 7 & Perfect 10 offers cannot be combined together.

Triple Discounts

On most Superior trips we offer a triple reduction of up to 5% on twin share price.

Price Guarantee

As soon as Contiki has received your deposit, the land tour price confirmed to you by Contiki reservations is guaranteed so book and pay your deposit as early as possible! It gives you the best choice and could save you money.

Single Traveler Savings

When traveling alone, you may not want to incur the expense of a single room supplement, so why not share with fellow passengers of the same sex on a ‘twin room’ basis. It is an enjoyable way to travel and make new friends and helps stretch your budget further.


   
Send This Tour to a Friend:
   
Your Name: Required.
Your E-Mail Address: Required.Invalid format.
   
Your Friend's Name: Required.
Your Friend's E-Mail Address: Required.Invalid format.
   
Comments:  
Required.