Take in the two islands of New Zealand as you explore the land known for extreme sports and extreme natural beauty.  A plethora of National Parks and nautical wonders awaits you as you spend your days getting acquainted with kiwis and kolas.

2004
Mon Dec, 13: Christchurch to Lake Ohau
Leaving Christchurch, we pass glacial lakes and river valleys with superb views across to Mt Cook. Have your camera ready for fantastic shots of Lake Tekapo and visit to the stone Church of the Good Shepherd. Tonight we stay at a Lodge in the remote, wilderness environment of Lake Ohau. (D)

Tues Dec 14: Lake Ohau to Milford Sound
Past the Clutha River and orchards of Cromwell to the awesome views of Mitre Peak and Milford Sound. It's time to board the Milford Wanderer, our very special overnight cruiser. Definitely a magnificent way to take in all the beauty of the waterfalls along the fiord. (B,D)

Wed Dec 15: Milford Sound to Glueenstown
First, breakfast on board the MV Wanderer, then by coach to Lake Te Anau and the former gold mining village of Arrowtown. High adrenalin at the Bungy Jump Bridge before we reach Queenstown and our Lodge set high above Lake Wakatipu. (B,D)

Thur/Fri Dec 16-17: Quenstown
You will rest up won't you? You'll need to. The next two days are yours. Be extreme! A number of options to astound you await! White water rafting, parachuting, jet boating, or hiking are on offer. Once you're dry and breathing again the next portion of our Contiki decathlon takes place. Yes, it's time to experience Queenstown's legendary nightlife! Lodge. (B,B)

Sat Dec 18: Queenstown to Fox Glacier
We travel through Kawarau Gorge, home of miners in the goldrush days, then past more glacial lakes as we head for the bushclad West Coast and our friendly Fox Glacier Hotel. Time to perhaps don the alpine gear for a guided walk over the famous Fox Glacier. (B,D)

Sun Dec 19: Fox Glacier to Christchurch
We travel north to Hokitika for a look at jade greenstone carving before we continue over the Southern Alps to Christchurch via Arthur's Pass. (B)

Mon Dec 20: Christchurch to Wellington
Following the coastal road, we head for the fishing village of Kaikoura. We then continue to the sunny vineyards of Marlborough to Picton where we board the Inter-Island Ferry for the cruise through the Marlborough Sounds and across Cook Strait to Wellington, the capital city. Tonight, a chance to check out one of the best value restaurants in town. (B)

Tues Dec 21: Wellington at leisure
A full day to explore the country's capital. Take your time to enjoy the amazing Museum of New Zealand, known as Te Papa'Our House'. Later this evening join us for a walkabout dinner. Hotel (B)

Wed Dec 22: Wellington to Taupo
Beginning the day we travel the Kapiti coast northwards toward the Tongariro National Park, past the central volcanoes of the North Island to our resort beside New Zealand's largest lake - Taupo. (B)

Thur Dec 23: Taupo to Rotorua
We continue via forest and farmland to the heart of Maori culture, Rotorua. We'll then learn more about the rich history of the Maori culture which dates back to the 10th century before heading to our lodge at Rotorua. Time for a swim in the naturally heated pool before our optional Maori Hangi style meal and Cultural concert. (B)

Fri Dec 24: Rotorua to Waitomo
We start the day with a visit to the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, Whakarewarewa, on our way to our special overnight stay at Waitomo, home of the world famous limestone formations and sparkling Glow-worms. (B,D)

Sat Dec 25: Waitomo to Bay of Islands
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. (B,D)

Sun Dec 26: Bay of Islands at Leisure
A whole day to do as you please - and there are loads of possibilities If you fancy exploring "Lands End", take a trip to Cape Reinga Lighthouse along Ninety Mile Beach. Go out sailing and lunch on a deserted island: enjoy a catamaran cruise through the "Hole-in-the- Rock" or take it easy by the hotel's pool. (B)

Mon Dec 27: Bay of Islands to Auckland
This morning we head south, past the rolling Northland countryside before finishing our New Zealand Contiki experience in Auckland around lunchtime. (B)

Tues - Thur Dec 28-30: Extended Stay in Auckalnd