Contiki cater for the 18-35 market with a range of New Zealand tours that offer a mix of sightseeing and adrenaline. The 15-day Grand Explorer begins in Auckland, on the North Island, taking in the country's highlights before finishing in Christchurch. You'll explore the natural beauty of Tongariro National Park, experience Maori culture in Rotorua and delve into New Zealand's history in Arrowtown. Along the way there are opportunities to try activities including zorbing, bungee jumping, horse riding and sky diving. Travel is by air-conditioned coach and ferry, with accommodation in shared hotel rooms. This tour covers the best of New Zealand, while offering the fun and security of traveling in a group.
www.contikitours.com
Relaxing Journeys offer a variety of tour options, allowing you to personalize your vacation to your needs and budget. The 19-day Rail, Cruise and Coach tour is a luxurious way to see the North and South Islands, with 4-star accommodations and high quality meals included. The train journeys, including a trip on the TranzAlpine railway, offer a different perspective on the stunning scenery. The trip includes a visit to the spectacular Huka waterfalls, geysers at Te Puia and New Zealand's only castle. A highlight of the tour is an overnight cruise through the Bay of Islands aboard the new, deluxe Great Sights catamaran. For those looking to see New Zealand in style, this is a perfect tour.
www.relaxingjourneys.co.nz
These are tours for adventurous types and budget travelers, camping and using local transport to get around. The 15-day Grand Traverse tour takes in the best of both islands from Auckland to Queenstown. The emphasis is on hiking and biking your way through the spectacular scenery, but you can also take a break at points during the trip and relax on the beach. There are plenty of activities on offer, from white water rafting and para-sailing to dolphin swimming and sea kayaking. You'll take in the standard sightseeing spots, but also have a chance to get off the beaten track and face new challenges for an exhilarating vacation.
www.flyingkiwi.com
Among their adventure tour options, Haka offer something a bit different with their Snow Tour packages. The three day Snow Fix departs from Auckland and takes travelers to Mount Ruapehu. You can spend a weekend exploring the slopes with an experienced guide who can show you the best runs and help you get the most out of the snow field. On the South Island, the seven-day Snow Safari tour takes you to six different hills, both developed resorts and hidden gems known only to the locals. Whether you're a skier or snowboarder, a beginner or an expert, these tours are a great way to explore New Zealand's mountains and an alternative to a traditional sightseeing tour. The season runs from the end of June to the end of September.
www.hakatours.com
