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2026

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Who is travelling?

Who is travelling?

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From
$1,750
US $1,450 per person

New Zealand: Sweet As South (Eastbound)

9 days
Start and end in Christchurch
4.6
7 reviews
From
$1,750
-17%
US $1,450 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

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2026

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
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2027

Jan
Feb
Mar
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May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2028

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Who is travelling?

AdultsAges 18 or above

2

ChildrenUnder 18

0

Best price guarantee Learn More

Contiki

4.7(6,248 reviews)

Replies within 9 hours 84% response rate

Explorer
Curated to ignite your sense of adventure
Fully Guided
An experienced guide will be with you for the entire tour
Guided in English
Group Size 8 - 50
Ages 18-35
Image of a map showing the route of the tour

Itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Christchurch to Lake Ōhau

    Meals
    Breakfast, Dinner
    Accommodation
    Hotel (Lake Ōhau Lodge (or similar))

    Included Activities

    • Stop at Lake Tekapo (Takapō) to explore the lakefront and view the Church of the Good Shepherd
    • Visit Lake Ōhau with views of Mt. Cook
    Landmarks
    Lake Tekapo (Takapō)
    Church of the Good Shepherd
    Lake Ōhau (Ōhau)
    Mt. Cook
    Itinerary Image 1
  2. Day 2

    Lake Ōhau to Te Anau

    Meals
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation
    Hotel (The Village Inn Hotel (or similar))

    Included Activities

    • Stop in Arrowtown (Kā Muriwai) for lunch
    • Visit Kingston farm to learn about farming and support the Fairlight Foundation

    Optional Activities

    • Guided jet boat trip from Te Anau through Lake Manapouri to Fiordland National Park
    • Visit glow worm caves
    • Cycle trails through native bush near Te Anau
    Landmarks
    Arrowtown (Kā Muriwai)
    Kingston
    Te Anau
    Fiordland National Park
    Lake Manapouri
  3. Day 3

    Te Anau to Queenstown

    Meals
    Breakfast, Lunch
    Accommodation
    Hotel (Lylo (or similar))

    Included Activities

    • Cruise through Milford Sound (Piopiotahi)
    Landmarks
    Milford Sound (Piopiotahi)
    Queenstown (Tāhuna)
    Itinerary Image 1Itinerary Image 2Itinerary Image 3
  4. Day 4

    Queenstown

    Meals
    Breakfast, Lunch (All-you-can-eat pizza feast at Winnies, Queenstown's iconic spot with ski-lodge vibes, a cosy fireplace, and a roof that opens in any weather)
    Accommodation
    Hotel (Lylo (or similar))

    Included Activities

    • Visit Kawarau Bungy Bridge

    Optional Activities

    • Bungy jump at Kawarau Bridge
    • Free Time Add-Ons available in Queenstown (contact Trip Manager for options)
    Landmarks
    Kawarau Bungy Bridge
    Queenstown (Tāhuna)
  5. Day 5

    Queenstown

    Meals
    Breakfast
    Accommodation
    Hotel (Lylo (or similar))

    Optional Activities

    • Wine tasting in wine country
    • Explore wine cellars and caves
    • Bungy jumping
    • Ziplining
    • Other adventure activities (arrange with Trip Manager)
    Landmarks
    Queenstown (Tāhuna)
  6. Day 6

    Queenstown

    Meals
    Breakfast
    Accommodation
    Hotel (Lylo (or similar))

    Optional Activities

    • Additional adventure activities
    • Gondola ride to Skyline restaurant for wine and dining at Queenstown's highest restaurant
    Landmarks
    Skyline Queenstown
    Queenstown (Tāhuna)
  7. Day 7

    Queenstown to Franz Josef

    Meals
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation
    Hotel (Rainforest Retreat (or similar))

    Included Activities

    • Stop in Wānaka for lunch
    • Drive through Haast Pass (Tioripatea)

    Optional Activities

    • Pie from the 'Dough Bin' in Wānaka
    Landmarks
    Wānaka
    Haast Pass (Tioripatea)
    Franz Josef (Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere)
  8. Day 8

    Franz Josef

    Meals
    Breakfast
    Accommodation
    Hotel (Rainforest Retreat (or similar))

    Optional Activities

    • Heli ride over Franz Josef Glacier
    • Carve your own Pounamu (jade) pendant under tuition of a Māori mastercraftsman
    Landmarks
    Franz Josef Glacier
    Franz Josef (Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere)
  9. Day 9

    Franz Josef to Christchurch

    Meals
    Breakfast, Lunch

    Included Activities

    • Stop in Hokitika for Māori-guided tour on Pounamu (greenstone) and cultural significance
    • Drive through Arthur's Pass across the Southern Alps
    Landmarks
    Hokitika
    Arthur's Pass
    Christchurch (Ōtautahi)

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Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

Expand All
  • Accommodation
  • Guide
  • Meals
  • Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

All accommodations are subject to change

Operated by

Contiki

Platinum Operator
Rating
4.7(6,248 reviews)
Response time
9 hours
Response rate
84%
Cancellation policy

Traveler Reviews

4.6
Overall rating based on 7 Reviews
  • Itinerary
    4.3
  • Transport
    4.7
  • Guide
    4.2
  • Accommodation
    3.8
  • Food
    3.8
  • 4.7

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  • New Zealand: Sweet As South (Eastbound) reviewer 1
    March 25th, 2026
    Was truly amazing, especially thanks to the lovely company of both the contiki crew and the group
    Traveled in February 2026
    Reply from: Contiki
    Thank you very much for your kind feedback, and for choosing to travel with us. We are pleased to hear that you had such an amazing experience and that the company of both your Contiki crew and fellow travellers made your journey even more special. It is always wonderful when a great group and supportive team come together to create such memorable moments. Thank you once again for travelling with us. We hope to welcome you on another adventure in the future.
    Show more
  • N
    March 10th, 2024
    Great experience for this tour.. would rate this as 5stars.. made new friends along the way
    Traveled in February 2024
    Reply from: Contiki
    Thank you for your fantastic feedback. We're delighted to hear that you had an amazing experience with us from start to finish. We sincerely hope the new friendships you've made during your trip will last a lifetime. We're looking forward to the opportunity to make your next Contiki adventure even more enjoyable.
    Show more
  • J
    February 3rd, 2024
    Get more money for activities you will not regret
    Traveled in January 2024
    Reply from: Contiki
    Thanks for joining us at Contiki. We hope you had a blast and can't wait to have you back soon.
    Show more
  • H
    January 4th, 2024
    Okay. Too big of a group, mostly suit young people in early 20s, a bit rushed, more of an A to B bucket list check...
    Show more
    Traveled in December 2023
    Reply from: Contiki
    Thank you for sharing your feedback with us. We are sorry you found the group size too large to enjoy the sightseeing during the tour. Our tours are designed exclusively for 18-35-year-olds, and we try to tailor the social aspects to fit that demographic. At Contiki, we take pride in offering trips that provide all travellers an inclusive mix of cultural and social activities. Checking off bucket list items is also essential to exploring the world with us. We hope to provide you with a better experience in the future.
    Show more
  • N
    April 26th, 2023
    Such a great tour! The tour guide (Damo) and bus driver (Ollie) were such an amazing team and together they provided...
    Show more
    Traveled in April 2023
  • H
    March 18th, 2023
    I loved this tour, I did it with my sister and we had a great time with each other and making new friends. The only...
    Show more
    Traveled in March 2023
  • J
    December 13th, 2022
    Trip was good overall. EVERYTHING was practically an add on so budget at least $1600 extra and the guide was not the...
    Show more
    Traveled in November 2022

Dates & Availability

Select departure month and travellers

Select Date

Select departure month

2026

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2027

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2028

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Who is travelling?

AdultsAges 18 or above

2

ChildrenUnder 18

0
Upcoming departures
Hurry, deals only available for a limited time!
Ends on 13 May, 2026
  • Instant Confirmation
    -18%
    From Sunday
    4 Oct, 2026
    To Monday
    12 Oct, 2026
    English
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
    From:
    $1,850
    US $1,525 per person
    Multiple Room Types
  • From Monday
    12 Oct, 2026
    To Tuesday
    20 Oct, 2026
    This departure date is not available or sold out
    Sold out
    From:
    US $1,425 per person
  • Instant Confirmation
    -17%
    From Tuesday
    20 Oct, 2026
    To Wednesday
    28 Oct, 2026
    English
    From:
    $1,750
    US $1,450 per person
    Multiple Room Types
  • Instant Confirmation
    -17%
    From Wednesday
    28 Oct, 2026
    To Thursday
    5 Nov, 2026
    English
    From:
    $1,750
    US $1,450 per person
    Multiple Room Types
  • Instant Confirmation
    -17%
    From Thursday
    5 Nov, 2026
    To Friday
    13 Nov, 2026
    English
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
    From:
    $1,875
    US $1,550 per person
    Multiple Room Types
  • Instant Confirmation
    -17%
    From Friday
    13 Nov, 2026
    To Saturday
    21 Nov, 2026
    English
    From:
    $1,750
    US $1,450 per person
    Multiple Room Types
  • Instant Confirmation
    -17%
    From Saturday
    21 Nov, 2026
    To Sunday
    29 Nov, 2026
    English
    From:
    $1,795
    US $1,495 per person
    Multiple Room Types
  • Instant Confirmation
    -17%
    From Sunday
    29 Nov, 2026
    To Monday
    7 Dec, 2026
    English
    From:
    $1,750
    US $1,450 per person
    Multiple Room Types
  • From Monday
    7 Dec, 2026
    To Tuesday
    15 Dec, 2026
    This departure date is not available or sold out
    Sold out
    From:
    US $1,455 per person
  • Instant Confirmation
    -17%
    From Tuesday
    15 Dec, 2026
    To Wednesday
    23 Dec, 2026
    English
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
    From:
    $1,795
    US $1,495 per person
    Multiple Room Types

Want to read it later?

Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

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What our customers ask about this tour

The content in our FAQ section is subject to change.
All questions
We couldn't find results
Try a different search term or ask a question to this adventure's experts
  • H

    Harry

    Asked on December 14th, 2025

    Is there an age exception for the tour?

    Age Range
    • ContikiOperatorWritten December 2025

      Contiki tours have an age restriction of 18-35 years old. As you are outside this age range, you would not be eligible to join the trip. However, we have several sister brands that offer tours with no upper age restrictions: Trafalgar, Costsaver, Insight Vacations, Brendan Vacations, and Luxury Gold.

  • M

    Michele

    Asked on December 14th, 2025

    I want to book this tours fir Dec 23 rd to dec 31s t but I am 50 years old but look younger . Can I book it?

    Age Range
    Tour Details
    • ContikiOperatorWritten December 2025

      Contiki tours have an age restriction, requiring guests to be between 18-35 years old to participate. As you are outside this age range, you would not be eligible to join the trip. We have several sister brands that offer fantastic travel experiences starting from age 5, with no upper age restrictions.

  • E

    Erin

    Asked on November 18th, 2025

    I am flying in the night before and was wondering if you could please let me know where the contiki leaves from as I would like to book accommodation the night before

    Accommodation
    Tour Details
    • ContikiOperatorWritten November 2025

      The tour will depart from Drifter Christchurch, located at 96 Lichfield Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand. Once you have a confirmed booking, we can check availability and assist in arranging a pre-hotel accommodation for you.

  • M

    Martha

    Asked on November 11th, 2025

    Would like to check tour for 2 adults and 2 kids. Kids ages 17 and 12. Looking at tours in Christchurch and Auckland in December.

    Age Range
    Tour Details
    • ContikiOperatorWritten November 2025

      Contiki tours have an age restriction, requiring guests to be between 18-35 years old. As you are outside this age range, you would not be eligible to join the trip. We recommend alternative tours from Trafalgar without age restrictions: New Zealand Uncovered and Contrasts Of New Zealand.

  • A

    April

    Asked on September 23rd, 2025

    I'd like to ask about the optional activities of this tour. I wish I could cycling and sky activity (like hang glider), is there something like those? If not, could I book those activities with the other tour company and go during this tour?

    Tour Details
    Travel Support
    • ContikiOperatorWritten September 2025

      While cycling and hang gliding aren't part of Contiki's optional activities on the Sweet as South (Eastbound) tour, you'll find plenty of adventure, like skydiving, bungy jumping, and jet boating in Queenstown. You can book other activities independently during free time, just make sure they don't clash with the tour schedule and are covered by your travel insurance.

  • I

    Irene

    Asked on January 2nd, 2025

    What time does the tour arrive back into Christchurch on the last day?

    Tour Details
    Transport
    • ContikiOperatorWritten January 2025

      The trip is scheduled to arrive in Christchurch at approximately 5:00 PM. We recommend booking post-trip accommodation to ensure a comfortable stay. Contiki tours have an age restriction, requiring guests to be between 18-35 years old to participate.

    • I

      Irene

      TravelerWritten January 2025

      Do you offer an airport drop off?

    • ContikiOperatorWritten January 2025

      Contiki does not provide transfers, whether complimentary or chargeable, so guests are responsible for arranging their own transportation to/from the airport at their own cost. The trip begins at around 8:00 AM and concludes at approximately 5:00 PM at the hotel.

    • I
      2 more answers
  • M

    Matt

    Asked on November 7th, 2024

    Which departure can see the typical lupin blossom fields in NZ?

    Other
    Tour Details
    • ContikiOperatorWritten November 2024

      Lupin season in New Zealand is late spring and early summer, great departure would be from mid-November to early December. All our Contiki tours are only for travellers ages 18 to 35 years old.

    • M

      Matt

      TravelerWritten November 2024

      So for 2 men age 45 and 59 can we book the tour or not?

    • ContikiOperatorWritten November 2024

      Contiki tours have an age restriction, requiring guests to be between 18-35 years old to participate. As you are outside this age range, you would not be eligible to join the trip. We have several sister brands that offer fantastic travel experiences without age restrictions: Trafalgar, Costsaver, Insight Vacations, Brendan Vacations, Luxury Gold.

    • M
      2 more answers
  • S

    Sabrina

    Asked on October 31st, 2024

    Will there be transportation covered in the tour? What kind of vehicle will be used to drive us around? Will there be in-built wifi in the vehicle?

    Transport
    • ContikiOperatorWritten October 2024

      Transportation is included in the trip. You will be traveling comfortably by motorcoach throughout the entire journey. Additionally, travelers are provided with 100MB of complimentary Wi-Fi data per day. Please note that there are no options available to purchase additional data.

  • G

    Glenn

    Asked on October 26th, 2024

    How strict is the age range? I'm 36 and really want to do this route.

    Age Range
    • ContikiOperatorWritten October 2024

      Contiki tours have an age restriction, requiring guests to be between 18-35 years old to participate. As you are outside this age range, you would not be eligible to join the trip. We have several sister brands that offer fantastic travel experiences without age restrictions, which may be a perfect fit for you: Trafalgar, Costsaver, Insight Vacations, Brendan Vacations, Luxury Gold.

  • J

    Jay

    Asked on October 2nd, 2024

    What is the difference between private room and multi share accomodations?

    Accommodation
    • ContikiOperatorWritten October 2024

      A private room means you will have your own individual room, while a multi-share room means you will be sharing the accommodation with other travelers in one room. Please be advised that Contiki tours have an age restriction, requiring guests to be between 18-35 years old to participate.

    • J

      Jay

      TravelerWritten October 2024

      How many travellers will be in one room? Also, could you please let me know if the itinerary is customisable, such as including the TranzAlpine train journey, or any other tour where I can have a similar experience?

    • ContikiOperatorWritten October 2024

      The multi share room will be shared by 4 travellers on your same gender. Please be noted, this trip cannot be customized.

    • J
      2 more answers
Can’t find the answer to your question?
Reach out to the experts at Contiki with your enquiry, they usually respond within 9 hours.
From
$1,750
-17%
US $1,450 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

Select Date

Select departure month

2026

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2027

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2028

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Who is travelling?

AdultsAges 18 or above

2

ChildrenUnder 18

0

Best price guarantee Learn More

Contiki

4.7(6,248 reviews)

Replies within 9 hours 84% response rate

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Good to Know

Tour ID: 268823

  • Currency
    $
    New Zealand Dollar
    New Zealand
  • Plugs & Adapters

    As a traveler from USA, Canada, England, South Africa you will need an adaptor for type I.

    Type I
    New Zealand
  • Visa
    • Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
    • Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
  • Payment information
    • For any tour departing before July 12th, 2026 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after July 12th, 2026, a minimum payment of $200 is required to confirm your booking with Contiki. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
    • Some departure dates and prices may vary and Contiki will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
    • The following cards are accepted for "Contiki" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
  • Cancellation Policy
  • Accessibility
    Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveler, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team, who are ready and waiting to help you.

Who is travelling?

AdultsAges 18 or above

2

ChildrenUnder 18

0

Select departure month

2026

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2027

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2028

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec