Contiki Unveils New Zealand's ‘Hidden Gems & Unique Experiences’

Contiki has launched another trip to its homeland, New Zealand.

The 15-day trip is called ‘Real New Zealand’ because it offers unique experiences that show travellers the country's raw and authentic aspects.

Travellers will have their spot guaranteed at an exclusive lakeside Marae Special Stay. They’ll learn about Māori spirituality, traditional healing practices, customs and protocols, music and have the chance to experience an awe-inspiring haka - exclusively composed for Contiki travellers. Additionally, the trip includes special stays at Blue Duck Station, a conservation project on the banks of the Whanganui River, as well as an overnight cruise across the incredible Doubtful Sounds….experiences that travellers won’t easily be able to do on their own.

For adventure lovers, this trip is studded with adrenaline-pumping experiences including skydiving, kayaking, bungy jumping, ziplining, jet boat riding and so much more.

With recent calls about the negative effects of technology on the mental health of young people, this trip is the perfect opportunity for young travellers worldwide who crave a digital detox to reconnect, get off the beaten track and travel in real life.

The exclusive Māori experiences on the itinerary are the result of Contiki’s New Zealand Operations Manager Richie Pepene’s connection with local iwi. “We really wanted to work with local Māori to create the most authentic experience for our travellers. The Trip Managers and drivers are working through a training program to strengthen their competency in Māori history, culture, customs (Tikanga) and language. It’s such a wonderful way for our travellers to immerse themselves in the beauty and culture of the indigenous people of Aotearoa New Zealand,” he says.

“We wanted to make sure that every part of this trip was unique & compelling. We’re really happy with the itinerary, and so glad that we managed to bag experiences that are exclusive to Contiki. Having personally tried and tested parts of it, I can confidently say that this is one of the most exciting New Zealand trips we’ve got,” says Emma McMahon, Product Development Director at Contiki.

“The Real New Zealand itinerary is the perfect mix of this country’s culture, nature and adventure. There’s something for everyone on this trip. We hit all the city hotspots, including Auckland, Queenstown and Christchurch, and then even throw in some hidden gems like Marlborough Sounds, Blue Duck Station and Lake Manapōuri. Anyone who wants an inside scoop of what New Zealand is really all about, this is the trip for them,” says Brit Wiltshire, Trip Manager at Contiki.

Find more information about the Real New Zealand on https://www.contiki.com/en-ca/tours/real-new-zealand