Australia & New Zealand 2013 - 2014 Inc. Diving, sailing & ski options
ONE LIFE ONE SHOT SO MAKE IT COUNT THE ORIGINAL
SINCE '62
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i’ve done almost everything I could possibly imagine. but i know there’s more.
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- dave grohl
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they say that one day your life will flash before your eyes. so you’d better make sure it’s worth watching. Memories aren’t created from the things you said you’d do. They’re built from things you’ve done. The moments captured. The world discovered. The lifetime seized. You only get one, after all. So you’ve got to make it count. A journey with Contiki is a kaleidoscope of unexpected adventures, inspiring places, lifelong friendships, brilliant stories and unforgettable memories. But most of all, it’s living life out loud, utterly and completely.
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it’s time
life moves pretty fast. if you don’t stop & look around once in a while, you could miss it. - ferris bUELler
No one wants to regret a chance not taken; to sit on the sidelines, experiencing the world through the status updates of friends. We want to get out there & see it first hand. To live it and breathe it for the very first time.
your
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miss a thing. That’s why we cover off all the highlights, but still give you heaps of free time and flexible options to pave your own path.
This is the original spirit of Contiki. The spirit that’s kept us taking 18-35 year olds on life changing journeys since 1962. Back when there was no Facebook, no return date & no knowledgeable guide. Just a shared sense of adventure & a beaten up old mini-van.
With our local knowledge and years of experience, it’s like having a backstage pass to all of our destinations. Escape the tourist traps & eat with the locals; skip the lines & get direct access; and ditch the camping for central hotels and unique stays. From a charming farm to a traditional Aussie swag, every night will blow you away.
Since that first trip, we’ve spent 50 years perfecting the art of living with no regrets. And to tell you the truth, we’ve gotten pretty damn good at it. The experience of travelling in Australia and New Zealand is completely unique. From wide open spaces to small local nooks, you won’t want to
Best of all, you get to share all this with a new group of friends. A group of people who share your youthful and passionate curiosity for the world; people you actually want to stay in touch with. It’s all about making every moment count. And at Contiki, it’s what we do best.
youtube.com/contiki
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Aus & NZ 2013/14 No Regrets It’s your time Live Aus & NZ Compare Contiki Save with Contiki Join us online 365 days of change Contiki cares The original since ‘62
02 04 06 08 09 10 11 35 36
NEW ZEALAND
12
Backstage Pass Team Contiki Taste New Zealand ME Time Make every moment count Where you stay & Getting around
14 16 17 18
Days The Big Tiki 19/17 Kiwiana Panorama 16/14 Northern ‘Choice’ 11/10 ‘Sweet as’ South 10/9 Sun & Steam 7 Jaffas ‘n’ Jandals 3 Ultimate NZ Ski 7
20 22
24 26 28 30 32 33 34
AUSTRALIA
38
Backstage Pass Team Contiki Taste Australia ME Time Make every moment count Where you stay & Getting around
40 42 43 44 46 48
Days The Big Walkabout 25 Reefs & Rainforests 16 Beaches & Reefs 14 The Sun Seeker 10 Sunsets & Surf 12 Island & Rainforest 7 City to Surf 7 Tropical Wonder 5 Whitsundays Sailing 2 Outback Adventure 11 Alice & Kakadu 6 Rock & Red 5 Dive to Adventure 3 Learn to Dive 5 Sydney New Year 4 We Festivals
50 52 54 56 58 60 61 62 63 64 66 67 68 68 69 70
Got a question? Want to stay longer? Booking conditions Contiki around the world How to book
72 74 75 76 76
Experience The South Pacific! Th he Be est s Group ro oup up Siz ze
Loca ca al l Ex xpe pert r s
When Wh en it co come mess to gro me roup up numbe umbeerrss, um wee know th hat siz izee re real a ly al ly doe oes mattttter ma er. We m mak akee gr grou ou ups big g e ou en ugh to ha have a bla l st st, ye yet ssm mal a l en nou ough g to reeal gh a ly l bon ond. d. d.
F om Fr m hid dd deen su surf urff bre r ak a s to o hiideaw deaway de aw way cof offe f e ha h unts ts, ou ur teeam ams kn ams know ow w all all th hee sec ecre rett sp re pot o s. P t do Pu own you ourr guid gu uid i e bo book ok, we’v we e’ve go ot this th hiss one ne sor o te t d.
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Ex xclus usiv ive e a co ac c mm modat atio on Sw wa ag gs,, farrmss & centr tral a hottel els. s Ou ur ac acco omm mmod od datio on is i surrpr prisin ng, e ci ex citi tiing & alw tin l ays th thee beest st. Everry nigh Ev ghtt willl blo l w you u aw away ay..
contiki.com.au/meetups
Giivin ving ng back We giv We ivee back to the local comm co mmunities we visit – for all the grrea gre eat times they give us, it’s the least we can do!! le leas
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Live AUS & NZ
queenstown
gold coast
fraser island
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rotorua
great barrier reef
sydney
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Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass... It’s about learning to dance in the rain.
- Vi V vi vian an Gre reen ene e
new zealand
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value
unrivalled
Everything we do, you couldn’t do for less. See More. Do more. Get More. Independent travel isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Hidden costs & taxes, incomprehensible train timetables and surprise peak seasons. It all ends up costing way more than you’d think and there’s nothing very fun about getting it all organised. We’ve done the math & compared a typical day on a Contiki Australia or New Zealand tour to a day doing the same on your own. You can’t get close to the same quality of accommodation, amazing food experiences & exclusive inclusions for the same price. What’s best, our awesome team are here to share their exclusive knowledge, to make your trip hassle-free & show you a jaw-droppingly, eye poppingly good time. It’s all part of our exclusive Backstage Pass to Australia and New Zealand.
Auckland, New Zealand Breakfast
Your daily travel
Transport to your next destination
Guided city tour
SYDNEY, australia
travelliNg with contiki
Included
NZ$21.00
A$17.20
Eggs benedict at Mecca
Bacon, Eggs, Tomato, Toast, Coffee & Juice at Tropicana Caffe
NZ$15.00
A$22.00
Discovery Day Pass (Bus/trains/ferries)
My Multi (Bus/Train/Ferry)
NZ$45.80
A$23.50
Based on Flexipass bus pass (30 hr pass averaging 5hrs/day on travel days)
Greyhound Pass Sydney – Cairns valid for 90 days, travelling 20 days
NZ$40.00
A$49.00
All day Auckland Explorer Bus Pass
AAT Kings Sydney Sights & Bondi Beach
Two-course
NZ$42.40
A$30.90
local meal & glass of wine, beer or soft drink
At Degree Gastrobar
Una’s Restaurant 2 course meal
Accommodation
NZ$110.00
A$130.00
at a central city hotel
At Jucy Hotel
BASE Backpackers Sydney double room
Hidden taxes
Eeek, who knows?!?
Eeek, who knows?!?
Cost of travelling your own way
A$218/Day
A$272/Day
Included
Included
Included
Included
Included
how much is your time worth? Travelling on your own can be stressful. How do I get there? Where should I stay? What stuff do I need to see & how do I get tickets? There’s so much to sort & it can take up loads of your precious time. Leave the hard bits to us - we get you there, sort your accommodation, show you the main sites (& the hidden gems too) & share advice on the best things to see & do. And in today’s world, having certainty over your costs is another plus.
Included
A$89/Day
Converted to A$ * Prices & exchange rates validated at 14th January, 2013 at the locations stated. Actual costs may change without notice. Sightseeing cost comparison is based on similar activities of what’s included in a Contiki tour price. Contiki pricing based on 3 Day Jaffas ‘n’ Jandals p.33.
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we know how important your hard earned CASH is, so we have plenty of deals to help IT go further.
pay early for the best deals Book & pay early for the best deal on your tour & airfares. Don’t miss out as these discounts are subject to availability & may be withdrawn.
Save up to A$325 Pay in full on or before 30th April 2013 & save up to 7.5%.
Save up to A$215 Pay in full on or before 27thJune 2013 & save up to 5%. * Pay Early Savings of A$325 & A$215 based on 25 Day The Big Walkabout p.50-51.
travelling again? If you’ve travelled with us before, we’d like to welcome you back with a 5% discount. Plus, we can hook you up with discounts with our sister companies as well. See p.72 for more.
2 or more Book 2 Contiki tours of 7 days or longer at the same time & get A$100 off your second tour.
book with mates
The facts: All these discounts apply to the land portion of you tour price only (This excludes taxes, included flight costs, extra accomodation and optional activities. Your tour price does not include the costs of international flights to / from Australia & New Zealand that start or end your tour). You can combine group discounts (‘Book with mates’), multi tour discounts (‘2 or more’) & early payment (‘Pay Early’) discounts on tours of 7 days or longer. Pay early savings do not apply to bookings made within 45 days of tour departure, or bookings that already receive a 6 month or 12 month pay early discount. The pay early savings above only apply to departures on or after 31st August, 2013.
gold seal protection Our Gold Seal means that if you cancel your tour before you leave for your tour, we won’t charge you a cent. And if you’re ill or have to leave the trip early for personal reasons, Gold Seal will refund you A$40 for each day that you miss & will cover your air ticket costs. See p.73.
We believe in the principle of “the more the merrier”. So the more friends you can round up, the more you will save.
4 or more Everyone saves 5%
GO VINTAGE.
7 or more Everyone saves 7.5%
Buy your next outfit at your local charity shop.
10 or more Everyone saves 10%, or invite an 11th for free!
RIDE A BIKE TO WORK.
change direction You could save up to A$150 when you take a Contiki Australia or New Zealand tour with a different departure city (travel on one of the itineraries shown in reverse order, look out for the symbol above on tour pages).
In Australia, this option is available for itineraries that start from the northern cities of Darwin, Cairns & The Whitsundays. Or in New Zealand, from Christchurch. Itineraries that can be done in reverse are marked on the relevant tour pages.
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Save money on transport costs (plus you’ll get fit too!)
CUT THE CREDIT. Stick a picture of your next holiday spot on your credit card. When you go to use it next, you’ll think twice.
GOT SKILLS? Why not take it to the streets & try busking.
GO BACK TO BASICS? Save money on fruit & veg & grow your own. Got your own tip on how to save? Tell us about it at facebook.com/contiki
12/02/2013 10:10
JOIN US ONLINE Your journey starts well before you leave & lasts long after you return. So get the most out of your travel experience with our nifty online tools. Find out more at contiki.com.au
tools meetups Meet the rest of your travellers bef e ore you go in our privatee Me M etUps. Acc cces e s it on es the go with our ne new w iPhone app pp, ‘Shout utt’. ’. contiki.com.au u/mee /mee e tups
part pa rt p pay ay Register Regi er you ourr to tour ur o onl nlin ine & shar arre wi w th your fami fa mily ly & ffrriends ds tto o he h lp you pay ayy off your trip tr ip, or u use se tthe he ttoo ooll to bud u gett your own paym pa y ents. contiki.com. m.au au/p /par arrtpay
Check-in Ch n Check in for you Chec ourr to tour u bef e ore yo you go go.. It’ll sa ave you time & pa pape p rworkk on o thee first day of yyou o r trip & mak a es surre we have your impo port rtant deta ailils on file. e. c ntiki.com.au/che co heck ckin
Downlo oad our App today - It’s Free. Shout brings together the photos, videos & updates of everyone travelling on the same tour to create one epic story of your trip together. Save every moment & create a real-time timeline of your awesome travels to share with your friends back home. Find out more at contiki.com.au/app
Travel tools
timeline Create a shared group timeline of your travel adventures.
Chat Meet other travellers before you go on your trip & chat on the go.
View your trip itinerary, maps & more. Plus view nearby hotspots provided by Lonely Planet. Looking for a restaurant? Want to know how to say hello in Maori? Shout has you covered.
Includes content provided by
e BrochUrEs es Create a per Crea erso sonalised Contikki ee-br broc ochuree. Choose the tou Ch ours rs you wan nt to t ccom ompa pare re,, then th en dow ownl nloa oad or sha haree o on n Fa F ce cebo book o & Twitte ter. r. co ont ntik iki. i co om. m au u/b /bro roch chur ures es
Rev evie iews w Don t ju Don’ just st ttak akee ou our wo ord for it, ccheckk out tour rev to evie iews ws & ssee ee w wha hatt our pa past st tra avellers have ha ve tto o say. y. co cont ntik iki.ico com m.au u/r /rev e iews
social media Got a question? Our FB team would love to help out.”
fa face ac book
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#
CONTIKI on your tweets, we read everything.
Follow our vloggers & get inspired for your travels.
TWIT TW ITTE IT TER R
YOUTUB BE
We rea ali lis que lise u stio ions ns ccan an co come up an nyt ytim ime e & ou o r tea am are he here re tto he help lp p 24/ 47
Join us as we take you ou Alll our tw wee e te ers rs hav a e been on behind the scenes of Contiiki Co ont ntik i i tr ik trip ipss th themselves es & can an trips around the world help he lp with questions or advice
facebook.com m/c /contiki ki
twitter.com/contikiaus
youtube.com/contiki
12/02/2013 10:02
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365 days is the time it takes our precious planet to revolve around the sun. And the time in which Contiki iis s co ommit mmitt ted ed to del liiver ring i ng real change through our sustainability efforts.
A chat with cÉline Contiki: This year you travelled to Mexico with the Contiki team to work with the MAR Leadership Foundation. What was the highlight of the trip for you? Céline: It was wonderful to see the Contiki R:evolve winners not only discover the world of diving, but learn about and take active part in the conservation efforts happening on the Mesoamerican Reef. I feel there was a sense of pride – not only had they won the trip because of their own sustainability initiative, but their company was really doing something positive in supporting the MAR Leadership programme. My hope is this experience stays with them and continues to inspire them.
Contiki’s R:evolve Leaders & MAR Leaders, Mexico
Contiki: You worked closely on the 2012 R:evolve Initiative with the Contiki community. What were your thoughts on the responses for making a commitment to the change?
cÉline cousteau
Exploring our precious planet is a privilege. A privilege that also comes with responsibility & at Contiki we put that responsibility at the core of everything we do. Our R:evolve programme supports our ocean conservation initiatives & in April 2012 Contiki’s sustainability ambassador Céline Cousteau connected with Contiki team & community members to make a movement of change. The focus is on encouraging everyone to make a difference to our planet every day & really make it count. As part of the initiative Contiki selected 10 R:evolve Leaders from inside the company
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& our community of travellers. They spent 10 days in Mexico & experienced first-hand the beauty of our oceans & the need to preserve our reefs & its inhabitants through their work with the MAR Leadership Foundation, one of Contiki’s ocean sustainability projects. The end goal: to get every individual focused on their actions, & how they can count towards leaving the world a better place. Find out more & watch Céline’s documentary of the trip at:
Céline: There were a lot of good ideas submitted and my belief is all of these can and should be implemented whether a winner or not. Many suggestions were as simple as recycling and consuming less, which are always good actions to follow. There were also intricate and thoughtful strategies that started with looking at how people function and to then create a sustainability project that adapted to their lifestyle, making it easy for them to integrate the initiatives proposed. Those ideas are the ones that are really about problem solving with people’s own options, limitations, and potential in mind. Contiki: What do you think Contiki travellers can do to make a change to our planet? Céline: Every journey offers possibilities: bring your own amenities rather than open a new shampoo in every hotel, recycle everything you can, bring a water bottle, don’t take all the print outs unless you need them (or better yet just share them). Ask how you can give back to the places you visit- either to people, culture and arts, the environment, other species or in any way you can think to. You can return to places you have visited and volunteer your time to local non-profits to restore local ecosystems, support communities or otherwise donate time. As travellers, we have incredible opportunities to give back to the places we visit.
Follow Céline on twitter @celinecousteau and at celinecousteau.com
contiki.com.au/contikicares
12/02/2013 10:05
new zealand
It’s time to explore the magical land of the long white cloud. With so much to do in this beautiful country, come with us & make the most of every moment. New Zealand is full of surprises & all about pushing your comfort zone to the max. You could find yourself skiing down a mountain one minute, then jet boating under a waterfall the next. It’s the land to unleash the adventurer within. With us, you’ll experience NZ the best possible way. With 7 tours from 3-19 days, you get to decide where you go, what you do & how you do it. From the best places to stay, to the ultimate ways to feel an adrenaline rush, we’ve got it sorted. With plenty of culture & epic landscapes, New Zealand is in a league of its own. So choose your adventure & take the ride of your life with Contiki.
EXPERIENCE our new zealand LATER STARTS
MORE CHOICES
9am starts (or later) each day, & longer stops on travel days mean a more relaxed way to explore.
Want a long stay or short trip? A snow adventure or boat ride? Name it, we’ve got it. And on most of our trips you can choose the route you want to travel.
THE BEST TEAM Our On-road team gives you that essential insider knowledge that every traveller craves. See p.16
AuTHENTIC & EXCLUSIVE We love going local & getting you in the know on all things Kiwi. Like delicious delicacies & cultural experiences that you’ll only find in NZ. All included. See p.20
GIVING BACK You can choose to give back – do a beach & lakeshore clean-up or swap your plastic water bottle for a Contiki re-usable. It’s all about helping our planet.
EXCLUSIVE ACCOMMODATION From comfy, central hotels to cool resorts or lodges, our overnights are the perfect place to un-wind. See p.22
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7 trips from 3 to 19 days
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to NZ AN adrenaline fix in Queenstown, the culture of Rotorua, the beaches of the far North & the serene fiords, New Zealand is a must. a holiday with Contiki gives you a Kiwi experience like no other. Your
backstage pass
includes:
EXCLUSIVE ACCOMMODATION We have some eye-popping accommodation. Stay in the heart of Downtown Auckland, right by the world famous waterfront & shops, wake up to views over Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown or near the beach at a resort hotel in Paihia. Our hotels are centrally located, with fantastic facilities, comfy beds & great extras like swimming pools & WiFi.
EXCLUSIVE team We bring the real New Zealand to life – our Tour Managers & Drivers are all passionate about their home & love sharing it with you. Because we’ve got the expertise & the essential local knowledge that you can’t get from a guidebook, we get you off the tourist trails & into the heart of the true NZ.
EXCLUSIVE access Afterr 50 yea Afte ears rss of tr travveellli lliling ng the ng he world orld or we’vve go gott trav travvel tr el d dow own ow n to t a fin in e a r t . Wee’l ’lll ge g t yo you u th t he b the beestt acccess esss, s, likke queu qu eu ue skip skkiip pp n ppi ng g at Au uck ckla kla l nd nd’s d’ss SSky ky ky To owe w r. Ourr com mfyy coa o ch ches ches es (so ome me w wit itth WiFi Wi Fi)) get yo Fi you arro ou und d witth ea ase se & you ou’l u’l ’ll lo ove v tthe he fer erry & boa at ri ridees to too o. o.
EXCLUSIVE OPTIONS Our ME Ou ME Tim ime me gi give vess yo you sp pacce to h hea e d offf ea with wi th h a map map & rea eallllyy di discov over ov e . Wh er het ethe he it her it’ss thro th ro owi wing ng g you oursel ours elff of off ff a bu un ng gy or ccan an nyo yon on swin sw ing, in ng, cru ruis uis i in ng Mi Milf lfor ord d So Sou und, d, b black ckk wateer ra wa raft ftin ft ing ng in i Wai aito tom mo, fi mo fish hin ing g on o a lake la k or ju ke ust s kic icki king in ng g bac ackk at thee b bea e ch, ea ch h, the th her ere’ ere’ e’s pl p en e ty of ti t me me jusst fo or yo y u. u.
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS Some off NZ’s coo oo ole lest s eexp st xxp per erie ieenc n es, on on us! s! From om m an ex e clusivve ri ride de on Qu ueens nsto ns nsto town w ’ss wn Shottover Sh oveerr JJeet, ov et, or or a Mao ori r cul ultu tura ura rall vi visi s tt,, we si open op en n you ourr ey eyes eyes es to NZ’s bes e t. Y You ou can leea arrn rn the th he Ha H ka iin Ro R toru to oru rua & si sip p a be beer er at Dun at uned ned din in’ss iico coni nicc SSp peight’ ght s Al gh Alee H Hou ou ouse ussee, pllus more. plus ore. or e. FFro r m th t e bloc bloc ockb ckb kbus u te us terss to th he st stuf tu f on nlyy thee K Kiiwis kno no ow ab a ou out, t, we we incl in c ud cl de it it a ass pa p rtt of ou o r Ba ackkst stag ag ge Pa Pass sss.
EXCLUSIVE FOOD Get a taste of NZ favourites when you travel, all included as part of your u Backstage Pass. From kiwi classics like fish ‘n’ chips & BBQs to authentic tastes like a Maori Hangi & concert so get the tastebuds reead a y. We include breakfast every day too, o so it’s easy to start the day of adven nture right.
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travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.
your
backstage pass exclusive inclusions are highlighted on each tour page
rotoru ua
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TEAM Our team of Tour Managers love New Zealand. Their passion for this country is contagious! Who could be better for showing you around than those who know it like the back of their hand? They’re extensively trained & travelled, & they know it inside out, they’ll show you all their favourite spots for partying, shopping & getting amongst it. You’ll always get the best experience possible.
& keep it easy by dropping you right at your door & unloading your bags.
Mix this with our expert Drivers who get you from A to B with ease & in comfort
In short, they’re THE business. Get ready to uncover New Zealand’s best!
exclusives
✓ TE
AM
To complement our team, we pair up with Local Guides in some locations, included as part of your Backstage Pass to give you that in-depth knowledge on a destination or place. Like at Ohinemutu Maori village, where our Local Guide will get you in the know on New Zealand’s unique Maori culture & heritage.
meet josh Josh, Tour Manager, from Wellington
We
WiFi
We’ve got WiFi on mostt of our coaches so keepin ng in touch & posting pics on the road (literally) is easy y.
NO COMPULSORY TIPPING
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What started out as an amazing Contiki trip to Europe turned into my career - I love my job! I’m a homegrown Kiwi who loves music & sport - I am proud of my country & its heritage. My Maori background helps me give insight into the history & traditions of the Maori culture, plus I can teach you to speak & pronounce the native tongue! NZ truly is God’s playground... beaches, mountains, forests & rivers; it’s a beautiful place, filled with cultural & ethnic diversity. My advice? When travelling, just do everything you possibly can, it’s all about living for the moment, now.
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zealand
exclusives
✓ fo
od
This little country is big on flavours & fresh eats, so we ensure you indulge in the tempting tastes on offer. From Kiwi favourites like fish ‘n’ chips & succulent NZ lamb, to big BBQs & traditional Maori Hangi meals, we’ll fast-track you to the country’s greatest tastes, on us.
On our New Zealand trips we include breakfast daily & lots of evening meals. We also leave some well-placed ME Time gaps for you to experience things on your own & let your senses take over, like legendary Fergberger in Queenstown, or a Kiwi bakery craving in Kaikoura. That’s not to say we don’t spoil you with time to try specialities too, like green-lipped mussels & crayfish, or pavlova with kiwifruit & cream – the stuff the locals love! Our team know all the best places & more & will share their local secrets to get you to NZ’s best.
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ME
TIME
ca ata t ma ara ran c ran cr rui u se se b yo ba of f isl slan an a nd ds s
milf mi ilf lfor or o rd s so oun und cr crui uise uise ui e
glac gl ciie er hi hike ike ke, fo f ox g gl la ac cie ier er
Travel is about making the most of every moment, doing what you want to do & doing it well. Memories come from great moments, so make the most out of every day & live like there is no tomorrow. ME Time is the last ingredient to a perfect trip, and we make sure you get all the time you need to explore this giant playground, your way. From jumping off a bridge in Queenstown to cruising down the Milford Sound, it’s up to you & that’s what makes your trip so unique & unforgettable. ME Time is exactly that & having those personal unique moments are just as important as experiencing the big sights. For us it’s all about taking your trip to the next level & its your call on what level that is. Get your blood pumping by white water rafting in Queenstown or Ogoballing down a hill in Rotorua. But if you’d prefer to soak up a bit of culture, tempt yourself with a wine tasting in the Wairarapa or Glacier hiking in Franz Josef. Our Backstage Pass to New Zealand means we can get you to places others can’t & offer you experiences like no other, and our behind the scenes access means you’ll get great deals & it’s all organised by us. Keep an eye out for the ‘don’t miss’ call outs on the tour pages for some great tips on how to spend your ME Time. ME Time optionals available per tour are highlighted by the M symbol in our itineraries.
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OG GOB OBAL AL A LLi Ling ng g, roto ro oto toru ru r ua
M
bung bu ng ngy, gy, y que ueen een enstow ow wn
E TIME OPTIONALS
boat cruise, milford sound Take in whales, waterfalls & landscapes as you journey into paradise, one of New Zealand’s finest assets.
Jetboat ride, Taupo Hold onto your seat as you get to extreme speeds cruising by stunning Huka Falls.
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ME Tim ime, e s sky ky div ivin ing queens n to town wn
Bungy Jumping Queenstown The original home of bungy jumping. Let the word ‘extreme’ reach all new heights.
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Heli ride, Fox Glacier Enjoy the breathtaking experience of flying through this world famous Glacier, then jump off & explore it for yourself.
Black water rafting, Waitomo Paddle into the dark underground caves & check out the local glowworms as you drift by.
exclusives
✓opt
ions
Note: ME Time optional activities are not included in the price of your tour. They are run by b 3rd party operators & on occasions, for some of the activities, travellers may be required to sign a waiver to participate. Before you leav eavee it’s it’s im important that you check your insurance includes your participation in adventure activities & be aware that some of our optionals can n be be phys phy ically demanding & may involve some risk.
if something scares you, it might be a good thing to try.
12/02/2013 09:51
moment count New Zealand serves up a kaleidoscope of incredible adventures, and we make sure you see the VERY best - the sights & experiences that’ll knock your socks off. Better than that, we also show you it’s hidden treasures & secret spots that you probably won’t find in a guidebook or on the net. it’s all included as standard with your Backstage Pass, so you get incredible value that can’t be matched by anyone else.
the must do’s all included From the must-do’s, like a Shotover Jet ride in Queenstown, a trip to the top of Auckland’s Sky Tower or an in-depth Maori cultural experience in Rotorua - see & experience New Zealand’s highlights. We cover a bunch of entry fees & we save you time too, like skipping queues in the places that count.
discover new zealand’s best
thermal hotsprings
Included orientation talks at every stop, plus locally guided tours too. Our team of expert locals will take you inside the real New Zealand like only a local can, with experiences you’ll never forget, like a Maori Hangi meal & concert, a thermal hot spring dip, native greenstone carving & a visit to New Zealand’s most famous brewery.
exclusive experiences Loads of what we offer you can’t get anywhere else. It’s about getting you closer, immersing you in the culture of each & every destination we visit. We bring New Zealand to life... like a guidebook never could.
included maori cultural experience
20-21 Make It Count NZ.indd 2
12/02/2013 09:49
20 | 21
exclusives
✓ inclusions
Ride the Shotover Jet, Queenstown Grab a lifejacket & hold onto your seat as you jet down the Shotover River at some serious speeds. Spinning turns whilst dodging canyon walls is licence to thrill, and as one of NZ’s original adrenaline must-do’s, we include it in our tours, so you don’t miss out.
Visit the iconic Sky Tower, Auckland From Rangitoto & Waiheke, to the Harbour Bridge & city, get the city’s best views from the top of Auckland’s iconic 328m Sky Tower, all included for you.
Maori cultural experiences, Rotorua Visit Ohinemutu Maori village, where our Local Guide gets you in the know on Maori culture. It gets better - a Maori ‘Hangi’ meal & dance concert will alight the senses as you try authentic local food, cooked the traditional way, underground!
20-21 Make It Count NZ.indd 3
12/02/2013 09:50
keep it comfy as you travel
l ke la k oha h u lodge
How you get around is half the fun. With us, you’ll see New Zealand from all kinds of angles: like ferries, boats & Our comfy coaches (some even have wifi). Ou O urr co c mf m y coac co oacchees ar a e more r of a so soci c al ci a eve vent nt tha han n a wa wayy to t ttra r ve ra v l.l. Th heere a are ree alw wayys fr frie iieen nd ds to han ang g out out w th wi t , so p pop op p yyou ou ur co c mf mfyy se seat at iint ntto re n r cl c in ne po p siti t on o & gett re ge r ad a y to tak a e in New Z Zea eala and nd’s inc nccreedi dibl blee si s gh httss a you as ou makke tr t ac acks ks to yyo our nex extt de dest sttin inat a io at on. T The h y’’ree he stat st a e of the at he artt, wi w th h WiF i i accce cess ss on so ss ome me,, to oili et ets, s, po powe owe werp rpoi rp o ntts & aw awes eso es ome so s un nd syyssttems em ms to too. o
22-23 Accom_Getting Around NZ.indd 2
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Onboard
WIFI & POWER POINTS
12/02/2013 09:46
22 | 23
hotels, resorts & lodges Creature comforts, awesome facilities & the best locations make our NZ accommodation the best way to stay. Try sleeping amongst the rainforest at a Franz Josef lodge, a hotel in the heart of Downtown Auckland, or overlooking stunning Lake Wakitipu in Queenstown.
exclusives
✓accommodation & access
Locations you’ll love We keep it easy with direct access to the places you’ll want to be. Wake up by the beach in the Bay of Islands, in the heart of a glacier village in Franz Josef, right next to Rotorua’s relaxing hot pools, or in Downtown Auckland city.
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rainforest lodge, franz josef
Comfort & style
mercure hote me tel l, a auc uckl klan a d
Our hotel accommodation is a chance to truly chill, with fluffy towels & duvets, TVs & en-suites – the best places to come home to at the end of a day exploring.
Going Solo? No single supplements & no stress. We’ve got you covered with same sex room-mate matchups. Or, if that doesn’t sound like you, we’ll set you up in a ‘room to myself’ for just a small supplement. Too easy! SU S UDI DIM MA A HOT TE EL L , RO ROTORU UA
The best of europe in your pocket. Introducing our SHOUT app including content provided by Lonely Planet. contiki.com.au/app Includes content provided by
22-23 Accom_Getting Around NZ.indd 3
12/02/2013 09:47
the big tiki 19 Days From A$2615pp* A$138 per day
hobbiton
your backstage pass includes LE MI TY H NE AC NI BE
• Kiwiana fish `n’ chips dinner • Sky Tower visit with 360 degree views of Auckland • Otorohanga Kiwibird House visit • Agrodome Farm Show • Traditional Maori Hangi & dance performance in Rotorua • Guided tour of Ohinemutu Maori Village • Hot pool swim in Hanmer Springs • Wanaka’s Puzzling World visit • Thrilling Shotover Jetboat ride • Dinner at Winnies pizza pub in Queenstown • Tour & tasting at the iconic Speights Brewery
PAIHIA 2 Russell Parry Kauri Park
AUCKLAND 1 TASMAN SEA
WAITOMO CAVES 1
2 ROTORUA
ME Time
Huka Falls
TAUPO 1 NORTH ISLAND
!
ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random. Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.
WHY ‘TIKI’? The word ‘Tiki’ can represent good luck, great to know when you are travelling.
COOK STRAIT Picton
2 WELLINGTON
KA IKO UR AC OA ST
SOUTH ISLAND Kaikoura
HANMER SPRINGS 1 Hokitika
FRANZ JOSEF & FOX GLACIER 2
Arthur’s Pass
ME Time optionals
Lake Tekapo
1 LAKE OHAU
Milford Sound
QUEENSTOWN 4
CH
PACIFIC OCEAN
SE OO YO
UR
1
1 DUNEDIN IR
D
Places visited Nightstops Optional start/end city Milford Sound highlight optional
Queenstown’s Ferg Burger is THE place to get the ultimate burger fix. ‘Mr Big Stuff’ is one of our favourites. Our tip: make sure you go on an empty stomach – these are huge & amazing!
M Race down a hill inside an Ogo ball M Visit Hobbiton Village from The Lord of the Rings M Fishing trip on Lake Taupo M AJ Hackett bungy jump in Queenstown M Cruise stunning Milford Sound
Christchurch
Haast Pass Wanaka
hungry?
E C TI O N
Nicky: This trip was absolutely incredible!! A great way to see New Zealand. I definitely recommend this trip – you’ll come away with no regrets! Visit contiki.com.au/tiki
24-25 The Big Tiki.indd 2
12/02/2013 10:32
24 | 25
For one little country, there’s so much to see & this trip will uncover it all. Packed with beaches, glaciers, cities & scenery mixed with classic locals, amazing food & good times - this trip is legendary & the experiences are endless.
• • •
Day 2: Paihia Paihia is the perfect place to relax. Chill out on the beach, visit the Maori tribal lands, or get into the watersports. Hotel (B) M ‘Ninety Mile Beach’ tour with off-roading & sand dune ‘surfing’ Day 3: Paihia to Auckland Back in Auckland, we’ll show you the city spots before heading up the iconic Sky Tower. A VIP pass at one of our favourite bars awaits tonight. Hotel (B) Auckland city tour & Sky Tower entry VIP pass at an Auckland nightspot
• •
Day 4: Auckland to Waitomo See NZ’s iconic bird at a Kiwi House before we reach Waitomo. Get into the adrenaline activities before a BBQ dinner or roast meal tonight. Lodge (B,D) Visit Otorohanga’s Kiwi House & Nature Park BBQ or roast dinner (seasonal) M Black water rafting
• •
Day 5: Waitomo to Rotorua In Rotorua, we’ll show you the sights then visit a farm show, where you could even try shearing a sheep! Tonight, experience a traditional Maori Hangi & dance performance. Hotel (B,D) Agrodome farm show Rotorua city tour Maori Hangi dinner & concert
•• •
Day 6: Rotorua Get an indepth look at Maori culture & history as we tour Ohinemutu Village with our expert guide. Later, take advantage of the city’s awesome thermal environment & treat yourself to a spa or treatment. Hotel (B) Locally guided tour of Ohinemutu Village
•
Day 7: Rotorua to Lake Taupo Check out the famous mud pools before it’s onto Huka Falls. At Lake Taupo, you can opt for a cruise on the lake tonight, where you can fish, eat & party into the night. Hotel (B) See Rotorua’s geothermic mud pools See Taupo’s Huka Falls
• •
Day 8: Lake Taupo to Wellington Check out the landscapes along the Desert Road en route to the capital,
24-25 The Big Tiki.indd 3
Wellington, where we’ll show you the city sights. Then tonight it’s VIP bar entry! Hotel (B) Drive along the Desert Road & Kapiti Coast Orientation tour of Wellington VIP pass at a local nightspot
• ••
Day 9: Wellington Chill your way today. Hit the shops along Lambton Quay or Cuba Street Mall. With some of the country’s best coffee, taking a break with a ‘flat white’ is a must. Hotel (B) Day 10: Wellington to Hanmer Springs Grab your camera as we cruise the Marlborough Sounds, before Hanmer via Kaikoura. Hanmer Springs’ hotpools are legendary – so a night at the pools is a must. Hotel (B) Stop at a seal colony & Kaikoura Relaxing hot pool swim
• •
Day 11: Hanmer Springs to Franz Josef Glacier via Christchurch Drive through the Southern Alps, before our stop in Hokitika to learn about NZ’s native greenstone & how it’s carved. Later, we’ll arrive in NZ’s iconic glacial spot, Franz Josef. Lodge (B,D) Scenic drive across the Southern Alps Stop at Arthur’s Pass Greenstone & carving demo Chill at our theme party
• •• •
Day 12: Franz Josef Glacier Hitting the ice is a must. From walks & hikes to heli rides, the day is yours to enjoy. Lodge (B) M Fox Glacier Guided glacier hike (gear provided) Day 13: Franz Josef Glacier to Queenstown Today we head through Haast Pass & Thunder Creek Falls. Visit lakeside Wanaka & Arrowtown before hitting Queenstown, the world’s adventure capital. Hotel (B) Visit Wanaka’s Puzzling World
•
Day 14: Queenstown Take a ride on the Shotover Jet, then get into the Queenstown vibes. The nightlife here is awesome & we’ll take you to our
favourite nightstop. Hotel (B) Ride the iconic Shotover Jet VIP nightclub entry M Skyswing 400m above the town
••
Days 15-16: Queenstown From bungy jumps, canyon swings & gondolas to the Lord of the Rings territory, there’s no shortage of things to do & the choice is all yours. Hotel (B) (B,D) M Tandem skydive Days 14-16: Ski Queenstown option Want to ‘carve up’ some of the great ski mountains around Queenstown? You can if you’re travelling in July or August! Choose to ski or board for 3 full days – we can even organise ski equipment & lessons for you. Hotel. (B)(B)(B,D) Day 17: Queenstown to Dunedin Today we’re off to the ‘student city’ Dunedin, where we’ll try the famous beer on a guided tour of Speights Brewery. Hotel (B) Stop at Bungy bridge & Alexandra Speights Brewery tour
• •
Day 18: Dunedin to Lake Ohau See the world’s steepest street, then it’s onto Moeraki to see the huge beach boulders. Later, Lake Ohau will impress, with epic views of Mt. Cook & the Southern Alps. Lodge (B,D) Visit Baldwin St Visit Moeraki Boulders, Oamaru & Benmore Dam
••
Day 19: Lake Ohau to Christchurch Maybe take a scenic glacier flight before heading through Mackenzie Country back to Christchurch where your tour ends. (B) Stop at Lake Pukaki, Lake Tekapo & Geraldine See the famous Church of the Good Shepherd Pick up a treat at NZ’s famous Cookie Time factory M Scenic flight at Mt Cook
• • •
the big tiki start/end queenstown
The Big Tiki 19 days
How much & when
Itinerary & Sightseeing Day 1: Auckland to Paihia Meet your Contiki Team & travel mates before heading north to Paihia – where it’s all about chilled out vibes, amazing beaches & cool locals. A Kiwi favourite of fish ‘n’ chips for dinner is the perfect way to start the trip. Hotel (D) See the iconic Sky Tower & harbour, made famous by the America’s Cup Explore NZ’s native bush at Parry Kauri Park See Kawakawa’s famous Hundertwasser toilets M Fishing trip
new zealand
17 days
What’s Included:
Code: NGZAD 2013/14 Code: NGZCD 2013/14 Start Auckland
Finish C’church
Total Cost A$ pp*
2013
Start C’church
Finish Auckland
Total Cost A$ pp*
2013
6 22 30 8 24 9 25 3 11 19 27 12 28 5 13 21 29 7 15 23 31 8 16 24 2 6 10 14 18 22 26 30
Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan
24 10 18 26 11 27 13 21 29 6 14 30 15 23 1 9 17 25 2 10 18 26 4 12 20 24 28 1 5 9 13 17
2725 2725 2725 2725 2725 2725 2725 2685 2685 2685 2685 2685 2685 2685 2685 2685 2685 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819
Apr Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
6 22 30 8 24 9 25 3 11 19 27 12 28 5 13 21 29 7 15 23 31 8 16 24 2 6 10 14 18 22 26 30
Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan
24 10 18 26 11 27 13 21 29 6 14 30 15 23 1 9 17 25 2 10 18 26 4 12 20 24 28 1 5 9 13 17
2655 2655 2655 2655 2655 2655 2655 2615 2615 2615 2615 2615 2615 2615 2615 2615 2615 2679 2679 2679 2679 2679 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749 2769 2769 2769 2769
2014 Jan 3 Jan 7 Jan 11 Jan 15 Jan 19 Jan 23 Jan 27 Jan 31 Feb 4 Feb 8 Feb 16 Feb 24 Mar 4 Mar 12 Mar 20 Apr 5 Apr 21 Apr 29 May 7 May 23 Jun 8 Jun 24 Jul 2 Jul 10 Jul 18 Jul 26 Aug 11 Aug 27 Sep 4 Sep 12 Sep 20 Sep 28
Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct
21 25 29 2 6 10 14 18 22 26 6 14 22 30 7 23 9 17 25 10 26 12 20 28 5 13 29 14 22 30 8 16
2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2779 2779 2779 2779 2779 2779 2779 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749
2014 Jan 3 Jan 7 Jan 11 Jan 15 Jan 19 Jan 23 Jan 27 Jan 31 Feb 4 Feb 8 Feb 16 Feb 24 Mar 4 Mar 12 Mar 20 Apr 5 Apr 21 Apr 29 May 7 May 23 Jun 8 Jun 24 Jul 2 Jul 10 Jul 18 Jul 26 Aug 11 Aug 27 Sep 4 Sep 12 Sep 20 Sep 28
Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct
21 25 29 2 6 10 14 18 22 26 6 14 22 30 7 23 9 17 25 10 26 12 20 28 5 13 29 14 22 30 8 16
2769 2769 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749 2749 2709 2709 2709 2709 2709 2709 2709 2679 2679 2679 2679 2679 2679 2679 2679 2679 2679
Apr Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
18 nights multi-share accommodation: 14 nights in hotels 4 nights in lodges (more on p.22-23) 24 meals: 18 breakfasts (B) 6 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging Sightseeing tours of all major cities Hotel tips, local taxes & service charges
$
SAVE Pay early & save up to A$210. See p.9 for details.
you choose It’s your choice - travel from Auckland to Christchurch. Or save up to A$70 if you travel from Christchurch to Auckland.
maori dancing
* Prices above are based on maximum quad-share.
Single room supplement (tour only) add A$1275/ add A$335 twin-share. NGZAD: Start Auckland 9:00am & end Christchurch 6:00pm. NGZCD: Start Christchurch 9:00am & end Auckland 3:00pm. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
From A$2365pp* A$140 per day STUCK FOR TIME? We’ve got a shorter 17 day version of The Big Tiki that starts or ends in Queenstown. • For 17 day price, deduct up to A$250 from price in the price box • 17 day tour starts or ends at Tanoa Aspen Hotel, Queenstown
• Code: NDZAD (ex: Auckland) Start 9:00am/End 10:00am • Code: NDZCD (ex: Queenstown) Start 6:00pm/End 3:00pm • Twin room supp: A$295 • Single room supp: A$1155
$
Pay early & save up to A$190. See p.9 for details.
MILFORD SOUND ME Time highlight optional Take a break & try something different – a day trip & boat cruise on the World Heritage listed Milford Sound. This slice of paradise is known for its gorgeous waters, wildlife like whales & dolphins & incredible scenery. For more info see the ME Time highlight optional box on p.31.
paihia
12/02/2013 10:32
kiwiana panorama 16 Days From A$2285pp* A$143 per day
queens queenstown stow own n
your backstage pass includes LE MI TY H NE AC NI BE
• Otorohanga Kiwibird House visit • Agrodome Farm Show • Traditional Maori Hangi & dance performance in Rotorua • Guided tour of Ohinemutu Maori Village • Hot pool swim in Hanmer Springs • Wanaka’s Puzzling World visit • Thrilling Shotover Jetboat ride • Dinner at Winnies pizza pub in Queenstown • Tour & tasting at the iconic Speights Brewery
Auckland
TASMAN SEA
WAITOMO 1 CAVES
2 ROTORUA
ME Time
Huka Falls
1 TAUPO NORTH ISLAND Tongariro N.P.
!
ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random. Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.
What’s ‘Kiwiana?’ It’s a reference to all things uniquely Kiwi, its icons & traditions.
COOK STRAIT Picton
2 WELLINGTON
KA IKO UR AC OA ST
SOUTH ISLAND Kaikoura
HANMER SPRINGS 1 Hokitika
FRANZ JOSEF & FOX GLACIER 2
Arthur’s Pass
ME Time optionals M See the famous glowworms & rock formations in Waitomo M Lake Taupo Rocks ‘n’ Ropes adventure course M Wine tour of the Wairarapa M Cruise stunning Milford Sound
Christchurch
Haast Pass Lake Tekapo Wanaka
1 LAKE
OHAU
Milford Sound
QUEENSTOWN 4
CH
1 DUNEDIN
SE OO YO
D
IR
UR
1
Cuba Street in Wellington. With cute boutiques, big name brands & funky vintage stores packed with treasures, this is shopping & people watching at its best.
PACIFIC OCEAN
Alexandra
Places visited Nightstops Optional start/end city Milford Sound highlight optional
don’t miss
E C TI O N
Hamish_1992: The Best holiday I have done in my life. Such a great time and fantastic people on the tour. Visit contiki.com.au/kiwiana
26-27 Kiwiana Panorama.indd 2
12/02/2013 10:30
26 | 27
If you like to mix it up, then this trip is perfect! Hit the North for a cultural fix mixed with cities, lakes & even caves! The South is all about adventure - glaciers, scenery & action at every spot, this trip will unleash the true adventurer within.
• •
Day 2: Waitomo to Rotorua In Rotorua, we’ll show you the sights then visit a farm show, where you could even try shearing a sheep! Tonight, experience a traditional Maori Hangi & dance performance. Hotel (B,D) Agrodome farm show Rotorua city tour Maori Hangi dinner & concert M Skyline gondola & luge rides
•• •
Day 3: Rotorua Get an indepth look at Maori culture & history as we tour Ohinemutu Village with our expert guide. Later, take advantage of the city’s awesome thermal environment & treat yourself to a spa or treatment. Hotel (B) Locally guided tour of Ohinemutu Village M Race down a hill inside a transparent Ogo ball
•
Day 4: Rotorua to Lake Taupo Check out the famous mud pools before it’s onto Huka Falls. At Lake Taupo, you can opt for a cruise on the lake tonight, where you can fish, eat & party into the night. Hotel (B) See Rotorua’s geothermic mud pools See Taupo’s Huka Falls
• •
the Southern Alps, before our stop in Hokitika to learn about NZ’s native greenstone & how it’s carved. Later, we’ll arrive in NZ’s iconic glacial spot, Franz Josef. Lodge (B,D) Scenic drive across the Southern Alps Stop at Arthur’s Pass Greenstone & carving demo Chill at our theme party
Days 11-13: Ski Queenstown option Want to ‘carve up’ some of the great ski mountains around Queenstown? You can if you’re travelling in July or August! Choose to ski or board for 3 full days – we can even organise ski equipment & lessons for you. Hotel. (B)(B)(B,D)
• •• •
Day 9: Franz Josef Glacier Hitting the ice is a must. From walks & hikes to heli rides, the day is yours to enjoy. Lodge (B) M Heli-hike tour M Fly to & walk on the glacier Day 10: Franz Josef Glacier to Queenstown Today we head through Haast Pass & Thunder Creek Falls. Visit lakeside Wanaka & Arrowtown before hitting Queenstown, the world’s adventure capital. Hotel (B) Visit Wanaka’s Puzzling World
•
Day 11: Queenstown Take a ride on the Shotover Jet, then get into the Queenstown vibes. The nightlife here is awesome & we’ll take you to our favourite nightstop. Hotel (B) Ride the iconic Shotover Jet VIP nightclub entry M Whitewater rafting
••
Days 12-13: Queenstown From bungy jumps, canyon swings & gondolas to the Lord of the Rings territory, there’s no shortage of things to do & the choice is all yours. Hotel (B) (B,D) M Bungy jumping
Day 14: Queenstown to Dunedin Today we’re off to the ‘student city’ Dunedin, where we’ll try the famous beer on a guided tour of Speights Brewery. Hotel (B) Stop at Bungy bridge & Alexandra Speights Brewery tour
• •
Day 15: Dunedin to Lake Ohau See the world’s steepest street, then it’s onto Moeraki to see the huge beach boulders. Later, Lake Ohau will impress, with epic views of Mt. Cook & the Southern Alps. Lodge (B,D) Visit Baldwin St Visit Moeraki Boulders, Oamaru & Benmore Dam M Scenic flight past glaciers & Mt. Cook, NZ’s highest peak
••
Day 16: Lake Ohau to Christchurch Maybe take a scenic glacier flight before heading through Mackenzie Country back to Christchurch where your tour ends. (B) Stop at Lake Pukaki, Lake Tekapo & Geraldine See the famous Church of the Good Shepherd Pick up a treat at NZ’s famous Cookie Time factory
• • •
Day 5: Lake Taupo to Wellington Check out the landscapes along the Desert Road en route to the capital, Wellington, where we’ll show you the city sights. Then tonight it’s VIP bar entry! Hotel (B) Drive along the Desert Road & Kapiti Coast Orientation tour of Wellington VIP pass at a local nightspot
• ••
Day 6: Wellington Chill your way today. Hit the shops along Lambton Quay or Cuba Street Mall. With some of the country’s best coffee, taking a break with a ‘flat white’ is a must. Hotel (B) M Quad biking adventure Day 7: Wellington to Hanmer Springs Grab your camera as we cruise the Marlborough Sounds, before Hanmer via Kaikoura. Hanmer Springs’ hotpools are legendary – so a night at the pools is a must. Hotel (B) Stop at a seal colony & Kaikoura Relaxing hot pool swim
• •
Day 8: Hanmer Springs to Franz Josef Glacier via Christchurch Drive through
26-27 Kiwiana Panorama.indd 3
lake taupo
How much & when
Itinerary & Sightseeing Day 1: Auckland to Waitomo Meet up with your Contiki Team & travel mates & set out for Waitomo. On the way, see NZ’s iconic bird at a Kiwi House before we reach Waitomo. Get into the adrenaline cave activities here before a BBQ dinner or roast meal tonight. Lodge (D) Visit Otorohanga’s Kiwi House & Nature Park BBQ or roast dinner (seasonal)
new zealand
Code: NPZAD 2013/14 Code: NPZCD 2013/14 Start Auckland
Finish C’church
Total Cost A$ pp*
2013
Start C’church
Finish Auckland
Total Cost A$ pp*
2013
9 25 3 11 27 12 28 6 14 22 30 15 31 8 16 24 2 10 18 26 3 11 19 27 5 9 13 17 21 25 29
Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan Jan
24 10 18 26 11 27 13 21 29 6 14 30 15 23 1 9 17 25 2 10 18 26 4 12 20 24 28 1 5 9 13
2359 2359 2359 2359 2359 2359 2359 2325 2325 2325 2325 2325 2325 2325 2325 2325 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445
2014 Jan 2 Jan 6 Jan 10 Jan 14 Jan 18 Jan 22 Jan 26 Jan 30 Jan 3 Feb 7 Feb 11 Feb 19 Feb 27 Mar 7 Mar 15 Mar 23 Apr 8 Apr 24 Apr 2 May 10 May 26 Jun 11 Jun 27 Jul 5 Jul 13 Jul 21 Jul 29 Aug 14 Aug 30 Sep 7 Sep 15 Sep 23 Oct 1
Apr Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
6 22 30 8 24 9 25 3 11 19 27 12 28 5 13 21 29 7 15 23 31 8 16 24 2 6 10 14 18 22 26 30
Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan Jan Jan
21 7 15 23 8 24 10 18 26 3 11 27 12 20 28 6 14 22 30 7 15 23 1 9 17 21 25 29 2 6 10 14
2319 2319 2319 2319 2319 2319 2319 2285 2285 2285 2285 2285 2285 2285 2285 2285 2285 2345 2345 2345 2345 2345 2405 2405 2405 2405 2405 2405 2415 2415 2415 2415
Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct
17 21 25 29 2 6 10 14 18 22 26 6 14 22 30 7 23 9 17 25 10 26 12 20 28 5 13 29 14 22 30 8 16
2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2405 2405 2405 2405 2405 2405 2405 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385
2014 Jan 3 Jan 7 Jan 11 Jan 15 Jan 19 Jan 23 Jan 27 Jan 31 Feb 4 Feb 8 Feb 16 Feb 24 Mar 4 Mar 12 Mar 20 Apr 5 Apr 21 Apr 29 May 7 May 23 Jun 8 Jun 24 Jul 2 Jul 10 Jul 18 Jul 26 Aug 11 Aug 27 Sep 4 Sep 12 Sep 20 Sep 28
Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct
18 22 26 30 3 7 11 15 19 23 3 11 19 27 4 20 6 14 22 7 23 9 17 25 2 10 26 11 19 27 5 13
2415 2415 2405 2405 2405 2405 2405 2405 2405 2405 2405 2405 2405 2405 2405 2365 2365 2365 2365 2365 2365 2365 2345 2345 2345 2345 2345 2345 2345 2345 2345 2345
Apr Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
Kiwiana Panorama 16 days What’s Included: 15 nights multi-share accommodation: 11 nights in hotels, 4 nights in lodges (more on p.22-23) 20 meals: 15 breakfasts (B) 5 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging Sightseeing tours of all major cities Hotel tips, local taxes & service charges
$
SAVE Pay early & save up to A$180. See p.9 for details.
you choose It’s your choice - travel from Auckland to Christchurch. Or save up to A$40 if you travel from Christchurch to Auckland.
ogoballing
* Prices above are based on maximum quad-share.
kiwiana panorama start/end queenstown
14 days
Single room supplement (tour only) add A$1019/ add A$245 twin-share. NPZAD: Start Auckland 9:00am & end Christchurch 6:00pm. NPZCD: Start Christchurch 9:00am & end Auckland 3:00pm. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
From A$2035pp* A$146 per day STUCK FOR TIME? We’ve got a shorter 14 day Kiwiana Panorama tour that starts or ends in Queenstown. • For 14 day price, deduct up to A$250 from price in the price box • 14 day tour starts or ends at Tanoa Aspen Hotel, Queenstown
• Code: NBZAD (ex: Auckland) Start 9:00am/End 10:00am • Code: NBZCD (ex: Queenstown) Start 6:00pm/End 3:00pm • Twin room supp: A$205 • Single room supp: A$905
$
Pay early & save up to A$160. See p.9 for details.
MILFORD SOUND ME Time highlight optional Take a break & try something different – a day trip & boat cruise on the World Heritage listed Milford Sound. This slice of paradise is known for its gorgeous waters, wildlife like whales & dolphins & incredible scenery. For more info see the ME Time highlight optional box on p.31.
arrowtown
12/02/2013 10:30
northern ‘choice’ 11 Days From A$1535pp* A$140 per day
LE MI TY H NE AC NI BE
your backstage pass includes
PAIHIA 2
Russell
• Kiwiana fish ‘n’ chips dinner • Sky Tower visit with 360 degree views of Auckland • Otorohanga Kiwibird House visit • Agrodome Farm Show • Traditional Maori Hangi & dance performance in Rotorua • Guided tour of Ohinemutu Maori Village • Hot pool swim in Hanmer Springs
Parry Kauri Park
AUCKLAND 1 TASMAN SEA
WAITOMO CAVES 1
2 ROTORUA
ME Time
Huka Falls
TAUPO 1 NORTH ISLAND
ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random. Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.
Tongariro N.P
COOK STRAIT Picton
If a local says ‘choice!’ it means they think something is awesome.
2 WELLINGTON
SOUTH ISLAND
KA IKO UR AC OA ST
!
WHY ‘choice’?
Kaikoura
HANMER 1 SPRINGS
ME Time optionals
SE OO YO
D
IR
UR
CH
PACIFIC OCEAN
Places visited Nightstops Optional start/end city
Buying a pack of Pineapple Lumps! These Kiwi sweets are seriously delish & a pack to take home is essential.
M Ocean kayaking adventure to Haruru Falls M Guided tours of Ruakuri or Waitomo Caves to see the famous glowworms & rock formations M Race down a hill inside a man-size, transparent Ogo ball M Quad biking through rugged, outback bushland
Christchurch
1
don’t miss
Cricky: This is definitely a trip for those who are active and enjoy nature. As well as party times.
E C TI O N
Visit contiki.com.au/choice 28-29 Northern Choice.indd 2
12/02/2013 10:29
28 | 29
Culture, beaches, cities & action - the North Island offers so much. From the endless summer vibes of Paihia, to the cultural hub, Rotorua & the ‘great lake’ in Taupo, the Northern Choice has got it all.
Day 1: Auckland to Paihia Meet up with your Contiki Team & travel mates before heading to Paihia – where it’s all about chilled out vibes, amazing beaches & cool locals. A Kiwi favourite of fish ‘n’ chips for dinner is the perfect way to start the trip & get into the endless summer atmosphere. Hotel (D) See the iconic Sky Tower & harbour, made famous by the America’s Cup Explore NZ’s native bush at Parry Kauri Park Check out Whangarei & Kawakawa’s famous Hundertwasser toilets
• • •
Day 2: Paihia Paihia is the perfect place to relax. Chill out on the beach or even on a boat, visit the Maori tribal lands & learn about NZ’s history, or do it like the locals & get into some watersports. Hotel (B) M Catamaran sailing, swimming & snorkelling with lunch Day 3: Paihia to Auckland Back in Auckland, we’ll show you the city spots before jetting up the city’s iconic Sky Tower. A VIP pass at one of our favourite Auckland nightspots will set you up for an awesome night out. We love Ponsonby Road for some of the city’s best spots to party too. Hotel (B) Auckland city tour & Sky Tower entry VIP pass at an Auckland nightspot
•
Locally guided tour of Ohinemutu Village
Day 7: Rotorua to Lake Taupo Check out the areas famous mud pools before it’s onto Huka falls - there’s your chance for a ride on the famous Huka Jet! At Lake Taupo, grabbing a bite by the water is a must. You could opt for a dinner cruise on the lake tonight, where you can fish, eat & party into the night. Hotel (B) See Rotorua’s geothermic mud pools See Taupo’s Huka Falls M Fun evening lake cruise including fishing
• •
Day 8: Lake Taupo to Wellington Check out the awesome landscapes along the Desert Road on route to the windy capital, Wellington, where we’ll show you the sights around this arty city. VIP bar entry means you’ll start the night out in style. Hotel (B) Drive along the Desert Road & Kapiti Coast Orientation tour of Wellington including Mt. Victoria VIP pass at a local nightspot
• • •
Day 9: Wellington Chill your way today. Maybe hit the shops along Lambton Quay & Courtney Place or Cuba Street Mall with its street performers & cool local characters. With some of the country’s best coffee & cafés found in ‘Welly’, taking a break with a ‘flat white’ is a must. Hotel (B) Day 10: Wellington to Hanmer Springs Grab your camera for great pics as we cruise the incredible Marlborough Sounds, before hitting the road to Hanmer via Kaikoura where you can check out the cute seals. Hanmer Springs’ hotpools are legendary – so a night at the pools is the perfect way to unwind. Hotel (B) Stop at a seal colony & Kaikoura Hot pool swim
• •
Day 11: Hanmer Springs to Christchurch Today we’re heading to Christcurch, where it’s time to say your farewells & swap email addresses as your tour ends on arrival. (B)
rotorua
• •
Day 4: Auckland to Waitomo See NZ’s iconic bird at a Kiwi House before we reach Waitomo. Get into the adrenaline cave activities here before a BBQ dinner or roast meal tonight. Lodge (B,D) Visit Otorohanga’s Kiwi House & Nature Park BBQ or roast dinner (seasonal) M Black water rafting through underground caves
• •
Day 5: Waitomo to Rotorua In Rotorua, we’ll show you the sights then visit a farm show, where you could even try shearing a sheep! Tonight, go local as you indulge in a traditional Maori Hangi & pick up some tips from the locals at a traditional Maori dance performance. Hotel (B,D) Agrodome farm show Rotorua city tour Maori Hangi dinner & concert
•• •
Day 6: Rotorua Get an in-depth look at Maori culture & history as we tour Ohinemutu Village with our expert guide. With a free day, take advantage of the city’s awesome thermal environment & treat yourself to a spa or treatment. Hotel (B)
28-29 Northern Choice.indd 3
BAY OF ISLANDS
Itinerary & Sightseeing
new zealand
How much & when
Code: NNHAD 2013/14 Code: NNHCD 2013/14 Start Auckland
Finish C’church
Total Cost A$ pp*
2013
Finish Auckland
Total Cost A$ pp*
2013
6 22 30 8 24 9 25 3 11 19 27 12 28 5 13 21 29 7 15 23 31 8 16 24 2 6 10 14 18 22 26 30
Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan Jan
16 2 10 18 3 19 5 13 21 29 6 22 7 15 23 1 9 17 25 2 10 18 26 4 12 16 20 24 28 1 5 9
1585 1585 1585 1585 1585 1585 1585 1565 1565 1565 1565 1565 1565 1565 1565 1565 1565 1605 1605 1605 1605 1605 1645 1645 1645 1645 1645 1645 1645 1645 1645 1645
2014 Jan 3 Jan 7 Jan 11 Jan 15 Jan 19 Jan 23 Jan 27 Jan 31 Feb 4 Feb 8 Feb 16 Feb 24 Mar 4 Mar 12 Mar 20 Apr 5 Apr 21 Apr 29 May 7 May 23 Jun 8 Jun 24 Jul 2 Jul 10 Jul 18 Jul 26 Aug 11 Aug 27 Sep 4 Sep 12 Sep 20 Sep 28
Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct
13 17 21 25 29 2 6 10 14 18 26 6 14 22 30 15 1 9 17 2 18 4 12 20 28 5 21 6 14 22 30 8
1645 1645 1645 1645 1645 1645 1645 1645 1645 1645 1645 1645 1645 1645 1645 1615 1615 1615 1615 1615 1615 1615 1605 1605 1605 1605 1605 1605 1605 1605 1605 1605
Apr Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
Start C’church
14 30 8 16 1 17 3 11 19 27 4 20 5 13 21 29 7 15 23 31 8 16 24 2 10 14 18 22 26 30
Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan Jan
24 10 18 26 11 27 13 21 29 6 14 30 15 23 1 9 17 25 2 10 18 26 4 12 20 24 28 1 5 9
1555 1555 1555 1555 1555 1555 1535 1535 1535 1535 1535 1535 1535 1535 1535 1535 1575 1575 1575 1575 1575 1615 1615 1615 1615 1615 1625 1625 1625 1625
2014 Jan 3 Jan 7 Jan 11 Jan 15 Jan 19 Jan 23 Jan 27 Jan 31 Feb 4 Feb 8 Feb 12 Feb 16 Feb 24 Mar 4 Mar 12 Mar 20 Mar 28 Apr 13 Apr 29 May 7 May 15 May 31 Jun 16 Jul 2 Jul 10 Jul 18 Jul 26 Aug 3 Aug 19 Sep 4 Sep 12 Sep 20 Sep 28 Oct 6
Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct
13 17 21 25 29 2 6 10 14 18 22 26 6 14 22 30 7 23 9 17 25 10 26 12 20 28 5 13 29 14 22 30 8 16
1625 1625 1615 1615 1615 1615 1615 1615 1615 1615 1615 1615 1615 1615 1615 1615 1615 1585 1585 1585 1585 1585 1585 1575 1575 1575 1575 1575 1575 1575 1575 1575 1575 1575
Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
Northern ‘Choice’ 11 days What’s Included: 10 nights multi-share accommodation: 9 nights in hotels 1 night in a lodge (more on p.22-23) 13 meals: 10 breakfasts (B) 3 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging Sightseeing tours of all major cities Hotel tips, local taxes & service charges
$
SAVE Pay early & save up to A$120. See p.9 for details.
you choose It’s your choice - travel from Auckland to Christchurch. Or save up to A$30 if you travel from Christchurch to Auckland.
* Prices above are based on maximum quad-share.
northern ‘choicE’ start/end wellington
10 days
From A$1285pp* A$129 per day STUCK FOR TIME? We’ve got a shorter 10 day 'Northern Choice' tour that starts or ends in Wellington. • For 10 day price, deduct up to A$250 from price in the price box • 10 day tour starts or ends at Abel Tasman Hotel, Wellington
• Code: NNZAD (ex: Auckland) Start 9:00am/End 10:00am • Code: NNZCD (ex: Wellington) Start 6:00pm/End 3:00pm • Twin room supp: A$179 • Single room supp: A$685
$
Single room supplement (tour only) add A$765/ add A$205 twin-share. NNHAD: Start Auckland 9:00am & end Christchurch 10:00am. NNHCD: Start Christchurch 4:00pm & end Auckland 3:00pm. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
hobbiton
auckland
Pay early & save up to A$100. See p.9 for details.
12/02/2013 10:29
‘sweet as’ south 9 Days From A$1225pp* A$137 per day
LE MI TY H NE AC NI BE
queenstown
your backstage pass includes • Tour & tasting at the iconic Speights Brewery • Thrilling Shotover Jetboat ride • Dinner at Winnies pizza pub in Queenstown • Wanaka’s Puzzling World visit • Hot pool swim in Hanmer Springs (10 day option only)
TASMAN SEA
!
What’s ‘Sweet as’? ‘Sweet as’ also means ‘no worries’ or ‘really good’.
NORTH ISLAND
ME Time ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random. Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.
COOK STRAIT Wellington Picton
KA IKO UR AC OA ST
SOUTH ISLAND Kaikoura
HANMER SPRINGS 1 Hokitika
Arthur’s Pass
FRANZ JOSEF & FOX GLACIER 2 Haast Pass Wanaka
M Scenic helicopter flight to see Mt. Cook & land on Fox Glacier M Cruise stunning Milford Sound
1 LAKE OHAU
Milford Sound PACIFIC OCEAN
UR
SE OO YO
IR
D
Places visited Nightstops 10 day extension nightstop Optional start/end city Milford Sound highlight optional
CH
1 DUNEDIN 1
The local kiwi 'Dairy', filled with sweet treats & tip-top ice-cream, pick your scoops & enjoy!
ME Time optionals
Christchurch Lake Tekapo
QUEENSTOWN 4
don't miss
E C TI O N
David Guthrie: The scenery is unexplainable... words do not do it justice, you just have to see it for yourself. Up for a bit of fun? Queenstown has everything! Visit contiki.com.au/sweetas
30-31 Sweet as South.indd 2
12/02/2013 10:28
30 | 31
Feed your adrenalinE on NZ’s legendary South Island. When you’re not trying bungy jumping, jetboating or canyon swinging, take time to chill in hot pools, by lakes & in the rainforest. No destination is quite like the next!
Day 1: Christchurch to Lake Ohau Meet up with your Contiki Team then check out the views of Mackenzie country & Lake Tekapo. On arrival, Lake Ohau will impress, its epic views of Mt. Cook & the Southern Alps are seriously stunning. Lodge (D) Pick up a treat at NZ’s famous Cookie Time factory Stop at Lake Pukaki & Lake Tekapo & Geraldine See the famous Church of the Good Shepherd Chill at our theme party tonight M Scenic flight past lakes, glaciers & Aoraki/Mt. Cook, NZ’s highest peak
• • • •
Day 2: Lake Ohau to Dunedin Head to Moeraki for a look at the massive boulders located by the beach. Later, it’s a change of scene in the ‘student city’ Dunedin, try the city’s famous beer on a guided tour of Speights Brewery. Later tonight, maybe head to the Octagon area of town for a fun night out. Hotel (B) Stop at Oamaru & Benmore Dam Visit Moeraki Boulders Speights Heritage & Brewery tour Visit Baldwin St (the world’s steepest street)
• •• •
Day 3: Dunedin to Queenstown It’s time to hit legendary Queenstown, the world’s adventure capital. On arrival, we’ll take a quick tour to get your bearings. This town goes off, so maybe grab a delicious ‘Ferg Burger’ & head into town for a night out. Hotel (B) Day 4: Queenstown Take a ride on the Shotover Jet this morning, before the afternoon is yours to get into the Queenstown vibes. The nightlife here is awesome & VIP entry will make sure you start the night out right. Hotel (B) Ride the iconic Shotover Jet VIP nightclub entry
••
Days 5-6: Queenstown From bungy jumps, canyon swings, luging, gondolas & jet boat rides to the Lord of the Rings territory, there’s no shortage of things to do in this legendary town & the choice is all yours. With little shops & a stunning lakeside setting, taking a stroll through town & relaxing by the lake is a must. Hotel (B) (B,D) M Canyon swing on a giant rope across the Shotover River, 109m up! Days 4-6: Ski Queenstown option Want to ‘carve up’ some of the great ski mountains around Queenstown? You can if you’re travelling in July or August! Choose to ski or board for 3 full days - we can even organise ski equipment & lessons for you. Hotel. (B)(B)(B,D) Day 7: Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier We’ll drop into Arrowtown & lakeside Wanaka, then keep an eye out for wildlife as we head through stunning Haast Pass & Thunder Creek Falls before arriving in NZ’s iconic glacial
spot, Franz Josef. Lodge (B,D) Explore tiny Arrowtown Visit Wanaka’s famous Puzzling World Scenic drive through Haast Pass & see Thunder Creek Falls
•• •
Day 8: Franz Josef Glacier The day is yours - so hitting the ice is a must. From walks & hikes or heli rides, to just chilling in Franz, the day is yours to enjoy your way. Lodge (B) M Guided glacier hike right onto the glacier itself (gear provided) M Heli-hike tour M Fly to & walk on the glacier Day 9: Franz Josef Glacier to Christchurch Today we make tracks through the Alps to Christchurch! We stop in Hokitika to learn about NZ’s native greenstone & how it’s carved, before it’s time to say your goodbyes & swap contact details with your travel mates as your tour ends on arrival in Christchurch. (B) Scenic drive across the Southern Alps Stop at Arthur's Pass Native greenstone demonstration & carving
• ••
‘sweet as’ south start/end wellington
10 days
From A$1455pp* A$146 per day GOT MORE TIME? We’ve got a longer 10 day ‘Sweet as South’ tour that starts or ends in Wellington. • For 10 day price, add up to A$230 from price in the price box • 10 day tour starts or ends at Abel Tasman Hotel, Wellington
• Code: NSHCD (ex: Christchurch) Start 9:00am/End 4:00pm • Code: NSHAD (ex: Wellington) Start 7:00am/End 6:00pm • Twin room supp: A$155 • Single room supp: A$585
$
Pay early & save up to A$110. See p.9 for details.
MILFORD SOUND ME Time highlight optional If you’ve done a bungy, rafted & jetboated your way around Queenstown - why not mix it up & take a day trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound. We head to this stunning World Heritage listed area, then jump on-board a boat & cruise these incredible waters to experience this slice of paradise. Keep your eyes peeled for whales, dolphins & seals amongst this incredible scenery. You can choose to take the coach back to Queenstown, or there’s also the option to fly - it is up to you. Experience it for yourself!
30-31 Sweet as South.indd 3
queenstown
Itinerary & Sightseeing
new zealand
How much & when
Code: NSZCD 2013/14 Code: NSZAD 2013/14 Start C’church
Finish C’church
Total Cost A$ pp*
2013
Finish C’church
Total Cost A$ pp*
2013
6 22 30 8 24 9 25 3 11 19 27 12 28 5 13 21 29 7 15 23 31 8 16 24 2 6 10 14 18 22 26 30
Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan
14 30 8 16 1 17 3 11 19 27 4 20 5 13 21 29 7 15 23 31 8 16 24 2 10 14 18 22 26 30 3 7
1239 1239 1239 1239 1239 1239 1239 1225 1225 1225 1225 1225 1225 1225 1225 1225 1225 1255 1255 1255 1255 1255 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285
2014 Jan 3 Jan 7 Jan 11 Jan 15 Jan 19 Jan 23 Jan 27 Jan 31 Feb 4 Feb 8 Feb 16 Feb 24 Mar 4 Mar 12 Mar 20 Apr 5 Apr 21 Apr 29 May 7 May 23 Jun 8 Jun 24 Jul 2 Jul 10 Jul 18 Jul 26 Aug 11 Aug 27 Sep 4 Sep 12 Sep 20 Sep 28
Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr May May May Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct
11 15 19 23 27 31 4 8 12 16 24 4 12 20 28 13 29 7 15 31 16 2 10 18 26 3 19 4 12 20 28 6
1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1265 1265 1265 1265 1265 1265 1265 1255 1255 1255 1255 1255 1255 1255 1255 1255 1255
Apr Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
Start C’church
16 2 10 18 3 19 5 13 21 29 6 22 7 15 23 1 9 17 25 2 10 18 26 4 12 16 20 24 28
Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan
24 10 18 26 11 27 13 21 29 6 14 30 15 23 1 9 17 25 2 10 18 26 4 12 20 24 28 1 5
1239 1239 1239 1239 1239 1239 1225 1225 1225 1225 1225 1225 1225 1225 1225 1255 1255 1255 1255 1255 1255 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285
2014 Jan 1 Jan 5 Jan 9 Jan 13 Jan 17 Jan 21 Jan 25 Jan 29 Feb 2 Feb 6 Feb 10 Feb 14 Feb 18 Feb 26 Mar 6 Mar 14 Mar 22 Mar 30 Apr 15 Apr 1 May 9 May 17 Jun 2 Jun 18 Jul 4 Jul 12 Jul 20 Jul 28 Aug 5 Aug 21 Sep 6 Sep 14 Sep 22 Sep 30 Oct 8
Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct
9 13 17 21 25 29 2 6 10 14 18 22 26 6 14 22 30 7 23 9 17 25 10 26 12 20 28 5 13 29 14 22 30 8 16
1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1265 1265 1265 1265 1265 1265 1265 1255 1255 1255 1255 1255 1255 1255 1255 1255 1275
Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
‘Sweet as’ South 9 days What’s Included: 8 nights multi-share accommodation: 5 nights in hotels 3 nights in lodges (more on p.22-23) 11 meals: 8 breakfasts (B) 3 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging Sightseeing tours of all major cities Hotel tips, local taxes & service charges
$
SAVE Pay early & save up to A$95. See p.9 for details.
you choose You can start this tour in Christchurch or Wellington & travel it in reverse.
queenstown
* Prices above are based on maximum quad-share. Single room supplement (tour only) add A$509/ add A$125 twin-share. NSZCD: Start Christchurch 9:00am & end Christchurch 4:00pm. NSZAD: Start Christchurch 10:00am & end Christchurch 6:00pm. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
franz josef glacier
12/02/2013 10:28
Visit contiki.com.au/steam
Sun & STEAM 7 Days LE MI TY H NE AC NI BE
From A$999pp* A$143 per day
PAIHIA 2 Russell Parry Kauri Park
AUCKLAND 1 TASMAN SEA
backstage pass
WAITOMO CAVES 1
2 ROTORUA
Inclusions • Kiwiana fish ‘n’ chips dinner • Sky Tower visit with 360 degree views of Auckland • Otorohanga Kiwibird House visit • Agrodome Farm Show • Traditional Maori Hangi & dance performance in Rotorua • Guided tour of Ohinemutu Maori Village
ME Time optionals Look for the (M) symbol in the itinerary to make the most of your ME Time. M Catamaran sailing, swimming & snorkelling with lunch M Skyline gondola & luge rides
NORTH ISLAND
1
rotorua
Itinerary & Sightseeing
OGO BALLING
Code: NRZAD 2013/14 Start Auckland
Finish Auckland
Total Cost A$ pp*
6 nights multi-share accommodation: 5 nights in hotels 1 night in a lodge (more on p.22-23) 9 meals: 6 breakfasts (B) 3 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging Sightseeing tours of all major cities Hotel tips, local taxes & service charges
$
SAVE Pay early & save up to A$79. See p.9 for details.
32-33 Sun Steam - Jaffas Jandals.indd 2
Apr Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
6 22 30 8 24 9 25 3 11 19 27 12 28 5 13 21 29 7 15 23 31 8 16 24 2 6 10 14 18 22 26 30
Apr Apr May May May Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan
1015 1015 1015 1015 1015 1015 1015 999 999 999 999 999 999 999 999 999 999 1025 1025 1025 1025 1025 1055 1055 1055 1055 1055 1055 1055 1055 1055 1055
Start Auckland
Finish Auckland
Total Cost A$ pp*
Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct
1055 1055 1055 1055 1055 1055 1055 1055 1055 1055 1055 1055 1055 1055 1055 1035 1035 1035 1035 1035 1035 1035 1025 1025 1025 1025 1025 1025 1025 1025 1025 1025
2014 12 28 6 14 30 15 1 9 17 25 2 18 3 11 19 27 5 13 21 29 6 14 22 30 8 12 16 20 24 28 1 5
Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep
3 7 11 15 19 23 27 31 4 8 16 24 4 12 20 5 21 29 7 23 8 24 2 10 18 26 11 27 4 12 20 28
Day 1: Auckland to Paihia Meet up with your Contiki Team & travel mates before heading north to Paihia – where it’s all about chilled out vibes, amazing beaches & cool locals. A Kiwi favourite of fish ‘n’ chips for dinner is the perfect way to start the trip & get into the endless summer atmosphere. Hotel (D) See the Waitemata Harbour, made famous by the America’s Cup Explore NZ’s native bush at Parry Kauri Park Check out Whangarei & Kawakawa’s famous Hundertwasser toilets
• • •
How much & when
2013
What’s Included:
Places visited Nightstops
9 13 17 21 25 29 2 6 10 14 22 2 10 18 26 11 27 5 13 29 14 30 8 16 24 1 17 2 10 18 26 4
Day 2: Paihia Paihia is the perfect place to relax. Chill out on the beach, see the Maori tribal lands & learn about NZ’s history, or do it like the locals & get into some watersports. Hotel (B) Day 3: Paihia to Auckland Back in Auckland, we’ll show you the city spots before jetting up the city’s iconic Sky Tower. A VIP pass at one of our favourite Auckland nightspots
will set you up for an awesome night out. We love Ponsonby Road for some of the city’s best spots to party too. Hotel (B) Auckland city tour & Sky Tower entry VIP pass at an Auckland nightspot
traditional Maori Hangi & pick up some tips from the locals at a traditional Maori dance performance. Hotel (B,D) Agrodome farm show Rotorua city tour Maori Hangi dinner & concert
• •
•• •
Day 4: Auckland to Waitomo See NZ’s iconic bird at a Kiwi House before we reach Waitomo. Get into the adrenaline cave activities here before a BBQ dinner or roast meal tonight. Lodge (B,D) Visit Otorohanga’s Kiwi House & Nature Park Traditional Kiwi BBQ or roast (seasonal) M Black water rafting in a rubber ring through underground caves
Day 6: Rotorua Get an in-depth look at Maori culture & history as we tour Ohinemutu Village with our expert guide. With a free day, take advantage of the city’s awesome thermal environment & treat yourself to a spa or treatment. Hotel (B) Locally guided tour of Ohinemutu Village M Race down a hill inside an Ogo ball
• •
Day 5: Waitomo to Rotorua In Rotorua, we’ll show you the sights then visit a farm show, where you could even try shearing a sheep! Tonight, go local as you indulge in a
•
Day 7: Rotorua to Auckland Today you’ll take a transfer back to Auckland, so it’s time to swap email addresses as your tour ends on arrival. (B) Please note: The transfer from Rotorua to Auckland is not operated by Contiki, but a third party operator.
* Prices above are based on maximum quad-share. Single room supplement add A$469/add A$129 twin-share. Start Auckland 9:00am & end Auckland 3:00pm. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
12/02/2013 10:27
32 | 33 Visit contiki.com.au/jaffas
new zealand
JAFFAS ‘N’ JANDALS
Jaffas ‘n’ Jandals 3 days
3 Days
backstage pass
From A$265pp* A$89 per day
Inclusions LE MI TY H NE AC NI BE
• Kiwiana fish ‘n’ chips dinner • Sky Tower visit with 360 degree views of Auckland
PAIHIA 2 Russell Parry Kauri Park
ME Time optionals
Auckland
Look for the (M) symbol in the itinerary to make the most of your ME Time. M Swim with the dolphins in the Bay of Islands M Day tour to ‘Ninety Mile Beach’ with off-roading & sand dune ‘surfing’
TASMAN SEA
NORTH ISLAND
1
bay of islands
Itinerary & Sightseeing Day 1: Auckland to Paihia Meet up with your Contiki Team & travel mates before heading north to Paihia – where it’s all about chilled out vibes, amazing beaches & cool locals. A Kiwi favourite of fish & chips for dinner is the perfect way to start the trip & get into the endless summer atmosphere. Hotel (D)
• • •
See the Waitemata Harbour, made famous by the America’s Cup Explore NZ’s native bush at Parry Kauri Park Check out Whangarei & Kawakawa’s famous Hunderwasser toilets M Exciting ‘Fastboat’ trip through the ‘Hole in the Rock’ BAY OF ISLANDS
!
What are Jaffas ‘n’ Jandals? Jaffas? A popular NZ sweet (try them!). Jandals? Kiwi for flip-flops or thongs for your feet.
How much & when Code: NCZAD/NCZCD 2013/14 Start Auckland
Finish Auckland
Total Cost A$ pp*
Apr Apr May May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan
269 269 269 269 269 269 269 269 265 265 265 265 265 265 265 265 265 265 265 275 275 275 275 275 275 279 279 279 279 279 279 279 279 279
2013
Day 2: Paihia Paihia is the perfect place to relax. Chill out on the beach, visit the Maori tribal lands & learn about NZ’s history, or do it like the locals & get into some watersports. Hotel (B) M Ocean kayaking adventure to Haruru Falls Day 3: Paihia to Auckland Back in Auckland, we’ll show you the city spots before jetting up the city’s iconic Sky Tower. Then it’s time to swap emails & say your farewells, as your tour ends at 6:00pm. (B) Auckland city tour & Sky Tower entry
•
Places visited Nightstops
Apr Apr Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
6 22 30 ● 8 16 ✚ 24 9 25 3 ● 11 19 27 4 ✚ 12 28 5 ● 13 21 29 7 15 23 31 8 16 24 2 6 ● 10 14 ● 18 22 26 30
Start Auckland
Finish Auckland
Total Cost A$ pp*
Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr May May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep
279 279 279 279 279 279 279 279 279 279 279 279 279 279 279 279 279 279 275 275 275 275 275 275 275 275 275 275 275 275 275 275 275 275 275 275 275
2014 8 24 2 10 18 26 11 27 5 13 21 29 6 14 30 7 15 23 1 9 17 25 2 10 18 26 4 8 12 16 20 24 28 1
Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep
3 7 11 15 19 23 27 31 4 8 12 ✚ 16 20 ✚ 24 4 12 20 28 ✚ 5 21 29 ● 7 15 ✚ 23 8 24 2 ● 10 18 26 3 ✚ 11 27 4 ● 12 20 28
5 9 13 17 21 25 29 2 6 10 14 18 22 26 6 14 22 30 7 23 1 9 17 25 10 26 4 12 20 28 5 13 29 6 14 22 30
What’s Included: 2 nights multi-share hotel accommodation (more on p.22-23) 3 meals: 2 breakfasts (B), 1 dinner (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging Sightseeing tours of all major cities Hotel tips, local taxes & service charges
* Prices above are based on maximum quad-share. Single room supplement add A$155/add A$65 twin-share. Start Auckland 9:00am & end Auckland 6:00pm. ● The tour code for these departures is NCZAD only. ✚ The tour code for these departures is NCZCD only. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
auckland
Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.
32-33 Sun Steam - Jaffas Jandals.indd 3
12/02/2013 10:28
Visit contiki.com.au/nzski
ultimate NZ ski 7 Days From A$1239pp* A$177 per day
Itinerary & Sightseeing ME Time optionals
Day 1: Arrive Queenstown Welcome to legendary Queenstown! Known for its epic mountain lifestyle & cool vibes, this is the ultimate haven for those that love to ski, or those that want to learn. Tonight, meet your Ski rep & other travellers, before getting to know the group with dinner at one of Queenstown’s most popular restaurants. (D)
Look for the (M) symbol in the itinerary to make the most of your ME Time.
What’s Included: 6 nights twin-share hotel accommodation (more on p.22-23)
How much & when
8 meals: 6 breakfasts (B) & 2 dinners (D)
Code: CZSKI 2013
Our expert Contiki Ski Rep 4 day ski lift passes & transfers (Transfers to & from Queenstown airport on arrival day/departure day are not included). Hotel tips, local taxes & service charges
$
SAVE Pay early & save up to A$90. See p.9 for details.
Start Q’town
Finish Q’town
Total Cost A$ pp*
Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug
1239 1239 1239 1239 1239
30 7 14 21 28
Finish Q’town
Total Cost A$ pp*
Aug Aug Aug Aug Sep
1239 1239 1239 1239 1239
2013
2013 Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul
Start Q’town
6 13 20 27 3
Aug Aug Aug Aug Sep
4 11 18 25 1
10 17 24 31 7
* Prices above are based on maximum twin-share. For quad-share rate reduce twin price by A$45. Single room supplement add A$265 to twin-share price. Start Queenstown 5:00pm & end Queenstown 10:00am. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
Day 2: Queenstown It’s time to hit the slopes! Carve up one of Queenstown’s three ski fields – the Remarkables, Coronet Peak & Cadrona are world-renowned for their awesome conditions, all offering fantastic runs for beginners through to advanced skiers & riders. And over the next week you’ll try them all. Transfers & lift passes are included, too easy! (B) Day 3: Queenstown Transfers & lift passes included again today, so it’s perfect for heading up one of the mountains to improve your technique. If you’re looking for somewhere to head for dinner tonight, we love Ferg Burger for some seriously delicious treats! (B)
Day 4: Queenstown With a free day, get a taste for the endless activities in the ‘World’s Adventure Capital’. You could try Bungy jumping, skydiving or rafting & that’s just the start. Tonight, head to one of the town’s cool bars or there’s the option of dinner at Skyline Restaurant for some seriously unbeatable views. (B) M Scenic tandem skydive M AJ Hackett bungy jump Day 5: Queenstown Today it’s back up the mountain as we visit the last of the three ski fields so you can
show off your skills. Transfers & lift passes included. (B) Day 6: Queenstown It’s the final ski day & we’ll give you the choice of mountain to head back to. Tonight’s our last night, so perhaps finish off the trip by heading out with the group to a few of Queenstown’s bars. (B.D) Day 7: End Queenstown Your ski adventure ends after breakfast, so it’s time to say farewell to your travel mates. (B) Please note: Ski & snowboard equipment is available for hire in Queenstown.
why choose us? All this included... • 4-day ski passes
Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.
• Experience all three of Queenstown’s local ski fields • Daily transfers up & down the mountain • Twin-share hotel accommodation • Loads of ME Time activities on offer • Plenty of time to experience Queenstown’s awesome apres ski scene
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34 | 35
We travel to experience the wonders that our world has to offer. we’re committed to ensuring they remain for generations to come. Conservation is at the heart of how we plan & run our trips. There are a bunch of ways that you can help. Learn more at: contiki.com.au/contikicares/you
contiki
oce eans
Oceans cover 71% of the Earth’s surface & they form the largest habitat on the planet supporting the greatest variety of life. We support marine preservation through our projects around
the world, including the Mesoamerican Reef Leadership Program (MAR) which helps young environmentalists in their handson work protecting the world’s second largest barrier reef.
Meet Cèline Cousteau, our Sustainability Partner Find out more about Contiki’s Oceans projects on p.11
treadright foundation We’re founding partners of the TreadRight Foundation Contiki believes that we have a responsibility to create memorable travel experiences without putting tourism destinations at risk, & there’s much more to that than just words on paper. TreadRight supports projects that encourage the development of tourism by encouraging initiatives which benefit a destination's
environment, natural & cultural heritage, & community. In partnership with TreadRight, Contiki continues to work with Céline Cousteau & the MAR Leaders, now for the second year. The Foundation has helped protect 3 million hectares of forest in Brazil, supported the World Wildlife Fund’s work with indigenous sustainable tourism in Australia, plus much more.
What’s more, TreadRight is committed to continuing with this support for sustainable tourism for years to come – as the primary sponsors of The Tourism for Tomorrow Awards – encouraging tourism operators to develop & share sustainable tourism practices around the world. To learn more please visit www.treadright.org.
recycling Contiki, as part of The Travel Corporation, is proud to be using 100% recycled paper for the body of our brochures. Some of the positive impacts of this include saving more than 67,000* trees per year & reducing landfill waste that produces
harmful greenhouse gases. In addition, the paper used is rated “Excellent” by the World Wildlife Federation’s (WWF) environmental benchmarking tool. We are proud to commit to using one of the most environmentally friendly, coated recycled papers on Planet Earth.
our coaches We want you to see the world. But we also want to look after it. Coach travel has been proven to reduce congestion & cause less pollution per passenger kilometre than any other transportation option. Our modern, air- conditioned coaches are some of the best in Australia & New Zealand.
34-35 NZ Ski - Contiki Cares.indd 3
We make sure our coaches are efficient & exceed strict emission regulations. The Travel Corporation participates in Smart Move, an initiative promoting the greater use of coaches’ worldwide & possible reductions of CO2 emissions by at least 50 million tonnes per year as a result.
12/02/2013 10:25
SINCE forever young
THE ORIGINAL
1962
The old vans have long since gone, but some things will never change. Our spirit of adventure lives on. We’re still as passionate about discovering new things as ever. Connecting young travellers is at the heart of everything we do. It’s about discovering mind-blowing places, sharing the adventures & having an awesome time doing it! “Good” has never been nearly good enough for our travellers or us. Making every trip the greatest ever, delivering awesome value, creating epic stories, lasting friendships & genuinely making every second count is what we’re all about.
29th APRIL 1962. 1 BEAT UP MINI-VAN, 12 ADVENTURERS, 12 WEEKS, 1 CONTINENT, ONE HELL OF AN URGE TO EXPLORE. CONTIKI WAS BORN.
36-37 The Original - 50th.indd 2
12/02/2013 10:24
36 | 37 We’ve been heading out on epic adventures since ‘62. From europe, the usa to overland explorers from london to kathmandu & everywhere in between.
EUROPE SINCE 1962
1977: MATES FOR LIFE, india
1978: keeping it cool in communist russia
1979: Afghanistan ADVENTURE
1981: We said kia ora to contiki NZ
1982: SUNRISE AT our french château
1982: our american dream starts stateside & in 1991: came contiki canada
1984: we started making a splash down under
2009: contiki takes on asia
2011: Our newest crush...Latin America
CONTIKI: THE ORIGINAL ADVENTURE TRAVEL COMPANY 36-37 The Original - 50th.indd 3
12/02/2013 10:24
australia
Experience the Red Centre & Top End, the sunny East Coast & icons of Sydney as they come to life, make your jaw drop, your eyes widen & your heart jump. The amazing beaches, bubbling atmosphere & charming locals BLEND together to serve up one of the world’s coolest holiday spots. Aussie is a natural playground packed with opportunities ready to be explored & the best way to make every moment count is with us. Grab your camera & get ready for action, with 16 amazing tours that range from 3 to 25 days, the best accommodation & ways to get your fix, your way. The options are endless, whether you’re in the Outback visiting one of our six World Heritage sites, living it up at a festival or chilling with a book on the beach.
EXPERIENCE our australia EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES
THE BEST GROUP SIZES
Experience some of Aussie’s best! Go 4WD-ing on sand highways, learn to surf, toast Uluru at sunset & meet some local wildlife, all included with us.
Explore Aussie with a bunch of like-minded travellers – get ready for new friends from all around the world.
THE BEST TEAM sydn sy dney dn ey
Our on-road team will get you in the know on all things Oz, so all you need to do is sit back, relax & enjoy the very best of all things Australia.
LIVE LIKE A LOCAL Get an authentic Aussie experience, with Aboriginal performances, local wildlife, or try surfing & getting up close to the incredible icons.
THE BEST OVERNIGHTS Central city hotels packed with comforts you’ll love, to beachside resorts, on boats, to the best central hostels, you’re always in the places you want to be.
ALWAYS CONTIKI Our coaches, all the time. No renting of coaches with Contiki Oz.
DELICIOUS EATS From fresh fish plucked straight from the ocean, to succulent steak, BBQ breakfasts & some Aussie only specialties like kangaroo or croc, our tastes will always impress.
38-39 Intro Aus.indd 2
CURRUM MBI B N WI WILD LDLI LIFE E SANCTUARY
12/02/2013 10:23
38 | 39
16 trips from 3 to 25 days UL U LURU ch ham mpa p gne SU UNSET
38-39 Intro Aus.indd 3
12/02/2013 10:23
to aus From icon eye candy to endless beaches & lush rainforests to barren deserts, this sprawling country has literally got it all. Come on & see how we do it Down Under. Your
backstage pass
includes:
EXCLUSIVE ACCOMMODATION Our overnights will really impress. Think a slice of tropical utopia at a Whitsunday Island resort, a beachfront lodge in the Daintree Rainforest or right by the beach in legendary Byron Bay. Stay in cities & it’s all about comfy, stylish, central hotels boasting the comfort you carve. We also mix it up with our Special Stay experiences like a beach-side surf camp, a swag on Kings Creek Station & a working cattle station.
EXCLUSIVE food From mouthwatering steaks in the Outback to more adventurous eats like kangaroo or crocodile (if you dare); travel with us & you’ll discover Aussie’s culinary best. We include breakfast every day, some lunches & lots of evening meals, so you get more authentic local flavours for less. Like freshly caught fish overlooking the beach at Noosa or a BBQ cooked the way only Aussie’s can. We still leave you lots of ME Time to head out & explore Aussie tastes too.
40-41 Backstage Pass Aus.indd 2
EXCLUSIVE team Ourr teeam liv Ou ivee & br b ea ath t e Aust stra alia, liia, you’ yo u lll lov u’ ovee th t ei eir pass s io ss on fo or ex e pl plor orrin orin ng. g. T ey’r Th ey re perf peerf rfec ectt for ec for gi fo g ving i g yyou ou acccces es to the rea al local tr trav avell exp per erie ienc ences e you ou u c avve ass you exp cr xplo lore oree.
EXCLUSIVE options Whether you use it to ex explor x orre the pllaces ess y u’ree at, or ju yo ust to rela ree ax,, ME Ti T me is all ab al abou a o t th ou he fr ffreee eeedom dom to o do what you ou want want n , lilike ke kkic iccki kin ng back be bea achside orr ac s op sh oppi p ng up p a storrm. IIff you are look okin ok i g in f r sso fo ome ins nsp piira rati tion onal al tth hing ngss to o do, o, w wee’ve v hand ha n -picckkeed a rang nd ra ang ngee of tre reat atss un uniq ique ue to the places you vi visi sit, t, llik ikee sk skyyd ydivin ydiv ing g& whittewater ew ew raf afti ting ng tto o na name me a ffew ew.. Wee’ve go ot gr grea eatt pr pric ices es & w we’ e’llll ssor ortt itt all for or you o , so all yyou ou n nee eed d to d do o is reme re m mb berr yourr ca c me mera ra..
EXCLUSIVE access Wherrev Wh e er e you go, o, we’ e lll get e youu tthe heere f st fa ster. Li L ke ski kipp p in pp ng th thee qu queu e es a eu att so some m of me Oz’s bes Oz estt attr atttrac trrac acti tiion ons, ns, s so th ther ere’ e s mo oree ttim imee im ffo or ex expl p or pl orin in ng & ge gett ttin tt ing in g into in nto t the a act c io ct ion. n. W ’l’lll al We a so so get et you lloc ocal oc al acc cces cces ess, s, witth Abor Ab o ig or gin nal a exp xper e ieences er ncces es,, tr true uee b blu luee Auuss lu ssie c ar ch arac acteers & a few ew nat ativ ivve fu f rr r y fr frieend ndss to oo o.. And An d on mosst of our coa oaches ch hess & at mo m stt of t e pl th p ac aces ces es we st stay ay, we’v ay wee’v ’vee g go ot WiFi WiFi too oo.
EXCLUSIVE inclusions Mo M ore re inc nclusion onss to u on unl nloc nl occk th thee Auss Auss Au s ie ico cons ns &h hiidd dden tre reeassu urres the h loc o al a s lo love vee. LLiike k the bestt pla be acee to seee th the he in incr cred cr e ible ed ible lan ib ands dsca ds cape ca pess pe o Kakadu, the of h best spot to wa w tcch th t e s nset su et ove v r Uluru or o the bes e t su s rf spo p ts. Itt’s thee lo occal’s knowl no ow ed edge g tha ha at ma akes all th he diff f erence.
fl lor ren nce c fal alls ls
12/02/2013 10:22
40 | 41
In the end it’s not the years in your life that count, it’s the life in your years.
- Abraham lincoln
your
backstage pass exclusive inclusions are highlighted on each tour page
behind ind th the scenes with contiki
included learn to surf lesson
40-41 Backstage Pass Aus.indd 3
12/02/2013 10:22
TEAM Our Aussie-based team of Tour Managers & Drivers are your oracles on this great southern land. They know the destinations inside out so you get the inside scoop on every destination. They’re lifelong travellers who are passionate about making sure you have the best experience, from beginning to end. Plus they keep you in the know, from finding WiFi to the simple stuff like doing laundry, the best place to party or eat, just ask.
exclusives
✓TE
AM
And to complement our On-road team, in some destinations we keep you in the know by teaming up with Local Guides, all included as standard as part of your Backstage Pass. They enhance your trip by providing that insider’s perspective on the places you visit. Knowledge only a local can give. Having a team as big & well trained as ours means only one thing – you just need to focus on experiencing the very best of Oz.
meet the locals
meet john Tour Manager, from Tasmania
We
WiFi
We’ve got WiFi on most of our coaches so keeping in touch & posting pics on the road (literally) is easy.
NO COMPULSORY TIPPING
42-43 Aus Team_Food.indd 2
I’m a born & bred Aussie & proud of it. When I’m not on the road you’ll probably find me up in the sky - I’m training to be a pilot & exploring is what I live for. Australia blows your mind. You could be lying on the beach or catching a wave one day & staring out over Uluru the next. My real passion is for the Territory & the Outback; the ancient Aboriginal culture, the incredible colours & stories here. I love the experience I have in each place & helping travellers discover it for themselves.
12/02/2013 10:20
42 | 43
exclusives ✓ fo
od
Australia is packed with unique local delicacies; it’s one of the highlights of visiting this great nation. Try freshly caught fish in Noosa, tasty steaks in the Outback, or crocodile & kangaroo in the Territory if you dare... with us, you can experience it all. Mouthwatering and adventurous is the name of the Aussie food game. We include breakfast every day, some lunches & lots of evening meals. We also leave some well-placed ME Time gaps for you to follow your senses & experience more of your own favourite Aussie eats. Our Australian-based team knows the local haunts like the back of their hands. They’ll share their hidden gems and secret streets, letting you uncover the food that all the locals are talking about.
included surf club dinner, noosa
included fraser isLand bbq
42-43 Aus Team_Food.indd 3
included dinner, sydney
12/02/2013 10:21
ME
TIME
zip li zi zip l niing n , ca cair aiir rns ns
outb ou tbac a k balloon flight
wh w hit hit te wa wate ter ra raft ftin ftin ng g,, tu t ul ull ll ly ri r ve er
Make the most of what time you have. Journeys are about freedom & discovery. So don’t hold back & miss a moment. See more. Do more. Live more. You only live once, but if you do it right then once is enough. ME Time is all about making the most of what Australia has to offer, ensuring you travel the way you want. We give you the freedom to experience the trip how you choose, whether it’s an adrenaline filled adventure, a cultural eye-opener or both. The sky’s the limit, literally! The options are endless & the experiences are unforgettable. It’s all about you & taking your trip to the next level. You could be absorbing the views from a hot air balloon in the MacDonnell Ranges one day, then jumping out of a plane in Surfers Paradise the next. But if heights aren’t your thing then how does how does kayaking with dolphins & whales sound? Or zip lining through the jungle in Cape Tribulation? Contiki is all about the living for the moment & enjoying everything to the fullest with no regrets. Our Backstage Pass to Australia means our Team will help you get off the beaten track, give you more options & our exclusive behind the scenes access means we can offer you the best experiences at the best prices, that Oz has to offer. Keep an eye out for the ‘don’t miss’ call outs on the tour pages for some great tips on how to spend your ME Time. ME Time optionals available per tour are highlighted by the M symbol in our itineraries.
44-45 ME Time Aus.indd 2
brid br idge dge ec cli l mb, li sydn sy dn ney ey
M
E TIME OPTIONALS
jetski, the whitsundays Cut through the ripples as you absorb the amazing Whitsundays scenery on your very own jetski.
Qu uad d bik king, in ng, al a lice es sp pri r ng gs
kayaking safari, byron bay Cool off as you paddle across the popular Byron Bay, an experience that is as refreshing as it is amazing.
12/02/2013 10:19
44 | 45
don’t count the days. make the days count.
exclusives
✓opt
M Time, ME im me, e byr yron on b bay ay
Zip lining, Cape Tribulation Be the king of the jungle as you zip line through the lush rain forest. Definitely an experience to get the heart racing!
44-45 ME Time Aus.indd 3
Skydiving, Cairns Push the limits and dive out of your comfort zone…and take in the views while you do it.
Bridge Climb, Sydney Climb to the top of the city’s iconic harbour bridge and take in this beautiful city from a different angle
Note: ME Time optional activities are not inc in luded in the price of your tour. They are run by 3rd party operators & on occasions, for some of the activities, travellers may be required to sign n a waiver to part r icipate. Before you leave it’s important that you check your insurance includes your participation in adventure activities & be aw aware that somee of our optionals can be physically demanding & may involve some risk.
ions
12/02/2013 10:19
moment count A trip to AUSSIE is about making the most of every moment so we make sure you do. the best team, the ultimate inclusions, all included on us.
the must do’s all included Exploring the stuff you’ve always dreamt of as well as the stuff you could never have imagined; stuff you probably wouldn’t find without the inside scoop from us. It’s all included as part of your Backstage Pass, so you get value that can’t be matched by anyone else.
Discover the real Australia Included orientation talks at every stop, plus locally guided special access walking tours & delicious meals that only this great southern land can offer. Our team will take you inside the real Aussie.
Exclusive Experiences Loads of our experiences can’t be found anywhere else. Like sipping champagne beside an Uluru sunset, a day trip to incredible Fraser Island or learning to throw a boomerang with the locals. We bring this amazing country to life... like a guidebook never could.
included 4wd day trip to fraser island
46-47 Make It Count Aus.indd 2
12/02/2013 10:18
46 | 47
exclusives
4WD Fraser island
✓ inclusions
Blue mountains experience Head out of the city & into the country for our incredible Blue Mountains experience. Take a walk around the ridge of the Jamieson Valley & see the ‘Three Sisters’ as you learn about this iconic landscape.
uluru at sunset Uluru at sunset is like nothing else. Unfathomable until you are actually standing in front of it. Sip some champagne on us & have your camera at the ready.
surfing coffs harbour Surfing – an Aussie must-do. Head to the waves of Coffs Harbour under the expert guidance of our surf pros. You’ll be up on a board in no-time.
46-47 Make It Count Aus.indd 3
epic experiences all included
As the world’s largest sand island, Fraser is a must visit. Jump in a fierce 4WD before cruising down Seventy Mile Beach to refuel with a gourmet BBQ (think Porterhouse steak & fresh fish washed down with a beer), then kick back in paradise at Lake McKenzie.
12/02/2013 10:18
When you’re travelling with us, you’ll get a taste of all the ways to travel in australia. From our state of the art coaches, to included flights, boat rides or even a 4WD explorer, when it comes to getting around we really mix it up. Ou co Our omf mfyy coa oach ches es are re a g gre reeat way a tto o ex expl plor pl o e Oz or Oz.. Th T er eree aree pl ar plen enty en ty o off ma ate tess to ccha hatt with with so it wi it’s ’ss m mor orre of a ssoc ocia i l even ev en nt th than n a way tto o ge gett ar arou o nd nd. Th T in inkk re recl clin inin ing g se seat ats, s, powe po werp rpoint ntss fo or ke keep epiing ch char arge ged, d, eenterta ain inme m ntt ssyyste me tems ms,, toilili et to e s & huge hu ugee win ndo dows ws ffor or ttak akking ing in the a awe weso some me vie iews ws. Plus Pl u WiF us iFii on som o e off our EEas astt Co Coas asst co coacche hes, s too eas s, asy! y y!
48-49 Aus Accom_Getting Around 3.indd 2
An A nd d th they ey’r ’ree ha hass ssle le ffre ree. e F Fro rom m th thee mo mome ment nt yyou ou g get et o on n boar bo ard d, unt ntilil w wee dr drop op you a att th thee do door or ((an and d un unlo load ad yyou ourr bags ba gs)), we ma make ke ttra rave vell ea easy syy. We a als lso o ke k ep it ea easy sy w wit ith h in incl clud uded ed fliigh ghts on so ome ttri rips ri ps,, ps to kee eep p itt eve ven n mo more ree h has assl slee fr free ee..
A st Au s ra rali l s So li Sove vere ve reig re ign, gn, N NOO OOSA OO SA A
Hotels, beach resorts, boats & true Aussie experiences
Onboard
WIFI & POWER POINTS
12/02/2013 10:15
48 | 49 KINGS CREEK STATION
In Australia, our accommodation is all about comfort, unique experiences & the best locations – each & every night. We mix it up with hotels, beachside resorts, eco-lodges, surf camps – the coolest ways to stay as you travel. It’s comfort you love & exceptional Aussie experiences to get you local.
exclusives
✓Accommodation
The best locations Stay in the heart of Kings Cross at our hotel in Sydney, a 3 minute walk to the world-famous beach in Byron Bay, or in the Whitsundays on a glorious island resort.
The best comfort OU O UR COM COMFY SWA CO SW WAG AGS
When you’re in the city get ready for home comforts you’ll love, like gyms, fluffy towels & duvets, en-suites & often WiFi. What’s a holiday without a little luxury? su s surf ur rf f cam amp amp
Our Special StayS Do it like a local
Going Solo?
Try unique experiences that are as diverse as the destinations! Fall asleep under the stars in a comfy Kings Canyon swag, get your country fix at a farmstay or right at the beach at our Surf Camp.
No single supplements & no stress. We’ve got you covered with same sex room-mate matchups. Or, if that doesn’t sound like you, we’ll set you up in a ‘room to myself’ for just a small supplement. Too easy! HO OLI LIDA DAY DA Y IIN N N, N, POT PO TTS TT TS PO POIN INT
NOMADS HOSTEL, BYRON BAY
The best of australia in your pocket. Introducing our SHOUT app including content provided by Lonely Planet. contiki.com.au/app
Includes content provided by
48-49 Aus Accom_Getting Around 3.indd 3
12/02/2013 10:15
THE BIG WALKABOUT 25 Days From A$4279pp* A$172 per day
sydney
your backstage pass includes • Visit the famous Blue Mountains • Sydney Harbour ferry cruise from Manly • Surf lesson or kayak in Coffs Harbour • Entry to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary • Noosa Surf Club dinner • Locally guided 4WD trip across Fraser Island with lunch & drinks • Alice Springs Reptile Centre experience • Alice Springs Aboriginal Dreamtime ‘Bushtucker’ tour • Uluru sunset drinks & nibbles Plus Special Stays
1 DARWIN 2 KAKADU N.P 1 KATHERINE
Litchfield N.P
Mataranka
• Coffs Harbour Surf Village • Langmorn Outback Cattle Station • Kings Creek Station Outback Bush Camp
GULF OF CARPENTARIA
Daly Waters
NORTHERN TERRITORY
Plus Domestic flight included in tour price!
3 CAIRNS
1 TENNANT CREEK
Tully
Devils Marbles
GREAT BARRIER REEF
ME Time
Townsville
Wycliffe Well
Airlie Beach
2 WHITSUNDAYS (Daydream Island) Mackay
Simpsons Gap
KINGS CANYON 1 The Olgas
2
QUEENSLAND
2 ALICE SPRINGS
Capricorn Coast
CATTLE 1 STATION
ULURU
1 FRASER ISLAND
NOOSA 1 Brisbane
SURFERS PARADISE 2
South Australia
1 COFFS HARBOUR
NEW SOUTH WALES
don’t miss Trying crocodile & kangaroo in the Outback! The locals cook it like pro’s, so if you’re keen to give it a try, this is the place to do it!
ME Time optionals
Currumbin
1 BYRON BAY
GREAT AUSTRALIAN BIGHT
ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random. Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.
Port Macquarie
M Snorkel or dive on an outer Great Barrier Reef cruise & lunch M Take a ‘wild’ ride on a Harley Davidson around Uluru
1
Places visited Nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stays
IR
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1
SE OO YO
UR
TASMAN SEA
Victoria
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2 SYDNEY
E C TI O N
Thomas Burton: Thank you soo much Contiki. I have had such an amazing time. I will remember you for ever. Visit contiki.com.au/walkabout
50-51 The Big Walkabout.indd 2
12/02/2013 10:56
50 | 51
great barrier reef
Get ready for the ultimate mix of landscapes, activities, friendly locals & adventure. The endless Top End, the colours of Kings Canyon & Uluru blended with East Coast beach fun is what makes this trip a traveller must.
Itinerary & Sightseeing Day 1: Sydney Meet up with your Contiki Team, before we head out of the city & into the Blue Mountains to learn about this amazing landscape. Hike Wentworth Falls, before heading back to Sydney for dinner overlooking Darling Harbour. Hotel (D) Trip to the Blue Mountains See the Three Sisters Hike at Wentworth Falls Cook your own BBQ steak
•• ••
Day 2: Sydney Today we get the best views of the Harbour Bridge & Opera House. Cruise to Manly Beach for lunch & a swim. Hotel (B) Take a tour of Kings Cross, Chinatown, Darling Harbour, Macquarie Street & The Rocks Ferry from Manly M Climb the Harbour Bridge
• •
Day 3: Sydney to Coffs Harbour Surf Village It’s out of the city & into the cool surf vibes at our Surf Village. Surf Village Special Stay (B,D) Stop in the seaside resort town of Port Macquarie Pass the famous ‘Big Banana’
• •
Day 4: Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay Get yourself onto the waves in our surf lesson! This afternoon we head to legendary Byron Bay. Hostel (B) ‘Learn to surf’ lesson Visit Australia’s most easterly point & Cape Byron lighthouse Get into Byron’s organic lifestyle & cool night life M Kayak tour of Byron Bay’s Marine Park & waves to spot dolphins, turtles & whales (seasonal)
•• •
Day 5: Byron Bay to Surfers Paradise We head north to Surfers Paradise & stop at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary – see wombats, kangaroos & maybe cuddle a koala. Resort (B) Visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Stay at a resort located right by the beach
• •
Day 6: Surfers Paradise With a free day, hit the shops or hit the skies on a skydive, visit Australia Zoo, or head to the beach & chill! Tonight, we party with VIP club entry. Resort (B) VIP nightclub entry Relax on some of Australia’s famous beaches
••
Day 7: Surfers Paradise to Noosa Take a peek at Brisbane before we reach chic Noosa, where we have dinner at the surf club overlooking the beach. Resort (B,D) See the Brisbane River, Royal Botanical Gardens & visit Queen Street Mall
•
50-51 The Big Walkabout.indd 3
• •
See the Glasshouse Mountains Dine beachside in Noosa
Day 8: Noosa to Fraser Island Stroll along Rainbow Beach before exploring Fraser Island by 4WD on this incredible day trip. Drive through the rainforests, sand dunes & dip in the freshwater Lake McKenzie. Bliss! Eco Lodge (B,L) Visit the largest sand island in the world Drive along Australia’s only sand highway Indulge in a gourmet BBQ lunch with drinks
• • •
Day 9: Fraser Island to Farmstay Head through the Great Dividing Range & into cattle country for a unique local overnight stay, you can even flex your skills at whip cracking! Cattle Station Special Stay (B,D) Boat trip across Hervey Bay – spot whales (seasonal) Stop at Childers, known for its heritage & farming history Check out the farm & animals on a hay wagon ride & meet the station owners
• • •
Days 10-11: Farmstay to The Whitsundays Enjoy the beaches & watersports in paradise at Daydream Island in The Whitsundays. Resort (B,D) (B) Visit the Tropic of Capricorn See Rockhampton – the beef capital of Australia Stop at Airlie Beach M Day sailing trip to famous Whitehaven Beach & lunch (weather dependent)
•• •
Days 10-11: Sailing Whitsundays option Want to get on the water in true Whitsundays style? You can. Choose to hit the blue waters & try your hand at sailing on our private sailing adventure, cruising some of the Whitsundays’ 74 islands including Whitehaven beach. See p.63 for more info & the price panel for costs. Multi-share accommodation. Yacht (B,D) (B,L,D) Codes: ex Sydney: EXSXD ex Darwin: EXDXD Day 12: The Whitsundays to Cairns Today, we head to Tropical North Queensland, & gateway to the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef. Resort (B) Townsville city tour See Magnetic Island Pass Hinchinbrook Island – Australia’s largest island national park Pass through Tully, home to Oz’s best white water rafting
•• • •
Days 13-14: Cairns With 2 free days, experience Cairns’ best! From shopping & great nightlife to adrenaline activities & exploring the reef, you’re spoilt for choice. There’s also your chance to try some kangaroo. Resort (B,D) (B) M Whitewater rafting Day 15: Cairns to Alice Springs Today we head to the Outback! Check out ‘The Alice’, famous for its Aboriginal art. Maybe hold a snake or lizard at a reptile park. Hotel (B,D) See the MacDonnell Ranges from ANZAC Hill See the stunning Aboriginal site of Simpsons Gap See the dry Todd River which hosts the annual Henley on Todd Regatta Reptile park experience
• • • •
Day 16: Alice Springs to Kings Creek Station Try ‘bush tucker’, meet members of the Walpiri Aboriginal community & learn to throw a boomerang! Later, it’s on to Kings Creek Station – go local like Aussie ‘bushies’ & sleep under the stars in a comfy swag. Outback Special Stay (B,D) Hike through Kings Canyon to the ‘Lost City’ & desert oasis ‘the Garden of Eden’
•
Day 17: Kings Creek Station to Uluru Next we make tracks to Uluru. Take a walk through its neighbour – the Olgas. Lodge (B) Enjoy delicious bacon & eggs for breakfast See the 700 million year old Mt Conner & Lake Amadeus Hike through ‘Kata-Tjuta’ (The Olgas)
• • •
Day 18: Uluru Catch the Uluru sunrise, take a walk around ‘The Rock’ & hear stories of the area & its Aboriginal rock art. Tonight, catch an Uluru sunset with a glass of bubbly. Lodge (B) Visit Uluru Cultural Centre See Uluru at sunrise & toast it at sunset
••
Day 19: Uluru to Alice Springs Back in Alice, maybe burn around the Outback on a quad bike, or just sit poolside & work on your tan. Hotel (B) Indulge in a BBQ ‘Big Brekkie’
•
Day 20: Alice Springs to Tennant Creek Our ‘Top End’ adventure begins today – we cross the Tropic of Capricorn to Aussie’s old mining town, Tennant Creek. Hotel (B,D) Keep your eyes peeled for UFOs at Wycliffe Well Visit the ‘Devil’s Marbles’ M Dawn hot air balloon flight over the desert & MacDonnell Ranges
• •
Day 21: Tennant Creek to Katherine Stop at the Territory’s oldest pub, then make a splash in Mataranka Thermal Pools. Later, it’s on to Katherine & its famous gorge. Hotel (B) Swim at the Mataranka thermal pools Hear stories from ‘We of the Never Never’ Homestead
• •
Day 22: Katherine to Kakadu National Park Hike, walk, or take an optional boat trip to see the massive Katherine Gorge. Next up: Kakadu National Park via Edith Falls for a swim. Hotel (B,D) Visit Katherine Gorge Cool off in Edith Falls (seasonal)
••
Day 23: Kakadu National Park Explore Kakadu – the increasable vast landscapes, wildlife & Aboriginal rock art at Nourlangie Rock. Hotel (B)
••
See Aboriginal rock art Visit Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre
Day 24: Kakadu to Darwin Take a cruise to spot some crocs & wildlife, before we head to Darwin! Get your bearings on a city tour & visit the local museum. Later, maybe try cage diving with crocs or hit the shops. Hotel (B) Wildlife cruise Guided city tour of Darwin Visit the Darwin Museum
•• •
Day 25: Darwin Stop for a refreshing swim at Florence Falls in Litchfield National Park. Check out the incredible termite mounds & meet local Aboriginal artists before it’s time to say farewell to your travel buddies. (B) Swim in Florence Falls (seasonal)
•
Tour Tour & Only Sailing A$ pp* A$ pp*
May Jun Jul Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan
8 5 3 31 28 25 23 20 18 15
4385 4385 4385 4279 4279 4279 4279 4279 4495 4495
4665 4665 4665 4559 4559 4559 4559 4559 4775 4775
Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Sep Oct
12 12 9 7 4 2 30 27 24 22
4495 4495 4495 4475 4475 4475 4405 4405 4405 4405
4775 4775 4775 4755 4755 4755 4685 4685 4685 4685
2013 Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Sep Oct Nov Dec
14 12 9 7 4 ● 1 ● 29 ● 27 ● 24 ● 22 ●
19 16 ● 16 13 11 8 6 3 ● 31 ● 28 ●
Finish Sydney
Tour Tour & Only Sailing A$ pp* A$ pp*
May Jun Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan
10 7 5 2 30 27 25 22 20 17
4235 4235 4235 4129 4129 4129 4129 4129 4345 4345
4515 4515 4515 4409 4409 4409 4409 4409 4625 4625
Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Oct Nov Dec
17 15 12 10 7 4 2 30 27 25
24 nights multi-share accommodation (23 nights for reverse itinerary): 17 nights in hotels & resorts, 1 night in a surf village, 1 night in a hostel, 1 night in an eco-lodge, 1 night at a cattle station, 1 night at an outback bush camp in a comfy Aussie ‘swag’, 2 nights in a lodge (more on p.48-49) Sailing option: substitute 2 nights in resort with 2 nights on a yacht (more on p.63) 35 meals: 24 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 10 dinners (D) Sailing option – 37 meals: 24 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 11 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging
Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Aug Sep
14 14 11 9 6 4 1 29 26
4345 4345 4345 4325 4325 4325 4255 4255 4255
4625 4625 4625 4605 4605 4605 4535 4535 4535
National Park fees, local taxes & service charges
$
2013
2014 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Aug Sep
Start Darwin
What’s Included:
Sightseeing tours of all major cities
Code: EXSDD 2013/14 Code: EXDSD 2013/14 Finish Darwin
The Big Walkabout 25 days
Flight from Cairns to Alice Springs (Ayers Rock to Cairns for EXDSD)
How much & when Start Sydney
australia
SAVE Pay early & save up to A$325. See p.9 for details.
6 World Heritage sites visited
2014 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep
22 19 19 16 14 11 9 6 3
* Prices above are based on multi-share.
you choose It’s your choice - travel from Sydney to Darwin. Or save up to A$150 if you travel from Darwin to Sydney (this tour will be 24 days long).
Included flights: This trip includes flights as specified on the map opposite as part of the tour price. Please see ‘Included flights’ on p.72 for important info. Single room supplement (tour only) add A$2409/ add A$755 twin-share. Single room supplement (tour + sailing) add A$2165/ add A$675 twin-share. (Boat cabins multi-share only). EXSDD: Start Sydney 7:00am & end Darwin 6:00pm. EXDSD: Start Darwin 7:30am & end Sydney 5:00pm. ● These departures will not stay in Contiki’s Surf Village Special Stay. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
12/02/2013 10:56
REEFS & RAINFORESTS 16 Days From A$2719pp* A$170 per day
currumbin wildlife sanctuary
your backstage pass includes • Aboriginal guided experience at Mossman Gorge • Locally guided 4WD trip across Fraser Island with lunch & drinks • Noosa Surf Club dinner • Entry to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary • Surf lesson or kayak in Coffs Harbour • Sydney Harbour ferry cruise from Manly • Visit the famous Blue Mountains CAPE TRIBULATION
GULF OF CARPENTARIA
Plus Special Stays
1 Mossman Gorge
• Langmorn Outback Cattle Station • Coffs Harbour Surf Village
CORAL SEA
Port Douglas
CAIRNS 3 Tully
GREAT BARRIER REEF
Townsville
Northern Territory
ME Time
2 WHITSUNDAYS
Airlie Beach
(Daydream Island)
Mackay
QUEENSLAND Capricorn Coast
CATTLE 1 STATION 1 FRASER ISLAND 1 NOOSA Brisbane
South Australia
Currumbin
1 BYRON BAY
GREAT AUSTRALIAN BIGHT
1 COFFS HARBOUR
CH
Victoria
IR
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1
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TASMAN SEA
1
Bondi Beach in Sydney. Filled with beach bodies, designer stores & a hipster vibe, it’s a must do.
M Whitewater raft the Tully River in Cairns M Locally guided 4WD National Park rainforest tour in Surfers Paradise
Port Macquarie
2 SYDNEY
Places visited Nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stays
don’t miss
ME Time optionals
SURFERS PARADISE 2
NEW SOUTH WALES
ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random. Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.
E C TI O N
Chanel: I had the most amazing time! Contiki is a great company to travel with & I would highly recommend them to anyone travelling on their own. Visit contiki.com.au/reefs
52-53 Reefs & Rainforests.indd 2
12/02/2013 10:53
52 | 53
Go snorkelLing on the Reef & work on your tan in the Whitsundays. From koalas & kangaroos to a farmstay, you’ll do it local before hitting the beach, where Byron Bay & Surfers Paradise serve up some of the best sand & surf in the world.
Itinerary & Sightseeing Day 1: Cairns to Cape Tribulation Meet up with your Contiki Team & hit the road! Get an insider look at ancient Aboriginal culture & maybe try the unusual flavours offered at the local ice creamery, before reaching lush Cape Tribulation. Lodge Aboriginal experience at Mossman Gorge
•
Day 2: Cape Tribulation to Cairns We visit Cape Tribulation Beach & then check out the mangroves on a walk with our local guide. This afternoon it’s back to Cairns. Resort (B) Visit Port Douglas Mangrove boardwalk with our expert local guide
••
Days 3-4: Cairns With 2 free days, experience Cairns’ best! From shopping, great nightlife & endless adrenaline activities like rafting, skydiving & exploring the reef, you’re spoilt for choice. There’s also a chance to try some kangaroo if you’re up for it. Resort (B,D) (B) M Snorkel or dive on an outer Great Barrier Reef cruise with lunch Day 5: Cairns to The Whitsundays Visit Airlie Beach & get into its relaxed café scene before a quick ferry ride to paradise on Daydream Island. Resort (B,D) Pass through Tully, home to Australia’s best whitewater rafting Pass Hinchinbrook Island – Australia’s largest island national park Check out Townsville on a city tour Stop at Airlie Beach
• • • •
Day 6: The Whitsundays This place is the ultimate way to relax. So take time to chill or get into some watersports & good times at Daydream Island. Resort (B) M Day sailing trip to Whitehaven Beach with lunch (weather dependent) Days 5-6: Sailing Whitsundays option Want to get on the water in true Whitsundays style? You can. Choose to hit the blue waters & try your hand at sailing on our private sailing adventure, cruising some of the Whitsundays’ 74 islands including Whitehaven Beach. See p.63 for more info & the price panel for costs. Multi-share accommodation. Yacht (B,D) (B,L,D) Codes: ex Cairns: BWCWD ex Sydney: BWSWD Day 7: The Whitsundays to Farmstay Say farewell to
52-53 Reefs & Rainforests.indd 3
paradise, as we jet through sugar cane country to our true Aussie farmstay overnight. Cattle Station Special Stay (B,D) Visit the Tropic of Capricorn See Rockhampton – the beef capital of Australia Check out the farm & animals on a hay wagon ride Meet the station owners & try whip cracking!
•• • •
Day 8: Farmstay to Fraser Island Head back out to the coast – we’re spending the night at the natural wonder that is Fraser Island. Eco Lodge (B) Stop at Childers, known for its heritage & farming history Boat trip across Hervey Bay – look out for whales (seasonal) Watch the sunset over mainland Australia
• • •
Day 9: Fraser Island to Noosa Explore Fraser Island, (the world’s largest sand island no less) by 4WD. Get back to nature with a bushwalk & drive through the rainforests, sand dunes & dip in the freshwater Lake McKenzie. Take a stroll at amazing Rainbow Beach before reaching the chic beach town, Noosa, for dinner at a surf club overlooking the beach. Resort (B,L,D) Visit the largest sand island in the world Indulge in a gourmet BBQ lunch with drinks Drive along Australia’s only sand highway Dine beachside at Noosa Surf Club & meet a local life saver
• • • •
Day 10: Noosa to Surfers Paradise Get into the chic vibes of Noosa, then stop & check out Brisbane before reaching the East Coast party capital, Surfers Paradise! Resort (B) See the stunning Glasshouse Mountains See the Brisbane River, Royal Botanical Gardens & visit Queen Street Mall Stay at a resort located right by the beach
• • •
Day 11: Surfers Paradise With a free day, explore the way you want. With great shopping it’s the perfect place for some retail therapy, or hit the skies on a tandem skydive, visit Australia Zoo, or head to the beach & chill. Tonight, get into the party capital of Oz. Resort (B) VIP nightclub entry Relax on some of Australia’s famous beaches
••
Day 12: Surfers Paradise to Byron Bay We’ll stop in at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary where you can see wombats, pat a kangaroo & cuddle up to a
koala. This afternoon, we head to legendary Byron Bay. Hostel (B) Visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Get into Byron’s organic lifestyle, galleries, amazing food & cool night life M Kayak tour of Byron Bay’s Marine Park & waves to spot dolphins, turtles & whales (seasonal)
• •
Day 13: Byron Bay to Coffs Harbour Surf Village Get yourself onto the waves on our surf lesson! With their tricks of the trade, our pro surfer guides will have you up on a board in no time. So grab your towel, sunnies & iPod & hit the beach for the ultimate chill. Surf Village Special Stay (B,D) Visit Australia’s most easterly point & Cape Byron lighthouse Cross the Clarence River ‘Learn to surf’ lesson
• ••
Day 14: Coffs Harbour to Sydney Say farewell to the surf action of Coffs as we head to the icon filled & big city buzz of Sydney. If you’re up for it, get a different view & head to the top of the Harbour Bridge. Hotel (B) Pass the famous ‘Big Banana’ See the Hawkesbury River & its oyster farms Experience Sydney’s famous nightlife M Climb the Harbour Bridge
• • •
Day 15: Sydney Hit the streets & icons of Sydney, including the spot to see the city’s best views of the Harbour Bridge & Opera House this afternoon. We’ll cruise to Manly Beach for lunch & a swim before heading back to the city for dinner & your last night on tour. Hotel (B,D) Take a tour of Kings Cross, Chinatown, Darling Harbour, Macquarie Street & The Rocks Visit The Rocks Markets (weekends) or Paddington’s chic shopping area Take a ferry from Manly where there will be time for lunch & a swim Cook your own BBQ steak
• • • •
Day 16: Sydney With the city icons ticked, it’s time to hit the country. We’ll head to the Blue Mountains & learn about this amazing landscape including the Three Sisters. Frame up some shots as you hike Wentworth Falls, before heading back to Sydney for dinner overlooking Darling Harbour. It’s then time to say farewell to your travel buddies as your tour ends at 5:00pm. (B) Day trip to the Blue Mountains See the Three Sisters Hike at Wentworth Falls
• ••
australia Reefs & Rainforests 16 days
How much & when
What’s Included:
Code: BWCSD 2013/14 Code: BWSCD 2013/14 Start Cairns
Finish Sydney
Tour Tour & Only Sailing A$ pp* A$ pp*
May Jun Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec
10 7 5 2 9 30 6 27 4 25 1 22 29 20 27
2795 2795 2795 2719 2719 2719 2719 2719 2719 2719 2719 2865 2865 2865 2865
3075 3075 3075 2999 2999 2999 2999 2999 2999 2999 2999 3145 3145 3145 3145
Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct
17 28 31 14 21 14 11 9 6 4 1 8 29 5 26 3
2865 2865 2865 2865 2865 2865 2865 2849 2849 2849 2805 2805 2805 2805 2805 2805
3145 3145 3145 3145 3145 3145 3145 3129 3129 3129 3085 3085 3085 3085 3085 3085
2014
2013 Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
25 23 20 18 25 15 22 12 19 10 17 7 14 5 12
2 13 16 30 6 27 27 24 22 19 17 24 14 21 11 18
Finish Cairns
Tour Tour & Only Sailing A$ pp* A$ pp*
Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec Jan
29 27 24 22 29 19 26 16 23 14 21 11 18 9 16 6
2895 2895 2895 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2819 2965 2965 2965 2965
3175 3175 3175 3099 3099 3099 3099 3099 3099 3099 3099 3099 3245 3245 3245 3245
Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct
17 20 3 10 3 31 28 26 23 21 28 18 25 15 22 13
2965 2965 2965 2965 2965 2965 2949 2949 2949 2905 2905 2905 2905 2905 2905 2905
3245 3245 3245 3245 3245 3245 3229 3229 3229 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185
2013
2014 Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep
Start Sydney
Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep
14 12 9 7 14 4 ● 11 1 ● 8 29 ● 6 27 ● 3 24 ● 1 22 ●
2 5 19 26 ● 16 ● 16 13 11 8 6 13 3 ● 10 31 ● 7 28 ●
15 nights multi-share accommodation: 10 nights in hotels & resorts, 1 night in a lodge, 1 night at a cattle station, 1 night in an eco-lodge, 1 night in a hostel, 1 night in a surf village (more on p.48-49) Sailing option: substitute 2 nights in resort with 2 nights on a yacht (more on p.63) 22 meals: 15 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 6 dinners (D) Sailing option – 24 meals: 15 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging Rainforest adventure on days 1 & 2 Sightseeing tours of all major cities National Park fees, local taxes & service charges
$ * Prices above are based on multi-share. Single room supplement (tour only) add A$1739/ add A$535 twin-share. Single room supplement (tour + sailing) add A$1495/ add A$455 twin-share. (Boat cabins multi-share only). BWCSD: Start Cairns 7:30am & end Sydney 5:00pm. BWSCD: Start Sydney 7:00am & end Cairns 4:00pm. ● These departures will not stay in Contiki’s Surf Village Special Stay. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.
try our RAINFOREST EXPERIENCE
SAVE Pay early & save up to A$240. See p.9 for details.
4 World Heritage sites visited
you choose It’s your choice - travel from Sydney to Cairns. Or save up to A$100 if you travel from Cairns to Sydney.
the whitsundays
on days 1 & 2 Get geared up for 2 days in paradise! With huge mountain ranges & rainforest stretching right to the ocean, the lush Daintree area is where the Tropics meets the world-famous Great Barrier Reef. This World Heritage Site is packed with ancient plants & animals & is the home of the Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people - it’s ready to be explored & a must-do in this part of the world. Come see it with us.
12/02/2013 10:55
BEACHES & REEFS 14 Days From A$2489pp* A$178 per day
BYRON BAY
your backstage pass includes • Visit the famous Blue Mountains • Sydney Harbour ferry cruise from Manly • Surf lesson or kayak in Coffs Harbour • Entry to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary • Noosa Surf Club dinner • Locally guided 4WD trip across Fraser Island with lunch & drinks
GULF OF CARPENTARIA CORAL SEA
Plus Special Stays
2 CAIRNS Tully
Townsville
Northern Territory
• Coffs Harbour Surf Village • Langmorn Outback Cattle Station
GREAT BARRIER REEF
Airlie Beach
2 WHITSUNDAYS (Daydream Island)
ME Time
Mackay
QUEENSLAND Capricorn Coast
CATTLE 1 STATION 1 FRASER ISLAND 1 NOOSA Brisbane
South Australia
SURFERS PARADISE 2 Currumbin
1 BYRON BAY 1 COFFS HARBOUR
NEW SOUTH WALES GREAT AUSTRALIAN BIGHT
CH
SE OO YO
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TASMAN SEA
Victoria
IR
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1
Places visited Nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stays
ME Time optionals M Tandem skydive in Surfers Paradise M Dawn hot air balloon flight in Cairns
Port Macquarie
2 SYDNEY
1
ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random. Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.
E C TI O N
random fact It’s estimated there are 1500 species of fish, 30 species of dolphins & whales, 360 species of coral & 17 species of sea snakes in the Great Barrier Reef.
Brooke Cuthbertson: Most spontaneous, amazing thing I have ever done! I met incredible people from all around the world. Visit contiki.com.au/beaches
54-55 Beaches & Reefs.indd 2
12/02/2013 10:50
54 | 55
Live for sun, water, fun & adventure? The big city calls before hitting the coast - surf like a pro, chill in Byron, head to the Whitsundays & even cruise the islands on a yacht as you live the dream on Aussie’s East Coast.
Day 1: Sydney Meet up with your Contiki Team & travel buddies this morning. We’ll head out of the city & into the Blue Mountains to learn about this amazing landscape including the Three Sisters. Frame up some shots as you hike Wentworth Falls, before heading back to Sydney for dinner overlooking Darling Harbour. Hotel (D) Day trip to the Blue Mountains See the Three Sisters Hike at Wentworth Falls Cook your own BBQ steak
• •• •
Day 2: Sydney Today we hit the streets & icons of Sydney, including the spot to see the city’s best views of the Harbour Bridge & Opera House. If you’re up for it, get a different view & head to the top of the Harbour Bridge! We’ll cruise to Manly Beach for lunch & a swim. Hotel (B) Take a tour of Kings Cross, Chinatown, Darling Harbour, Macquarie Street & The Rocks Visit The Rocks Markets (weekends) or Paddington’s chic shopping area Ferry from Manly with time for lunch & a swim M Climb the Harbour Bridge
• • •
Day 3: Sydney to Coffs Harbour Surf Village It’s out of the city & into the cool surfer vibes that Oz is famous for at our Surf Village. Surf Village Special Stay (B,D) Stop in the seaside resort town of Port Macquarie Pass the famous ‘Big Banana’
• •
Day 4: Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay Get yourself onto the waves on our surf lesson! With their tricks of the trade, our pro surfer guides will have you up on a board in no time. So grab your towel, sunnies & iPod & hit the beach for the ultimate chill. This afternoon, we head to legendary Byron Bay. Hostel (B) ‘Learn to surf’ lesson Cross the Clarence River Visit Australia’s most easterly point & Cape Byron lighthouse Get into Byron’s organic lifestyle, galleries, amazing food & cool night life M Kayak tour of Byron Bay’s Marine Park
•• • •
Day 5: Byron Bay to Surfers Paradise There’s time to top up your tan this morning before heading north into Queensland to Surfers Paradise. We’ll stop in at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary where you can see wombats, pat a kangaroo & cuddle up to a koala. Resort (B)
54-55 Beaches & Reefs.indd 3
• •
Visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary & see iconic Aussie animals Stay at a resort located right by the beach M 4WD National Park rainforest tour
Day 6: Surfers Paradise With a free day, explore the way you want. With great shopping it’s the perfect place for some retail therapy, or hit the skies on a skydive, visit Australia Zoo, or head to the beach with a book & some beats, & chill. Tonight, get into the party capital of Oz. Resort (B) VIP nightclub entry Relax on some of Australia’s famous beaches
••
Day 7: Surfers Paradise to Noosa Take a peek at Brisbane’s sights before we make our way to the chic beach town, Noosa, for dinner at the surf club overlooking the beach. Resort (B,D) See the Brisbane River, Royal Botanical Gardens & visit Queen Street Mall See the stunning Glasshouse Mountains Dine beachside in Noosa
• • •
Day 8: Noosa to Fraser Island Take a stroll at amazing Rainbow Beach before exploring Fraser Island (the world’s largest sand island no less) by 4WD. Get back to nature with a bushwalk & drive through the rainforests, sand dunes & dip in the freshwater Lake McKenzie. Bliss! Eco Lodge (B,L) Visit the largest sand island in the world Drive along Australia’s only sand highway Indulge in a gourmet BBQ lunch with drinks Watch the sunset over mainland Australia
• • • •
Day 9: Fraser Island to Farmstay Head through the Great Dividing Range & into cattle country for a truly unique local overnight at our Outback Station, where you can even flex your skills at whip cracking! Cattle Station Special Stay (B,D) Boat trip across Hervey Bay – look out for whales (seasonal) Stop at Childers, known for its heritage & farming history Check out the farm & animals on a hay wagon ride & meet the station owners
•• •
Visit the Tropic of Capricorn See Rockhampton – the beef capital of Australia Stop at Airlie Beach M Day sailing trip to famous Whitehaven Beach & lunch (weather dependent)
Days 10-11: Sailing Whitsundays option Want to get on the water in true Whitsundays style? You can. Choose to hit the blue waters & try your hand at sailing on our private sailing adventure, cruising some of the Whitsundays’ 74 islands including Whitehaven Beach. See p.63 for more info & the price panel for costs. Multi-share accommodation. Yacht (B,D) (B,L,D) Codes: ex Sydney: BRSWD ex Cairns: BRCWD Day 12: The Whitsundays to Cairns Today, we’ll head to Tropical North Queensland, known for its rainforests & as the gateway to the World Heritage Listed Resort. (B) Check out Townsville on a city tour See Magnetic Island Pass Hinchinbrook Island – Australia’s largest island national park Pass through Tully, home to Australia’s best white water rafting
• •• •
Day 13: Cairns With a free day, experience Cairns’ best! From shopping, great nightlife & endless adrenaline activities like rafting, skydiving & exploring the reef, you’re spoilt for choice. Tonight, there’s your chance to try some kangaroo if you’re up for it. Resort (B,D) M Great Barrier Reef scuba diving for beginners & certified divers Day 14: Cairns Feed your inner adrenaline junkie or relax? It’s your choice with another free day to do what you’re into. Later, it’s time to swap emails & numbers as your tour ends at 5.00pm. (B)
fraser island
Itinerary & Sightseeing
australia
How much & when
Code: BRSCD 2013/14 Code: BRCSD 2013/14 Start Sydney
Finish Cairns
Tour Tour & Only Sailing A$ pp* A$ pp*
Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec Jan
27 25 22 20 27 17 24 14 21 12 19 9 16 7 14 4
2635 2635 2635 2569 2569 2569 2569 2569 2569 2569 2569 2569 2699 2699 2699 2699
2915 2915 2915 2849 2849 2849 2849 2849 2849 2849 2849 2849 2979 2979 2979 2979
Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct
15 18 1 8 1 29 26 24 21 19 26 16 23 13 20 11
2699 2699 2699 2699 2699 2699 2685 2685 2685 2645 2645 2645 2645 2645 2645 2645
2979 2979 2979 2979 2979 2979 2965 2965 2965 2925 2925 2925 2925 2925 2925 2925
2013 Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
14 12 9 7 14 4 ● 11 1 ● 8 29 ● 6 27 ● 3 24 ● 1 22 ●
2 5 19 26 ● 16 ● 16 13 11 8 6 13 3 ● 10 31 ● 7 28 ●
Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
27 25 22 20 27 17 24 14 21 12 19 9 16 7 14
4 15 18 1 8 1 29 26 24 21 19 26 16 23 13 20
13 nights multi-share accommodation: 9 nights in hotels & resorts, 1 night in a surf village, 1 night in a hostel, 1 night in an eco-lodge, 1 night at a cattle station (more on p.48-49)
Tour Tour & Only Sailing A$ pp* A$ pp*
May Jun Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec
10 7 5 2 9 30 6 27 4 25 1 22 29 20 27
2555 2555 2555 2489 2489 2489 2489 2489 2489 2489 2489 2619 2619 2619 2619
2835 2835 2835 2769 2769 2769 2769 2769 2769 2769 2769 2899 2899 2899 2899
Sailing option: substitute 2 nights in resort with 2 nights on a yacht (more on p.63)
Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct
17 28 31 14 21 14 11 9 6 4 1 8 29 5 26 3
2619 2619 2619 2619 2619 2619 2619 2605 2605 2605 2565 2565 2565 2565 2565 2565
2899 2899 2899 2899 2899 2899 2899 2885 2885 2885 2845 2845 2845 2845 2845 2845
Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging
2014 Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep
What’s Included:
Finish Sydney
2013
2014 Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep
Start Cairns
Beaches & Reefs 14 days
20 meals: 13 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 6 dinners (D) Sailing option – 22 meals: 13 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team
Sightseeing tours of all major cities National Park fees, local taxes & service charges
$
SAVE Pay early & save up to A$220. See p.9 for details.
* Prices above are based on multi-share. Single room supplement (tour only) add A$1435/ add A$475 twin-share. Single room supplement (tour + sailing) add A$1185/ add A$389 twin-share. (Boat cabins multi-share only). BRSCD: Start Sydney 7:00am & end Cairns 5:00pm. BRCSD: Start Cairns 7:00am & end Sydney 5:00pm. ● These departures will not stay in Contiki’s Surf Village Special Stay. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
4 World Heritage sites visited
you choose It’s your choice - travel from Sydney to Cairns. Or save up to A$80 if you travel from Cairns to Sydney.
Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent. byron bay
• • •
Days 10-11: Farmstay to The Whitsundays Enjoy the beaches & watersports in paradise at Daydream Island in The Whitsundays. Resort (B,D) (B)
12/02/2013 10:51
THE SUN SEEKER 10 Days From A$1745pp* A$175 per day
fraser island
your backstage pass includes • Noosa Surf Club dinner • Locally guided 4WD trip across Fraser Island with lunch & drinks Plus Special Stay • Langmorn Outback Cattle Station
GULF OF CARPENTARIA
ME Time
CORAL SEA
2 CAIRNS Tully
ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random. Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.
GREAT BARRIER REEF
Townsville
Northern Territory
Airlie Beach
2 WHITSUNDAYS (Daydream Island) Mackay
QUEENSLAND
CATTLE 1 STATION
Capricorn Coast
1 NOOSA
SE OO YO
IR
UR
1
Places visited Nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stays
CH
SURFERS PARADISE 2
D
1
M Cairns Tandem skydive M Dawn hot air balloon flight in Cairns M Whitewater raft the mighty Tully River
Brisbane
New South Wales
Foreshore Promenade, Cairns. It’s a 4800sq-m saltwater swimming lagoon in the heart of the city.
ME Time optionals
1 FRASER ISLAND
South Australia
don’t miss
E C TI O N
Nick: I surfed, I skydived & I sailed. I met some awesome people on this trip who I hope to visit soon. I’m already planning my next Contiki. Visit contiki.com.au/seeker
56-57 The Sun Seeker.indd 2
12/02/2013 10:48
56 | 57
Sunshine & good times await! Get down on the farm, relax on idyllic island time & experience the paradise that is the Whitsundays & Great Barrier Reef. Get into the endless summer vibes the way only the Aussie’s can.
the whitsundays
australia
How much & when CURRUMBIN WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Code: BTSCD 2013/14
Code: BTCSD 2013/14
Start Finish Surfers P. Cairns
Start Cairns
Tour Tour & Only Sailing A$ pp* A$ pp*
2013 Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
18 16 13 11 18 8 15 5 12 3 10 31 7 28 5 26
2013 Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec Jan
27 25 22 20 27 17 24 14 21 12 19 9 16 7 14 4
1829 1829 1829 1785 1785 1785 1785 1785 1785 1785 1785 1785 1875 1875 1875 1875
2109 2109 2109 2065 2065 2065 2065 2065 2065 2065 2065 2065 2155 2155 2155 2155
Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep
15 18 1 8 1 29 26 24 21 19 26 16 23 13 20
1875 1875 1875 1875 1875 1875 1865 1865 1865 1835 1835 1835 1835 1835 1835
2155 2155 2155 2155 2155 2155 2145 2145 2145 2115 2115 2115 2115 2115 2115
2014
Itinerary & Sightseeing Day 1: Surfers Paradise Meet up with your Contiki Team & head into the bright lights of Surfers Paradise for a great night out with your new travel buddies! Resort Stay at a resort located right by the beach
•
Day 2: Surfers Paradise With a free day, explore the way you want. With great shopping it’s the perfect place for some retail therapy, or hit the skies on a skydive, visit Australia Zoo, or head to the beach with a book & some beats, & chill. Tonight, get into the party capital of Oz. Resort (B) VIP nightclub entry Relax on some of Australia’s famous beaches M Vintage Tiger Month bi-plane joyflight (with acrobatic ‘loop the loops’)
••
Day 3: Surfers Paradise to Noosa Take a peek at Brisbane’s sights before we make our way to the chic beach town, Noosa, for dinner at the surf club overlooking the beach. Resort (B,D) See the Brisbane River, Royal Botanical Gardens & visit Queen Street Mall See the stunning Glasshouse Mountains Dine beachside at Noosa Surf Club & meet a local life saver
• • •
Day 4: Noosa to Fraser Island Take a stroll at amazing Rainbow Beach before exploring Fraser Island (the world’s largest sand island
56-57 The Sun Seeker.indd 3
no less) by 4WD. Get back to nature with a bushwalk & drive through the rainforests, sand dunes & dip in the freshwater Lake McKenzie. Eco Lodge (B,L) Visit the largest sand island in the world Drive along Australia’s only sand highway Indulge in a gourmet BBQ lunch with drinks Watch the sunset over mainland Australia
• • • •
Day 5: Fraser Island to Farmstay Head through the Great Dividing Range & into cattle country for a truly unique local overnight at our outback Station, where you can even flex your skills at whip cracking! Cattle Station Special Stay (B,D) Boat trip across Hervey Bay – look out for whales (seasonal) Stop at Childers, known for its heritage & farming history Check out the farm & animals on a hay wagon ride Meet the station owners
• • • •
Days 6-7: Farmstay to The Whitsundays Today we’ll jet through sugar cane country & into true paradise for the beaches, watersports & good times at Daydream Island in the Whitsundays. Resort (B,D) (B) Visit the Tropic of Capricorn See Rockhampton – the beef capital of Australia Stop at Airlie Beach M Day sailing trip to famous Whitehaven Beach & lunch (weather dependent)
•• •
Days 6-7: Sailing Whitsundays option Want to get on the water in true Whitsundays style? You can. Choose to hit the blue waters & try your hand at sailing on our private sailing adventure, cruising some of the Whitsundays’ 74 islands including Whitehaven Beach. See p.63 for more info & the price panel for costs. Multi-share accommodation. Yacht (B,D) (B,L,D) Codes: ex Surfers: BTSWD ex Cairns: BTCWD Day 8: The Whitsundays to Cairns Today, we’ll head to Tropical North Queensland, known for its rainforests & as the gateway to the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef. Resort (B) Townsville city tour See Magnetic Island Pass Hinchinbrook Island – Australia’s largest island national park Pass through Tully, home to Oz’s best white water rafting
Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep
6 9 23 30 20 20 17 15 12 10 17 7 14 4 11
Finish Tour Tour & Surfers P. Only Sailing A$ pp* A$ pp*
Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
27 25 22 20 27 17 24 14 21 12 19 9 16 7 14
May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
6 3 1 29 5 26 2 23 30 21 28 18 25 16 23
1789 1789 1789 1745 1745 1745 1745 1745 1745 1745 1745 1835 1835 1835 1835
2069 2069 2069 2025 2025 2025 2025 2025 2025 2025 2025 2115 2115 2115 2115
Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jun Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep
13 24 27 10 17 10 7 5 2 30 28 4 25 1 22 29
1835 1835 1835 1835 1835 1835 1835 1825 1825 1825 1795 1795 1795 1795 1795 1795
2115 2115 2115 2115 2115 2115 2115 2105 2105 2105 2075 2075 2075 2075 2075 2075
2014 Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep
4 15 18 1 8 1 29 26 24 21 19 26 16 23 13 20
* Prices above are based on multi-share. Single room supplement (tour only) add A$955/ add A$315 twin-share. Single room supplement (tour + sailing) add A$705/ add A$235 twin-share. (Boat cabins multi-share only). BTSCD: Start Surfers P. 4:30pm & end Cairns 5:00pm. BTCSD: Start Cairns 7:00am & end Surfers P. 8:00am. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.
The Sun Seeker 10 days What’s Included: 9 nights multi-share accommodation: 7 nights in resorts, 1 night in an eco-lodge, 1 night at a cattle station (more on p.48-49) Sailing option: substitute 2 nights in resort with 2 nights on a yacht (more on p.63) 14 meals: 9 breakfasts (B) 1 lunch (L) 4 dinners (D) Sailing option - 16 meals: 9 breakfasts (B) 2 lunches (L) 5 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging Sightseeing tours of all major cities National Park fees, local taxes & service charges
$
SAVE Pay early & save up to A$160. See p.9 for details.
3 World Heritage sites visited
you choose It’s your choice - travel from Surfers Paradise to Cairns. Or save up to A$40 if you travel from Cairns to Surfers Paradise.
•• • •
Days 9-10: Cairns With 2 free days, experience Cairns’ best! From shopping & great nightlife to endless adrenaline activities, you’re spoilt for choice. Then it’s time to say farewell as your tour ends at 5.00pm on day 10. Tonight, there’s your chance to try some kangaroo if you’re up for it. Resort (B,D) (B) M Snorkel or dive on an outer Great Barrier Reef cruise & lunch…or stay dry with coral viewing by semi-submersible
12/02/2013 10:50
SUNSETS & SURF 12 Days From A$2195pp* A$183 per day
BYRON BAY
your backstage pass includes • Visit the famous Blue Mountains • Sydney Harbour ferry cruise from Manly • Surf lesson or kayak in Coffs Harbour • Entry to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary • Noosa Surf Club dinner • Locally guided 4WD trip across Fraser Island with lunch & drinks Plus Special Stays GULF OF CARPENTARIA
• Coffs Harbour Surf Village • Langmorn Outback Cattle Station
CORAL SEA
ME Time
GREAT BARRIER REEF
Northern Territory
Airlie Beach
2 WHITSUNDAYS
ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random. Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.
(Daydream Island) Mackay
QUEENSLAND
CATTLE 1 STATION
Capricorn Coast
1 FRASER ISLAND 1 NOOSA
ME Time optionals
Brisbane
South Australia
SURFERS PARADISE 2
M Kayak tour of Byron Bay’s Marine Park & waves to spot dolphins, turtles & whales (seasonal) M Vintage Tiger Moth bi-plane joyflight (with acrobatic ‘loop the loops’)!
Currumbin
1 BYRON BAY 1 COFFS HARBOUR
NEW SOUTH WALES
must do A stroll along the Noosa Coastal Track. Keep your eyes peeled for koalas chilling in gum trees or dolpins & humpback whales out at sea. Bliss.
1
TASMAN SEA
IR
D
1
Places visited Nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stays
SE OO YO
UR
2 SYDNEY
CH
Port Macquarie
Nick: I seriously had the best time ever and am already planning my next Contiki!
E C TI O N
Visit contiki.com.au/sunsets 58-59 Sunsets & Surf.indd 2
12/02/2013 10:42
58 | 59
The icons of Sydney call, before grabbing a surf board in Coffs Harbour & kicking back in beach heaven, Byron Bay. From Surfers Paradise, Fraser Island to the Whitsundays & everything in-between - it’s all about East Coast action.
Day 1: Sydney Meet up with your Contiki Team & travel buddies this morning. We’ll head to the Blue Mountains & learn about this amazing landscape including the Three Sisters. Frame up some shots as you hike Wentworth Falls, before heading back to Sydney for dinner overlooking Darling Harbour. Hotel (D) Day trip to the Blue Mountains See the Three Sisters Hike at Wentworth Falls Cook your own BBQ steak
sydney
• • •
Day 3: Sydney to Coffs Harbour Surf Village It’s out of the city & into the cool surfer vibes that Oz is famous for at our Surf Village. Surf Village Special Stay (B,D) Stop in the seaside resort town of Port Macquarie Pass the famous ‘Big Banana’
• •
Day 4: Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay Get yourself onto the waves on our surf lesson! With their tricks of the trade, our pro surfer guides will have you up on a board in no time. So grab your towel, sunnies & iPod & hit the beach for the ultimate chill. This afternoon, we head to legendary Byron Bay. Hostel (B) ‘Learn to surf’ lesson Cross the Clarence River Visit Australia’s most easterly point & Cape Byron lighthouse Get into Byron’s organic lifestyle, galleries, amazing food & cool night life
•• • •
Day 5: Byron Bay to Surfers Paradise There’s time to top up your tan this morning before heading north into Queensland to Surfers Paradise. We’ll stop in at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary where you can see wombats, pat a kangaroo & cuddle up to a koala. Resort (B)
58-59 Sunsets & Surf.indd 3
How much & when
Code: SQSCD 2013/14 Code: SQCSD 2013/14 Start Sydney
Finish W’suns
Tour Tour & Only Sailing A$ pp* A$ pp*
Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec Jan
2295 2295 2295 2235 2235 2235 2235 2235 2235 2235 2235 2235 2345 2345 2345 2345
2013 Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
• •• •
Day 2: Sydney Today we hit the streets & icons of Sydney, including the spot to see the city’s best views of the Harbour Bridge & Opera House. If you’re up for it, get a different view & head to the top of the Harbour Bridge! We’ll cruise to Manly Beach for lunch & a swim. Hotel (B) Take a tour of Kings Cross, Chinatown, Darling Harbour, Macquarie Street & The Rocks Visit The Rocks Markets (weekends) or Paddington’s chic shopping area Ferry from Manly with time for lunch & a swim M Climb the Harbour Bridge
• •
Visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary & see iconic Aussie animals Stay at a resort located right by the beach
Day 6: Surfers Paradise With a free day, explore the way you want. With great shopping it’s the perfect place for some retail therapy, or hit the skies on a skydive, visit Australia Zoo, or head to the beach with a book & some beats, & chill. Tonight, get into the party capital of Oz. Resort (B) VIP nightclub entry Relax on some of Australia’s famous beaches M Spectacular tandem skydive
••
Day 7: Surfers Paradise to Noosa Check out Brisbane’s sights before we make our way to the chic beach town, Noosa, for dinner at the surf club over-looking the beach. Resort (B,D) See the Brisbane River, Royal Botanical Gardens & visit Queen Street Mall See the stunning Glasshouse Mountains Dine beachside at Noosa Surf Club & meet a local life saver
• • •
Day 8: Noosa to Fraser Island Take a stroll at amazing Rainbow Beach before exploring Fraser Island (the world’s largest sand island no less) by 4WD. Get back to nature with a bushwalk & drive through the rainforests, sand dunes & dip in the freshwater Lake McKenzie. Eco Lodge (B,L) Visit the largest sand island in the world Drive along Australia’s only sand highway Indulge in a gourmet BBQ lunch with drinks Watch the sunset over mainland Australia
• • • •
COFFS HARBOUR
Itinerary & Sightseeing
australia
Day 9: Fraser Island to Farmstay Head through the Great Dividing Range & into cattle country for a truly unique local overnight at our outback Station, where you can even flex your skills at whip cracking! Cattle Station Special Stay (B,D) Boat trip across Hervey Bay look out for whales (seasonal) Stop at Childers, known for its heritage & farming history Check out the farm & animals on a hay wagon ride Meet the station owners
• • • •
Days 10-11: Farmstay to The Whitsundays Enjoy the beaches & watersports in paradise at Daydream Island in The Whitsundays. Resort (B,D) (B) Visit the Tropic of Capricorn See Rockhampton – the beef capital of Australia Stop at Airlie Beach M Day sailing trip to famous Whitehaven Beach & lunch (weather dependent) M Snorkel or dive on an outer Great Barrier Reef cruise with lunch
•• •
Days 10-11: Sailing Whitsundays option Want to get on the water in true Whitsundays style? You can. Choose to hit the blue waters & try your hand at sailing on our private sailing adventure, cruising some of the Whitsundays’ 74 islands including Whitehaven Beach. See p.63 for more info & the price panel for costs. Multi-share accommodation. Yacht (B,D) (B,L,D) Codes: ex Sydney: SQSWD ex W’suns: SQCWD
14 12 9 7 14 4 ● 11 1 ● 8 29 ● 6 27 ● 3 24 ● 1 22 ●
2 5 19 26 ● 16 ● 16 13 11 8 6 13 3 ● 10 31 ● 7 28 ●
Finish Sydney
Tour Tour & Only Sailing A$ pp* A$ pp*
Apr May Jun Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec
12 10 7 5 2 9 30 6 27 4 25 1 22 29 20 27
2255 2255 2255 2255 2195 2195 2195 2195 2195 2195 2195 2195 2305 2305 2305 2305
2535 2535 2535 2535 2475 2475 2475 2475 2475 2475 2475 2475 2585 2585 2585 2585
Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct
17 28 31 14 21 14 11 9 6 4 1 8 29 5 26 3
2305 2305 2305 2305 2305 2305 2305 2295 2295 2295 2259 2259 2259 2259 2259 2259
2585 2585 2585 2585 2585 2585 2585 2575 2575 2575 2539 2539 2539 2539 2539 2539
2013 25 23 20 18 25 15 22 12 19 10 17 7 14 5 12 2
2575 2575 2575 2515 2515 2515 2515 2515 2515 2515 2515 2515 2625 2625 2625 2625
2014 Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep
Start W’suns
Apr Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
1 29 27 24 22 29 19 26 16 23 14 21 11 18 9 16
2014 Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct
13 16 30 6 27 27 24 22 19 17 24 14 21 11 18 9
2345 2345 2345 2345 2345 2345 2335 2335 2335 2299 2299 2299 2299 2299 2299 2299
2625 2625 2625 2625 2625 2625 2615 2615 2615 2579 2579 2579 2579 2579 2579 2579
Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep
6 17 20 3 10 3 31 28 26 23 21 28 18 25 15 22
Sunsets & Surf 12 days What’s Included: 11 nights multi-share accommodation: 7 nights in hotels & resorts, 1 night in a surf village, 1 night in a hostel, 1 night in an eco-lodge, 1 night at a cattle station (more on p.48-49) Sailing option: substitute 2 nights in resort with 2 nights on a yacht (more on p.63) 17 meals: 11 breakfasts (B) 1 lunch (L) 5 dinners (D) Sailing option - 19 meals: 11 breakfasts (B) 2 lunches (L) 6 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging Sightseeing tours of all major cities National Park fees, local taxes & service charges
$
Pay early & save up to A$195. See p.9 for details.
* Prices above are based on multi-share. Single room supplement (tour only) add A$1239/ add A$399 twin-share. Single room supplement (tour + sailing) add A$995/ add A$319 twin-share. (Boat cabins multi-share only). SQSCD: Start Sydney 7:00am & end W’suns 8:00am. SQCSD: Start W’suns 5:00pm & end Sydney 5:00pm. ● These departures will not stay in Contiki’s Surf Village Special Stay. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.
SAVE
3 World Heritage sites visited
you choose It’s your choice - travel from Sydney to The Whitsundays. Or save up to A$40 if you travel from The Whitsundays to Sydney. SYDNEY
Day 12: The Whitsundays The tour ends after breakfast, so it’s time to say farewell to your new friends. (B)
12/02/2013 10:44
Visit contiki.com.au/island
ISLAND & RAINFOREST From A$1199pp* A$172 per day
D
IR
GULF OF CARPENTARIA
E C TI O N
1 CAPE TRIBULATION Mossman Gorge
Port Douglas
CORAL SEA
3 CAIRNS
ME Time optionals Look for the (M) symbol in the itinerary to make the most of your ME Time. M Sailing trip to Whitehaven Beach & lunch M Cairns Tandem skydive
SE OO YO
UR
CH
7 Days
Tully
QUEENSLAND
GREAT BARRIER REEF
Townsville
2 WHITSUNDAYS
Airlie Beach
1
How much & when
(Daydream Island)
Places visited Nightstops
Itinerary & Sightseeing
What’s Included: 6 nights multi-share accommodation: 5 nights in resorts, 1 night in a lodge (more on p.48-49) Sailing option: substitute 2 nights in resort with 2 nights on a yacht (more on p.63) 8 meals: 6 breakfasts (B) 2 dinners (D) Sailing option – 10 meals: 6 breakfasts (B) 1 lunch (L) 3 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging Rainforest adventure on days 6 & 7 Sightseeing tours of all major cities National Park fees, local taxes & service charges
$
SAVE Pay early & save up to A$115. See p.9 for details.
2 World Heritage sites visited
Code: FNSCD 2013/14 Code: FNCSD 2013/14 Start W’suns
Finish Cairns
Tour Tour & Only Sailing A$ pp* A$ pp*
Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec Jan
1235 1235 1235 1199 1199 1199 1199 1199 1199 1199 1199 1265 1265 1265 1265 1265
2013 Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec
23 21 18 16 23 13 20 10 17 8 15 5 12 3 10 31
11 14 28 4 25 25 22 20 17 15 22 12 19 9 16
Finish W’suns
Tour Tour & Only Sailing A$ pp* A$ pp*
May May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
1 29 26 24 31 21 28 18 25 16 23 13 20 11 18
1235 1235 1235 1199 1199 1199 1199 1199 1199 1199 1199 1265 1265 1265 1265
1515 1515 1515 1479 1479 1479 1479 1479 1479 1479 1479 1545 1545 1545 1545
Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Apr Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep
8 19 22 5 12 5 2 30 28 25 23 30 20 27 17 24
1265 1265 1265 1265 1265 1265 1265 1255 1255 1255 1235 1235 1235 1235 1235 1235
1545 1545 1545 1545 1545 1545 1545 1535 1535 1535 1515 1515 1515 1515 1515 1515
2013 29 27 24 22 29 19 26 16 23 14 21 11 18 9 16 6
1515 1515 1515 1479 1479 1479 1479 1479 1479 1479 1479 1545 1545 1545 1545 1545
2014 Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep
Start Cairns
Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep
17 20 3 10 3 31 28 26 23 21 28 18 25 15 22
1265 1265 1265 1265 1265 1265 1255 1255 1255 1235 1235 1235 1235 1235 1235
1545 1545 1545 1545 1545 1545 1535 1535 1535 1515 1515 1515 1515 1515 1515
Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
25 23 20 18 25 15 22 12 19 10 17 7 14 5 12
2014 Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep
2 13 16 30 6 27 27 24 22 19 17 24 14 21 11 18
* Prices above are based on multi-share. Single room supplement (tour only) add A$655/ add A$219 twin-share. Single room supplement (tour + sailing) add A$405/ add A$135 twin-share. (Boat cabins multi-share only). FNSCD: Start W’suns 5:00pm & end Cairns 4:00pm. FNCSD: Start Cairns 7:30am & end W’suns 8:00am. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
you choose It’s your choice - travel from The Whitsundays to Cairns, or from Cairns to The Whitsundays.
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Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.
Days 1-2: The Whitsundays Meet up with your Contiki Team & new travel buddies before heading into true paradise for the beaches, watersports & good times at Daydream Island in The Whitsundays. Resort (D) (B) M Hire a jet ski Days 1-2: Sailing Whitsundays option Want to get on the water in true Whitsundays style? You can. Choose to hit the blue waters & try your hand at sailing on our private sailing adventure, cruising some of the Whitsundays’ 74 islands including Whitehaven Beach. See p.63 for more info & the price panel for costs. Multi-share accommodation. Yacht (D) (B,L,D) Codes: ex W’suns: FNSWD ex Cairns: FNCWD
Day 3: The Whitsundays to Cairns Today, we’ll head to Tropical North Queensland, known for its
rainforests & as the gateway to the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef. Tonight, there’s your chance to try some kangaroo if you’re up for it. Resort (B,D) Check out Townsville on a city tour See Magnetic Island Pass Hinchinbrook Island – Australia’s largest island national park Pass through Tully, home to Australia’s best whitewater rafting
• •• •
Days 4-5: Cairns With 2 free days, you can experience Cairns’ best! From shopping, cool bars & amazing nightlife, to the endless adrenaline activities like rafting, skydiving & exploring the reef, you’re spoilt for choice. If you’re up for a night out, then your Tour Manager can tell you the best spots to head to. Resort (B) (B) M Snorkel or dive on an outer Great Barrier Reef cruise & lunch M Hot air balloon flight
Day 6: Cairns to Cape Tribulation Get an insider look at ancient Aboriginal culture & maybe try the unusual flavours offered at the local ice creamery, before heading north to Cape Tribulation. Lodge (B) Aboriginal experience at Mossman Gorge.
•
Day 7: Cape Tribulation to Cairns We visit Cape Tribulation beach & then check out the mangroves on a walk with our local guide. This afternoon it’s back to Cairns where your tour ends at 4:00pm. (B) Visit Port Douglas Mangrove boardwalk with our expert local guide
••
RAINFOREST EXPERIENCE on days 6 & 7 Get geared up for 2 days in paradise! With huge mountain ranges & rainforest stretching right to the ocean, the lush Daintree area is where the Tropics meets the world-famous Great Barrier Reef. This World Heritage Site is packed with ancient plants & animals & is the home of the Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people - it’s ready to be explored & a must-do in this part of the world. Come see it with us.
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60 | 61 Visit contiki.com.au/surf
australia
CITY TO SURF
City to Surf 7 days
7 Days
backstage pass
From A$1245pp* A$178 per day
Inclusions QUEENSLAND
SURFERS PARADISE 2 Currumbin
BYRON BAY 1 COFFS HARBOUR 1
Plus Special Stay • Coffs Harbour Surf Village
Port Macquarie
NEW SOUTH WALES
2 SYDNEY
1 1
byron bay
Itinerary & Sightseeing Day 1: Sydney Meet up with your Contiki Team & travel buddies this morning. We’ll head to the Blue Mountains & learn about this amazing landscape including the Three Sisters. Frame up some shots as you hike Wentworth Falls, before heading back to Sydney for dinner overlooking Darling Harbour. Hotel (D) Day trip to the Blue Mountains See the Three Sisters Hike at Wentworth Falls Cook your own BBQ steak
• •• •
Day 2: Sydney Today we hit the streets & icons of Sydney, including the spot to see the city’s best views of the Harbour Bridge & Opera House. If you’re up for it, get a different view & head to the top of the Harbour Bridge! We’ll cruise to Manly Beach for lunch & a swim. Hotel (B) Take a tour of Kings Cross, Chinatown, Darling Harbour, Macquarie Street & The Rocks Visit The Rocks Markets (weekends) or Paddington’s chic shopping area Ferry from Manly with time for lunch & a swim M Climb the Harbour Bridge
• • •
Day 3: Sydney to Coffs Harbour Surf Village It’s out of the city & into the cool surfer vibes that Oz is famous for at our Surf Village. Surf Village Special Stay (B,D) Stop in the seaside resort town of Port Macquarie Pass the famous ‘Big Banana’
board in no time. So grab your towel, sunnies & iPod & hit the beach for the ultimate chill. This afternoon, we head to legendary Byron Bay. Hostel (B) ‘Learn to surf’ lesson Cross the Clarence River Visit Australia’s most easterly point & Cape Byron lighthouse Get into Byron’s organic lifestyle, galleries, amazing food & cool night life M Kayak tour of the Marine Park to spot dolphins, turtles & whales (seasonal)
•• • •
Day 5: Byron Bay to Surfers Paradise There’s time to top up your tan this morning before heading north into Queensland to Surfers Paradise. We’ll stop in at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary where you can see wombats, pat a kangaroo & cuddle up to a koala. Resort (B)
• •
Visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary & see iconic Aussie animals Stay at a resort located right by the beach
Day 6: Surfers Paradise With a free day, explore the way you want. With great shopping it’s the perfect place for retail therapy, hit the skies on a skydive, visit Australia Zoo, or head to the beach & chill. Tonight, get into the party capital of Oz. Resort (B) VIP nightclub entry Relax on some of Australia’s famous beaches M Locally guided 4WD national park rainforest tour
••
Day 7: Surfers Paradise The tour ends after breakfast & it’s time to swap email addresses & say farewell to your new friends. (B)
TASMAN SEA Places visited Nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stays
How much & when Code: BSSBD 2013/14 Start Sydney
Finish Surfers P.
Total Cost A$ pp*
Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec
1275 1275 1275 1245 1245 1245 1245 1245 1245 1245 1245 1245 1315 1315 1315 1315
14 12 9 7 14 4 ● 11 1 ● 8 29 ● 6 27 ● 3 24 ● 1 22 ●
Finish Surfers P.
Total Cost A$ pp*
Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct
1315 1315 1315 1315 1315 1315 1299 1299 1299 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285 1285
20 18 15 13 20 10 17 7 14 5 12 2 9 30 7 28
Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep
2 5 19 26 ● 16 ● 16 13 11 8 6 13 3 ● 10 31 ● 7 28 ●
ME Time optionals Look for the (M) symbol in the itinerary to make the most of your ME Time. M Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge M Spectacular Tandem skydive in Surfers Paradise
What’s Included:
2014
2013 Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
Start Sydney
• Visit the famous Blue Mountains • Surf lesson or kayak in Coffs Harbour • Entry to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
8 11 25 1 22 22 19 17 14 12 19 9 16 6 13 4
* Prices above are based on multi-share. Single room supplement add A$745/add A$205 twin-share. Start Sydney 7:00am & end Surfers Paradise 8:00am. ● These departures will not stay in Contiki’s Surf Village Special Stay. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.
6 nights multi-share accommodation: 4 nights in hotels & resorts 1 night in a surf village, 1 night in a hostel (more on p.48-49) 8 meals: 6 breakfasts (B) 2 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging Sightseeing tours of all major cities National Park fees, local taxes & service charges
$
SAVE Pay early & save up to A$95. See p.9 for details.
1 currumbin
World Heritage site visited
• •
Day 4: Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay Get yourself onto the waves on our surf lesson! With their tricks of the trade, our pro surfer guides will have you up on a
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coffs harbour
12/02/2013 10:41
Visit contiki.com.au/wonder
TROPICAL WONDER 5 Days From A$815pp* A$163 per day GULF OF CARPENTARIA CORAL SEA
2 CAIRNS Tully
Airlie Beach
ME Time optionals Look for the (M) symbol in the itinerary to make the most of your ME Time. M Whitewater rafting in Cairns M Bungy jump in Cairns
1
How much & when
4 nights multi-share resort accommodation: (more on p.48-49) Sailing option: substitute 2 nights in resort with 2 nights on a yacht (more on p.63) 6 meals: 4 breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D) Sailing option – 8 meals: 4 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 3 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging Sightseeing tours of all major cities
Finish W’suns
Tour Tour & Only Sailing A$ pp* A$ pp*
2013 Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
27 25 22 20 27 17 24 14 21 12 19 9 16 7 14
Start Cairns
Finish W’suns
Tour Tour & Only Sailing A$ pp* A$ pp*
2014 May May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
1 29 26 24 31 21 28 18 25 16 23 13 20 11 18
835 835 835 815 815 815 815 815 815 815 815 855 855 855 855
1115 1115 1115 1095 1095 1095 1095 1095 1095 1095 1095 1135 1135 1135 1135
Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep
4 15 18 1 8 1 29 26 24 21 19 26 16 23 13 20
Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Apr Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep
2 WHITSUNDAYS (Daydream Island)
Places visited Nightstops
Itinerary & Sightseeing
Code: NWCSD 2013/14 Start Cairns
What’s Included:
the whitsundays
GREAT BARRIER REEF
Townsville
QUEENSLAND
8 19 22 5 12 5 2 30 28 25 23 30 20 27 17 24
855 855 855 855 855 855 855 849 849 849 839 839 839 839 839 839
1135 1135 1135 1135 1135 1135 1135 1129 1129 1129 1119 1119 1119 1119 1119 1119
* Prices above are based on multi-share. Single room supplement (tour only) add A$485/add A$175 twin-share. Single room supplement (tour + sailing) add A$239/ add A$89 twin-share. (Boat cabins multi-share only). Start Cairns 7:00am & end Whitsundays 8:00am. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
Day 1: Cairns Meet up with your Contiki Team & travel buddies, then head out & experience Cairns’ best! From shopping, great nightlife & endless adrenaline activities like rafting, skydiving & exploring the reef, you’re spoilt for choice. Tonight, there’s your chance to try some kangaroo if you’re up for it. Resort (D) M Great Barrier Reef cruise & lunch Day 2: Cairns Feed your inner adrenaline junkie or relax? It’s your choice with another free day to do what you’re into. Resort (B) M Tandem skydive M Scuba diving or quad biking Day 3: Cairns to The Whitsundays Visit Airlie Beach & get into its relaxed café scene before a quick ferry ride to paradise on Daydream Island. Resort (B,D) Pass through Tully, home to Australia’s best whitewater rafting Pass Hinchinbrook Island – Australia’s largest island national park
• •
Check out Townsville on a city tour Stop at Airlie Beach
Day 4: The Whitsundays This place is the ultimate way to relax. So take time to chill or get into some watersports & good times at Daydream Island. Resort (B) M Sailing trip to Whitehaven Beach & lunch (weather dependent) Day 5: The Whitsundays The tour ends after breakfast & it’s time to say farewell to your new friends. (B)
Days 3-4: Sailing Whitsundays option Want to get on the water in true Whitsundays style? You can. Choose to hit the blue waters & try your hand at sailing on our private sailing adventure, cruising some of the Whitsundays’ 74 islands including Whitehaven Beach. See p.63 for more info & the price panel for costs. Multi-share accommodation. Yacht (B,D) (B,L,D) Code: NWCWD
the whitsundays
• •
National Park fees, local taxes & service charges
Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.
2
cairns
World Heritage sites visited cairns
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62 | 63
See The Whitsundays on our own private yacht! This sailing upgrade option is a great alternative to spending 2 nights at Daydream Island Resort, with the chance to spend 2 days & nights oUT ON THE WATER. The Whitsundays is part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, with over 90 mostly uninhabited National Park islands, heavenly white beaches & crystal clear waters. And sailing is a great way to see it all. If you want to learn about sailing, the crew will teach you how to hoist the sails & grind the winches, but if you’d prefer to relax, sunbake & soak up the atmosphere – you can leave the hard work to them. Swim, snorkel, or laze your way around this tropical paradise. The highlight will definitely be a visit to Whitehaven Beach (weather dependant). Introductory & certified diving is also available at additional cost. The trip returns to Airlie Beach on the final morning.
Visit contiki.com.au/sailingwhitsundays
adventure sailing upgrade What’s Included: 2 nights multi-share accommodation (no single or twin-share) 5 meals: 2 breakfasts (B) 1 lunch (L) 2 dinners (D) Dedicated & professional on-board crew Snorkelling equipment
av vai a la labl ble e on o : The Big Walkabout (p.50-51), Reefs & Rainforests (p.52-53), Beaches & Reefs (p.54-55), The Sun Seeker (p.56-57), Sunsets & Surf (p.58-59), Island & Rainforest (p.60), Tropical Wonder (p.62)
62-63 Tropical Wonder - W'Suns.indd 3
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OUTBACK ADVENTURE 11 Days From A$1619pp* A$148 per day
uluru
your backstage pass includes • Alice Springs Aboriginal ‘Dreamtime Bushtucker’ tour • Alice Springs Reptile Centre experience • Uluru sunset drinks & nibbles Plus Special Stay • Kings Creek Station Outback Bush Camp 1 DARWIN 2 KAKADU N.P
Litchfield N.P
ME Time
1 KATHERINE Mataranka Daly waters INDIAN OCEAN
GULF OF CARPENTARIA
ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random. Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.
NORTHERN TERRITORY
1 TENNANT CREEK Devils Marbles Wycliffe Well
Ti Tree
Simpsons Gap
KINGS CANYON 1 The Olgas
2
Queensland
M Dawn hot air balloon flight over the desert & MacDonnell Ranges in Alice Springs M A guided helicopter flight over Uluru & Kata Tjuta
ULURU
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1
SE OO YO
UR
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South Australia
Places visited Nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stays
Ubirr at Kakadu National Park. It’s a must do & a camera is essential.
ME Time optionals
2 ALICE SPRINGS
Western Australia
1
don’t miss
E C TI O N
Luke: Fantastic tour, a great way to see Alice Springs to Darwin, covering all aspects of the Northern Territory, I love Contiki
New South Wales
Visit contiki.com.au/outback 64-65 Outback Adventure.indd 2
12/02/2013 10:35
64 | 65
From rugged canyons, red rocks & lush forests, to cool local characters & even cooler sights, this adventure into the ‘Territory’ will show you why Aussie’s epic red centre really is like nowhere else.
florence falls
australia
How much & when
Code: TEADD 2013/14 Code: TEDAD 2013/14 Start A.Springs
Finish Darwin
Total Cost A$ pp*
May Jun Jul Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
8 5 3 31 28 25 23 20 18
1705 1705 1705 1665 1665 1665 1665 1619 1619
Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Oct Nov Dec
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Sep
15 12 12 9 7 4 2 30 27 24
1619 1619 1619 1619 1735 1735 1735 1709 1709 1709
2014
2013 Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
28 26 23 21 18 15 13 10 8
kakadu national park
Itinerary & Sightseeing Day 1: Alice Springs Meet your Contiki Team this afternoon & check out ‘The Alice’, famous for its remoteness, classic Aussie locals & Aboriginal art. Maybe hold a snake or lizard at our reptile park experience (if you’re game). Hotel (D) Catch a look at the MacDonnell Ranges from ANZAC Hill See the stunning Aboriginal site of Simpsons Gap See the dry Todd River which hosts the annual Henley on Todd Regatta Hands-on reptile park experience
• • • •
Day 2: Alice Springs to Kings Creek Station Gear up to try some ‘bush tucker’, meet members of the Walpiri Aboriginal community & learn to throw a boomerang! Later, it’s on to Kings Creek Station for our cool overnight – go local like Aussie ‘bushies’ & sleep under the stars in a comfy swag. Outback Special Stay (B,D) Hike through Kings Canyon to the ‘Lost City’ & desert oasis ‘the Garden of Eden’ Sleep under the stars in a traditional Aussie ‘swag’ M Camel ride through an outback station
• •
Day 3: Kings Creek Station to Uluru Australia’s pin-up icon is next as we make tracks to Uluru. Take a walk through its neighbour – the Olgas before cooking up an optional BBQ dinner. Lodge (B) Wake up to the smell of fresh cooked bacon & eggs, just how you like it See the 700 million year old Mt Conner & Lake Amadeus Hike through ‘Kata-Tjuta’ (The Olgas)
• • •
Day 4: Uluru Don’t miss the changing colours of an Uluru sunrise, then if you’re up for it, take a walk around ‘The Rock’ for some close up angles & hear stories of this amazing area & its Aboriginal rock art. Tonight, toast the trip & catch a legendary Uluru sunset while sipping a glass of bubbly. Lodge (B) Visit the Uluru Cultural Centre See Uluru at sunrise Drink a toast to Uluru at sunset
•• •
Day 5: Uluru to Alice Springs Back in Alice, maybe burn around the outback on a quad bike, or just sit pool side & work on your tan. Hotel (B) Indulge in a yummy BBQ ‘Big Brekkie’
•
Day 6: Alice Springs to Tennant Creek Our ‘Top End’ adventure begins today – we’ll cross the Tropic of Capricorn to Aussie’s old mining town, Tennant Creek. Hotel (B,D) Keep your eyes peeled for UFOs at Wycliffe Well Visit the ‘Devil’s Marbles’
• •
Day 7: Tennant Creek to Katherine Stop & ‘knock one back’ at the Territory’s oldest pub before making a splash in Mataranka Thermal Pools. Later, it’s on to the lush river town of Katherine & its famous gorge. Hotel (B) Chill out & swim at the Mataranka thermal pools Hear stories from ‘We of the Never Never’ Homestead, made famous by the book of the same name
• •
Day 8: Katherine to Kakadu National Park Hike, walk, or take an optional boat trip to see the massive Katherine Gorge up close.
This afternoon we’ll hit the road to Kakadu National Park via Edith Falls for a swim. Hotel (B,D) Visit Katherine Gorge Cool off in Edith Falls before heading into World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park
••
Day 9: Kakadu National Park Explore Kakadu today – its variety of gorgeous landscapes, wildlife & arguably Australia’s best Aboriginal rock art at Nourlangie Rock & Ubirr will seriously impress. Hotel (B) See the Aboriginal rock art Visit Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre M Scenic flight over this World Heritage Listed area
••
Day 10: Kakadu to Darwin Take a cruise to spot some crocs & wildlife, before we head to Darwin! Get your bearings on a city tour & visit the local museum to learn about its historical past. With free time, spend the afternoon doing what you like – maybe take a sunset cruise (seasonal) or hit the shops. Hotel (B) Keep your eyes peeled for crocs on a wildlife cruise Guided city tour of Darwin Visit the Darwin Museum
5 2 2 30 27 25 22 20 17 14
Finish A.Springs
Total Cost A$ pp*
Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan
27 25 22 20 17 14 12 9 7 4
1705 1705 1705 1665 1665 1665 1665 1665 1619 1619
Feb Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep
1 1 29 26 24 21 19 16 13
1619 1619 1619 1735 1735 1735 1709 1709 1709
2013
2014 Jan Feb Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep
Start Darwin
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep
17 15 12 10 7 ▲ 4 2 30 27 25
22 19 19 16 14 11 9 6 3
* Prices above are based on maximum quad-share. Single room supplement add A$869/add A$285 twin-share. TEADD: Start A.Springs 12:00 noon & end Darwin 6:00pm. TEDAD: Start Darwin 7:30am & end A.Springs 9:00am. ▲ This tour ends in Alice Springs on the Henley on Todd Regatta day. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.
Outback Adventure 11 days What’s Included: 10 nights multi-share accommodation: 7 nights in hotels, 1 night at an outback bush camp in a comfy Aussie ‘swag’, 2 nights in a lodge (more on p.48-49) 14 meals: 10 breakfasts (B) 4 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging Sightseeing tours of all major cities National Park fees, local taxes & service charges
$
SAVE Pay early & save up to A$130. See p.9 for details.
2 World Heritage sites visited
you choose It’s your choice - travel from Alice Springs to Darwin, or from Darwin to Alice Springs.
HENLEY ON TODD REGATTA DAY If you are travelling on the August 18th 2013 departure, why not arrive in Alice Springs a day early for the Henley on Todd Regatta? This dry boat race on the bed of the Todd River makes for a fun day out with the locals. See www.henleyontodd.com.au
• ••
Day 11: Darwin A swim in famous (& gorgeous) Florence Falls is a must in Litchfield National Park. Check out the incredible termite mounds found here too. Don’t forget to pick up a didgeridoo & meet some local Aboriginal artists before it’s time to farewell your travel buddies & swap email addresses. (B) Enjoy a swim in Florence Falls
•
kakadu
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Visit contiki.com.au/kakadu CH
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Litchfield N.P
6 Days
UR
ALICE & KAKADU
SE OO YO
E C TI O N
1 DARWIN 2 KAKADU N.P 1 KATHERINE Mataranka Daly waters
From A$1035pp* A$173 per day
GULF OF CARPENTARIA
NORTHERN TERRITORY
1 TENNANT CREEK Devils Marbles Wycliffe Well
Ti Tree
Alice Springs
ME Time optionals Look for the (M) symbol in the itinerary to make the most of your ME Time.
1
Places visited Nightstops
florence falls
Itinerary & Sightseeing What’s Included: Day 1: Darwin & Litchfield National Park Delve into the Northern Territory’s best-kept secret, Litchfield National Park & plunge into the cool pool of water below Florence Falls. Head back to Darwin & get ready for a night out on the town. Hotel See the unique, huge termite mounds See Litchfield’s rainforests & sandstone formations Enjoy a swim at Florence Falls
5 nights multi-share hotel accommodation: (more on p.48-49) 7 meals: 5 breakfasts (B) 2 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging Sightseeing tours of all major cities National Park fees, local taxes & service charges
How much & when Code: AKDAD 2013/14 Code: AKADD 2013/14 Start Darwin
Finish A.Springs
Total Cost A$ pp*
Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
1089 1089 1089 1065 1065 1065 1065 1065 1035 1035
2013
1 World Heritage site visited
you choose
Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Oct Nov Dec
17 15 12 10 7 4 2 30 27 25
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep
22 19 19 16 14 11 9 6 3
Start A.Springs
Finish Darwin
Total Cost A$ pp*
Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
10 8 5 3 31 28 25 23 20 18
1089 1089 1089 1089 1065 1065 1065 1065 1035 1035
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Sep
15 12 12 9 7 4 2 30 27 24
1035 1035 1035 1109 1109 1109 1095 1095 1095 1095
2013 22 20 17 15 12 9 7 4 2 30
2014
It’s your choice - travel from Darwin to Alice Springs, or from Alice Springs to Darwin.
• • •
Apr May May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
5 3 31 28 26 23 20 18 15 13
2014 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep
27 24 24 21 19 16 14 11 8
1035 1035 1035 1109 1109 1109 1095 1095 1095
Jan Feb Mar Apr May May Jun Jul Aug Sep
10 7 7 4 2 30 27 25 22 19
* Prices above are based on maximum quad-share. Single room supplement add A$469/add A$139 twin-share. AKDAD: Start Darwin 7:30am & end A.Springs 2:00pm. AKADD: Start A.Springs 9:00am & end Darwin 6:00pm. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
nourlangie rock
66-67 Alice & Kakadu_Rock & Red.indd 2
Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.
Day 2: Darwin to Kakadu National Park Today, hit the streets of tropical Darwin, an exotic, diverse place that combines East & West & attracts people from all over the country. Later we’ll wind our way to Kakadu National Park. Hotel (B,D) Darwin city tour See Darwin Harbour & the East Point Military Reserve Visit Darwin Museum, home to the Cyclone Tracy display Wildlife cruise to see crocodiles & native birds
Day 5: Katherine to Tennant Creek Chill out with a refreshing swim at Mataranka before stopping & ‘knocking one back’ at the oldest pub in the Territory. Tonight, stay in Tennant Creek surrounded by million-acre cattle stations & local Aboriginal communities. Hotel (B,D) Swim in the Mataranka thermal pools Visit Elsey, the historic ’We of the Never Never’ homestead Visit Daly Waters – famous outback pub
• • •
•
Stay in the ‘true blue’ Aussie outback town of Tennant Creek
Day 6: Tennant Creek to Alice Springs Experience the age-old, mythological Devils Marbles rocks before crossing the Tropic of Capricorn & arriving in Alice Springs where the tour ends & it’s time to say farewell to your new friends. (B) Maybe sight a UFO in Wycliffe Well! See Aboriginal art & didgeridoos in Ti Tree’s local art gallery
• •
•• • •
Day 3: Kakadu National Park Be stunned by the ecological ‘jewel’ of Kakadu & its variety of superb landscapes, abundance of wildlife & arguably Australia’s best Aboriginal rock art found at places like Nourlangie Rock. Hotel (B) Walk & see the Aboriginal rock art Visit the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre M Scenic flight over this World Heritage Listed area
• •
Day 4: Kakadu National Park to Katherine Continue on, via Edith Falls, to the lush river town of Katherine. On the way, stop & walk, or take an optional boat trip for an up close experience with dramatic Katherine Gorge. Hotel (B) Visit mighty Katherine Gorge & see the sheer rock walls & wildlife M Locally guided cruise of beautiful Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge
•
12/02/2013 10:34
66 | 67 Visit contiki.com.au/rock CH
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ROCK & RED
australia
SE OO YO
E C TI O N
5 Days
Rock & Red 5 days backstage pass
From A$849pp* A$170 per day
Inclusions • Alice Springs Aboriginal ‘Dreamtime Bushtucker’ tour • Alice Springs Reptile Centre experience • Uluru sunset drinks & nibbles NORTHERN TERRITORY
KINGS CANYON 1 The Olgas
1 1
kings canyon
• • • •
Day 2: Alice Springs to Kings Creek Station Gear up to try some ‘bush tucker’, meet members of the Walpiri Aboriginal community & learn to throw a boomerang! Later, it’s on to Kings Creek Station for our cool overnight – go local like Aussie ‘bushies’ & sleep under the stars in a comfy swag. Outback Special Stay (B,D) Hike through Kings Canyon
•
to the ‘Lost City’ & desert oasis ‘the Garden of Eden’ Sleep under the stars in a traditional Aussie ‘swag’ M Quad-bike adventure
•
Day 3: Kings Creek Station to Uluru Australia’s pin up icon is next as we make tracks to Uluru. Take a walk through its neighbour – the Olgas. Lodge (B) Wake up to the smell of fresh cooked bacon & eggs, just how you like it See the 700 million year old Mt Conner & Lake Amadeus Hike through ‘Kata-Tjuta’ (The Olgas)
• • •
1 ALICE SPRINGS
ULURU
ME Time optionals
Places visited Nightstops Special Stay night
Look for the (M) symbol in the itinerary to make the most of your ME Time. M Helicopter flight over Kings Canyon
How much & when
Itinerary & Sightseeing Day 1: Alice Springs Meet up with your Contiki Team & explore the Outback’s unofficial capital, ‘The Alice’, famous for its remoteness, classic Aussie locals & Aboriginal art. Maybe hold a snake or lizard at our reptile park experience (if you’re game). Hotel (D) Catch a look at the MacDonnell Ranges from ANZAC Hill See the stunning Aboriginal site of Simpsons Gap See the dry Todd River which hosts the annual Henley on Todd Regatta Hands-on reptile park experience
2
Day 5: Uluru to Alice Springs Say farewell to Uluru Kata-Tjuta National Park today. Take the option of leaving from Uluru this morning or continue to Alice Springs where your tour ends this afternoon. (B) Indulge in a yummy BBQ ‘Big Brekkie’
•
the outback
Code: AEDAD 2013/14 Code: AEADD 2013/14 Start A.Springs
Finish A.Springs
Total Cost A$ pp*
2013 Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
22 20 17 15 12 ▲ 9 7 4 2 30
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep
27 24 24 21 19 16 14 11 8
Start A.Springs
Finish A.Springs
Total Cost A$ pp*
2013 Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan
26 24 21 19 16 13 11 8 6 3
895 895 895 869 869 869 869 849 849 849
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep
31 28 28 25 23 20 18 15 12
849 849 849 909 909 909 895 895 895
2014
Day 4: Uluru Don’t miss the changing colours of an Uluru sunrise, then if you’re up for it, take a walk around ‘The Rock’ for some close up angles & hear stories of this amazing area & its Aboriginal rock art. Tonight, toast the trip & catch a legendary Uluru sunset while sipping a glass of bubbly. Lodge (B) Visit the Uluru Cultural Centre See Uluru at sunrise Drink a toast to Uluru at sunset M Ride a Harley Davidson around Uluru
Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
28 26 23 21 18 15 13 10 8
May May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
2 30 27 25 22 19 17 14 12
895 895 895 869 869 869 869 849 849
Jan Feb Mar Apr May May Jun Jul Aug Sep
9 6 6 3 1 29 26 24 21 18
849 849 849 849 909 909 909 895 895 895
2014 Jan Feb Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep
5 2 2 30 27 25 22 20 17 14
* Prices above are based on maximum quad-share.
•• •
simpsons gap
Plus Special Stay • Kings Creek Station Outback Bush Camp
Single room supplement add A$455/add A$145 twin-share. AEDAD: Start A.Springs 1:30pm & end A.Springs 5:00pm. AEADD: Start A.Springs 12:00 noon & end A.Springs 5:00pm. ▲ This tour ends in Alice Springs on the 16th August, why not stay another night & experience the Henley on Todd Regatta day on the 17th August 2013 For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see p.74. For travel insurance see p.73.
What’s Included: 4 nights multi-share accommodation: 1 night in a hotel, 1 night at an outback bush camp in a comfy Aussie ‘swag’, 2 nights in a lodge (more on p.48-49) 6 meals: 4 breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging Sightseeing tours of all major cities National Park fees, local taxes & service charges
1 World Heritage site visited
HENLEY ON TODD REGATTA DAY If you are travelling on the August 18th 2013 departure, why not arrive in Alice Springs a day early for the Henley on Todd Regatta? This dry boat race on the bed of the Todd River makes for a fun day out with the locals. See www.henleyontodd.com.au
uluru
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CONTIKI & DIVING CHOOSE FROM 2 GREAT DIVE PACKAGES
• LEARN TO DIVE (BEGINNERS) • DIVE TO ADVENTURE (CERTIFIED DIVERS)
One of Australia’s must do’s is diving the Great Barrier Reef. If you’ve never dived before or if you’re more experienced – exploring the Reef is hard to beat. With 2 great dive packages there’s something for everyone. The Great Barrier Reef is the largest reef on the planet, a natural wonder of the world & a World Heritage site with 400 different types of coral & 1500 species of fish – so it’s pretty amazing. If you’re up for it you can even dive at night & see a whole different side of this amazing spot. Our diving experiences are not to be missed & are available with tours that start/finish in Cairns. Tours include Reefs & Rainforests (p.52-53), Beaches & Reefs (p.54-55), The Sun Seeker (p.56-57), Island & Rainforest (p.60) & Tropical Wonder (p.62).
PADI (Professional Association of Dive Instructors) is the largest dive education company in the world - prodivecairns.com
What’s Included: 2 nights twin-share accommodation on boat 7 meals: 2 breakfasts (B), 3 lunches (L) & 2 dinners (D) Transfers from Cairns accommodation to boat 11 dives incl. 2 night dives (weather permitting) Dive & snorkelling equipment Dive insurance
Visit contiki.com.au/dive-adventure
DIVE TO ADVENTURE 3 DAYS From A$655pp* A$219 per day
Important Info: You must hold a minimum of an ‘open water dive’ certificate to take this trip. Some taxes are payable directly to Pro Dive at the end of the course incl. the Environmental Management charge at a cost of A$60. If you’re staying at an alternative hotel to Rydges Esplanade Resort prior to your dive trip, you’ll need to inform Pro Dive in order to arrange your transfer on day 1 (prodivecairns.com or 07 4031 5255). Safety dictates that you can’t fly or go to an altitude of 300m+ within 24 hrs of your last dive (approx. 12:00 noon). A 3 day snorkelling package is also available at a cost of A$575 plus A$60 EMC payable locally – see contiki.com au/snorkel. Package is open age.
What’s Included: 4 nights accommodation: 2 nights in a hostel (multi-share), 2 nights on a dive boat (twin-share) Transfers from Cairns accommodation to training centre & boat 7 meals: 2 breakfasts (B), 3 lunches (L) & 2 dinners (D) PADI ‘Open Water’ certificate & manual Log book & Scuba equipment Important Info: An Australian diving medical certificate is needed. It can be arranged at a cost of A$55 on Day 1. Some taxes are payable directly to Pro Dive at the end of the course incl. the Environmental Management charge at a cost of A$60. If you’re staying at an alternative hotel to Rydges Esplanade Resort prior to your dive trip, you’ll need to inform Pro Dive in order to arrange your transfer on day 1 (prodivecairns. com or 07 4031 5255). Safety dictates that you can’t fly or go to an altitude of 300m+ within 24 hours of your last dive (approx. 12:00 noon). Package is open age.
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Dive to adventure package This 3 day live aboard dive & snorkelling adventure will show you the very best of the Outer Great Barrier Reef. It’s also unmatched for value – you’ll participate in up to 11 dives over 16 exclusive dive sites. Day 1: Cairns to the dive boat An early pickup (5:55am) this morning & it’s off to the dive boat & out to The Great Barrier Reef to start your adventure. The sites you’ll visit have been selected for their variety & quality of coral & marine life as well as great visibility. Boat (L,D) Day 2: Dive boat Today gives you the opportunity to explore this World Heritage listed underwater playground, but also to relax & really
Visit contiki.com.au/dive
LEARN TO DIVE 5 DAYS From A$975pp* A$195 per day
enjoy yourself diving & snorkelling. Back onboard, it’s good fun with your fellow divers, stories, shared experiences, great food & a spectacular sunset. Boat (B,L,D) Day 3: Dive boat There’s more diving or snorkeling in different areas of the reef today & later, return to Cairns in the late afternoon where there’s an included transfer back to your hotel. (B,L)
Tour code: CDTA
Learn to Dive package This 5 day course takes you to 9 of the Great Barrier Reef’s best dive sites & features 2 days of classroom & in-pool training, then it’s on to the live aboard boat for some actual reef diving. There’s also plenty of time to snorkel, relax & just enjoy the reef experience too. Days 1-2: Cairns The first 2 days of the course are spent at Pro Dive Cairns modern training centre learning the theory & practical skills of scuba diving. Each day finishes around 5:30pm. Hostel Days 3-4: Cairns to the dive boat The next 3 days & 2 nights are spent living onboard a premium dive vessel. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in 9 dives on a variety of our 16 exclusive dive sites on the outer Great Barrier Reef. Your first 4 dives
will complete your open water certification & then as a certified diver you are able to take up to 5 more recreational dives. One of these dives is a guided night dive! These extra dives will be a highlight of your course & a truly memorable experience. Boat (L,D) (B,L,D) Day 5: Dive boat to Cairns Return to Cairns in the late afternoon where there’s the option to join your new mates & crew for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,L)
Tour code: CLTD
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68 | 69 Visit contiki.com.au/sydney-new-year
australia
SYDNEY NEW YEAR
Sydney New Year 4 days
4 Days From A$1355pp* A$339 per day
HARBOUR BRIDGE FIREWORKS
Itinerary & Sightseeing Spend New Years Eve in Sydney Sydney’s New Years Eve celebrations are one of the most spectacular in the world, centred around the city’s famous harbour. With the Harbour Bridge as a backdrop, you’ll see some of the most incredible fireworks ever, as you ring in the New Year in Sydney. To top it off, the streets are filled with a young, fun crowd & all the bars, clubs, lounges & pubs are absolutely pumping. During the day, there’s loads to explore. Hit Bondi Beach, chill at some of the city’s fantastic restaurants, indulge in some incredible shopping – the options are endless. This tour gives you a few days in this cool city so you can start the New Year Contiki-style!
We
Sydney
ME Time optionals
Day 1: Sydney This afternoon check in to the hotel. Later, meet up with your Tour Manager & group & get to know your new travel buddies over a drink & dinner. Hotel (D) Day 2: Sydney With sightseeing this morning you’ll get to see all that Sydney has to offer, including some of its eastern beaches, like Bondi. Tonight, get ready to ring in the New Year from a different angle, as you board a Sydney harbour cruise. See a light show & the city’s famous fireworks explode across the sky, complete with drinks & tasty nibbles. There’s even an on-board DJ so you can dance the night away! Hotel (B) M Climb Sydney’s most famous icon, the Sydney Harbour Bridge
Sydney Opera House
Look for the (M) symbol in the itinerary to make the most of your ME Time.
What’s Included: 3 nights triple-share centrally located hotel accommodation (more on p.48-49) (essential to pre-book at bridgeclimb.com) Day 3: Happy New Year! Today is yours to chill out. Have a late ‘recovery’ lunch then later in the afternoon you could venture to Bondi Beach
to soak up some sun & get into the buzzing vibe of this sunny city. Hotel (B) Day 4: Sydney Your New Year’s adventure ends after breakfast & it’s time to say farewell to your new friends. (B)
4 meals: 3 breakfasts (B) & 1 dinner (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager Harbour cruise to watch the New Year fireworks, with drinks, nibbles & a DJ Half-day guided sightseeing tour of Sydney including Bondi Beach Local taxes & service charges
How much? Tour code: SNYED
Shopping: Crown St. in Surry Hills is perfect for finding unique vintage threads. Eating: Newtown is packed with authentic Vietnamese joints to satisfy your cravings. Partying: Darlinghurst is the spot, from cute bars to clubs there’s endless variety.
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Start Sydney
Finish Sydney
2013
2014
Dec 30
Jan 2
Tour A$ pp*
1355
* Price above is triple-share. Twin & single supplements available. If you are travelling solo, we can set you up with a same sex roommate at no extra charge. Tour starts at 5:00pm, check in from 3:00pm.
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Aussie’s festival scene goes off & being a part of the action is a must. want to watch the world’s hottest bands at Splendour in the Grass? then do it Contiki style.
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July 2013* * Date not confirmed at time of print. Check contiki.com.au/splendour for dates & prices. Don’t miss Australia’s hottest 3 day annual music, arts & youth culture festival in northern New South Wales, Australia. This event is always a sell out – so get in quick. We make it easy with our inclusions… a ticket to the festival & accommodation… so you’re totally sorted. All you need is to get ready for good times with an amazing crew. Splendour’s unique atmosphere rocks & an unparalleled line-up of international & local bands means you’ll experience a line-up that is second to none on the Australian festival circuit.
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got a question?
Answers to frequently asked questions & things you need to know: What’s included? • Coach, train, ferry transport, internal flights as listed in the ‘What’s included’ section. • Accommodation & meals as listed in the ‘What’s included’ section on tour pages. • Sightseeing listed in the ‘Included highlights’ section in each tour itinerary. Unless specified, entrance fees to these locations are included. • Experienced Contiki Tour Manager & Driver.
What’s not included? • Air & ferry transfers to tour departure point. • Personal expense money. • Visas, personal insurance, medical fees. • Sightseeing, visits & entrance fees other than those specified on tour pages. • Optional excursions & activities such as whitewater rafting, helicopter flights, bungy jumping, hot air ballooning, etc. • Lunches (unless specified under “What’s included”) & some dinners.
Included flights Flights as specified on individual tour itineraries are included as part of the price.
As detailed within our Booking Conditions (p.75) under ‘General’ we rely on international conventions regarding air travel and other transportation as specified. Through enrolment and payment for your tour you acknowledge and accept such. Individual electronic tickets may not be issued to you prior to travel due to the group nature of the air/flight booking. In such circumstances you acknowledge that by receipt of any applicable boarding pass and/ or by boarding the aircraft you have accepted the airlines terms & conditions of travel and the application of all relevant International Conventions and applicable national and international law governing air transportation.
Will I get more information? Upon receipt of final payment, your documentation will be released 21 days prior to your departure. You’ll receive a comprehensive day-by-day itinerary including full details & costs of all optional activities available on your tour. Your free Contiki document wallet & luggage tag* will be sent to you with your travel
documents. The wallet is a safe place for your tickets & passport. * Contiki reserves the right to substitute an alternative travel accessory for the Contiki document wallet.
How much luggage can I bring? Luggage is restricted to a maximum suitcase size of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”) & maximum weight of 20 kg (44lbs) plus one small hand/day bag that can go on the coach with you. On tours which include Flotilla Sailing, a small bag suitable for the extremely limited luggage space is required. Your regular luggage will be stored during this time. No external metal frame backpacks please. Contiki reserves the right to refuse to accept larger suitcases on tour. If you have your own ski/boarding equipment, you may bring one pair of boots & skis or snowboard. Otherwise, your Tour Manager can arrange these for you in Queenstown on tour. Baggage is carried at the owner’s risk & baggage insurance is strongly recommended. Remember,
if your tour includes a flight you are also subject to airline baggage restrictions. Note: Contiki is not responsible for any fees incurred as a result of overweight luggage.
How much money do I need? You should be able to use debit & credit cards for most items. You’ll need to allow enough money to cover lunches, some dinners, souvenirs, shopping, drinks, optional activities, entrance fees to attractions & evening entertainment. It is advisable to start your tour with some cash in your destination’s local currencies such as A$ or NZ$.
What should I pack? Comfortable, casual clothing for day wear & ‘smart/casual’ for dining & those nights out. Remember that in Autumn/Winter you will need warmer clothing as well as a raincoat/jacket. A pair of comfortable walking shoes is essential. For further details, please go to contiki.com.au/ travel-resources.
me time Optional Activities WHEN DO I CHOOSE? Optionals are arranged & paid for on tour. By leaving the final decisions until then you can choose at the same time as your new friends. You’ll get great value as we get you great rates & your Tour Manager can offer personal advice. Some activities are seasonal & weather dependent as well.
HOW DO I PAY? You pay on tour with major credit cards, debit cards or cash (A$ in Australia or NZ$ in New Zealand).
Past traveller 5% discount Eligibility for this discount is based on clients having booked & travelled with Contiki (or one of our Travel Corporation sister brands, visit www.thetravelcorporation.com for details) within 5 years of their last tour. Clients must have completed a tour before they can redeem the discount on a subsequent tour booking. Only one discount can be redeemed per past traveller annually. A deposit must be received before the discount can be applied to the booking. It is not available on pre & post-tour accommodation rates & other selected products. The discount applies to brochured prices only & cannot be combined with any non-brochured special market promotions.
Brochure authenticity We have put a great deal of effort into producing this brochure. The information given & literature produced by Contiki has been compiled with care & is published in good faith. Sometimes, because of circumstances outside our control, we have to alter some activities due to seasonal closing or repairs to buildings, etc., especially early or late in the season. If this happens, alternatives will be arranged.
Do I need vaccinations? At the time this brochure went to press (February 2013), no vaccinations were necessary. However, it is wise to check up-to-date information with your travel agent or Contiki prior to departure. Don’t forget to bring with you any medication that you may require en route, such as antihistamines or antibiotics.
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72 | 73 Visit contiki.com.au/travel-resources
Seasonality & climate
Booking Security
Gold Seal Protection
Being such a large land mass, Australia is prone to seasonal climate changes. This will mean that at certain times of the year some of our brochured itineraries may need to be slightly changed. For example: northern Australia itineraries during the wet season (December to April). Inland alpine areas of the South Island in New Zealand can be as cold as -10oC between May & October.
Contiki has been running tours for young people since 1962 & is a member of the Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA). The members include all the major tour operators who are financially bonded for your security & who maintain the highest standards. With the guarantees of these organisations, you know your holiday & money are secure with Contiki.
Do I need visas?
It is strongly recommended that you check in to your tour prior to departure at contiki.com.au/ checkin. Checking in will save you time on your first day of tour, give you essential information & also ensure that Contiki can contact you in the unlikely event of any changes to your trip due to matters out of our control. For more information on how to get more before & after your tour see p.10.
Coverage for Cancellation & Return Flight Security: Most tour operators are interested in their passengers only after they reach their destination. With Contiki, however, you get a great deal even before you leave home. Pre-paid Cancellation Option A$99 per person: By paying A$99 per person Cancellation Option fee with your deposit, the full amount of your deposit &/or payment to Contiki Holidays will be refunded should you cancel your tour for any reason prior to departure from Australia. This cancellation option covers the land arrangements made by Contiki Holidays only. On Your Tour: Should you, or your travel companion, leave at any time during the tour for personal sickness reasons or be required to return to Australia due to injury, sickness or death, you & your companion will be refunded A$40 per person per day for the unused portion of the tour. (Please note that in some cases hotels require a one night cancellation fee). A Doctor’s certificate is required. The Cancellation Option Fee is not refundable for any reason. Return Flight Security: If you or a member of your direct family in Australia should fall sick* while you are on your Contiki tour, we will take care of the additional cost of tickets for your earlier or later return home in the same class of air travel on the first available flight, provided you hold round-trip airline tickets on Contiki’s recommended airline(s) booked through Contiki Holidays (Australia) Pty Ltd from Australia.
Please read carefully. Depending on your nationality, you may require a visa to enter Australia & New Zealand. You are fully responsible for obtaining all necessary visas prior to the departure of your tour. Contiki is not legally permitted to knowingly allow anybody who does not have a valid visa to join a tour. Consult Contiki or your travel agent to determine any visas you require & how to obtain them.
no compulsory tipping reward only excellence! Every country in the world has different tipping customs & in Australia & New Zealand, within service industries, tipping is common practice. Tipping is totally optional & only given if you feel the service has exceeded your expectations. If you think your Contiki Team have done an exceptional job then you may wish to tip them. This is entirely discretionary – it’s completely up to you. No compulsory tipping – reward only excellence!
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Online check-in
The above is only applicable to Customers who are departing Australia to travel on a New Zealand tour * Medical certificates as proof of all illness claims must be supplied.
Photography credits Travel insurance Cancellation, unexpected medical expenses, injuries, theft, lost luggage or money can significantly disrupt & ruin your holiday. Contiki very strongly recommends that you take out comprehensive insurance cover for cancellation, medical expenses, evacuation & repatriation expenses, personal accident, personal baggage, money & public liability before you travel. In some instances, you may not be accepted on a Contiki holiday unless you have arranged satisfactory insurance. You also agree to indemnify us against all third-party claims, actions, damages & remedies against us arising from your participation in your holiday. For insurance details, please speak to your travel agent or Contiki when you are booking your tour.
Photos courtesy of AJ Hackett Bungy Queenstown p.6 Bungy Jumping, Photos courtesy of NZONE Skydive p.6, p.19, p.34 Skydiving, Photos courtesy of Raging Thunder p.6, p.44 Whitewater Rafting, Photos courtesy of Çapkin van Alphen-CauseCentric Productions p.11 &.35 Bungy Jumping, Photos courtesy of Real Journeys p.18 & 31 Milford Sound Cruise, Photos courtesy of Fox Glacier Guiding p.18 Fox Glacier Hike, Photos courtesy of Interislander p.23 Boat Cruise, Photos courtesy of Abel Tasman Hotel Wellington p.23 Hotel Room, Photos courtesy of Explore NZ Bay of Islands p.25 Catamaran Cruise & p.33 Dolphin Spotting, Photos courtesy of Julie Salsbury p.31 Fox Glacier Hiking, Photos courtesy of AJ Hackett Bungy Queenstown p.6 Bungy Jumping, Photos courtesy of © Destination Queenstown p.34 Remarkables Ski Field Lookout, Stag on Deer Park Heights Queenstown, Remarkables Ski Field, Photos courtesy of Bridge Climb Sydney otto Holdings (Aust) Pty Limited p.44 Sydney Harbour Bridge, Photos courtesy of Mojo Surf p.49 Surfing & p.52 “Surf Board Hire” Sign, Photos courtesy of Pauls Extreme Skydiving p.62 Skydiving, Photos courtesy of Pro Dive Cairns p.62 Diving, Photos courtesy of Splendour p.71 Concert. HUGE thanks… We’d like to say a huge thank you to our Aussie & NZ suppliers, talent, friends & colleagues who helped pull together our stills & video shoot - this would not have been possible without you! A special thanks also goes out to Jonas & Quinn, John, Sara, Sam, Chelsea, Lana, Muzz & Greg, Josie, Jaynee & the General Pants Australia team. We love you!
12/02/2013 10:59
tour departure points & stay longer options
Look up the start city of your tour below for departure point information about where your tour starts & how to get there. There are also details on how to extend your holiday & stay longer either before or after your tour (marked below as PRE & POST). Take advantage of our specially negotiated ‘Stay Longer’ hotel rates listed below, which can be arranged through Contiki or your travel agent when you book your tour. For the most up-to-date details go to contiki.com.au/staylonger & contiki.com.au/departurepoints.
Australia ALICE SPRINGS Ibis Styles Alice Springs 10 Gap Road, Alice Springs: Nestled in the foothills of the MacDonnell Ranges, this hotel’s features include a tennis court, swimming pool & heated spa. Rooms are air-conditioned & have TV, direct dial telephone & tea/coffee making facilities. Getting there: The Ibis Styles Alice Springs is 12km (7 miles) from Alice Springs Airport. A taxi to the hotel costs approx. A$25 or a shuttle bus is available for approx. A$15. Alice Springs Departures: Start at 12:00noon: Outback Adventure, Rock & Red (AEADD version). Start at 9:00am: Alice & Kakadu. Start at 1:30pm: Rock & Red (AEDAD version). Stay longer rates (inc. breakfast): Quad: A$65 Twin: A$90 Single: A$145
CAIRNS Rydges Esplanade Resort Corner The Esplanade & Kerwin Street, Cairns: Located a 15 minute walk from the heart of Cairns overlooking the Coral Sea, the resort features 3 swimming pools, tennis court, business centre, brasserie & lobby bar, & fully-equipped health & fitness centre. Getting there: Rydges Esplanade Resort is 6km (4 miles) from Cairns International Airport. A taxi to the hotel is approx. A$15 or a shuttle bus is available from approx. A$8. Cairns Departures: Start at 7:30am: Reefs & Rainforests, Island & Rainforest. Start at 7:00am: Beaches & Reefs, The Sun Seeker, Tropical Wonder. Stay longer rates (inc. breakfast): Quad: A$59 Twin: A$95 Single: A$160
DARWIN Travelodge Mirambeena Resort 64 Cavenagh Street, Darwin: Conveniently located, the Travelodge Mirambeena Resort rooms are all air-conditioned with TVs & in-house movies. Set in tropical surrounds, the hotel has two swimming pools, a licensed restaurant & fitness room. Getting there: The Travelodge Mirambeena Resort is 13km (8 miles) from Darwin International Airport. Darwin Airport Shuttle Service meets all incoming flights & will drop off at the hotel on request (approx. A$16). A taxi fare is approx. A$25. Darwin Departures: Start at 7:30am: Outback Adventure, Alice & Kakadu, The Big Walkabout. Stay longer rates (inc. breakfast): Quad: A$125 Twin: A$155 Single: A$239 (1/4/13 - 30/10/13) Quad: A$105 Twin: A$110 Single: A$160 (1/11/13 - 31/3/14) Quad: A$130 Twin: A$165 Single: A$250 (1/4/14 - 30/9/14)
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SURFERS PARADISE Australis Sovereign Hotel 138 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise: Located a 10 minute walk from the action of central Surfers, the hotel features a lagoon style pool with beach area, heated spa & sauna, restaurant & bar. Getting there: There are 2 airports servicing Surfers Paradise. Gold Coast airport is approx. 12km (7 miles) or 30 minutes drive south, & transfer shuttles cost approx. A$22 one way. Brisbane airport is approx. 90km (56 miles) or one & a half hours north, & transfer shuttles cost approx. A$46 one way. There is also an airport train to the Gold Coast, costing A$31.90. Alight at Nerang Station then it’s a 12km taxi ride into Surfers Paradise. Surfers Paradise Departures: Start at 4:30pm: The Sun Seeker.
SYDNEY The Holiday Inn Potts Point Corner Victoria Street & Darlinghurst Road, Potts Point: Ideally positioned in the heart of Potts Point & Kings Cross entertainment precincts with the Sydney CBD close by, the Holiday Inn features a restaurant & bar. Rooms are air-conditioned, with en suite bathrooms, tea & coffee making facilities, TV & mini bar. Getting there: The Holiday Inn Potts Point is 16km (10 miles) from Sydney International Airport. Shuttle buses meet all incoming flights & will drop off at the hotel on request (from approx A$18). Also available is the airport link rail service which travels to Sydney Central Station then change trains for Kings Cross Station – located directly under the hotel (approx. A$16.70). The taxi fare from the airport terminals to Holiday Inn Potts Point is approx. A$45. Sydney Departures: Start at 7:00am: Reefs & Rainforests, Beaches & Reefs, Sunsets & Surf, City to Surf, The Big Walkabout. Start at 5:00pm (check in from 3.00pm): Sydney New Years Eve. Stay longer rates (inc. breakfast): Triple: A$90 Twin: A$120 Single: A$215
WHITSUNDAYS Island Option: Getting there: Our hotel is Daydream Island Resort. From Great Barrier Reef Airport (HTI) on Hamilton Island, Cruise Whitsundays meets flights for a 30 minute catamaran cruise to Daydream Island, departing from the jetty located directly at the airport. The cost of this transfer is not included in the tour price but may be ticketed in conjunction with flights (approx. cost A$45). From Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) at Proserpine, Cruise Whitsundays offer a streamlined transfer with a coach connection directly from the airport to Abel Point Marina in
Airlie Beach, where a connecting ferry transfers guests to Daydream Island (approx. cost A$52). Start at 5:00pm at Daydream Island: Sunsets & Surf, Island & Rainforests. Two night sailing option: Getting there: Check in is at the Pro Sail office, shop 1, 4 The Esplanade, Airlie Beach. From Great Barrier Reef Airport (HTI) on Hamilton Island, Cruise Whitsundays meet flights for a 30 minute catamaran cruise to Abel Point Marina, Airlie Beach, departing from the jetty located directly at the airport. The cost of this transfer is not included in the tour price but may be ticketed in conjunction with flights (approx. cost A$45). From Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) at Proserpine, Whitsunday Shuttle Service offers pre-booked transfers to Airlie Beach (approx. cost A$15). Clients should call Pro Sail on 1800 810 116 or 07 4946 7533 if they require assistance. Check in by 3:00pm at Airlie Beach: Sunsets & Surf, Island & Rainforests.
New Zealand AUCKLAND Mercure Hotel Auckland 8 Customs Street, Auckland: Situated in the centre of the city, within a short walking distance of the central shopping & tourist areas. Facilities include a brasserie-style restaurant & bar. Getting there: The Mercure Hotel Auckland is 22km (14 miles) from Auckland International Airport. The cheapest form of transport to & from Auckland Airport is the Airbus situated just outside the terminal building (approx. NZ$16pp). Other sources of available transport are shuttle vans (approx. NZ$25 pp) or taxis (approx. NZ$70). Auckland Departures: Start at 9:00am: The Big Tiki, Kiwiana Panorama, Northern Choice, Sun & Steam, Jaffas’n’Jandals. Stay longer rates (inc. breakfast): Twin: A$90 Single: A$165
CHRISTCHURCH Ibis Christchurch Hotel 107 Hereford St, Christchurch: Located in the centre of the city. An excellent base to make the most of the city sights. Amenities include a restaurant & bar. Getting there: Ibis Christchurch Hotel is 10km (6 miles) from Christchurch International Airport. The cheapest form of transport from the airport is shuttle van (approx. NZ$20 pp) or you can get a taxi (approx. NZ$40). Christchurch Departures: Start at 9:00am: The Big Tiki, Kiwiana Panorama, Sweet as South, Start at 10:00am: Sweet as South (reverse tour). Start at 4:00pm: Northern Choice tour. Stay longer rates (inc. breakfast): Twin: A$105 Single: A$210
QUEENSTOWN Queenstown Departures: Tanoa Aspen Hotel Fernhill Road, Fernhill Queenstown: The perfect place to explore the area with a great social atmosphere. Getting there: Tanoa Aspen Hotel is 8km (5 miles) from Queenstown International Airport. The cheapest transport to Aspen on Queenstown is the Connecta Bus (approx NZ$9) or shuttle bus (approx. NZ$20) or by taxi (approx. NZ$30). All accessible outside airport doors. Start at 6:00pm: The Big Tiki (17 day option), Kiwiana Panorama (14 day option) Stay longer rates (inc. breakfast): Twin: A$69 Single: A$119
WELLINGTON Abel Tasman Hotel 169 Willis Street, Wellington: Well located in the main shopping & business area & short walking distance to the waterfront & museums. Getting there: The Abel Tasman Hotel is 10km (6 miles) from Wellington International Airport. The cheapest form of transport from the airport is the orange Wellington Link bus situated just outside the terminal & to the right (approx. NZ$7.50 pp). Get off at Courtney Place. Other forms of transport are shuttle vans (approx. NZ$25 pp) or taxis (approx. NZ$35). Wellington Departures: Start at 6:00pm: Northern Choice (10 day reverse tour option). Start at 7:00am: Sweet as South (10 day option). Stay longer rates (inc. breakfast): Twin: A$79 Single: A$130
NOTE: • Rates are per person per night including private facilities. • Rooms are available in Australia & New Zealand for one night only. Extra nights will be on request. • Full payment is required 45 days before arrival. Cancellation within 14 days of arrival date incurs 100% cancellation fee. Any amendments incur a charge of A$35. • Rates only apply to Contiki clients booking extra accommodation directly before &/or after their tour. • If two people are sharing a room, booking must be made at the same time. • All hotels are subject to availability & where necessary, we may provide an alternative on your arrival.
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booking conditions
Once Contiki accepts your booking by confirmation thereof a contract is made between Contiki & you upon the terms & conditions set out below.
Our Responsibilities 1. YOUR HOLIDAY RESERVATION On receipt of your deposit, subject to availability & at our discretion, Contiki will reserve your place on your selected holiday. A contract is only made between you & us upon your booking being confirmed & accepted by us & our confirmation thereof to either you or your travel agent. 2. PRICE GUARANTEE Prices in this brochure are based on costs & exchange rates as at 14th January, 2013. Should these costs change, it may be necessary to make a surcharge on the price of your holiday. Should the total tour price increase by more than 10% you will have the right to cancel within 7 days of notification without penalty. No surcharge in respect of cost or currency fluctuations will be made once payment of the deposit for your land tour has been received. This guarantee excludes fuel surcharges & does not apply to any taxes, charges or levies imposed by any government or their agencies. In exchange for these guarantees, no refund will be made if costs are reduced. 3. IF WE CANCEL OR CHANGE YOUR HOLIDAY 3.1 Contiki reserves the right to change or cancel your booking in accordance with operating requirements or circumstances beyond its control. 3.2 Should change or cancellation prove necessary we will give you reasonable notice thereof, in the circumstances, & where available, offer you a comparable alternative. 3.3 If an alternative is not available or acceptable you will be entitled to either a full refund of monies paid by you to us or transfer to another Contiki holiday without payment of any transfer fee. 3.4 If the change or cancellation is due to force majeure (i.e. circumstances like political unrest, war or threat of war, riots, civil strife, closure of airports or ports, industrial disputes, terrorist activity, natural & nuclear disasters, fire, epidemic or health risk, Acts of God, adverse weather conditions or other similar events beyond Contiki’s control) we will give a full refund of any monies paid to us less reasonable expenses incurred by us in respect of your booking. 3.5 Contiki is not responsible for the costs of any other travel arrangements affected due to our cancellations or rescheduling of any tour departure. 4. HOLIDAY DETAILS & CONDITIONS 4.1 The information in our brochure is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of going to print (February, 2013) but we cannot guarantee that any item or amenity mentioned will be available especially where we have no direct control over it. 4.2 Contiki will do their best, at their discretion, to select accommodation, sightseeing tours & transportation to give you good value for money. 4.3 Contiki will guarantee to match you up with someone of the same sex when booked in a share room configuration. 4.4 Contiki constantly strives to improve tour itineraries & features. If such improvements can be made, or unforeseen circumstances beyond our control make changes necessary, we reserve the right to vary itineraries & to substitute hotels. Contiki is not responsible for any other travel arrangements affected due to our changes or cancellations. 5. LIABILITY 5.1 Your travel agent or Contiki Specialist shall, on the receipt of any monies, hold such monies for you until the booking is confirmed at which time those monies shall be remitted promptly by your travel agent or Contiki Specialist to us. All such monies received by us will be deposited as required by law. 5.2 We will be entitled to keep for our account any interest earned on such monies. 5.3 All monies paid by you to us through your travel agent or otherwise, whether in respect of the deposit or full payment, may be disbursed by us as & when we see fit, in respect of the services to be provided &/or fees payable under the tour programme. The payment of a deposit or any other monies in respect of your tour shall be deemed to be an authorisation for disbursement thereof as aforesaid.
YOur Responsibilities 1. BOOKING YOUR HOLIDAY 1.1 In order to reserve your holiday, a deposit of A$200, per person per tour, or the full amount payable if the booking is made within 45 days of your departure from Australia, must be submitted to Contiki by you in respect of that holiday. This payment is in addition to any deposit required by your travel agent. The deposit is accepted as a first instalment of the holiday price by Contiki only once the booking has been confirmed in writing by Contiki or your travel agent. 1.2 Your land reservation will be confirmed on receipt of a non refundable deposit of A$200 per person per tour which must be within 7 days of booking or the reservation will automatically be cancelled. 1.3 Any special meal requirements will be made on a request basis only. Contiki cannot guarantee special meal requests nor will it assume any responsibility or liability if clients’ special meal requirements are not fulfilled. 2. PAYING THE BALANCE 2.1 The balance of the holiday must be paid no later than 45 days prior to your departure date from Australia which shall be by the due date stated on the confirmation issued to you by Contiki. When making multi-tour bookings, full payment is due no later than 45 days prior to your departure date from Australia. 2.2 If payment isn’t made by the due date, Contiki may assume that you have cancelled & cancellation charges in accordance with clause 3 below will be levied by Contiki.
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2.3 Tickets & other documents won’t be forwarded until full payment has been received by us. The documentation will be sent approximately 21 days prior to your departure from Australia. 2.4 In the case of Late Bookings made within 45 days of your departure date from Australia, the full cost of the holiday will be payable immediately on booking & we reserve the right to provide all travel documents at the holiday departure point. 2.5 Contiki reserves the right to cancel the booking & apply cancellation charges should payments not be received within the above specified periods. 3. IF YOU CANCEL 3.1 Notice of cancellation must be made in writing to Contiki. 3.2 If you cancel more than 45 days before departure, your A$200 deposit will not be refunded, nor can it be credited to any other booking. 3.3 Upon cancellation you will be liable to pay a fee to cover the estimate of cost & expenses incurred by us in the terms of the schedule set out hereunder. This is expressed as a percentage of the holiday price & is calculated as follows: PERIOD OF NOTICE CANCELLATION FEE Over 45 days notice:..................................Deposit is forfeited 45-22 days: ............................................... 27.5% of tour fare 21-8 days: .................................................... 33% of tour fare 7-1 days: ...................................................... 55% of tour fare Day of departure: ........................................ 100% of tour fare Where the percentage cancellation fee is less than the tour deposit, the cancellation fee will equal loss of deposit. If the reason for cancellation falls within the terms of any holiday insurance policy which you hold, then any such charges may, subject to the terms of your insurance policy, be refunded to you by the insurance company. 3.4 Any cancellation of additional services booked prior to & after your tour booking, such as pre & post accommodation & transfers, that are cancelled within 14 days of the tour departure incur a 100% cancellation fee. 3.5 These cancellation fees are in addition to any cancellation fees that may be levied by your travel agent. 3.6 GOLD SEAL PROTECTION 3.6.1 By paying a non-refundable A$99 per person Cancellation Option fee with your deposit, the full amount of your deposit &/or payment to Contiki Holidays will be refunded should you cancel your tour for any reason prior to departure from Australia. This cancellation option covers the land arrangements made by Contiki Holidays only. 3.6.2 On Your Tour: Should you, or your travel companion*, booked under the same booking number leave at any time during the tour for personal sickness reasons or be required to return to Australia due to injury, sickness or death, you & your companion will be refunded A$40 per person per day for the unused portion of the tour. (Please note that in some cases hotels require a one night cancellation fee). A Doctor’s certificate is required. * Travel companion must be booked under the same booking number and only one companion can be nominated. 3.6.3 Return Flight Security: If you or a member of your direct family in Australia should fall sick* while you are on your Contiki tour, we will take care of the additional cost of tickets for your earlier or later return home in the same class of air travel on the first available flight, provided you hold round-trip airline tickets on Contiki’s recommended airline(s) booked through Contiki Holidays (Australia) Pty Ltd from Australia. * Medical certificates as proof of all illness claims must be supplied. 4. IF YOU CHANGE YOUR BOOKING 4.1 If after your booking has been confirmed & more than 45 days prior to tour departure, you wish to change to an alternate departure date or you wish to change to a different Contiki Tour within this brochure, you may do so subject to availability & provided the new tour or date alteration is also in this brochure. 4.2 A fee of A$35 per person, will be charged for any revision or alteration made to a reservation after the booking is confirmed unless the change increases the value of the booking. A change of tour date, tour itinerary booking within 45 days of tour departure will be treated as a cancellation, & normal cancellation fees will apply except when the change is to an earlier departure date of equivalent or greater value in which case a A$35 per person amendment fee will be charged. 5. HOLIDAY DETAILS & CONDITIONS 5.1 Please read the brochure carefully for those items included in the price. No allowance or refund can be made for meals, accommodation, excursions, etc. that you elect not to take, or when museums, shops, etc. are closed. Hotel facilities may vary from place to place. Meals may vary in style. 5.2 Legislation in various states in Australia has highlighted the issue of Age Discrimination. In terms of style & content, all of Contiki’s worldwide holidays are specifically designed for a particular age group. This fact should be recognised when you book one of our holidays. 5.3 Contiki strives to provide a safe, enjoyable & memorable travel experience for all passengers. Contiki welcomes passengers with special needs or disabilities. However, please note the following: • Passengers are required to advise Contiki, in advance, of any physical, medical or other special needs that require accommodation. • All guests must ensure they are medically & physically fit for travel. Contiki may impose safety requirements necessary
for the safe operation of the tour. Contiki may also exclude an individual from participating in a tour or an activity if that individual’s participation poses a direct threat to health or safety. • Contiki does not provide personal devices (such as wheelchairs, hearing aids or prescription eye glasses) or services of a personal nature (such as pushing a wheelchair or assistance in eating, toileting or dressing). A companion capable of providing such assistance must accompany any passenger who requires services of a personal nature. • Contiki does not employ medical personnel. Any necessary medical attention will be provided by a local facility at the passenger’s expense. Contiki is not responsible or liable for any losses or costs incurred as a result of medical services obtained while on tour, or for the quality of the care or services received. • Passengers should be aware some tours include rough terrain, extensive walking over uneven pavement, steps & locations which may not be easily accessible or accessible by wheelchair. During the tour, Contiki may make arrangements with carriers, hotels & other independent suppliers to provide travel services. These parties are independent entities over which Contiki has no control. Accommodation on international tours may differ from those in Australia. Contiki cannot guarantee disability access or accommodation for passengers travelling on international tours. • Contiki may, at its sole discretion, decline the booking of any passenger or remove any passenger who cannot comply or refuses to comply with Contiki’s terms & conditions. Contiki is not responsible for any costs incurred in the event a passenger is removed from a tour. Passengers agree not to hold Contiki or any of its related entities liable for any actions taken under these booking conditions. 5.4 You are responsible for all travel arrangements & costs to/ from the point of commencement/conclusion of the holiday. 5.5 There may be times when the Contiki representative has to make a decision in your best interests or the best interests of their group. You agree to comply with the authority & decisions of the appointed Contiki Representative & the laws of the country in which you are travelling. If you do not so comply or if, in the Contiki Representative’s opinion, you are not compatible with the general enjoyment & well being of other members on the holiday or smooth operation of the holiday itself, we reserve the right to refuse to let you continue with the holiday. We do not tolerate the possession or carriage of illegal or restricted substances (drugs). Furthermore, you agree that your fellow travellers & any Contiki Representative has the right to travel/work in a safe environment. Any threats to their safety, well being or inappropriate behaviour by you, whether verbal or physical, will be taken extremely seriously & may result in the immediate termination of your holiday. In either event, you will be responsible for your own repatriation & related costs & have no claims against us. 5.5.1 You are responsible for any costs incurred as a result of damage or excess cleaning fees related to your accommodation. You are advised to immediately report any pre-existing damage in your room to hotel staff &/or a Contiki Tour Manager as soon as it is discovered. 5.6 Where the passenger occupies a motorcoach seat fitted with a safety belt, neither the operator or service providers, agents or co-operating organisations shall be liable for any illness, injury or death or any loss or damages or claims whatsoever arising from any accident or incident, if the safety belt is not being worn at the time of the accident or incident. 5.7 It is your responsibility to have a valid passport and all visas, permits and certificates required for your selected holiday before your departure as well as any necessary vaccinations and to comply with all applicable laws. Contiki is not responsible for any costs incurred as a result of failing to obtain necessary visas. Any costs whatsoever regarding obtaining, replacing or changing visas whilst on tour (including accommodation, meals, flights and transfers incurred due to associated delays) are at your own expense. 5.8 You agree that our Contiki Tour Managers or representatives may take photographs & films of you while you are on holiday & that these may be used in our brochures &/or advertising or publicity material without obtaining any further consent or payment in respect of such photographs &/or films. 5.9 Should you have a complaint in respect of the holiday, you should inform the Contiki Tour Manager or Contiki Representative during the course of the holiday & if the matter cannot be resolved after the representative’s best endeavours to do so during the holiday, your complaint should be made in writing to Contiki as soon as is reasonably possible after the holiday but within 42 days thereof so that your complaint can be investigated. Any claims made after the 42 day period will not be considered by Contiki. If you choose to write to Contiki via the Internet, please provide your home address so that we are able to reply to you in writing. 5.10 The contract & all matters arising in respect hereof shall be subject to Australian Law, unless we agree otherwise in writing. 5.10.1 If any provision of this contract is held invalid or unenforceable by any court of competent jurisdiction, that provision shall be deemed to be re-written to give effect to the same purpose within the permitted limits of the law. The validity & enforceability of the other provisions shall not be affected. 5.10.2 If you are unsuccessful in any legal action instituted against us, you agree to pay all our costs, including but not limited to, attorney/client costs.
6. INSURANCE Contiki very strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive insurance cover for cancellation, medical expenses, personal accident, personal baggage, money & public liability before embarking on a Contiki holiday. Please check that the insurance covers all of the activities that you are going to be participating in. Some policies exclude certain adventure activities. This should be arranged at the time of payment of the deposit & will, in certain circumstances, cover you against loss of deposit or cancellation fees from the date of confirmation of your booking, as shown in the insurance policy. You also agree to indemnify us against all third-party claims, actions, damages & remedies which may be brought against us in respect of your participation in the holiday. 7. ILLNESS OR ABSENTEEISM In the event of your withdrawal from a holiday after the commencement as a result of illness, you must obtain a medical certificate in support of any insurance claim. No refunds will be made for any absence from the tour. 8. WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED IN THE HOLIDAY PRICE Airfares to & from your holiday destination, airport taxes, passport & visa fees, insurance, laundry, phone calls, beverages, personal expense money, medical fees, sightseeing, visits & entrance fees, meals not detailed in the itinerary, tips to Tour Managers & Tour Drivers, items of a personal nature, excess baggage, optional excursions & anything else not listed in the ‘what’s included’ section of the itinerary pages within this brochure. 9. WEATHER CONDITIONS Under no circumstances can we be held responsible for snow or weather conditions, nor can any holiday be cancelled or amended by you at any time on the basis of snow or weather conditions.
GENERAL 1. CONTRACTING PARTIES 1.1 The Booking Conditions detailed herein contain the entire contract between you & Contiki. No representation, term, warranty or condition can be expressed or implied by reference to any other writing, advertisement or conversation. This contract may only be varied in writing by a duly authorised officer or director of Contiki. 1.2 Your contract is with us as the tour operating company. At any time & at our complete discretion we may nominate to you in writing any other company or person to have the benefit of some or all of those provisions of this contract, which we may then specify, as if you had agreed the provisions concerned directly with that company or person in the first place as well as agreeing them with us. We may at our complete discretion assign all or any rights & liabilities arising under or by virtue of this or any other contract with you. 1.3 Transportation companies, airlines etc. are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board planes, transportation or conveyances. We rely on international conventions, national and international law, which may apply to the services provided by us, our suppliers or agents with respect to any claim of any nature brought by you against us as a result of the provision of those services. International conventions which apply may include: Warsaw Convention 1929, (as amended by Hague Protocol & Montreal Protocol) in relation to air travel, or Montreal Convention; the Berne Convention for rail travel; Athens Convention 1974 for carriage by sea; the Geneva Convention for carriage by road & the Paris Convention 1962 for Hotels. We are to be regarded as having all benefit of these conventions on limiting our liability in relation to any claim for death, injury, loss, damage & delay to passengers & luggage. Enrolment in & payment for a tour shall constitute agreement & acceptance by the passenger of the terms & conditions set forth in this brochure which cannot be varied except in writing by an officer of the Company. 1.4 Contiki is not a carrier or hotelier nor does it own aircraft, hotels or coaches. All bookings with carriers, hoteliers & other service providers are subject to the terms & conditions & limitations of liability imposed by those carriers, hoteliers, & other service providers. Please note that some of these limit or exclude liability in respect of death, personal injury, delay & loss or damage to baggage. Whilst we cannot accept any responsibility for any loss as a result of such actions or as a result of any act or omission of any such third-parties, we will give every reasonable assistance in helping to resolve any reasonable dispute. Please also note that Contiki cannot be held responsible for the failure of any of these parties to provide facilities or services for disabled clients (see also 5.3 under Holiday Details & Conditions). 1.5 Please note that no airline or carrier depicted or recommended in this brochure by virtue of their endorsement of this brochure represent themselves either as contracting with any purchaser of a holiday from Contiki or as having any other legal relationship with any such purchaser. 1.6 Every effort is made to ensure brochure accuracy at the time of going to print, however Contiki cannot be held responsible for printing or typographical errors, or errors arising from unforeseen circumstances. 2. VALIDITY The programmes advertised in this brochure are valid from March 2013 to September 2014. 3. OPERATING COMPANIES The programmes advertised in this brochure are operated by Contiki Holidays (Australia) Pty Ltd and Contiki Holidays (New Zealand) Limited. This brochure was published in February 2013 and supersedes any other current brochure in the market. Please see contiki.com.au for complete & up to date terms & conditions.
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contiki around
the world
How to book
Call 1300CONTIKI or visit your travel agent Contiki Holidays (Australia) Pty Ltd
Travel Agent Reservations
1300 CONTIKI (1300 266 845) www.contiki.com.au hello@contiki.com.au 35 Grafton Street Bondi Junction NSW 2022 Licence number 2TA00 1868 ABN - 18 002 525 340 IATA - 023 06496
Sydney metro - 02 9511 2222 Other areas - 1300 301 835 Fax - 02 9511 2210 www.contiki.com.au/agents reservations@contiki.com.au
• The first step is to confirm that there’s availability on the tour you’ve chosen. At the same time, you can book your hotel accommodation before and/or after your tour. • At the time of booking, you must pay a non-refundable deposit of A$200 per person per tour which must be sent to Contiki within 7 days. This payment is in addition to any deposit required by your travel agent. • Once your deposit has been received, Contiki will send confirmation of the details of the booking.
LATIN AMERICA Peru, Argentina & Brazil, Ecuador & Galapagos Islands, Mexico & Costa Rica
• You must pay the balance of your holiday fare no less than 45 days prior to your departure date from Australia, or at the time of booking if less than 45 days prior to your departure date from Australia. • We will then send your travel vouchers and detailed information about your holiday. The documentation will be sent approximately 21 days prior to your departure date from Australia. IMPORTANT: By paying the A$200 deposit per person per tour, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the Booking Conditions as set out on p.75, which make up the contract between you and Contiki. USA & CANADA Including Hawaii Stopovers
Groups & special interest tours Whether you’re looking to organise a group tour to Europe, North America, Central America, Latin America, Asia, Australia or New Zealand then please have a look at the huge range of tours in our brochures. It is more than likely that at least one of our trips will fit perfectly. As long as you are all 18-35, any date can be reserved exclusively for your group at special reduced rates - perhaps even a free trip for you. If you’re looking for something completely different for your school, university or club then just ask us at groups@contiki. com.au - we’ve been designing and running outstanding special tours for years.
Contiki loves the planet The text pages for this brochure are printed on 100% recycled paper. By doing this we’re using less trees & sending less waste to landfills. You can help too, by recycling this brochure when you’re done. Either pass it on to a friend to read, or pop it in your recycling collection. Easy.
DRIVEN BY SERVICE
Contiki Holidays is a member of the family-owned The Travel Corporation and is renowned and trusted for its outstanding quality, service, value, reliability and financial stability.
www.TheTravelCorporation.com
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Contiki Holidays in New Zealand Contiki is represented in Australia, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, China, Costa Rica, Germany, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom and USA. Contiki is a registered trademark of Contiki Tours International Ltd, Guernsey. © Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Printed in Australia. Contiki provides you with holidays & experiences of a lifetime.
1st Edition
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