Sweet as South Reverse – New Zealand Tour for Young Adults & Young Solo Travellers

Sweet as South Reverse Tours for Young Adults

The one that uncovers the spellbinding south island, on an eye-widening 9-day adventure

Experience the best of South! From Lake Ohau to Queenstown to Christchurch – it’s an adventure you won’t want to end. Start off on a scenic flight over Mt. Cook then get ready to hit Queenstown, the adventure Capital of the World. Try bungy, or you can opt to take a stunning Milford Sound cruise. In Franz Josef you’ll hike a glacier before your tour ends in Christchurch.

“70 percent join our trips solo”

“70% of our travellers join our trips solo, so you’ll travel with like-minded young people who want to make friends, experience new things and create lifelong memories. This is the best way to turn solo travel into the most social travel imaginable.” (Cited from the very experienced and internationally popular operator of this tour for young adults. For the latest info and eventual changes see here)

“Most popular youth travel company in the world”

Info by the very experienced and internationally popular operator of this tour for young adults (“Most popular youth travel company in the world”, Wikipedia): “Our trips are exclusively for 18-35s, and whether you join us solo or in a group, our trips are designed so you can share incredible experiences with young travellers just like you.”

Reviews by tour participants:

4.7 out of 5 stars (404 Reviews)* (all reviews and the latest rating available on the details page

Target age group:

18 to 35 (35 to 45 at “Reunion Trips“)

Trip duration and price:

9 days, 1 country from about $ 1281* (final prices – also in other currencies like British £ or € – available on the booking page)

Destinations:

Australia > New Zealand

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Planned Itinerary:

Day 1: Christchurch

Lake Tekapo

Lake Ohau

Day 2: Lake Ohau

Arrowtown

Kingston

Te Anau

Day 3: Te Anau

Milford Sound

Queenstown

Day 4: Queenstown

Day 5: Queenstown

Day 6: Queenstown

Day 7: Queenstown

Wanaka

Haast

Franz Josef

Day 8: Franz Josef

Day 9: Franz Josef

Hokitika

Arthur’s Pass

Christchurch

Day 1: Christchurch to Lake Ōhau

Christchurch
Christchurch what’s up? New Zealand’s South Island is the home to adventure, adrenaline and good times and we’re here to take it all on.

Lake Tekapo
We’ll stop off to see the intense milky blue waters of glacially-fed Lake Tekapo. Here we’ll also get to enjoy an unforgettable Dark Sky experience, an interactive multimedia exhibition that mixes stargazing, science and traditional Māori astronomy, teaching us how the Māori people used to use stars to harvest food, and about the importance of reducing light pollution.
Lake Ohau
Onto Lake Ōhau, with its glorious views of Mt. Cook. Yet another swoon-worthy location where you’ll have to pick that jaw up off the ground.

Lake Ōhau Lodge (or similar)

Included Meals:

DinnerIncluded ExperienceSpot the Peaks of Mt CookLooking out at the peaks of Mt Cook across the glacial waters of Lake Ōhau… It was once a dream, but today we’ll make it your reality. (You’re welcome.)
Included ExperienceSee the Church of the Good Shepard See the church on the shores of Lake Tekapo with a backdrop of snow-capped peaks – and get that iconic Insta pic too!
Included ExperienceMarvel at the Epic NZ LandscapesWe’ll stop at Lake Pukaki, Lake Tekapo and Geraldine… and watch happily on as NZ’s astonishing natural beauty takes your breath away.
Included ExperienceVisit the Dark Sky ExperienceThe Dark Sky Experience combines Māori astronomy, storytelling and science together in one truly unique interactive display.

Day 2: Lake Ōhau to Te AnauMake Travel Matter®

Lake Ohau
Another day, another natural wonder to discover.

Arrowtown

We make a quick stop for lunch in this historic gold mining town before heading on.

KingstonOur next stop today is Kingston for an authentic and important NZ farm experience. Where a charity helps local girls to learn practical farming skills and gain qualifications. Contiki makes a donation on behalf of every traveller who visits the farm, so you can help more NZ women and girls plough through barriers and get ahead in their ‘field’ just by turning up.Te Anau
Arriving in the stunning lakeside town of Te Anau, why not opt to take a guided jet boat trip to Fiordland National Park. From Te Anau through Lake Manapouri, it’s a pretty exhilarating way to soak up the scenery. Prefer to keep you feet (or wheels) on dry land. You can also take a trip to the ethereal glow worm caves (woaahhh) or simply cycle the gorgeous trails through native bush.

The Village Inn Hotel (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Make Travel Matter®Support Women in AgricultureToday we’ll visit a local farm in Te Anau to support the Fairlight Foundation, which works to advance women in Agriculture. We’ll learn all about farming, as well as the Fairlight Foundation and the work that they do.

Fiordland JetBoat TourEnjoy the thrill of jet boating down the majestic trout filled Waiau River, to the serene Lake Manapouri, step foot into ancient beach forests and learn all about this unique location among Fiordland National Park. All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

Te Anau Glow Worm CavesTake an evening cruise along Lake Te Anau to visit underground caves with a twisting network of limestone passages filled with sculpted rock, whirlpools & a roaring underground waterfall. Deep inside the caves, you will be taken by small boat into a silent hidden grotto inhabited by thousands of glowworms, unique to New Zealand. All prices are in local currency. www.realjourneys.co.nz
Additional costs apply

Day 3: Te Anau to Queenstown

Te Anau
It’s time to make tracks to the spectacular natural wonder of Milford Sound.

Milford Sound
Welcome to New Zealand’s most stunning attraction, with a magical combination of mountain peaks, forest-clad cliffs and deep dark waters. We take an included cruise of the fiord and experience the beauty of this pristine destination by boat, the best way to see Milford Sound in all its glory.
Queenstown
Welcome to the adventure capital of the world – Queenstown. We’ll hit the ground running because tonight you can choose to jump on a gondola and to wine & dine atop of the highest restaurant in Queenstown, Skyline. What a way to start our time here! Rest up tonight – the next few days are going to be BIG.

Lylo (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included ExperienceCruise Milford Sound FjordCruise along the glassy waters and get the kind of view people write poems about. You’ll soon see why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Dine at the Skyline Restaurant With a cable car ride up to the Skyline restaurant, you can take in the stunning views of Queenstown & the surrounding mountains. Then, enjoy panoramas & the night lights of the town below as you feast on a large buffet meal & enjoy some live entertainment. All prices are in local currency. www.skyline.co.nz
Additional costs apply

Day 4: Queenstown

Queenstown
Today is yours to get acquainted with Queenstown and spend some time mulling over the activities up for grabs in the next two days. First stop is the legendary Kawarau Bungy Bridge, get your morning adrenaline hit with a heart pounding jump at the world home of the bungy.
Later, take a stroll around beautiful Queenstown, nestled in the Southern Alps this stunning town has plenty to offer other than adventure activities.

Lylo (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included ExperienceVisit the AJ Hackett Kawarau BridgeGet your adrenaline pumping on the World’s first ever (and some would say most famous) bungy jump.Bungy Jump off Kawarau Bridge Take the plunge on the world’s OG bungy at Kawarau Bridge, Queenstown. All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

Take the Canyon Swing Over Shotover River Experience the rush of a free fall as you jump from 109 metres (360 feet) up above the Shotover River. Then break into a cable-controlled swing in an exhilarating finish to this adrenaline-pumping activity. All prices are in local currency. www.canyonswing.co.nz
Additional costs apply

Climb Waterfalls (Available Oct – Apr Departures Only)Climb up gorges and waterfalls with your expert guiding team. This is the perfect opportunity to unleash that ultimate adventurer by abseiling down some seriously unique landscapes. All prices are in local currency. www.canyoning.co.nz
Additional costs apply

Boogie at an Ice Bar Take a virtual trip to the Arctic at Ice Bar, Queenstown. The entire bar is crafted purely of crystal-clear ice, we mean everything! From the walls, furniture & statues, to the bar & even the glasses! Don your included jackets, gloves & cosy warm footwear to keep you snug, then hit the bar for some cocktails as you take in the scene. All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

Explore Queenstown on Two WheelsA local guide will show us some hidden secrets, unveiling lots of Queenstown’s history as we go. Truly beautiful scenery incoming!
Additional costs apply

Day 5: Queenstown

Queenstown
It’s times like this that you really start to work out what sort of traveller you are. And human for that matter. You might be the one trailing through wine country and exploring wine cellars and caves, or you may be that guy that crams in a bungy jump and ziplining & still craves more. It’s your holiday – run wild as you see fit.

Lylo (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Experience the Ledge Bungy Jump Bungy jump from the Ledge at the Skyline restaurant on Bobs Peak & experience the thrill. After free falling 47 metres, you can take in the views some 400m above town. All prices are in local currency. www.bungy.co.nz
Additional costs apply

Experience the Legendary Ledge Swing Swing from the Ledge at the Skyline Restaurant on Bobs Peak & experience the thrill. Hanging 47 metres up, you’ll get amazing views some 400 metres above town. All prices are in local currency. www.bungy.co.nz
Additional costs apply

Take a Ride on the Shotover Jet The world-famous Queenstown jet boat ride, Shotover Jet is the ultimate in water sports excitement, and has been thrilling millions of people since hitting the crystal clear waters of New Zealand in 1965. So hold on tight and take a spin in the iconic Big Red. Marvel as the jaw-dropping scenery passes you by while you power your way through the narrow Shotover River Canyons. All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

Discover Fine Wines at a Fine Vineyard A classic and fun half day wine tour visiting some of Central Otago’s finest and off the beaten track cellar doors, including a visit to New Zealand’s famous Gibbston Valley underground wine cave. All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

Take the Ziptrek Zipline Ziptek is a must-do, multi award-winning adventure ecotourism business renowned for delivering awareness & appreciation of the natural environment along with a good dose of ziplining adventure. All prices are in local currency. www.ziptrek.com
Additional costs apply

Glide over New Zealand’s largest ski slope (Seasonal)Here during the Tiki winter? This is your chance to spend a full day skiing over the beautiful mountain of Cardrona. Grab your 1-day Ski Lift Pass (with the option to hire equipment, clothing, and getting some lessons too!). We’ll take you from Queenstown and back again, so you can spend all your time on the snowy slopes.
Check out our Booking Calendar to see which special departures offer the option to ski!
Additional costs apply

Day 6: Queenstown

Queenstown
With our last day in adrenalin city edging closer, this is the time to push yourself to the limits and jump over any mental barriers you’ve put up around yourself. Embrace the spirit of adventure and conquer those niggling fears once and for all. For those who did their dash yesterday, a day staying mellow and enjoying this beautiful region will prove more than sufficient.

Lylo (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Take a Kayak Trip to Paradise with FunyaksIn this full-day excursion, venture into the beautiful, untouched world known as ‘Paradise’ & made famous in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Speed in with a jet boat ride & cruise out at your own pace in a canoe. Average standard of fitness required. All prices are in local currency. www.dartriver.co.nz
Additional costs apply

Take the Nevis Bungy Jump Turn up the action levels with & bungy jump 134 metres (440 feet) from a platform suspended across a river at Nevis Bluff. This is a truly spine-tingling experience. All prices are in local currency. www.bungy.co.nz
Additional costs apply

Take the Nevis Swing Not for the faint-hearted, you’ll be blown away by this adrenaline-pumping & high velocity giant swing. At 125 metres up, speed past rock faces on this thrilling ride before swinging out into the Doolan’s Creek valley for amazing views. All prices are in local currency. www.bungy.co.nz
Additional costs apply

Experience the Nevis Catapult Get ready for an insane ride on the biggest and most extreme catapult in the world! You’ll be propelled 150m up and out across the Nevis Valley, experiencing up to 3Gs of force as you reach speeds of almost 100kms an hour in 1.5 seconds flat. A hair-raising drop will have your blood pumping and you’ll be screaming for another hit! All prices are in local currency. www.bungy.co.nz/queenstown/nevis/nevis-catapult
Additional costs apply

Experience the Nevis Thrillogy (Bungy, Swing & Catapult)Experience everything that the Nevis Playground has to offer, this is the most ultimate of adreniline rushes and not for the faint hearted – Bungy, Swing & Catapult. As the AJ Hackett saying goes “Live More, Fear Less!” All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

Skydive over Lake Wakatipu This is the perfect adventure activity for those adrenaline-junkies in the adventure capital of the world. Tandem skydive with a professional, experienced jump master & feel the rush of free fall before floating over Lake Wakitipu & the Remarkables mountain range (12,000 ft/3,657m). All prices are in local currency. www.nzoneskydive.co.nz
Additional costs apply

Day 7: Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier

Queenstown
Time to return our adrenalin levels to normal and make tracks to the wild (and often wet) West Coast and it’s towering glaciers.

Wanaka
Enjoying our scenic drive we’ll stop for lunch in Wanaka, a pretty ski resort town situated on a lake front and dwarfed by mountains. This town is fast becoming one of NZ’s most popular spots, and a trip to the ‘Dough Bin’ for a luscious pie should be high on the list today.

Haast
Our first piece of NZ eye-candy comes in the form of Hasast Pass, beautified by ancient rainforests, small glaciers and waterfalls. Note how the scenery changes as we roll away from Queenstown through the Southern Alps.
Franz Josef
Playing host tonight is the town of Franz Josef, home to some of NZ’s finest natural beauty with bushlands and glaciers that almost reach the sea. Tomorrow we’ll be out and about making the most of it – who’s excited?

Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Included ExperienceDiscover WanakaA lake town with views for days, surrounded by beech forests, alpine lakes, and wilderness glaciers.

Day 8: Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef
This morning will be another big ol’ tick off the list as we take to the ice of Franz Josef Glacier. We’ve got a heli ride over the glacier up for grabs, or the opportunity to carve your own Pounamu (jade) pendant, under the tuition of a Maori mastercraftsman. Pounamu is sacred to the Māori people, and this is a great way to learn about its cultural significance, while also creating a beautiful please of jewellery.

Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Go Kayaking On Glacial Waters All kayaking gear is provided before you get out onto Lake Mapourika & enjoy three hours of gentle exercise while marvelling at panoramic views of the surrounding mountains & glaciers. All prices are in local currency. www.glacierkayaks.com
Additional costs apply

Check Out Glaciers on a Heli Ride Take in sweeping aerial views of this area of spectacular natural beauty before getting up close to this icy formation with a glacier landing. Flight covers Franz Josef Glacier and is 20min in length All prices are in local currency. www.scenic-flights.co.nz
Additional costs apply

Travel to Franz Josef Glacier by Helicopter and Hike on a Glacier’One stop shopping’ with a short helicopter flight onto Franz Josef Glacier followed by two hours of exploring this spectacular natural wonder on foot. You’ll be fully kitted out on the ice as your Local Guide gives you the low-down on how the glacier was formed. All prices are in local currency. www.franzjosefglacier.com
Additional costs apply

Make Your Own Pounamu Pendant Carve your own Pounamu (Jade) pendant using traditional Māori methods with a master carver. All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

Day 9: Franz Josef Glacier to ChristchurchMake Travel Matter®

Franz Josef
Armed with a new found appreciation for frozen water, we hop back on the coach & start making our way back to Christchurch.

Hokitika
In the gold rush town of Hokitika we’ll watch authentic carvers get to work on green jade and take a look at traditional Maori art. Back on the coach we’re coastline bound to one of the islands most jaw-droppingly beautiful spots…

Arthur’s Pass
Take in the beautiful scenery as we wind our way across the highest and most spectacular mountain pass across the Southern Alps.
Christchurch
Arriving into Christchurch marks the end of our adventure (sob). NZ – you’ve been real.

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Make Travel Matter®Learn about Pounamu with a Local Māori guideThe South Island is known for Pounamu (in fact, it’s even named after the stuff.) Today in Hokitika, we’ll meet with a local Māori Guide, who’ll tell us all about the connection between the illustrious greenstone and the Māori people. After that, we’ll go and check some out for ourselves.

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details & booking page

Some of the Highlights:

Make Travel Matter®
Support Women in Agriculture

Today we’ll visit a local farm in Te Anau to support the Fairlight Foundation, which works to advance women in Agriculture. We’ll learn all about farming, as well as the Fairlight Foundation and the work that they do.

INCLUDED

Included Experience
Cruise Milford Sound Fjord

Cruise along the glassy waters and get the kind of view people write poems about. You’ll soon see why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site.

INCLUDED

Included Experience
Discover Wanaka

A lake town with views for days, surrounded by beech forests, alpine lakes, and wilderness glaciers.

INCLUDED

Take the Canyon Swing Over Shotover River

Experience the rush of a free fall as you jump from 109 metres (360 feet) up above the Shotover River. Then break into a cable-controlled swing in an exhilarating finish to this adrenaline-pumping activity. All prices are in local currency. www.canyonswing.co.nz

ADDITIONAL COST APPLIED

Discover Fine Wines at a Fine Vineyard

A classic and fun half day wine tour visiting some of Central Otago’s finest and off the beaten track cellar doors, including a visit to New Zealand’s famous Gibbston Valley underground wine cave. All prices are in local currency.

ADDITIONAL COST APPLIED

Skydive over Lake Wakatipu

This is the perfect adventure activity for those adrenaline-junkies in the adventure capital of the world. Tandem skydive with a professional, experienced jump master & feel the rush of free fall before floating over Lake Wakitipu & the Remarkables mountain range (12,000 ft/3,657m). All prices are in local currency. www.nzoneskydive.co.nz

ADDITIONAL COST APPLIED

Trip Highlights

The must do experiences that you can cross off your bucket list

You’ll find all highlights and eventual changes on the details page

FAQs:

You’ll find all FAQs and the latest info on the details page

Included Meals:

8 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Team:

Expert Trip Manager + Driver Team + Local Guides

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Group Size:

Average 45 people

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Transfers:

Coach

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

More Details:

You’ll find all details and the latest updates on the details & booking page

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(Partially) travel with a nice group or entirely travel solo?

By booking an organized New Zealand tour for young adults or other Australia trips for young people you can not only reduce planning hassle, but often also save money, as tour operators can buy accommodations, transportation, etc. in larger contingents in advance and thus get special conditions. You will also benefit from the experience of the tour operator, professional tour guides (whose stories you can enjoy…) and have the easy opportunity to meet nice fellow travelers when traveling in a group. Anyone who has traveled before will know that travel companions or other traveling acquaintances are one of the most essential factors for unforgettable experiences. In addition, you usually have enough individual freedom even with organized tours and you can, if the arrival and departure is not included, additionally extend your stay individually before or after the group tour with young adults. If you still prefer to organize your trip completely on your own and travel independently, then you’ll find all the practical tools you need to plan and book quickly & cheaply on our individual travel page.