There comes a moment in every young Kiwi’s life when the travel bug bites — and the idea of exploring Europe, Asia or beyond with a group of like-minded adventurers becomes irresistible. For parents, that same moment can bring a mix of excitement and anxiety. Is it safe? Who will they be travelling with? How do I know they’ll be looked after?
As an Auckland-based travel agent with over 30 years of experience, I’ve helped countless young New Zealanders embark on their first big group tour adventure — and helped their parents feel confident about the decision. In this complete guide I’m sharing everything you need to know about group tours for young Kiwis — from choosing the right operator to what to pack and how to stay safe.
What is a Group Tour and Why Are They Perfect for Young Travellers?
A group tour brings together a small group of like-minded travellers — typically aged 18-35 — to explore a destination together under the guidance of an experienced tour leader. Everything is organised for you: accommodation, transport between destinations, many meals and activities, and 24/7 support from your tour leader.
For young Kiwis travelling independently for the first time, group tours offer the perfect balance of freedom and security. You’re never alone, you’re always moving with people your own age, and you have an experienced guide looking after the logistics while you focus on having the time of your life.
Beyond Holidays has booked group tours for young New Zealanders across Europe, Asia, the Americas and beyond — and we’ve seen first-hand how transformative these experiences can be.
The Best Group Tour Operators for Young Kiwis
Choosing the right tour operator is one of the most important decisions — and this is where working with an experienced travel agent makes a real difference. Here are the operators Beyond Holidays recommends most:
Contiki — The Original Young Traveller Experience
Contiki is the world’s most famous group tour operator for 18-35 year olds, with an extraordinary range of itineraries across Europe, Asia, the Americas, Australia and beyond. Contiki tours are known for their social atmosphere, incredible value and unforgettable experiences. A Contiki Europe tour is a rite of passage for many young Kiwis — and for good reason. We’ve booked many young New Zealanders on Contiki tours and the feedback is consistently outstanding.
Top Deck — Premium Young Traveller Tours
Top Deck offers a slightly more premium group tour experience for 18-39 year olds, with a strong focus on Europe. Top Deck tours typically include more inclusions than Contiki — more meals, more activities and slightly smaller groups — making them a great choice for young travellers who want a more curated experience.
Intrepid Travel — Adventure with a Conscience
Intrepid Travel is perfect for young Kiwis who want more than just the classic highlights. Intrepid specialises in authentic, responsible travel experiences — staying in locally owned accommodation, eating at local restaurants and getting off the beaten track. With itineraries across Asia, Africa, Latin America and beyond, Intrepid is ideal for adventurous young travellers who want to truly immerse themselves in a destination.
G Adventures — Small Group, Big Experience
G Adventures specialises in small group tours — typically 4-16 people — giving young travellers a more intimate and authentic experience. G Adventures is particularly strong in South America, Africa and Asia, and is renowned for its commitment to sustainable travel and genuine cultural experiences. Perfect for young Kiwis who want adventure with a purpose.
A Real Story — One Kiwi Family's Contiki Experience
One of our clients — an Auckland family — came to us nervous about their young adult child’s desire to do a Contiki Europe tour. Mum was worried about safety. Dad was worried about the cost. Their child was worried they’d miss out if they didn’t go.
We sat down with the whole family, explained exactly how Contiki works, walked them through the itinerary, the accommodation, the tour leader’s role and what a typical day looks like. We helped them choose the right tour — a 21-day European highlights trip — and sorted everything from flights to travel insurance to spending money advice.
Six months later their child came home with lifelong friends from Australia, Canada and the UK, memories that will last a lifetime, and a confidence and independence that has stayed with them ever since. Mum cried happy tears. Dad said it was the best money they’d ever spent.
That’s what group tours do. And that’s why Beyond Holidays is passionate about helping young Kiwis experience them.
Popular Group Tour Destinations for Young Kiwis
Europe — The Ultimate Young Traveller Destination
Europe remains the most popular group tour destination for young New Zealanders — and it’s easy to see why. From the romance of Paris and the history of Rome to the party atmosphere of Mykonos and the stunning scenery of the Swiss Alps, Europe has something for every young traveller. Classic routes like London to Rome or Barcelona to Budapest are perennial favourites with young Kiwis.
Asia — Exotic, Affordable and Unforgettable
Southeast Asia is increasingly popular with young Kiwi travellers — offering incredible value, exotic culture, stunning landscapes and amazing food. Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Bali and Japan are all favourites. An Intrepid or G Adventures tour through Southeast Asia is one of the most eye-opening travel experiences a young person can have.
South America — Adventure at its Finest
Peru, Colombia, Argentina and Brazil are drawing more and more young New Zealanders every year. The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the Amazon rainforest, the beaches of Brazil and the tango bars of Buenos Aires make South America one of the world’s most exciting destinations for adventurous young travellers.
Australia — The Perfect First Adventure
For younger first-time travellers or those on a tighter budget, Australia offers an incredible group tour experience without the long-haul flight. East Coast tours from Melbourne to Cairns are hugely popular with young Kiwis — combining Sydney, the Great Barrier Reef, Fraser Island and the Whitsundays into one incredible adventure.
For Parents — Your Top Questions Answered
Is it safe?
All reputable group tour operators — Contiki, Top Deck, Intrepid and G Adventures — have experienced, trained tour leaders with every group at all times. They’re not just guides — they’re there to manage logistics, handle emergencies and ensure every traveller is safe and supported throughout the journey. Young Kiwis travelling on group tours are never alone.
What age can they travel?
Most group tour operators require travellers to be at least 18 years old to travel independently. Some family-focused tours are available for younger travellers accompanied by a parent or guardian.
How much does it cost?
Group tour prices vary significantly depending on the operator, destination and duration. A 14-day European Contiki tour typically starts from around NZD $2,500-$3,500 excluding flights. When you factor in accommodation, transport, many meals and activities — it’s exceptional value compared to independent travel.
What about travel insurance?
Travel insurance is absolutely essential for young travellers — and we always arrange comprehensive cover as part of every booking. Make sure the policy covers adventure activities, medical evacuation and trip cancellation.
Can I trust the people they’ll be travelling with?
All group tour operators vet their travellers and have codes of conduct. Tour leaders are trained to manage group dynamics and ensure everyone feels safe and included. Most young Kiwis come home having made lifelong friendships with fellow travellers from around the world.
For Young Travellers — Tips for Getting the Most from Your Group Tour
- Book early — the best departures and cabin/room allocations sell out fast
- Choose the right tour length — first timers often do better with 14-21 days rather than jumping straight into a 35-day epic
- Pack light — you’ll be moving every 1-3 days so a 55L backpack is ideal
- Get travel insurance sorted before you go — don’t leave home without it
- Set a realistic daily budget for spending money, meals not included and souvenirs
- Talk to your travel agent about the best departure dates — shoulder season offers better weather and smaller groups
- Download WhatsApp before you go — it’s how tour groups communicate internationally
Ready to book your young Kiwi's first group tour adventure — or planning your own? Beyond Holidays has been helping New Zealanders of all ages experience the world for over 30 years. We'll help you choose the right operator, the right itinerary, the right departure date and arrange everything from flights to travel insurance. Whether it's a classic Contiki Europe tour, an Intrepid adventure through Southeast Asia or a G Adventures expedition through South America — we'll make sure it's an experience of a lifetime. Call us free on 0800 799 997, email travel@beyondholidays.co.nz or fill in our enquiry form to start planning.
Creating Memories, One Destination at a Time — Beyond Holidays
