Responding to the rise of active, wellness-driven youth travel trends, global social travel brand Contiki has launches a new itinerary: the NZ Run Club: Muriwai Half Marathon. Designed specifically for 18-to-35-year-olds, this newly launched 8-day itinerary is a direct response to a cultural shift where younger travellers prefer moving, sweating, and connecting with local cultures over traditional sightseeing.
As young travellers demand more “Travel with Purpose” opportunities, the new trip blends intense physical achievement with localized ecological restoration. Built around the wild west coast of Auckland and running through the North Island’s geothermal heart, the journey marks a significant evolution in Contiki’s physical wellness product lineup for late 2026 and 2027.
Run for a Cause: The Muriwai Environmental Partnership
At the heart of this new itinerary is an exclusive partnership with the Muriwai Environmental Trust – acting as a major Make Travel Matter® experience. In the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle, Contiki Trip Managers Cameron and Boyd Steel collaborated closely with the Muriwai community to launch the Muriwai Half Marathon. What started as a grassroots initiative with 600 runners in 2025 has exploded in popularity, expecting over 1,000 local and international participants in October 2026.
Every step run on this trip makes a tangible difference. The Muriwai Half Marathon operates as a direct fundraiser, routing 100% of event proceeds straight into predator control, native habitat protection, and the reintroduction of the beloved kiwi bird and the vulnerable kororā (little blue penguin) across a massive 2,000-hectare coastal conservation corridor.
Itinerary Highlights: From Active Trails to Thermal Recovery
The 8-day, 7-night loop begins and ends in Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland, taking runners through some of the North Island’s most dramatic and culturally rich landscapes:
- The Muriwai Half Marathon: Tackle the main event on the wild west coast, offering 21k, 7k, and 3k options along black-sand beaches and cliffside trails. Walkers and cheer-squad members are equally celebrated.
- Aotearoa’s Native Protectors: Visit the National Kiwi Hatchery in Rotorua for an intimate, hands-on look at the conservation efforts protecting native chicks.
- Geothermal Tracks: Run directly through Rotorua’s Sulphur Park, traversing steaming vents, mineral lakes, and boiling mud flats.
- Volcanic Plateau Trails: Embark on trail runs surrounding the iconic Central Volcanic Plateau and Tongariro National Park, surrounded by dramatic alpine borders, lava flows, and ancient scenery.
- Thermal Pools & Lakeside Sunset: Rejuvenate post-run muscles in the natural thermal waters of Wairakei Terraces in Taupō, followed by a lakeside celebration at 2 Mile Bay.
Limited-Time Launch Offer: Mate’s Rates
Contiki is offering travel agents and clients an exclusive 10% off discount. For this new tour using the promo code PPMATESRATES for bookings completed by 21 September 2026. Pricing starts from AU$2,394pp (was $2,660); NZ$2,880pp (was $3,200).
Booking Information for Travel Partners
Travel advisors can access full itinerary details, marketing collateral, and online booking functionality instantly via the TTC agent portal: ttc.agents.com or contact your TTC Tour Brands Sales Manager. Encourage clients to book early to secure spots on this limited-departure, high-demand active trip.
