north island road trip from auckland

Kate Abroad

10 Day North Island New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary (2024)

New Zealand is a small country but that doesn’t mean you can see it quickly, instead, it’s best to split your time by island and this 10 day North Island New Zealand itinerary is a great place to start.

This itinerary is really the highlights of the North Island as it’s impossible to see the whole place North Island in 10 days. However, if you have a bit more time, there’s a 2 week variation that squeezes more in.

The itinerary is designed to start in Auckland , which is the easiest place to fly into, and end in Wellington so you can jump on the ferry and continue on with my 10 day South Island itinerary for a total 3 week trip.

If you don’t have time for the South Island, then you can return to Auckland for your flight home.

To save a bit of money on this trip, I’d suggest looking into a bundled attractions pass which includes Rotorua hot springs, the Hobbiton movie set and a bunch of other top NZ activities you might want to do on this road trip.

How to get around the North Island on this itinerary

To be honest, this really only works well as a North Island road trip itinerary.

If you don’t have your own vehicle, you could travel by bus (see my full guide to New Zealand by bus ) but you will need to allow a few more days as there are limited intercity bus services each day.

I would recommend picking up your vehicle on the morning of day 4 when you leave Auckland. You won’t need a vehicle to get around Auckland and Waiheke Island is a ferry trip from central Auckland. You can save money by not paying for those days, plus you’ll avoid the hassle of Auckland parking. 

If you’re renting a campervan/motorhome/RV, I can tell you it’s almost always going to be cheaper to book cheap central accommodation in Auckland for the first 3 nights than paying for hireage for an extra 3 days plus paying for an Auckland campground that will be far from the city centre plus paying for Ubers/public transport to get in from the campsite.

Likewise, if you aren’t going to the South Island, it’ll be cheapest to do a one-way hire and drop off your car/van as soon as you get to Wellington as there are no central campgrounds in Wellington and you don’t need a vehicle to explore the city.

You can check out rental car prices and book on RentalCars.com

Where to stay on your 10 day North Island road trip

This itinerary works equally well for campervanning or driving and booking nightly accommodation. I have included both campground and hotel/motel accommodation options for each location. 

It’s worth noting that big hotels are only really available in Auckland, Wellington and Rotorua. Outside of there, it’s mostly small motels.

If you usually use points to book chain hotels, you won’t have any luck.

The 10 day North Island road trip itinerary

Days 1-2: auckland.

Start your trip off with two days of exploring New Zealand’s biggest city. If you’re coming from further afield than Australia, you might want to make this a slow start and give yourself some time to get over any jet lag.

The main activities for these days are a trip up the iconic Sky Tower (New Zealand’s tallest building) to see views of the city and exploring the waterfront. 

I especially love the Britomart area which is full of cafes, bars and boutique stores.

While at the sky tower, you could also check out the All Blacks exhibition to get a sense of our national obsession with rugby. Or try the reverse bungy or skyjump for something a bit more adventurous.

If you’re up for venturing a bit further afield, you could take a trip out to Piha, the rugged west coast beach not far from Auckland.

Swimming is not recommended here; we literally have a TV show – Piha Rescue – dedicated to saving tourists who get caught in the rough conditions at Piha.

Alternatively, jump on the ferry to Devonport to visit the more family-friendly North Shores beaches .

There are also some good walks around Auckland. Mount Eden or One Tree Hill are short options that will get you good views for not much effort. Otherwise, head to the Waitakere Ranges for serious hiking.

• Luxury: Hilton Auckland
• Mid-range: Holiday Inn Express
• Budget: Attic Backpackers

Day 3: Waiheke Island 

On day 3, jump on the ferry from Auckland to Waiheke Island. The island is in the middle of the Hauraki Gulf less than an hour’s ride from the city.

A return ferry trip to Waiheke Island costs $46 per adult (sometimes there are specials) and ferries run hourly. You can buy tickets at the wharf or online . Advance bookings are a good idea on weekends, in summer or on public holidays.

The highlights of Waiheke Island are the wineries and galleries, and you can either walk, hire bikes or jump on an organised tour to get between them. My favourites are Mudbrick and Stonyridge.

Waiheke is also a beachy spot with lots of options for sunbathing, coastal walks and kayaking or paddle boarding.

If you’re visiting in summer, take the bus to Oneroa Beach and spend some time in or on the water there. You can easily hire boards or kayaks from Kayak Waiheke.

This is a day trip so you can stay in your same Auckland accommodation from Days 1-2.

Day 4: Coromandel

Drive time from Auckland to Coromandel (Whitianga):  2.5-3 hours

Distance: 200km

The Coromandel Peninsula is where many North Islanders come for holidays because of the miles of beautiful swimmable beaches.

I grew up going to Whangamata and Pauanui which are great family beaches in the Coromandel. 

However, the main attractions for visitors and the places you absolutely must hit up on your 10 day north island road trip are Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach which are just south of the town of Whitianga. 

You might recognise Cathedral Cove from the Narnia movies as the rock archway has become one of New Zealand’s most famous photo spots .

Hot Water Beach is known for its warm water rock pools which are heated by thermal hot springs and mean you can swim year-round.

If you’re ok with ait of extra driving, I’d recommend spending some time driving around the coast and checking out all the beaches along the way.

• Luxury: Esplanade Apartments
• Mid-range: Beachside Resort Motel
• Budget/Camping: Harbourside Holiday Park

Day 5: Hobbiton 

Drive time from Coromandel (Whitianga) to Hobbiton (Matamata): 2.5 hours

Distance: 170km

Whether you’re a Lord of the Rings fan or not, visiting Hobbiton is a must-do experience in New Zealand. The cute hobbit-sized houses make great photos if nothing else. 

You can do the standard movie set tour or time your visit for the second breakfast or evening banquet options. The food spread almost looks like something from Harry Potter.

Hobbiton is the main event of Day 8 so if you aren’t interested in staying long there you could spend the morning exploring more of the Coromandel or push on to Cambridge which is a really pretty small town in the Waikato region of the North Island with lots of great food options.

Find more ideas in my Waikato road trip guide .

• Luxury: Villa Walton Bed & Breakfast
• Mid-range: Broadway Motel
• Budget/Camping: Opal Hot Springs Holiday Park

Day 6: Waitomo

Drive time from Hobbiton (Matamata) to Waitomo: 1.5 hours

Distance: 100km

Today it’s time to visit Waitomo Caves. On the way, stop at Mount Pirongia and/or Otorohanga.

Mount Pirongia is a great day hike for the committed tramper, otherwise, you can do shorter walks in Pirongia Forest Park, find the trail details on the DoC website.

Otorohanga is the Kiwiana capital of New Zealand and you’ll notice that when you drive past the giant kiwi on the way into town.

While you’re there you can see the Kiwiana Walk which takes you through the history of some of New Zealand’s cultural icons. There are real live kiwis too at the Otorohanga Kiwi House.

The Waitomo caves are a huge favourite of mine since childhood, although I still can’t remember the difference between stalactites and stalagmites! Either way, you can see both at Waitomo as well as glow worms. Plus, there is black water rafting which is cold, dirty and heaps of fun!

If you aren’t keen on fitting into a tube, then you can do guided walking tours of the caves. The Waitomo Caves Tours Guide has a comparison of the different options available.

• Luxury: Waitomo Boutique Lodge
• Mid-range: Woodlyn Park Motel
• Budget/Camping: Waitomo Top 10 Holiday Park

Day 7: Rotorua

Drive time from Waitomo to Rotorua: 2 hours

Distance: 150km

Rotorua is the number one tourist location on the North Island because it offers a mix of cultural and natural attractions plus lots of adventure options.

One thing you need to be aware of when you visit Rotorua though is that it stinks like rotten eggs. That’s the sulphur from the geothermal hot springs . The benefit is that you can go soak in the springs at Polynesian Spa or see the geysers around town and near the lakeside. 

Other than spas and geysers, you can check out some fun and thrill-seeking activities like the zorb or the luge or mountain biking. Or just take a ride up the gondola to enjoy the views.

Rotorua is also known for Maori culture as it’s a place of historic significance and the home of the Arawa tribe.

There are plenty of cultural experiences on offer, which allow you to learn about Maori culture and history. Just please don’t go thinking modern Maori live in grass huts or cook all their food in the ground.

• Luxury: Pullman Rotorua
• Mid-range: ibis Rotorua
• Budget/Camping: Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park

Day 8: Tongariro

Drive time from Rotorua to Tongariro (National Park): 2 hours 15 minutes

Distance: 180km

By the time you get to Day 8 you will have seen coastal New Zealand, city New Zealand and farming New Zealand, so now it’s time for mountains.

As you approach Tongariro, you’ll see views of the perfectly conical Mount Ngaurahoe which features as Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings movies.

Tongariro National Park is famous for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, the most popular day hike in New Zealand with phenomenal views.

If possible, plan to get to Tongariro in time to devote a full day to the walk (it’s about 8 hours).

There are affordable shuttle options to help you get to/from each end of the trail.

If you don’t have time or want to hike or the weather packs in, then you can simply enjoy exploring the cute mountain towns of Ohakune and National Park. Make sure to grab one of the famous eclairs from the dairy in Ohakune.

In winter, it’s also possible to ski on the slopes of Ruapehu, using National Park as your base. All gear can be hired either in the towns or on the mountain and lessons are available. You can also buy day passes for the lifts on the mountain.

• Luxury: Chateau Tongariro
• Mid-range: Mountain Heights Lodge
• Budget/Camping: Tongariro Holiday Park  

Days 9-10: Wellington

Drive time from Tongariro (National Park) to Wellington: 4 hours

Distance: 330km

Day 9 will be the biggest driving day as you cover half the length of the North Island, so you’ll need at least one extra day to see New Zealand’s capital city. 

On your way from Tongariro to Wellington, you could stop at Otaki (for cafes and outlet shops) or the Kapiti Coast beaches (for walks and swimming). I wouldn’t bother stopping at Palmerston North.

There are so many things to do in Wellington but the top of your list should be Te Papa , the national museum located on the waterfront which contains so many stories of New Zealand’s history.

Don’t miss a trip on the iconic red Wellington cable car that runs from the main street of Lambton Quay up to the historic suburb of Kelburn.

I’d recommend taking the cable car uphill then walking down through the Botanic Gardens. You can buy your tickets online here .

You can also check out the city beaches around Oriental Bay and enjoy ice-cream or fish and chips on the beach.

Wellington is a foodie city and obsessed with coffee. To discover the best the city has to offer, head to the laneways which contain lots of art, awesome cafes and hidden cocktail bars .

• Luxury: Bolton Hotel
• Mid-range: Quest The Terrace
• Budget: The Marion Hostel
• Camping: Capital Gateway (this is a train ride from the city)

Find more options in my Wellington luxury hotel guide , Wellington Airbnb guide or Wellington camping guide .

Alternative: 1 week North Island itinerary

Having only one week in the North Island is really pushing it to squeeze everything. I’d recommend taking the full 10 days or even better, 2 weeks so you can properly see everything.

However, if you are really short on time, then you could skip Wellington and spend only one day in Auckland. The best parts of New Zealand are outside the cities after all and cutting the southernmost point will really reduce your driving time.

Alternative: 2 week North Island itinerary 

This extended itinerary fits even more in but is very action-packed. It works because many of these places are more about natural attractions than activities, so you don’t need as much time there.

For a more slow-paced option, you could take the 10 day itinerary and add extra days in the Coromandel and Rotorua.

• Waiheke trip

As a kiwi, it’s hard to narrow down my favourite parts of my home country to a short itinerary. There’s so much to see and do and there’s no wrong way to see New Zealand.

If you try this 10 day North Island New Zealand itinerary, I’d love to hear what you think. Let me know in the comments below.

Happy travelling!

New Zealand Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Pre-book your tickets to attractions on Get Your Guide
• Find awesome day tours on Viator
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your New Zealand dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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The Ultimate New Zealand North Island Itinerary: Road Trips from 2 Days to 2 Weeks

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New Zealand’s North Island is stunning. It has some of the best beaches in the country as well as hot springs, geothermal parks, volcanoes, lakes, waterfalls, wineries, and island sanctuaries.

Outdoor activities are popular, and you can hike, swim, snorkel, sail, surf, bike, and engage in numerous adventure activities like skydiving or jet boating.

It’s the best part of the country to learn about Maori culture and to sample delicious food and coffee at the many restaurants and cafes in the cities. It’s also home to the magical Hobbiton Movie Set!

Three-quarters of New Zealand’s population lives here and it includes the country’s largest city, Auckland, in the north of the island, and Wellington, the capital city, in the south.

We’ve driven between Auckland and Wellington five times and have spent months living in the Northland and Wellington regions.

Below I share our most recent 10-day North Island itinerary (easily reduced to one week) as well as suggestions for trips ranging from two days to two weeks or more. There is also a handy map with everything mentioned.

North Island Itinerary Suggestions

North island road trip tips, map of our new zealand north island itinerary, our north island itinerary, day 1 – 3 hahei, coromandel peninsula (3 nights), day 4 – 6 lake taupo (3 nights), day 7 – 9 te awanga, hawke’s bay (3 nights), day 10 wellington (1 night +), more places to visit in north island , more new zealand posts.

These are my North Island itinerary suggestions for different trip lengths. They assume you are travelling between Auckland and Wellington (or vice versa).

Auckland is where most international flights arrive, although the much smaller Wellington airport has connections to Australia. Wellington is where the ferry to Picton on the South Island departs.

We’ve only spent a short amount of time in Auckland and aren’t huge fans. As most visitors are in New Zealand for natural beauty, I think there are better places to visit.

If you have limited time, just spend a night in the city to recover from jet lag and then continue with these itineraries.

That said, we are fans of the beaches and wineries of Waiheke Island , which is just a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland, and a few days there is never a bad idea. 

2 Day North Island Itinerary

If you need to traverse the island in the quickest time possible, you could technically drive from Auckland to Wellington in one day (about eight hours), but it’s best to break up your journey.

When we made this trip in two days, we stayed overnight near Turangi on the southern shore of Lake Taupo . It was quieter than Taupo town (on the north shore) and on the fastest route.

We stayed at a lovely BnB outside town called Omori Lakehouse . We had a private room and bathroom with a stunning lake view as well as use of the owner’s living space. The owners were very friendly and left us beer and brownies as well as providing a continental breakfast with homemade jam.

It was a pleasant stopover and we had a pizza dinner nearby at Floating Rock Cafe on a winery.

We broke up the Taupo to Auckland day with a stop at the Hobbiton Movie Set in The Shire where The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies were filmed. 

1 Week North Island Itinerary

If you have a week for your self-drive North Island road trip, you could follow our 10-day route below but reduce the stays from three nights to two nights.

We had plenty of relaxation time, so you could still do most of the things we did. For example:

• Coromandel Peninsula – 2 nights
• Lake Taupo – 2 nights
• Hawke’s Bay – 2 nights
• Wellington – 1 night

In the 10-day section, I discuss some alternatives to these destinations.

Another option which we followed on our first trip to New Zealand:

• Rotorua – 1 night
• Tongariro National Park – 2 nights
• Wellington – 2 nights

If you are continuing south beyond Wellington, check out our picks for the top things to do in the South Island .

10 Day North Island Itinerary

This is the Auckland to Wellington itinerary I detail below.

• Coromandel Peninsula – 3 nights (stay at Tatahi Lodge )
• Lake Taupo – 3 nights (stay in a holiday rental )
• Hawke’s Bay – 3 nights
• Wellington – 1 night + (stay at QT Wellington )

You could replace one or two of the nights in Taupo with Rotorua, especially if you’d like to visit a Maori village.

If you aren’t interested in wineries, swap Hawke’s Bay with Tongariro National Park , one of the most stunning places on the North Island.

In the summer you can hike the popular Tongariro Alpine Crossing and in winter you can ski on Mt Ruapehu . I’ve written more about the park at the end of this post. 

2 Week North Island Itinerary

I recommend following the 10-day itinerary but starting with three nights in the Bay of Islands , which is four hours north of Auckland in Northland. See our guide to the best things to do in Bay of Islands .

We spent three months just outside Russell , a charming historic town that makes the best base for exploring the bay. 

It’s a long drive from Russell to Hahei in the Coromandel , but we did it at the start of this road trip, and it took us 6.5 hours plus a lunch break.

With the extra night, you can add time in Auckland, Rotorua, or Wellington.

3 week+ North Island Road Trips

If you have more than two weeks for your North Island itinerary, there are plenty more places to explore. 

This route includes many New Zealand must see destinations .

You could do a loop of the North Island by following the itinerary below and then continuing up the west coast after Wellington to:

• Tongariro National Park – For hiking and skiing on a volcano.
• New Plymouth and the Taranaki region – For beaches, art, hikes and an iconic volcano.
• Waitomo – For glowworm caves, waterfalls, gorgeous green countryside and nearby Hobbiton.
• Raglan – For surfing, waterfalls, and beach horse rides.
• Waiheke Island – For beaches, wineries, and a tropical island vibe near Auckland.

Read more about these North Island road trip ideas at the end of the post.

Back to Contents

A self-drive road trip is the best way to explore the North Island. 

We rented our car with Apex , which is a good option for longer rentals. We liked that they didn’t charge for one-way rentals, changing drop-off locations, or an additional driver.

For shorter rentals, search on Rental Cars for the best deals.

Renting a campervan is also a popular way to explore New Zealand, but you can only stay overnight in campsites or designated freedom camping spots.

Remember that in New Zealand you drive on the left-hand side of the road.

Simon picked up a Vodaphone SIM at the airport on arrival, and I later bought a Spark SIM. Both are fine, but Spark seems to have slightly better coverage in rural areas.

Phone signal isn’t available everywhere, so it’s best to download Google Maps offline so you always have access to directions (which are fairly simple in New Zealand—there aren’t a ton of roads!). 

I recommend packing a water bottle (we always travel with a few  Vapur flexible bottles  as they are light and foldable when empty) and a  travel coffee mug  or thermos.

Wear shoes that are comfortable for walking as you’ll do a lot of it in New Zealand. Most of the time I was fine in my Allbirds wool runners , but I was glad for hiking shoes on the muddier trails. (See my Allbirds review for more details on these super comfy shoes).

You can make this New Zealand road trip at any time of year. We drove it in June, which is early winter.

We had one beautiful, sunny day on the Coromandel, and the rest of our time was mostly cloudy and often rainy.

Temperatures ranged from 10ºC to 16ºC (50ºF – 61ºF). In general, the north is warmer than the south. 

The best weather, especially if you want some beach time, is in the summer from January to March. January is busy as it’s the school holidays, so I recommend February and March instead.

This North Island itinerary starts in Auckland but doesn’t include any time there. If you are arriving on a long flight, allow at least a night in the city to recover before you drive.

Auckland to Hahei Drive: 2 hours 15 minutes / 163km (101 miles)

The Coromandel Peninsula is a detour from Auckland if you are heading south to Wellington, but it’s well worth it and is one of the best places to visit in North Island.

Once you’ve left Auckland’s outskirts behind, it’s a lovely if windy drive through forests and mountains with rocky peaks.

We chose to stay in the cute beach town Hahei which is the perfect base for the Coromandel’s main attractions on the east coast— Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach .

It gets packed in the summer, but mid-week in winter it was very quiet. The town centre is tiny with just a handful of businesses—a shop, cafe, takeaway, ice-cream shop, and a few watersports companies.

We had dinner on our first night at The Pour House , a craft brewery that makes excellent beer and tasty food (including a creative vegetarian pizza).

Hahei Beach is one of my favourites in New Zealand. It’s a gorgeous long white sandy beach with rocky promontories at each end and views of craggy offshore islands.

We enjoyed sunset walks, sunrise runs and swims, and a relaxing afternoon reading in a quiet corner.

Cathedral Cove

Please note that the Cathedral Cove Walk Track is currently closed due to storm damage, please check current updates .

Cathedral Cove is the main attraction in the Coromandel, so it’s best to get an early start to avoid the crowds.

In winter, we had it to ourselves by leaving at 7.30am for the 40-minute walk from town. It’s best at low or mid tide.

The mostly paved walk is fairly easy, although it’s steep in parts, with some beautiful sea views on the way.

Steps lead down to Mares Leg Cove , a gorgeous powdery sand beach backed by white limestone cliffs chiselled by the elements and gnarled pohutukawa trees growing sideways out of the rocks.

From the beach, you walk through a natural rock archway for a view of the beach and sea stacks on the other side framed by the cave opening.

I was worried it might be overrated, but it’s a magical place.

On the way back we took a few of the side trails—the loop trail to a lookout (2km/30 minutes return) takes you through the forest to a platform high above the sea with fantastic views of the rugged coastline and clear turquoise water.

There are also shorter walks (5 minutes each way) to beautiful sandy Stingray Bay and boulder-filled Gemstone Bay , where you can follow a snorkel trail.

I braved the chilly water and was rewarded by seeing a giant stingray as well as banded wrasse, red moki, and crayfish.

With all the detours we ended up walking 11km (7 miles) with 2 hours 40 minutes of walking or four hours including breaks. In summer you’ll likely want to linger on the beaches even longer.

Shakespeare Cliff Lookout

After a morning at Cathedral Cove, we drove 15 minutes to Shakespeare Cliff Lookout.

The last section of the windy uphill road is gravel, but it’s worth it for the 180º views of Lonely Bay , Cooks Beach , and Maramaratotara Bay . 

Hot Water Beach

On our second full day, we made it to Hot Water Beach for sunrise.

There’s a hot spring under a small section of this unique beach where you can dig your own spa bath (only two hours either side of low tide).

It gets incredibly crowded in summer, but in winter there were only a few others around.

Digging a deep hole isn’t as easy as it looks (our bath was more of a puddle), but it was atmospheric to sit in hot water surrounded by steam with the waves crashing and the sky lit up in streaks of pink.

Drive to Coromandel Town

After a shower and breakfast, we left for a loop drive to the other side of the Coromandel Peninsula.

We started on the 309, a windy narrow gravel road that made me car sick. It goes deep in the bush and feels far away from everything.

A few worthwhile stops are the Waiau Kauri Grove , where a peaceful 15-minute loop walk takes you past some of these giant trees, and Waiau Falls , a pretty little falls with a pool that looked enticing for swimming.

We had lunch in Coromandel Town , an old gold town that still has some heritage buildings.

There’s not much going on, but we did enjoy the creative vegetarian lunch options at Wharf Road Cafe which unfortunately is temporarily closed.

UMU Cafe looks like a good alternative with tasty pizza and lunch bowl options.

You could also take a scenic train ride on the nearby Driving Creek Railway , but the times are limited in winter and we missed it.

We drove back on the 25, a sealed road with beautiful coastal views and plenty of opportunities for beach stops. I’d wanted to detour to New Chums Beach , but you can only reach it at low tide.

We ended up taking a short walk at Matarangi Beach , a long white sand beach typical of the area, but the weather wasn’t great. Rings Beach and Kuaotunu Beach are also supposed to be pretty.

Hahei Accommodation

We stayed at Tatahi Lodge , which I highly recommend. It has a range of accommodation for all budgets including a backpackers, motel rooms, and holiday cottages.

It’s set in pretty gardens and is a one-minute walk from the pub, five minutes from the beach, and 40 minutes from Cathedral Cove.

The friendly staff gave us all the information we needed on the area and lent us a shovel and beach towels. The only downside is we only got 5GB of internet free, but it was enough for our stay.

We stayed in a two-bedroom cottage with a log cabin vibe. The decor was a little dated, but it was comfortable and spacious with a kitchen and small garden with BBQ and outdoor furniture.

Hahei to Taupo Drive: 4 hours / 281km (175 miles) plus stops (1 hour 15 minutes)

Our next destination was Lake Taupo in the centre of the North Island.

The winding drive through the forest-covered mountains of the Coromandel was beautiful before we reached flatter plains and farmland. Past Matamata the scenery became more dramatic again with lush green rolling hills.

We made three stops—for coffee (and to eat our packed sandwiches) in Matamata, at the Blue Spring Putaruru , and for a quick walk in Rotorua .

I also highly recommend stopping at the Hobbiton Movie Set near Matamata. Even if you aren’t a Lord of the Rings fan, the cute hobbit village is a picturesque place to wander with incredible attention to detail.

You need to book the two-hour walking tour in advance , but if you book it for early afternoon, it fits well in this itinerary. There’s an average cafe there for lunch, or you can stop in Matamata.

Blue Spring Putaruru

As we’d visited Hobbiton on a previous North Island road trip, we chose to take a break at the Blue Spring in Putaruru , which is just after Matamata and 40 minutes before Rotorua.

We parked at the Leslie Road car park and strolled along the river for 10 minutes to reach the colourful main pool (and toilet).

The incredibly pure water is bright blue and full of floaty green vegetation, creating a magical feel.

You can continue along the river on the Te Waihou Walkway (1 hour 30 minutes each way), but we were a bit concerned about the signs warning of car break-ins.

Our next stop was Rotorua , which is a popular stop on many North Island road trips, so you may want to spend a night or two here.

The sprawling town is renowned for its geothermal activity—you can see steam emerging from the drains and smell the sulphur in the air.

It’s the best place in the country to learn about Maori culture—at Whakarewarewa Maori village you can take a guided tour and see a cultural performance.

As we’d visited previously and recently experienced a Maori performance at Waitangi in the Bay of Islands , we just made a quick stop at Kuirau Park .

At this free city park you can see geothermal activity like a large pool of steaming water and bubbling mud pools.

It doesn’t compare to the experience at the paid geothermal parks (which we’ll visit soon), but it’s worth a quick stop.

Taupo is a lakefront town, one hour from Rotorua. There are some excellent geothermal destinations to explore on the way, but we chose to return to these the following day.

Lake Taupo is the largest lake in New Zealand and is a popular spot for watersports in the summer.

It’s also a hub of adventure activities like skydiving (which we did here on our first trip to New Zealand), bungy jumping, and jet boating.

As we were visiting in winter, we focused on hot springs, waterfalls, and geothermal parks.

We mostly self-catered, but we did have a good-value lunch at Cafe Baku near the waterfront, which has a huge range of cabinet food including veggie options.

Wairakei Terraces Thermal Spa

On our first evening in Taupo, we relaxed after the drive at the hot pools at Wairakei Terraces .

Sunset would be ideal but the lighting was also atmospheric at night as we soaked in a series of large terraced pools of varying temperatures. It’s open to over 14s only. Entrance is usually $27 but we got a Grabone deal for $15.

Wai-o-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

On our first full day in Taupo we drove 45 minutes back towards Rotorua for some geothermal action.

There are a number of geothermal parks, but we chose Wai-o-Tapu as it’s known for having the most colourful pools. Tickets are $32.50 and currently can only be bought online.

We arrived at opening at 9am and had the place to ourselves. The full trail around the park is 3km and took us an hour, although you could spend longer if you read all the information signs.

It’s a unique and fascinating place with steam rising from the ground, bubbling mud pools, collapsed craters, and many colourful hot pools.

Champagne Pool is the largest hot spring in New Zealand and Devil’s Bath is an unreal neon green.

There’s also an eruption of Lady Knox Geyser at 10.15am daily at a separate site a short drive away, but we didn’t make it in time.

A few minutes’ drive from Wai-o-Tapu is this free site where you can see mud spurting out of a large pond. It’s definitely worth a stop.

Kerosene Creek

Our final stop on our first day was Kerosene Creek , a 10-minute drive from Wai-o-Tapu (towards Rotorua).

The last five minutes is on a horrible gravel road full of potholes, so I wouldn’t recommend it after rain in a normal car.

There are plenty of hot springs in the area, but this is the only hot river I found, and it’s free.

It’s a unique experience to soak in the warm, shallow water surrounded by forest.

It gets busy so it’s best to visit early, but you can just keep walking down the river to find a quiet spot to yourself. The most popular section was under a small waterfall.

Spa Park and Huka Falls

Our second day in Taupo didn’t go entirely to plan as it rained all day.

We’d planned to park at Spa Park just outside town where there’s a free natural hot spring in the banks of the river.

From there we’d walk on the riverside track (60–90 minutes each way) to Huka Falls , return, then soak in the pools.

Instead, we drove to Huka Falls and did a short walk along the river, and then drove to Spa Park.

Huka Falls is a wide and thunderous mass of water that erupts into a bright blue river.

In the afternoon we drove 25 minutes to Kinloch , a small lakeside village that’s much less developed than Taupo town.

There’s a cycle and walking trail along the lake and it seemed pleasant, but honestly, in the rain we couldn’t see much!

Taupo Accommodation

We stayed at Janey B’s on Botanical (unfortunately no longer available), a one-bedroom apartment under a friendly family’s home a five-minute drive outside Taupo town.

We didn’t mind being outside town as all the activities we wanted to do were a drive away anyway, and we’re not huge fans of Taupo town.

For alternatives search for more holiday rentals in Taupo here .

Taupo to Te Awanga Drive: 2 hours / 156km (97 miles)

Our next destination was Hawke’s Bay on New Zealand’s east coast, which is known for its wineries and Art Deco architecture. You’ll also find good food and some beautiful walks.

In winter, it’s best to visit on a weekend if possible, as not all wineries are open during the week, especially in Te Awanga .

If you’re not a wine fan, you might prefer to head south to Tongariro National Park instead for hiking in summer or skiing in winter.

It’s an easy, stunning drive from Taupo over the mountains. There’s no petrol on the way so fill up in advance.

It’s a remote area and the only place we stopped was at the sign for a scenic lookout which leads to a view of a large dramatic waterfall.

Te Awanga Estate

Hawke’s Bay is a large area that includes the towns of Napier and Hastings plus the surrounding countryside.

I found it difficult knowing where to stay and ended up choosing Te Awanga , a small seaside village, as it was a flat cycle ride to three wineries (you could even walk).

On the day we arrived, we started with lunch at Te Awanga Estate , a casual winery with views of the vineyard and sea beyond.

It was busy and chaotic on a Saturday and we really should have booked, but we managed to get a table outside.

We enjoyed a vegetarian version of their platter, which featured an array of dips, pickled vegetables, nuts, fruit, and bread, and a tasty pie of the day (chile and cheese was the veggie option), along with the local specialities—Syrah red and Chardonnay white wines.

Te Awanga Beach

After lunch, it was still too early to check in to our accommodation, so we went for a walk on the pebbly beach which is popular with surfers.

The small village consists mostly of baches (holiday homes) plus a shop, takeaway, and the waterfront wineries.

Elephant Hill Winery

Our first full day was our winery day. Despite the pouring rain we ventured out on our bikes (you can rent from Coastal Wine Cycles ) for an easy (if wet) 15-minute cycle on the limestone bike path along the seafront.

If you find yourself based in Napier you can also hire bikes from Tākaro Trails Cycle Tours .

At Elephant Hill you must book a seated tasting ($20 for four wines) and it was a relaxed, informative experience in their modern tasting room.

The view of the sea would have been amazing if we could have seen it!

We focused on the Syrah and Chardonnay again and ended up treating ourselves to a bottle of their Stone Syrah.

We spent an hour there and could have lingered longer over the generous pours.

Clearview Estate Winery

It was a five-minute cycle back to Clearview Estate where we’d booked a table for lunch.

It’s set further back from the sea, so the view isn’t as good, but the rustic dining room was cosy and we appreciated the fireplace.

It was our favourite meal in Hawke’s Bay. We shared halloumi with roasted vegetables, spinach and feta filo parcel, and polenta chips with aioli.

We liked that you could order half glasses of wine to sample their many Chardonnays (the White Caps was oaky and buttery enough to satisfy Simon).

We’d planned to cycle further down the coast to the seafront Hygge Cafe in Clifton for coffee and cake, but the rain was miserable so we spent the afternoon relaxing at our apartment instead.

You could also cycle inland to the wineries near Havelock North , but this will be a hillier route.

We started our second full day with a wander around Napier .

This small city was rebuilt in Art Deco style after an earthquake in 1931, and the streets are still lined with pastel-coloured buildings with geometric motifs.

There are quite a few tempting coffee shops in Napier, so we stopped in at Georgia on Tennyson , before driving to the suburb of Ahuriri for a seafront walk past sea wall murals.

Havelock North

A 25-minute drive from Napier is Havelock North , a boutiquey village on the outskirts of Hastings .

It’s supposed to be one of the most desirable places to stay in the area, but honestly, we didn’t find it that exciting or attractive. Perhaps if we were into shopping we would have enjoyed it more.

It is close to some great wineries and hikes, though.

Craggy Range Winery

Craggy Range is an upmarket winery next to the craggy Te Mata mountain .

We had lunch in the stylish restaurant where the fine dining menu uses local, seasonal ingredients, including produce from their garden.

Although vegetarian options were limited, we did enjoy our halloumi and green bean starter and baked gnocchi with black garlic main. Simon was a fan of their Reserve Chardonnay.

Te Mata Peak

We’d originally planned to hike the 5-kilometre Giant Circuit at Te Mata , but the steep trail was too muddy and slippery after days of rain.

Instead, we drove to the peak and took a short walk for spectacular views of the jagged limestone peaks, bumpy green hills, and down to Craggy Range Winery.

I definitely recommend a longer hike here if the weather is good—it’s the most scenic part of Hawke’s Bay.

Ocean Beach

Our final stop was Ocean Beach , a 30-minute drive from Te Mata and Te Awanga, but it’s well worth a detour with beautiful views of undulating green hills on the way.

Ocean Beach is gorgeous—a long, wide, golden sand beach backed by small dunes and larger green hills.

It feels quite remote and is undeveloped except for a collection of simple wooden baches. I would love to stay here. 

Hawke’s Bay Accommodation

We rented a large studio apartment underneath a family home in Te Awanga.

It was a two-minute walk from the beach and came with free bikes but unfortunately, the accommodation is no longer available.

Alternatively, if you have the budget, you could stay in a luxury cottage on a vineyard at Craggy Range .

The views are stunning here and you’ll have easy access to their restaurant and tasting room. 

Te Awanga to Wellington Drive: 4.5 hours / 323km (201 miles) plus 15 minutes of breaks

It was a beautiful drive down the SH2 to Wellington, especially after Featherston over the dramatic Rimutaka Hill .

There are lots of options for stops on the way, although we only stopped for coffee.

We were tempted to add an extra night at Castlepoint , a remote beach town with a scenic lighthouse, but the weather put us off.

If you want more wine, Martinborough is also worth a night or two (we visited as a side trip from Wellington). Why not try this Half Day Martinborough Winery Tour from Wellington ?

It’s a smaller wine region than Hawke’s Bay with flat, easy cycling to many nearby wineries (don’t miss the platters at Poppies).

Alternatively, drive through Palmerston North (where you can visit the New Zealand Rugby Museum ) and down SH1 to the Kapiti Coast.

If you have time, you might want to stay in one of the beach towns—we love Paekakariki .

On this trip we spent a week in Wellington staying with friends, but if you have limited time in the country, you’ll probably only want a night or two here.

We do love this compact capital city (we’ve since spent a few months here), but most people come to New Zealand for nature and will likely want to get on the ferry and head to the South Island (see our best East Coast South Island road trip stops and the best South Island activities ).

A few of our favourite things to do in Wellington include the Wellington Botanic Gardens (and the cable car ride up there), a walk along the waterfront to Oriental Bay , the Sunday morning Harbourside Market , the view from Mount Victoria , learning about native birds at Zealandia , and seeing seals on the Red Rocks Walkway . 

Check out these other scenic Wellington walks .

You’ll find some of the best food and coffee in the country here. We love coffee tasting flights at Hangar , hot chocolate at Scopa , seaside brunch at The Botanist or Maranui Cafe in Lyall Bay , vegetarian tasting menus at Hillside Kitchen , and wine at Noble Rot .

Wellington Accommodation

Although we stayed with friends on this trip, we have visited Wellington multiple times. Our favourite place to stay is the stylish boutique hotel QT Wellington .

It has the perfect location opposite the Te Papa museum with harbour views.

Rooms are creative and comfortable (Harbourview Gallery rooms are best) and there’s cool artwork throughout the hotel.

If you have longer than 10 days to travel the North Island, consider adding one or more of these destinations. You could even loop back to Auckland by following these places north. 

Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park is one of the most spectacular places on the North Island with three active volcanoes in a wild and beautiful landscape.

It’s most famous for the challenging (and very busy) day hike, the Tongariro Crossing .

We visited in early spring when the route was still covered in snow, but there are plenty of other hikes in the area.

We stayed in Whakapapa , the tiny village nearest to Mount Ruapehu and its ski resort.

Our room at Skotel Alpine Resort was simple but had wonderful views of the symmetrical dome of Mount Ngauruhoe , which stood in for Mt Doom in the Lord of the Rings films.

Our picks for the area include:

• Tama Lakes hike – An incredible walk to two volcanic crater lakes. The 17.8km trail took me just over four hours plus breaks. It starts next to the Skotel (they rent poles which were useful for the last section).
• Skiing or snowboarding at Mt Ruapehu – While I hiked, Simon spent a day on the slopes. It’s a unique opportunity to ski on a volcano, but the resort does get busy (avoid weekends and July school holidays). Shuttles run from the village. You can also ride up the gondola just to enjoy the magnificent views.

New Plymouth and Taranaki

New Plymouth is a small seaside city in Taranaki , a region on the west coast that is usually overlooked by visitors and even Kiwis.

We soon fell for the green countryside, black sand beaches, cool art, and most of all, the perfectly conical volcano, Mt Taranaki .

Hiking to snow-capped Mt Taranaki in late winter and seeing it reflected in Pouakai Tarn is one of my top North Island experiences.

Read my guide to the best things to do in New Plymouth and Taranaki for more details. 

Waitomo Caves is one of the top tourist attractions in the North Island.

The typical 45-minute cave tour , which we did, includes a walk through an impressive cave and boat ride under a magical sky of glowworms, which glitter like fairy lights.

It’s a commercial operation and the magic is often ruined by the constant flow of tour groups but visiting when the borders were closed, we really enjoyed it. There are also longer cave tours in the area.

Nearby, we also loved the Ruakuri Bushwalk (you can see glowworms here at night), Mangapohue Natural Bridge , and Marokopa Falls , my favourite waterfall in New Zealand.

Raglan is a small surf town on the west coast with a cool vibe. In the area we recommend:

• Horse riding on Ruapuke Beach – Horseback was a fun way to experience this remote jet black beach. We did the trip with Wild Coast who were fantastic.
• Te Toto Gorge – A scenic platform overlooking the gorge with sea views.
• Bridal Veil Falls – A beautiful 55 metre waterfall with four different viewpoints.
• Dinner at Ulos – This quirky, colourful restaurant is run by a friendly Japanese family and has delicious Japanese/Korean food with veggie options.
• Brunch at The Shack – A cool cafe with delicious food.

The impressive Hamilton Gardens are only 45 minutes away—we stopped here on the way to Auckland. You could spend half a day exploring the many gardens including Maori, Japanese, Italian Renaissance, Chinese, Indian, Tudor, and surrealist.

Waiheke Island

This dreamy island would make a good first or last stop in the country as it’s only a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland .

Many people visit on a day trip, but if you like beaches and wineries, you might want to stay longer. Our picks include:

• Man O’ War Vineyard – The food is just ok, but the wine is excellent and the beachside location is wonderful. It’s a windy but beautiful drive on a gravel road to get out here.
• Poderi Crisci – An authentic Italian restaurant on a vineyard in an undeveloped part of the island. Our favourite meal on Waiheke—expect to linger.
• Casita Miró – Delicious tapas and wine with vineyard and sea views and a colourful mosaic design.
• Wine tasting at Mudbrick – It’s worth a visit to this upmarket winery to enjoy the lovely gardens and stunning views. Walk up the hill to the helicopter landing pad for 360º views of the island.
• Cable Bay Vineyard – We enjoyed our mezze platter here, but the views are what people come for.
• Little Palm Beach – My favourite beach on Waiheke is beyond the rocks at Palm Beach and has a secluded feel backed by cliffs (it’s popular with nudists). The walk above Palm Beach also has a lovely view.

There are some amazing holiday homes on Waiheke. We stayed at Te Kereru Onetangi , a spectacular architecturally designed house surrounded by native forest with views of Onetangi Beach below (a 15-minute walk away). We loved the birdsong, sunlight, secluded feel, modern design, and many terraces.

Bay of Islands

A beautiful area of beaches and islands in Northland. Taking the ferry or water taxi to Urupukapuka Island is our top recommendation for the area.

We also spent six days learning to sail a yacht with Great Escape and then sailing ourselves around the islands.

See more recommendations for activities in Bay of Islands New Zealand .

I hope this New Zealand North Island itinerary has given you some ideas for your trip.

There are many fantastic options, but this route is an excellent mix of beautiful beaches, relaxing hot springs, fascinating geothermal parks, stunning hikes, and delicious wineries.

Read more of our tips for exploring beautiful New Zealand.

• 25 Beautiful Places to Visit in New Zealand

North Island

• 22 Fun Things to Do in Wellington
• 8 Stunning Wellington Walks Not to Miss
• 15 Unforgettable Things to Do in Bay of Islands
• 15 Best Things to Do in New Plymouth and Taranaki
• Exploring Beautiful Urupukapuka Island in the Bay of Islands
• Learning to Sail in the Bay of Islands (While the World Falls Apart)
• Visiting the Magical Hobbiton Movie Set

South Island

• 25 Best Things to Do in South Island NZ
• 20 Unmissable Things to Do in Wanaka
• 17 Relaxing Things to Do in Queenstown
• Queenstown to Milford Sound Scenic Flight: The Most Beautiful Half-Day Trip in New Zealand
• 12 Best Road Trip Stops on the East Coast of the South Island
• 24 Best Things to Do in Nelson
• 23 Best Restaurants and Cafes in Nelson, New Zealand
• The Ultimate Guide to Abel Tasman National Park
• Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail: The Ultimate Guide to New Zealand’s Spectacular New Bike Ride
• A Detailed Guide to Walking the Queen Charlotte Track in New Zealand

Enjoyed this post? Pin for later!

Thanks so much for this! I am just following your itinerary for my NZ north island trip. It’s so detailed!!

Could you please let me know the starting point of your Cathedral cove walk?

Reply ↓

We walked from our hotel in Hahei, Tatahi Lodge. Unfortunately, the walk is currently closed after major damage in a cyclone.

Great list! We’re planning a New Zealand trip for whenever that’s possible again and this will come in handy. It’s been on our list for a long time so super excited to start the early planning stages.

Hi Erin, thanks for this wonderful post in these difficult times. Maybe to have something to look forward to in the future: could you do an update post on your current packing list? I am always so interested in the little details (and it helps to mentally look forward to better days where travelling is hopefully possible again).

Thanks & all the best

Hi Jayden, it’s funny you should say that – I’m just working on that right now and it’ll be out by next week!

Here’s our updated packing list: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/carry-on-travel-packing-list/

Great details! Gorgeous land. We’ve always wanted to travel New Zealand, just haven’t made it over yet….it is on our Bucket List!

I hope you make it to NZ one day! It’s such a beautiful country!

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The Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip: North Island Itinerary

Last updated on March 6, 2024

This is the second part of our back-to-nature  New Zealand road trip itinerary . The first part focussed on the South Island, and this part details our New Zealand North Island itinerary.

In the first post, I also explained all the logistics of our road trip in New Zealand: how much we spent, the kinds of places we stayed, and the experiences we were looking for. I suggest reading the South Island itinerary post first then delving into this one for all the New Zealand North Island road trip details.

See all our road trip itineraries here. And don’t miss our guide to how to plan a road trip .

What to include in your New Zealand North Island Itinerary?

The South Island tends to get a lot of the glory, but New Zealand’s North Island is equally as special, with some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, as well as magnificent mountains, forests and lakes. It’s also the place to go for epic geothermal sights, from geysers to volcanoes and multi-coloured hot springs – there’s even a beach where you can dig your own natural hot tub!

As with all of New Zealand, North Island is a hotbed of outdoor activities and you can do everything from skiing to kayaking to hiking and surfing. For a slice of city life, you have Auckland, the country’s biggest and most populous city, as well as Wellington, the tiny but charming capital. And the New Zealand’s North Island is also the place to go to experience Maori culture.

We think doing a road trip is the best way to travel North Island, New Zealand.

Highlights of the North Island

These are some of the highlights of a trip around New Zealand’s North Island.

• Wellington – New Zealand’s cool but tiny capital city with a rich cultural and food scene, and no shortage of hipster coffee and craft beer.
• Lake Taupo – the North Island’s answer to Queenstown, packed with adventure activities and spectacular scenery.
• Tongariro National Park – home to three volcanoes and epic scenery, Tongariro is perfect for hiking.
• Hobbitton – the world famous and charming movie set for Lord of the Rings.
• Rotorua – the place to go for geothermal sights and to learn about Maori culture. Don’t miss the epic Wai-o-Tapu geothermal wonderland, and make sure to visit a spa.
• Coromandel Peninsula – a land of deep forests and unspoiled coastline, home to the stunning Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach.
• Northland and the Bay of Islands – a paradise land of idyllic bays and one of our favourite places in New Zealand.
• Waipoua forest – home to the tallest kauri tree in New Zealand, the magnificent Tane Mahuta
• Waitomo Caves – a labyrinth of underground rivers, most famous for its magical glowworm-filled caves
• Raglan – a popular hippy surf town where you can spend days living that laidback surf life.
• Surf Highway 45 – an 105km paradise for surfers on the west coast.
• Taranaki – home to the mountain of the same name and the Whanganui River, which has been legally granted the same rights as a person.
• Hawke’s Bay – the North Island’s wine region and home to Napier, a city famous for its Art Deco architecture.
• Bay of Plenty – a popular beach spot for Kiwi holidaymakers and a centre of Maori culture.
• Auckland – New Zealands biggest city, often ranked one of the world’s best for quality of life.
• Waiheke Island – just a short ferry ride from Auckland and home to vineyards and white sandy beaches.

How to adapt this two-week New Zealand North Island itinerary

In this post, I’ve outlined a roughly two-week itinerary for New Zealand’s North island, starting in Wellington and ending in Raglan/Auckland. You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes, preferences and timescale. Just pick and choose the places that sound most appealing to you and spend more or less time in each one depending on your priorities.

The Bay of Islands and Raglan are detours, so would be obvious ones to miss, which would make our itinerary nine days. However, for us, the Bay of Islands was a highlight, so it’s really down to your own tastes.

Some areas we didn’t include on our trip, which you might like to consider are: Hawke’s Bay , which is famous for its wineries and Art Deco design; the Bay of Plenty, a popular spot for Kiwi holidaymakers and a centre of Maori culture; and the Surf Highway 45, which is a 105km paradise for surfers.

We also went to New Plymouth, but that was purely to go to the Womad Festival, so I haven’t included it in our main itinerary below. I have, however, included a short section about it at the end, in case your trip also coincides with the festival or you want to explore the National Park area around Mount Taranaki, the Whanganui River and the surf highway.

Our North Island New Zealand itinerary at a glance

You can do this as a standalone New Zealand North Island itinerary from Wellington to Auckland. Or if you want to explore the whole country, combine it with our South Island road trip itinerary .

Days 1-3: Wellington

Stay in a Wellington Airbnb

Days 3-4: Tongariro National Park

Stay at  Adventure Lodge and Motel

Days 4-5: Lake Taupo

Stay at  Tiki Lodge Backpackers

Days 5-6: Rotorua

Stay at  AirBnB apartment in the Redwoods 

Days 6-8: Hobbiton / Coromandel

Stay at  Coromandel treehouse

Days 8-9: Auckland

Stay at  Aimee’s Airbnb

Day 9: Whananaki

Pick up Spaceship campervan and stay at  DOC campsite, Otamure Bay

Days 10-13: Bay of Islands / Waipoua Forest

Stay at  Bay of Islands holiday park

Days 13-14 : Auckland

Days 14-16: Raglan / Waitomo

Stay at Solscape

Top tips for planning a road trip in New Zealand’s North Island

For car rentals, we recommend booking with Discover Cars . They always have the cheapest deals.

We found great last-minute deals on Booking.com , getting a discount of up to 60%.

If you sign up to Airbnb using this link , you’ll get £25 off your first booking.

Read our guide to how to choose a campervan in New Zealand .

Don’t forget your travel insurance! We recommend True Traveller who both offer reliable, comprehensive cover, including medical, evacuation, baggage and a range of adventure sports and activities. You can buy True Traveller insurance even when you’ve left home, which is unusual for travel insurance companies.

Save time and money on your next trip

See our  travel resources  page for all our best travel tips, including how to save money with the best cards, what insurance to choose, and all our favourite tools and tricks. They’ll help you to plan the perfect North Island New Zealand road trip.

Find the best deals on car hire

We recommend Discover Cars for booking your rental car. They search all the top companies and always tend to find the best deals. We use them every time.

Road trip New Zealand: North Island itinerary

Our time in the North Island began in Wellington, which was named one of “the world’s coolest small capitals” by Lonely Planet. After almost a whole month in nature, it was a bit of a shock to be back in a city environment and we didn’t love Wellington as much as we thought we would.

That said we were biased because of our mood and I think the city has a lot to offer. There were lots of excellent restaurants and cafes and we enjoyed the city’s creative vibe. The botanical gardens are also beautiful. For more info on Wellington, I recommend reading Liz’s post as she lived there for a while and loved it.

Accommodation in Wellington

We did a home exchange in Wellington, using the website Home Exchange. Read our full guide here .

Travel to Wellington

We got to Wellington by taking the Interislander ferry from Picton. The first half of the three-hour journey is beautiful, taking you through the magnificent Marlborough Sounds. After that, you’re on the open sea, which was pretty rocky. I felt very sea sick, which didn’t mix well with all the wine from the day before! 

While in Wellington, we walked everywhere.

Tongariro National Park

We had grand plans for Tongariro and really want to do the one-day Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike, but we both injured ourselves so had to pull out. The Wanderlusters have written a guide to the hike here. As we couldn’t do it, we opted for a shorter walk from up near the Whakapapa Apline Chairlift. The chairlift itself wasn’t in use but we walked around the area and got a great view of Mount Ngauruhoe, which was Mount Doom in Lord of the Rings.

Accommodation in Tongariro

We stayed at the Adventure Lodge and Motel , which was clean but basic and run by a rather unfriendly woman. But she was really knowledgeable about the area, and this would be a fine place to stay if you’re doing the hike (they give lifts to the start of the hike in the morning). It cost NZ$110 (£55) for a double room.

Travel in Tongariro

We hired a car in Wellington, which we kept for the next five days before collecting a camper van in Auckland. We used Omega Rentals again.

The journey from Wellington to Tongariro was meant to take four hours, but we hit traffic, which made it more like five.

Lake Taupo is the North Island’s answer to Queenstown, filled with lots of adventure activities and gorgeous nature to explore. It’s a laid-back little town that you could easily spend a few days in.

We were there for just one night and used that time to walk along the lakeshore, visit the magnificent Huka Falls, and relax at the amazing Wairakei Terraces , a little complex of thermal pools, fed by the mineral-laden Wairakei geothermal steamfield, and surrounded by beautiful gardens. It’s one of the most beautiful thermal spas I’ve ever been to, and spending the evening there bathing in the pools as the sun went down was magical.

You can take a self-guided tour of a re-created Maori village, including an artificial geyser , or book a tour with a dinner buffet .

Accommodation in Taupo

We stayed in a double room at a friendly hostel called Tiki Lodge Backpackers , which cost NZ$80 (£40) for a double room. It’s within easy walking distance of the town.

Travel to Taupo

The drive from Tongariro to Lake Taupo took one hour. It’s a beautiful drive with some pretty viewpoints along the way, where we stopped for a picnic.

Rotorua is the place to go to see New Zealand’s thermal activity and learn about Maori life. Nicknamed ‘Sulphur City’ it’s the North Island’s most smelly destination, home to steaming hot springs, impressive geysers and bubbling mud pools. Thirty five percent of the population is Maori and there are a couple of centres you can visit to learn more about Maori life.

A few years ago, there was a rift within the main Maori tourist attraction, which resulted in it being split in two. On one side is Te Puia and on the other side is Whakarewarewa Village .

We chose to go to Whakarewarewa as this is a little village where Maori people still live today, and we felt that it would be more interesting. The villagers show you around and tell you about their way of life and the significance of all the thermal activity.

We also tried some sweetcorn that was cooked in one of the mineral pools! We can’t really comment on which one is best as we didn’t go to Te Puia, but we were happy with our choice. At Te Puia, you can see kiwi birds as well as Pohutu, a geyser which erupts up to 20 times a day. You can also see Pohutu in the distance from Whakarewarewa.

While in Rotorua, we also visited Wai-o-Tapu, the geothermal wonderland. Some people find this place too touristy, but I still thought it was pretty amazing with all the incredible naturally coloured waters and minerals. There’s a geyser that is made to spout at 10:15 am every morning. They use organic soap to trigger it, which is also how it was discovered when prisoners were washing clothes in the water!

Finally, while in Rotorua we couldn’t resist going for some treatments in the mineral-rich mud and water. We opted for a mud bath at the QE Health Spa , and a visit to the Polynesian Spa where you can bath in spa pools while overlooking the lake. We highly recommend both.

One thing we didn’t have time to do is go on the Skyline Rotorua Luge . It’s run by the same company as the one in Queenstown and we loved that so I’m sure it’d be great fun!

Accommodation in Rotorua

We stayed at a lovely Airbnb apartment, which was a short 5-10 minute drive from the centre. The nicely decorated apartment in a residential area was a self-contained studio loft in the owners’ garden – we loved it. It cost NZ$100 for one night. 

Travel to Rotorua

The drive from Taupo to Rotorua is just one hour. Wai-O-Tapu is on the way so we stopped there first in time to see the Lady Knox geyser erupt. We managed to see all we wanted to in Rotorua within that one day.

Hobbiton / Coromandel

From Rotorua, we drove to Matamata, home of one of New Zealand’s best tourist attractions, the Hobbiton movie set ! I’m not a diehard Lord of the Rings fan, but I absolutely loved visiting the set. It’s such an incredible place and I found the amount of work and detail that went into building it fascinating.

The whole set has been left intact since the filming of The Hobbit, and you feel as though you’ve stepped into some sort of real-life magical land. You have to do a tour and it isn’t cheap, but I do think it’s worth it.

After Hobbiton, we headed to the Coromandel Peninsula, which was recommended to us time and time again by New Zealanders themselves. It’s a gorgeous part of the country with deep forests and a mostly unspoiled rugged coastline. We stayed for two nights in an amazing treehouse in the forest.

While there, we visited two of the Coromandel’s main tourist attractions – Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach . They’re both busy places, but very much worth visiting – Cathedral Cove for its beauty, and the Hot Water Beach for the novelty. Thermal waters run beneath one section of the sand, so you can dig your own hot pool. Be careful though, as some parts of the beach produce scalding water. It’ll inevitably be busy, so take notice of the areas that other people are avoiding!

Accommodation in the Coromandel Peninsula

We stayed at an incredible treehouse near Whitianga. I’ve written a full review of the Coromandel treehouse here. One night at the treehouse costs NZ$270. It’s definitely worth it!

Travel to the Coromandel Peninsula

The drive to Hobbiton takes one hour from Rotorua. We got a little lost and stopped at the Matamata iSite to get directions. You can see a map of where Hobbiton is here.

From Hobbiton, we drove up to Whitianga, which took about three hours. The final part of the drive, once you hit the Coromandel Peninsula, is particularly beautiful, along forest-lined coastal roads. There are tons of farms along the way where you can buy fresh avocados and other produce.

Days 8-9 and 25-26

Wellington is New Zealand’s capital, but Auckland is the country’s biggest city and up to 25% of the population live there. As I’ve said before, we were prioritising nature in New Zealand so we were only in Auckland for two nights, one on the way up to the Bay of Islands and another on the way back. It felt like a very liveable city, with a relaxed vibe and a great seaside location.

Oddly, the only thing Steve and I did there, aside from eat out, was go to two different escape rooms. We recently discovered these and love them so decided to try out the two different companies in Auckland. Both were good, but out of the two, we preferred Escapade NZ where we did the Bach room.

If we’d had more time, I’d have loved to visit Waiheke Island , which is just a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland, and home to beautiful beaches, vineyards and olive groves.

If you’re on a budget, here’s a guide to some of the Auckland’s best cheap eats .

Accommodation in Auckland

We stayed at a lovely woman named Aimee’s AirBnB in the pretty Grey Lynn area of the city, which is a residential area, close to the more vibrant and hip Kingsland and Ponsonby. It was a great location with lovely hosts. Highly recommended , but sadly now closed. I’m sure you can find similar ones in the same area.

Travel to Auckland

The journey from Whitianga to Auckland take 2.5 hours, but expect to add a bit more once you get to the city as you’re likely to hit traffic. It took us an extra 40 minutes. We were able to park at the AirBnB for free.

This marked the first day for us in camper van on the North Island. We picked up our Spaceship camper van in Auckland and made our way up to the Bay of Islands, stopping at Whananaki along the way, mainly to break up the ride, and also because we wanted to experience a peaceful spot along the coast.

The Otamure Bay DOC campsite didn’t disappoint and we enjoyed spending the evening there, listening to the sound of the waves and taking a stroll along the seafront. In the morning, we saw people stand-up paddle boarding, which would have been fun if we had the equipment.

Accommodation in Whananaki

We stayed at a DOC campsite called Otamure Bay , which is a peaceful spot on the beachfront run by a friendly family with about eight children.

Travel to  Whananaki

We picked up our camper van in Auckland and drove up to Otamure Bay. The journey was supposed to take three hours, but traffic made it four. There are some great real fruit ice cream stalls along the way!

Bay of Islands / Waipoua Forest

The Bay of Islands was one of our favourite places in New Zealand. It reminded us of an exotic version of England, a little like Cornwall but with warmer water and sunnier skies. We did two boat trips while we were there and loved both of them.

The first was a full day sailing on the R Tucker Thompson , an incredible tall ship that doubles as a teaching vessel during the off-season. All the profits from the tourist sales go towards providing youth development voyages for 13-18 year olds where they learn about teamwork and leadership skills.

Aside from the charity angle, which of course adds to its charms, the tall ship is worth going out on anyway for a beautiful day sailing around the islands. It was one of the highlights of our entire time in New Zealand. We especially enjoyed climbing the rigging and sitting on the bow. Tea and scones are served in the morning, as well as a lunch later on, and even champagne if you want it!

The second cruise we took was the Cream Trip with Fullers Great Sights, which follows the old delivery route around the Bay of Islands from Paihia. This was a very different experience to R Tucker Thompson one – less personal and on a big catamaran with more people. But it also meant we ventured further, plus there was the added bonus that this trip included the opportunity to swim with dolphins.

Unfortunately, we were unable to swim with the ones we saw because the dolphins had babies with them, which is against the rules for swimming. We did, however, spend a magical 30 minutes sailing alongside the dolphins as they playfully danced and interacted with the boat.

Other highlights of the trip included spotting penguins, sailing through the hole in the rock and visiting Otehei Bay, where we went for a walk up over the hills for a beautiful view across the islands. We also had fun trying the boom netting, where you hold onto the net as it pulls you alongside the boat!

While in the Bay of Islands, we also went tandem parasailing, which involved being pulled around the island 1200ft in the air from the back of a boat. It was somewhat nerve-wracking, but the views were spectacular.

On our final day, on the way back to Auckland, we drove to Waipoua forest, home to the tallest kauri tree in New Zealand, the magnificent Tane Mahuta. We also stopped to see Te Matua Ngahere, another ancient kauri tree that isn’t as tall, but is wider and older than Tane Mahuta. Both were beautiful and certainly worth seeing.

If we’d had more time, we’d have travelled further north to Cape Reinga along the gorgeous Twin Coast Highway.

Accommodation in the Bay of Islands

We stayed just outside Paihia in the Bay of Islands holiday park . It was one of the nicest campsites we stayed at, set within a pretty woodland garden and bordering a river. A powered pitch cost NZ$32 per night.

Travel to the Bay of Islands

From Whananaki to Pahia takes around one hour by car, but we chose to drive via Russell and get the ferry to Pahia from there. That allowed us to see the quiet little town that was once described as the hell hole of the Pacific.

Raglan / Waitomo

We’d heard great things about Raglan, a popular surf town on the North Island and we weren’t disappointed. We loved the town’s laid-back vibe, great cafes, and magnificent coastline. It’s the kind of place we could imagine returning to for longer to learn to surf or simply relax by the sea.

On the way there, we also stopped at the Waitomo caves, where we went on a caving adventure to see the glowworms. I get claustrophobic so the whole thing was pretty challenging, but definitely worth it – I’ve written about the experience here .   The company we went with was a small family-run business called Glowing Adventures who I can’t recommend enough.

From Raglan, you could also take a trip to Hamilton , a pretty inland city.

Accommodation in Raglan

In Raglan, we stayed in two different places as our first choice, Solscape was fully booked the first night. Solscape is a gorgeous eco retreat with a wide range of accommodation from campsites to eco cabins. The common area has an incredible view of the sea and is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy some wholesome food. We both had an excellent massage there.

The other place we stayed was a simple holiday camp right on the coastline. It certainly lacked the character of Solscape, but had direct access to the beach and town, which was a bonus. A powered site cost NZ$20 at both places. Book your stay now .

Travel to Raglan

In reality, we drove to Raglan from New Plymouth because we made a detour from Auckland for the WOMAD festival. However, as your trip is unlikely to coincide with the festival too, I haven’t included that in the itinerary.

The journey from Auckland to Raglan is about two hours (although do allow extra time for the traffic around Auckland). I would recommend driving to Raglan via Waitomo to visit the caves. Waitomo is also two hours from Auckland and then another 1.5 hours from Raglan. Or you could also visit Waitomo as a day trip from Raglan.

An optional extra – WOMAD Festival and New Plymouth

New Plymouth

After the Bay of Islands, we spent one night in Auckland where we switched camper vans, before heading down the west coast to New Plymouth before heading up to Raglan. We might not have included this in our itinerary had it not been for the fact that we had tickets for the WOMAD festival that was taking place down there.

Our entire time in New Plymouth was taken up with the festival (which was amazing!), so we don’t have many tips on the area. But I would say that the journey down there was spectacular and some of the most stunning scenery I saw on the North Island, especially along the coast between Mokau and New Plymouth, and thought the forest valley between Mokau and Piopio.

New Plymouth is close to Mount Taranaki, Egmont National Park and the Whanganui River, so is ideal for hiking and adventure sports. The Pouakai Crossing is a particularly popular 19-kilometre trail that takes in Egmont National Park.

New Plymouth is also just north of the Surf Highway, so a good spot to follow on from Raglan if you’re into surfing. From here, you could easily loop back down to Wellington ot head back to Auckland.

Accommodation in New Plymouth

In New Plymouth, we stayed in our Britz Action Pod at the WOMAD campsite. It was one of the most civilised festival camping experiences we’ve ever had. They had proper showers and toilets, which is generally unheard of at British festivals!

You could also stay in one of these New Plymouth Airbnbs or if you have a van, stay at one of these campsites .

Do a one-month road trip in New Zealand

Read part one of the itinerary – the South Island road trip .

And here’s a storybook version of the south island part of the trip,  and a storybook version of the North Island .

If you’re planning a trip, be sure to check out our travel planning pages . We also have full, detailed itineraries for How to relax in Goa and Kerala ; The ultimate South Africa honeymoon guide ; How to make the most of 10 days in Japan ; Finding hygge in Copenhagen , 48 Hours in Dublin ,   five days in Iceland , and more. See all our itinerary posts here .

Our road trip itineraries

UK :  Best UK road trips  | Best Scotland road trips

Europe road trips:   Amalfi Coast, Rome and Tuscany road trip  |  Best Europe road trips  |  Best France road trips | Best Greece road trips  |  Best Italy road trips  |  Iceland road trip | Best Portugal road trips   | Slovenia road trip  |  Best Spain road trips  |  The most colourful road trip in Europe (France, Italy and Switzerland)

USA:   Boston to Maine road trip  |  Ultimate California road trip  |  New England road trip  | Oregon road trip |  Pacific Coast Highway  |  San Francisco to Seattle  |  Southern USA road trip  |  The best USA road trips

Africa road trips:   Cape Peninsula road trip

Australasia road trips:   New Zealand North Island road trip  |  New Zealand South Island road trip

22 thoughts on “The Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip: North Island Itinerary”

Great itinerary – we did a road trip around the North Island a couple of years ago and visited many of these places, although didn’t make it to the Bay of Islands or to Hobbiton! I love the Tongariro – would like to do it again!

Wow this is a fantastic itinerary – you’ve got it covered! I’ve lived in New Zealand most of my 30 years and am yet to tick off all these places.

After Hawaii I’ll check out New Zealand. This motivates me! The colors are stunning.

Glad you guys made it to the Coromandel, it is one of my favourite spots in New Zealand and I have been going since I was a kid. You don’t see a lot of tourists there but that has been steadily changing the last few years. It’s a shame you didn’t make it to Waiheke Island, the East Coast or to the Bay of Plenty but I think you covered some pretty awesome spots 🙂

Awesome itinerary and photos. It got me very excited for our trip to NZ in a few weeks. How do you like the Britz ActionPod? We are contemplating renting a campervan, but can not find a lot of information on this vehicle. I am trying to figure out if it’ll be comfortable to drive around in for 2 weeks. Also trying to see if there are space to fit our luggage. I keep reading that it’ll only fit soft luggage. Do you find it safe to leave our belonging in the van while we go off hiking?

Hi, there’s plenty of room in the ActionPod, definitely enough to fit luggage. I’m afraid I can’t vouch for the safety of leaving your things in the car, but we never had a problem. Have a great time!

Great blog! I will be traveling to New Zealand in January and had a couple questions. Our plan is to do a camper van for 3 weeks for our stay there for both north and south islands. Do you think it is necessary to do the camper van or are there parts where you would recommend a car be fine because of costs? How much did you end up spending in gas? Any info on the ferry and if you should take your vehicle across or rent when get to the other side? Thanks for all your help!

Hi Diana. It’s really a matter of choice when it comes to the campervan. I would recommend getting one for at least part of the time as it’s a great experience. We had a car for our journey from Wellington up to Auckland, which also worked well. Regarding the ferry, we decided to drop off our car in Picton and get a new one in Wellington. This was because we didn’t need a car for our first couple of days in Wellington. You can take cars across on the ferry though, so it depends what works better for you. Perhaps you could get a campervan for one of the islands and then get a car for the other. Hope that helps a little! Good luck with your trip! Victoria

Thank you for the information and quick reply… one last question. Do you remember about how much you spent in gas? Thanks again!

What a lovely post. It’s very evident that you guys had a wonderful time touring the North Island! It’s such a beautiful place with so much to offer. The diversity in landscape is actually phenomenal! I found that while self-driven trips around the North Island gave me a wonderful sense of freedom, it also kept me very busy. I chose to do half of my trip by car, and the other half I enjoyed from a seat in the Northern Explorer railway. It gave me time to sit back and enjoy my surroundings in all their glory, particularly when I went through Tongariro National Park!

Hey your blog is just great. I really like your blog and the way you explain all the things. Everything looks so beautiful in your photos. thanks for writing this good blog. 🙂

Having come back from my 24-day tour 6 months ago (Really?! That long ago already?!?!), I was just nodding my head all the way through. I loved every minute of my trip, and think Haka is a great outfit! I actually kept a blog during my trip

Hi there, when was your travel period?

We were there from February-beginning of April 🙂

Thanks for the for sharing your experience with us Beautifully describes all the different places

Jean Watson From Travbeast

No one talks about the East Coast from Auckland down to Wellington. In your opinion East Coast Drive or West Coast which you stated is the best scenery in NZ? We are 2 South African retiree’s doing our first trip to NZ-1 Week North and 2 Weeks South.

Hi Willy, the reason why most sites don’t talk about the East Coast (and West Coast, for that matter) on the North Island is, because most people don’t have enough time to go there. The “highlights” are lined up through the middle of the North Island (Tongariro, Taupo, Rotorua). Going either East or West is amazing, too, especially White Island, Napier (East) and Taranaki and the Forgotten World Highway (West). It’s just usually treated as somewhere to go the second time you visit. Hope this helped and it’s not too late 😉 Alex

Amazing photos Victoria. What a great blog you have. These breathtaking images show how beautiful New Zealand really is. The Lake Taupo water looks really blue, does it look like that in real life?. I will add this to my list of places to travel to. I am a nature lover!

Yes, it did look like that – absolutely stunning!

Great Blog. You have shared a great experience! I am also looking to go for a trip to North Island NZ soon and searching for a perfect itinerary to have a better experience. This blog has helped me a lot to choose for the locations as well as accommodation to stay over there. Thank you for sharing your valuable tips!

Amazing photos ! I’m heading to the North Island this week and your blog has some great idea’s that I will be checking out (hoping to make it to the Bay of Islands) . Thanks for the great info 🙂 .

Great job on this itinerary! My wife and I are planning a trip in March 2023 and we’re using your information as our starting point. Thank you for all the detail you put into this itinerary.

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Best NZ North Island Road Trips from Auckland (Choose Your Adventure)

• 01 March, 2022

Crystal Egan

• 23 Comments
• 46331 Views

This page may contain compensated links. For more information read our disclaimer .

Choose from four incredible North Island road trips from Auckland, depending on how much time you have.

Our comprehensive North Island road trip guide is complete with all you need to know including drive time, where to go, what to see and do, and the best places to stay during your personalised NZ North Island itinerary.

NORTH ISLAND ROAD TRIP PLANNER 2022 – CONTENTS

❶  Auckland Itinerary ❷  Road Trip: Northland ❸  Road Trip: Coromandel Peninsula ❹  Road Trip: Rotorua and the Bay of Plenty

❺  Road Trip: Auckland to Hamilton and Wellington ❻  Useful Info on Driving in New Zealand ❼  Rent Campervans in Auckland ❽ Rules on Freedom Camping in NZ

New Zealand is one of the most breathtaking and naturally beautiful countries I’ve ever visited.

I had the pleasure of going on a North Island, New Zealand road trip around this beautiful country for three weeks – lucky me! Now I want to help create the perfect New Zealand North Island itineraries for you. Here’s how…

First, I’ll give you some of my best tips gained from my road trip around the North Island of New Zealand, then I’ll dive right in to the top 4 road trips you can do from Auckland.

Each road trip includes road trip tips, amazing things to do and see, and the best hotels and campgrounds to stay overnight for both car and campervan road trippers.

Want to go straight to the best road trip from Auckland? Jump using this link .

Where to Overnight Stay on a North Island NZ Road Trip

For this article, we searched out the best places to stay during your road trip in New Zealand for both car and campervan drivers. We also talk about the best campsites in the North Island and suggest both paid and free camping options for budget travellers.

We include places to stay in NZ that have something special or unique about them. Only hotels or campgrounds packed with character, have excellent service, facilities and great ratings are able to pass our recommendations test.

For road trippers driving a car, we offer fantastic accommodation options along the way that have free or undercover parking for your car. See the bottom of each Auckland road trip itinerary for our best recommendations on where to stay.

If you’re staying in hotels, we rave about  Booking.com  as the best hotel booking agency since they consistently have the lowest prices and great loyalty discounts that are applied automatically after your first few bookings with them.

For useful tips and information on freedom camping in New Zealand, jump to the section below and read all the information thoroughly.

Where to Hire Vehicles for Auckland Road Trips

There are lots of companies that you can hire a campervan from. When I drive NZ, I like to use Travellers Autobarn . When you hire with TAB, you can pick up your campervan wherever you happen to land, drop them off wherever you want to go, and the prices are reasonable too!

To read all of my super useful tips on hiring a campervan in New Zealand, click this link to jump to the section at the bottom of the article.

Where to go on Auckland Road Trips

You might be wondering where you want to go first on road trips from Auckland, and you can’t really decide just by looking at the map. That’s why we put this North Island road trip guide together.

Check out our 4 awesome road trip options here and compare which one suits your time limits and the type of activities you like best.

North Island Road Trip Map

These custom road trips in the North Island map is split up into coloured sections with an Auckland itinerary and our 4 best road trips from Auckland, things to do, sightseeing stops and where to stay for a night or two along the way.

To open and save our road trip maps into your own Google Maps app on your phone, simply tap the small square frame icon on the top right-hand side of the map, when looking at this article from your phone. 

The map will automatically save into “Saved” > “Maps” with the title Itinerary New Zealand North Island Road Trip . You can then select an area to download and use offline, ready for any time you don’t have access to mobile data in New Zealand.

All of the road trips we write about in this post start in Auckland since this is the place you will most likely land when flying in.

We have loads of information and tips on renting vehicles in Auckland at the bottom of this post .

Click here to skip over our Auckland itinerary and go straight to the road trips!

Auckland Itinerary

Suggested Stay: 2 – 4 days

Auckland is a vibrant city, located between two harbours and surrounded by a cluster of small islands, bays and beaches, ready to explore. Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, but it feels cosy and intimate.

The thriving main street, Queen Street, has some exceptional places to eat and shop. Korean Barbecue and Japanese were among our favourites.

Things to do in Auckland

Choose from a range of activities that you’d expect to find within a vibrant city including amazing museums, cultural shows and look-outs. Walk the harbour in the late afternoon and dine on the shores in a bar or restaurant.

Although there are lots of fun things to do in Auckland , here are some of the most unique and special.

Take a tour of one of the picturesque Islands

With a selection of gorgeous islands to choose from right on Auckland’s doorstep, it will be difficult to choose just one! Take a tour to one of the islands near Auckland , relax and unwind on a wine tour on Waiheke Island , scuba dive the Goat Island marine reserve , or explore the dormant volcanic island of Rangitoto .

Waiheke Island, Rangitoto Island, and Rakino Island can easily be accessed by ferry from the mainland . This is a good option for budget travellers not wanting to pay for a tour.

Waiheke is absolutely gorgeous with easy access by public transport around the island. Head to a winery for a tasting , check out a secluded beach or explore the tiny township and eat lunch on the water.

If you’re after an island you can walk around in one day, consider Rakino Island, it’s only 2.4km long with several publicly accessible beaches. However, with only 16 residents and limited ferry service, this island offers little more than seclusion for your North Island trip.

Climb Mount Eden for city views

Mount Eden is Auckland’s famous crater mountain. It is one of 48 volcanic cones in New Zealand and is known for its expansive views of the city. Set inside a 5.5-acre award-winning garden you can see stunning waterfalls, rock formations, native birds and plants all in one place.

Along with the gorgeous gardens, you can also engage in cultural activities at a former Māori settlement. Do a tour to Mount Eden if you want kiwi guides to teach you even more about this popular tourist destination!

Visit the famous Auckland War Memorial Museum

Discover the fascinating history of New Zealand in one of the finest museums in the southern hemisphere. Hear the story of the brave Polynesian voyage that first brought people to Aotearoa, and the diverse cultures and communities developed since, and admire stunning views across the city, harbour, islands and beyond.

Until 2020, the museum also offered the famous Maori Cultural Performance, but since there have been no international visitors to New Zealand, the museum has cut these performances indefinitely. This cultural performance by arts troupe ‘Raukawa’ was regarded as one of the best in the world.

You can buy your Auckland Museum tickets here .

Day trip to the black sands of Piha Beach

Sink your feet into the black sands of Piha Beach, what the wild west coast of New Zealand is best known for.

This rugged beach nestled within the Waitakere Ranges Park is a popular surfing beach that often has strong and dangerous currents, however, in summer lifesavers petrol the beach and clearly mark with flags where the safest swimming areas are.

Piha is the perfect day trip from Auckland, especially if you couple the trip with a visit to Karekare Falls, a hike to Kitekite Falls, or a walk along the Arataki Nature Trail on the way in or out.

If you have the time, pop over to other beaches nearby like Whatipu, Karekare, Bethells or Muriwai. In Muriwai you can also view the clifftop gannet colony between September and April and see the impressive Lion Rock formation.

Get away from the tourist traps at Browns Island

You’ll probably be surprised to learn that Browns Island is actually in the middle of Auckland harbour. And you’ll be even more surprised when you visit there during your travels in New Zealand.

Despite the island’s position, it rarely sees any tourist boats and has very few structures. It’s incredibly green and peaceful and is actually one of the most intact volcanoes in Auckland’s volcanic field. It’s also dotted with archaeological ruins from Māori pā, otherwise known as villages or defensive settlements.

So, if you have the time during your Auckland road trip, make your way out to Browns Island by kayak or private boat and spend some time exploring the ruins and enjoying nature.

Save some money by doing one of the free activities in Auckland

There are a number of cool and unique things to do in Auckland CBD that are totally free. Visit the Domain Wintergardens, walk along the pink lightpath for fabulous city views, or visit North Head for history and harbour views.

We delve into all these cool activities in our post, Free Things to do in Auckland .

Where to stay in Auckland

Half moon bay motel.

Pretty, private, and centrally located while offering a homey atmosphere, this hotel has studios and apartments close to Auckland attractions and the ferry terminal, making a day trip to an island even easier. Some of the rooms have marina views and the accommodation has free parking for your car or camper.

The Shakespeare Hotel

The best thing about this hotel is its brewery, where you can enjoy a cold drink after a long day exploring the city. It’s a short walk from the waterfront and also has an English style pub, a restaurant, and a terrace bar where you can relax and try the local delicacies. Car parking costs $30 per day.

The Sebel Auckland Viaduct Harbour

This hotel is for anyone who wants a bit of luxury during a North Island NZ itinerary. It’s centrally located, close to shopping and dining areas, and has amazing views of the city and the marina! If you’re really lucky, you’ll get a room with a balcony and a view. Parking on-site costs $38 per day.

Camping in Auckland

Campervan parking around central Auckland is sparse and rarely free. You can find a couple of city-central paid sites at Remuera and Z-Pier.

● Central Auckland Camping: Avondale Motor Park ($20 per person as of Feb 2022) – Cosy powered or unpowered sites in a green, sunny, and spacious area with all the facilities you’d need.

● Downtown Auckland Camping: Z-Pier ($20 – Closed until approx. March 2022) – Marina overnight parking for self-contained vehicles. Park and walk everywhere and anywhere!

● Remuera Camping: Remuera Motor Lodge ($25 per person as of Feb 2022) – In a central location with a pool, internet, plus an outdoor and BBQ area.

4 Awesome Road Trips from Auckland

Ready to hit the road? We have more than enough North Island road trips to keep you busy no matter how long you have in New Zealand. All you have to do is calculate how much time you have and what you want to see and do the most!

❶  Northland (4-7 days): Dolphins and islands, ancient kauri trees, hiking and sand dunes ❷  Coromandel Peninsula (2-5 days): Scenic drives, Hot Water Beach, rainforests, hikes, and kayaking ❸  Rotorua and the Bay of Plenty (4-6 days): Hot springs, spas, volcanoes and Hobbiton village ❹  Wellington via Hamilton (8-14 days): City-to-city with extreme nature in between including caving, hiking, surfing, and wine tasting

How many days do you have in the North Island?

These are our New Zealand road trip itinerary recommendations based on how long you have in the North Island.

3 Days North Island, New Zealand

With only 3 days in North Island, New Zealand the Coromandel Peninsula itinerary is the perfect North Island road trip for you. Skip the overnight Pinnacles hike though, as you probably don’t have enough time. Alternatively, you could do a quick Bay of Islands road trip and follow the Paihia itinerary , with a day trip to Kerikeri too.

5 Days North Island, New Zealand

5 days is a decent amount to do any of the first 3 North Island road trips on this list. You could do a quick trip to either Northland or Rotorua/Bay of Plenty , cutting out a few activities, or you have time to do a decent road trip in the Coromandel Peninsula , including the Pinnacles hike.

7 Days North Island, New Zealand

So you have time for a one-week North Island road trip? 7 days in North Island will give you time to do the full Northland itinerary , or combine the Coromandel Peninsula and Bay of Plenty road trip itineraries.

10 Days North Island, New Zealand

To get the most of your 10-days North Island, New Zealand itinerary you have a few good options. First, you could combine the full Coromandel Peninsula and Rotorua road trips . Or, you could combine the full Bay of Plenty itinerary and only the Waikato region itinerary of the Wellington road trip. Lastly, you could do a quick Auckland to Wellington road trip (with no return to Auckland).

2 Weeks North Island, New Zealand

A 14-day North Island road trip is the perfect amount of time for a full road trip from Auckland to Wellington , or combine your choice of 2-3 of the other road trip itineraries.

3 Weeks North Island, New Zealand

Amazing! You have time to combine all 4 of the North Island road trips together for the most epic end-to-end New Zealand North Island itinerary ever!

Northland Road Trip

Distance Covered: 875 km, 12.5 hours driving

Total Time Needed: 4 – 7 days total

● Best Auckland road trip for rugged scenery, islands, dolphins and giant ancient kauri trees .

Northland consists of a large subtropical peninsula starting from just outside Auckland and stretching all the way to the very northernmost tip of New Zealand.

Northland is an incredibly scenic part of New Zealand, serving you both rugged and windswept on the west coast, and tranquil and serene on the east coast.

I highly suggest adding Northland to your New Zealand road trip itinerary if you have enough time. You won’t be disappointed!

Northland Road Trip Highlights

● Dolphin watching ● Gorgeous bays and islands ● Spectacular hikes and walks ● Slide down giant sand dunes ● See huge ancient kauri trees

Places to Visit

● The Bay of Islands ● Paihia ● Kerikeri ● Cape Reinga ● Waipoua Forest

Bay of Islands Itinerary (Paihia and Kerikeri)

Distance: 230 km, 3 hours drive from Auckland

Suggested Stay: 2 – 3 Days

Paihia and Kerikeri are the mainland towns on the east coast from which the Bay of Islands can be accessed. This tranquil and secluded part of New Zealand is known for its undeveloped beaches, dolphin cruises and amazing Māori cultural artefacts and villages.

The Bay of Islands is also home to the quaint seaside village of Russell, which was originally a whaling port and was the first colonial capital of New Zealand.

The Bay of Islands itinerary by itself would be an incredible weekend road trip from Auckland.

Things to do in Paihia

Despite its small size, there’s plenty of Paihia activities to try in this charming seaside town, and you’ll soon find that a few days may not be quite enough time.

Here’s a list of the best things to do in Paihia and Kerikeri.

Kayak around the Bay of Islands

On the shores of Paihia, you’ll have the opportunity to hire a Kayak to explore the area.

You can choose to paddle upstream amongst the mangrove forests and birdlife to horseshoe-shaped Haruru Waterfall, or you can paddle around the bay near Paihia and Waitangi, past beautiful, uninhabited islands and through crystal clear ocean waters.

At the Haruru waterfall, you can paddle right underneath; getting saturated with the spray is super fun!

Discover dolphins and the Hole in the Rock on a cruise

If you have never seen a dolphin in the wild, this is the trip for you! The dolphins live permanently around this bay area and you’re almost guaranteed to see them.

The cruise tour will visit the hole in the rock, and if the conditions are right, they will travel through it! There’s also a stop off at Russell, a quaint village previously a whaling port, and cruise past picturesque islands with time to relax, eat, explore, or swim.

Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds

No NZ road trip would be complete without understanding a little of the country’s history. And the Waitangi Treaty Grounds is one of the best places in the entire country to visit for that. It’s one of the most important historic sites in New Zealand and is where the first accord between European settlers and the Māori was signed in 1840.

Located in a lovely park with great views, there’s a museum at the site where you can learn more about this landmark signing, which helped define Māori rights in New Zealand.

Wander along the Paihia School Road Track

If you enjoy easy walks with stunning views as your reward, then try the Paihia School Road Track. This trail curves gently through a forest to the Opua Forest Lookout. The views you’ll enjoy at the end are truly stunning!

Things to do in Kerikeri

Distance from Paihia: 24 km, 20 minutes drive

Take the walking trail to Rainbow Falls

The short 10-minute scenic walk to Rainbow Falls is notorious for kiwi bird sightings.

Once you’ve checked out the falls from the various platforms above, head towards the bottom where, after a little bit of boulder-hopping, you can almost get behind the falls.

If you have more time on your hands, take one of the trails next to the falls, I recommend the one that follows the river downstream. Revel in the gorgeous nature and serenity you’ll no doubt find yourself in here.

Discover more about Northland as I visit Rainbow Falls, do a dolphin tour and explore Cape Reinga in my vlog.

Explore the fascinating Rewa’s Village

Rewa’s Villa is a replica pre-European Māori fishing village that will give you a fascinating insight into New Zealand’s history. It’s located in a native forest and has everything from a museum to lovely gardens and traditional buildings for you to explore. And like almost everywhere else in New Zealand, there are stunning views over the Kerikeri Basin from several vantage points around the village.

Look for kiwi birds on Aroha Island

You can’t leave New Zealand without trying your best to see kiwi birds in their natural habitat. You’ll get the chance to spot these odd little birds on Aroha Island night walks, located just 12km from Kerikeri.

But even if you don’t spot a kiwi, there’s plenty more to do on Aroha Island. The entire island is a bird sanctuary that offers lots of walking tracks through the native bush as well as mangroves you can explore in a kayak, so be prepared for a really active visit!

Where to Stay around Paihia and Kerikeri

We recommend staying in Paihia overnight and visiting Kerikeri as a day trip. However, we’ve also provided a couple of good options if you would prefer to stay in Kerikeri specifically.

Paihia is a tiny town, so you may have to book early if you want to travel in peak times to ensure that you have somewhere to lay your head during your Auckland to Paihia road trip!

Paihia: Dolphin Motel

You can’t get much better than this hotel for its great location. It’s just 100 metres from Paihia wharf and has apartment-style rooms, some with fully equipped kitchens in case you want to save some money on food during your stay.

Paihia: Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands

New Zealand North Island road trips are all about nature and this hotel drives that point home. It’s located on 4 acres of beautiful gardens with an outdoor swimming pool and communal terrace. And yet despite the natural setting, it’s also just a short walk from all Paihia attractions.

Kerikeri: Woodlands Motel

When I drive NZ, I like my privacy, and that’s exactly what this motel offers. It’s located down a private driveway a short way from Kerikeri and is surrounded by native bush. It also has a hot tub so you can enjoy the natural setting in complete warmth and comfort!

Kerikeri and Paihia Freedom Camping

The drive from Auckland to Paihia is short and scenic, and there are plenty of campsites to choose from along the coastline on the way north.

In Paihia township, though, you won’t find many freedom camping sites as most are located outside of town, so it is better to pay for a spot in a motel or campervan park if you’d like to be close to the centre.

● Kerikeri Camping: Puketi Recreation Area Campsite ($8 per night as of Feb 2022) – Close to kauri trees on the edge of a forest, this basic campsite is located a one minute drive to Kerikeri.

● Paihia Camping: Waikahoa Bay Campsite ($15 per night as of Feb 2022) – Camp beside a sandy beach among the pōhutukawa trees. Though this freedom campsite is an hour and 20 minutes drive to Paihia, the scenic location and proximity to water activities make it worth the effort.

Cape Reinga Itinerary

Distance: 197 km, 2.5 hours driving from Paihia

Suggested Stay: 1 – 3 Days

Visiting Cape Reinga is a beautiful, eye-opening experience, entwined with tales traditional to Māori culture and rugged landscapes.

The most northern tip of New Zealand is often thought to be Cape Reinga, however, what most don’t realise is that the actual tip is North Cape, but it’s a scientific reserve mostly inaccessible to the general population.

Things to do in Cape Reinga

There are loads of cool stuff to do on an Auckland to Cape Reinga road trip, from beautiful scenery to giant sand dunes to slide down.

These are the best Cape Reinga attractions to visit on your Northland road trip.

See two oceans collide at the Cape Reinga Lighthouse

Surrounded by Māori folklore, the lighthouse sits at the northernmost point and is the meeting place of two seas: the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Watch the currents swirl and collide together in an endless display.

‘Te Rerenga Wairua’ in Māori language means the leaping-off place of spirits. Nestled on the cliff edge is a gnarled pohutukawa tree known to the Māori people as a place where spirits descent into the underworld. The tree’s roots act as steps down to the water.

In addition to its interesting story, Cape Reinga lighthouse has spectacular 360-degree views of the oceans and dramatic cliffs that surround it. I wrote more about this awesome free attraction in detail in my guide: Free Things to do in New Zealand .

Slide down the sand dunes at Giant Te Paki

These steep dunes on 90 Mile Beach will bring out your inner child and have you squealing with joy! Use anything you can get your hands on to help you slide down the dunes, be it a boogie board or even just a simple piece of cardboard.

If driving, the exact location of the dunes can be a bit tricky to find since the beach is so long. Use the Giant Te Paki dropped pin on my Google MyMap to help you find a park close enough to walk to the dunes.

⚠️WARNING for 90-Mile Beach: Only attempt to drive on the beach if you have a 4WD vehicle. This may seem obvious but many a tourist has needed to be rescued from this particular beach.

Alternatively, there are tours from Paihia that will take you driving up 90-Mile Beach including a visit to the Te Paki sand dunes. These tours also include other Northland activities.

Camp on a secluded beach with horses at Spirits Bay

Kapowairua, or Spirits Bay, is a stunning, secluded beach and campsite down a short dirt road. The grassy campsite is surrounded by a scenic cliff-face and beautiful horses roaming the grounds.

Less than a minute’s walk from the campground is the pretty green waters of Spirits Bay Beach, with sands that sometimes sparkle pink due to thousands of tiny shells. The beach stretches out as far as the eye can see, and is generally void of human life.

I cannot recommend Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) campsite enough, it is simply breathtaking and is surely the best freedom campsite on the North Island!

Hike the Te Paki Coastal Track

If you’re fairly fit, have 3-4 extra days on your hands and are up for a challenge, then you’ll love hiking the Te Paki Coastal Track during your upper North Island road trip. It’s a fairly challenging multi-day hike that stretches 48km over some of the most scenic land in the area.

The trail starts at Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) and tracks along Cape Reinga, passing through 90 Mile Beach and Te Paki Stream along the way. There are very few facilities along the way and only a couple of camping spots, so make sure that you carry everything you need and let someone know where you’re going to be.

Where to stay around Cape Reinga

Pukenui holiday park.

Located close to Houhora Harbor, this holiday park offers cabins with kitchens and outdoor patios. There’s a laundry at the park as well as a BBQ area and lots of facilities to keep the kids happy like farmyard animals to pet!

Awanui: Norfolk Motel and Campervan Park

Ideal for both campervan and hotel living, this convenient place to stay near the cape has its own garden, playground, outdoor pool, and barbecue facilities. The rooms are comfortable and have garden views

Cape Reinga Freedom Camping

● Northland Camping: Raetea North Side Campsite (Free) – Located in the tranquil lowland coastal forest of Mangamuka Gorge, a 1.5-hour drive to reach Cape Reinga. Perfect for an overnight stay between Paihia and Cape Reinga.

● Cape Reinga Camping: Kapowairua/Spirits Bay Campsite ($15 per night as of Feb 2022) – The campsite sports outdoor pit toilets, fresh running water, vibrant green ocean and endless beaches nearby, plus resident horses. Soul soothing guaranteed.

● Cape Reinga Camping: Tapotupotu Conservation Campsite ($15 per night as of Feb 2022) – Just a 3-minute drive from the cape, this scenic campsite is close to a lagoon where you can go swimming or kayaking. It’s also on the Te Paki Coastal Track, meaning it’s the perfect place to start your hike.

Stops on the Cape Reinga to Auckland Drive

Distance from Auckland to Cape Reinga: 445 km, 6 hours drive

Driving between Auckland/Cape Reinga is quite a long distance. It would be best to split this leg of the trip up with an overnight stay near the Waipuoa Forest.

Visit the thousand-year-old trees at Waipoua Forest

Of all the kauri forests in New Zealand, Waipoua Forest has got to be the most famous in New Zealand. This is because Waipoua houses not only the largest tree but also the oldest tree in New Zealand.

Tāne Mahuta is the largest kauri tree in New Zealand and is about 2, 000 years old. Its canopy has an ecosystem of its own and the 4.4 diameter trunk is still growing!

Although these incredible trees are a popular attraction for bus tours, it’s worth braving the crowds to see them. While you are there you can take one of the quieter hiking trails in the area and maybe even spot a kiwi bird!

You can book a local Māori guide to walk you through the ancient forest and learn about the stories of the Māori legends.

Spot wild kiwi on a forest night walk

This lush 40-minute walk along a boardwalk through the kauri trees at Trounsen Kauri Park offers your best chance at spotting a kiwi in the wild.

To spot the kiwi, the walk must be taken at night, with a red filter covering your torchlight. Let the kiwi guide you by listening for their distinctive “kee-wee” call drifting through the night air.

The park is also worth a visit by day too since interpretation panels and audio points make the experience highly educational. Look out for fantails, pied tits, ruru (native owls) and many other forest birds which call this place home.

Near the entrance of the walk, a small freedom camping ground offers a tranquil place to park your campervan for the night. Read more on this freedom campground below.

Other Cool Places to Stay in Northland

If you have more time to add to your Northland New Zealand road trip, we recommend adding these cool places to stay to your itinerary.

Tutukaka: Ocean Purring View

This Tutukaka hotel in is just a short walk from the beach and offers free private parking as well as comfortable rooms and beautiful views of the sea or the mountains.

Russell: Motel Russell

Located in beautiful tropical gardens and just a short walk from the beach and an even shorter one to Kororareka Bay, this motel has a swimming pool and BBQ facilities. It’s also close to local shops and restaurants and some of the rooms have their own kitchen.

Trounsen Kauri Park Campground

● Donnellys Crossing Camping: The Trounsen Kauri Park Campground ($20 per night as of Feb 2022) – A notable Northland freedom camping spot quite close to the Kauri trees at Waipoua Forest.

But that’s not all! Right on the campground is a 40-minute loop track through the forest that can be walked at night. If you’re lucky you can spot a kiwi bird foraging for food.

The Trounsen Campground communal kitchen area provides information on spotting kiwis and even some red filters for your torch so you won’t disturb the birds.

You can sleep in the forest, enjoy hot showers, and even partake in the Kiwi night walk through the grounds. It is great value and a highly recommended stay during your road trip through New Zealand.

Coromandel Peninsula Road Trip

Distance Covered: 485 km, 8 hours driving

Total Time Needed: 2 – 5 days total

● Best short road trip from Auckland to visit beautiful beaches and rainforests .

One of the North Island’s most serene locations, the Coromandel Peninsula is full of gorgeous scenery and mind-blowing attractions. Discover heavenly beaches, tranquil rainforests, and hiking trails galore on this short road trip loop.

Chances are you’ll find yourself on the semi-famous 309 Road at some point on your Coromandel road trip. This windy, rainforest road is incredibly beautiful and is campervan heaven, with an abundance of cheap freedom campsites and numerous natural adventures to keep you entertained.

Coromandel Road Trip Highlights

● Incredible cave formations on the beach ● Dig your own natural spa bath ● Fused kauri trees and waterfall walks ● Kayak inside of a doughnut-shaped island ● Explore a historic mining town ● See sunrise and sunset over the mountain ranges

● Cathedral Cove ● Hot Water Beach ● 309 Road / Waiau Falls ● Whangamatā / Donut Island ● Thames ● The Pinnacles

Coromandel Peninsula Itinerary

Distance: 170 km, 2.5 hours drive from Auckland

Suggested Stay: 2 – 5 days

With the Coromandel being only a couple of hours drive from Auckland, our Coromandel Peninsula itinerary is the perfect road trip from Auckland if you only have a few days (or a weekend) away.

This spectacular Coromandel Peninsula road trip will have you hiking to the Pinnacles, building your own hot tub on a beach, visiting a cave in the shape of a cathedral and kayaking into the middle of an island!

You’ll drive through lush rainforest and past spectacular coastline, visit historic towns, and overnight in picturesque campgrounds.

Things to do in Coromandel Peninsula

Visiting the Coromandel Peninsula is the perfect weekend trip from Auckland. There are plenty of quality Coromandel attractions that will keep you entertained for a couple of days or a full week!

Wander around the mining town of Thames

Located on the west coast, this was previously a gold mining town and still retains much of its historical feel. It also has some really good cafes and stores and offers lots of amazing walks for adventure lovers.

Dig your own spa on Hot Water Beach

Imagine a beautiful beach with volcanic activity underneath… A beach that has hot springs running through the sand… What if I said that you could go there and dig your own hot water spa to sit in? Just inches from the ocean! Sounds pretty awesome right? This can all be done for free at Hot Water Beach in the Coromandel.

Digging your own geothermal spa bath in the sand on this spectacular beach is one of my favourite Coromandel activities and is fast becoming one of the most popular things to do on the North Island. Make sure you read my tips on everything you need to know about Hot water Beach before you go there!

Take the spectacular coastal walk to Cathedral Cove

Cathedral Cove might just be the most beautiful beach New Zealand has to offer! Sparkling aqua-coloured water and soft sand, all closed off from the rest of the world by surrounding cliffs.

At one side, a cathedral-shaped hole in the rock leads you to yet another paradise beach – so long as the tide is down. If the tide is high, it still makes for amazing photographs and Instagram-worthy selfies!

Go sea kayaking into the centre of an Island

Whenuakura Island, or Donut Island to the locals, is perhaps the Coromandel’s best-kept secret.

Take a short 600m kayak from the front of Island View Reserve in Whangamata to the cave entrance. Paddle inside and enter into a secluded turquoise lagoon, created by the collapsed volcano blowhole, now surrounded by native fauna and volcanic rock cliff.

Donut Island is a wildlife sanctuary, rich in history and is Māori sacred ground, meaning you aren’t allowed to step foot on the island. But admiring it from your kayak whilst feeling like an island castaway is still an incredible experience.

You can hire your own kayak and paddle to the island yourself, or take a tour with a local guide and learn about the scenery and history along the way.

Check out the gorgeous Waiau Falls and Kauri Grove Walk

Waiau Falls and the Kauri Walk are both a short 2-minute drive from each other (or a quick walk) on the 309 Road. The Kauri Grove Walk will take you to the ‘Siamese Kauri,’ two trees that have fused into one at the base. Waiau Falls is a pristine waterfall surrounded by boulders, perfect for a refreshing dip in the green milky waters.

The Waiau Falls are a little bit “off the beaten path,” and our 3G didn’t work so well out there which meant had a little bit of trouble finding them. However, once on the 309 Road there are signs to Waiau Falls, so just follow them!

I went off the beaten path, built my own Hot Water Beach spa and visited Cathedral Cove in my Coromandel Peninsula vlog, check it out here.

Drive the 309 Road

The 309 Road is a 22km long, narrow, winding, gravel and sealed road between Whitianga and the town of Coromandel. But it isn’t for the faint-hearted, as this is a road on which you must go slow and steady and keep left on the corners. That being said, it is still the shortest route between Mercury Bay’s Whitianga and the Hauraki Gulf’s Coromandel Township.

So why drive this road? It’s a very scenic drive through an untouched pine forest that follows a meandering stream.

Along the road, you can see Waiau Falls and the Kauri Grove Walk mentioned above, plus Castle Rock (an old volcano that rises from the bush), Waiau Waterworks (water-powered sculptures), Harmony Gardens and some pigs. Yep, there are wild pigs that walk all over the road and most people driving the road will spot them!

Hike to the spectacular Pinnacles and stay in a hut

If you’re into hiking, don’t miss the Pinnacles Track, one of New Zealand’s most popular hikes. The Webb Creek Trail to the Pinnacles Hut in Coromandel Forest Park climbs through ruggedly beautiful mountain ranges and thick forest, across suspension bridges, and ends with spectacular views of the Coromandel Peninsula.

Though you can do the Pinnacles hike as a 6 hour return day hike, we recommend staying overnight in the mountain hut for $25 per night so you can see the Pinnacles vista for both sunset and sunrise. Add an extra day to your Coromandel itinerary if you decide to take us up on this suggestion.

Where to Stay in Hot Water Beach

Hot water beach top 10.

The closest holiday park to Hot Water Beach. It’s only a 9-minute walk to the beach or a quick drive. Featuring units with a dining area and patio, kitchen plus an on-site restaurant. If cabins are out of your budget, unpowered campsites start at approx. $23 per night but discounts are offered for seasonal or long stays.

Seabreeze Holiday Park

Seabreeze Holiday Park is a bit further away (almost 30km to be exact) from Hot Water Beach, but it does have mountain views! It also contains a playground for the kids, and an on-site restaurant and convenience store. Seabreeze has unpowered campsites from $18 and powered sites from $20 (as of Feb 2022).

Hot Water Beach Cottage

Now, this is a place close to the beach! Boasting enough room for four guests with a large patio and great beach views. In fact, Oceanside Cottage is literally just across the road from Hot Water Beach. However, it’s just one rental apartment found on Booking.com, so get in quick!

Coromandel Freedom Camping

There are a lot of great freedom camping spaces to choose from in the Coromandel! However, any campsites run by the TCDC require you to be in a certified self-contained vehicle. You can ask for this certification when hiring your campervan.

Of the Coromandel freedom campsites listed below, only Egan Park Reserve requires self-contained certification.

● Coromandel Camping: Broken Hills Campsite ($15 per night as of Feb 2022) – This scenic campsite is located beside the Tairua River among native bush. The location is perfect for weary travellers just entering the Coromandel and heading north.

● Kauaeranga Valley Camping: Totara Flat Campsite ($8 per night as of Feb 2022) – A riverside campsite at the end of the valley and close to the Webb Creek Track up to the Pinnacles.

● 309 Road Camping: Egan Park Reserve (Free) – A great campsite for self-contained vehicles only, located on the 309 Road near Hot Water Beach. The freedom campsite is in a sheltered valley next to a lovely stream that you can also swim in!

Bay of Plenty and Rotorua Road Trip

Distance Covered: 599 km, 8 hours driving

Total Time Needed: 4 – 6 days in total

● Best Auckland Road Trip for culture, hot springs and volcanoes .

Do you love volcanoes? We do too! One of the biggest drawcards to Rotorua and the Bay of Plenty is the abundance of geothermal and volcanic activity, making this our most extreme and exciting North Island road trip itinerary yet!

The Auckland to Rotorua road trip loop takes you to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua and distinctive landscapes of the Bay of Plenty, with stopovers in the Karangahake Gorge rainforest, and Matamata for a visit to the Hobbiton movie set.

Rotorua Road Trip Highlights

● Historic rainforest walk and staircase falls ● Savour amazing local produce ● Visit hot springs and fly over active volcanoes ● Mud baths, extreme sports and spectacular hiking ● Explore the adorable LOTR Hobbiton village

● Karangahake Gorge ● Tauranga ● Whakatane ● Rotorua ● Hobbiton

Stops on the Auckland to Bay of Plenty Drive

It’s a 4-hour drive between Auckland and the Bay of Plenty, so we suggest you split the trip up with an overnight stop at the Karangahake Gorge rainforest.

Take the Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway

The Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway is entrenched in an old mining town surrounded by a lusciously forested valley.

The rainforest path follows old train tracks and leads you through kilometre-long abandoned train tunnels, under rocky crevices, and over bridges. Information about the old mining town is displayed on plaques and old mining relics are dappled along the way to discover.

Visit Owharoa staircase falls

Just a couple of kilometres from Karangahake Gorge, the stunning staircase Owharoa Falls are the ideal photo op detour since they are easily accessible from the main road. Slow down your shutter speed for milky water magic as you marvel at the rainforest surrounds.

Freedom camp near Karangahake Gorge

Dicky Flat is a highly recommended freedom campsite that sits on the Waitawheta River, known for trout fishing and great swimming downstream.

The little trail next to the campsite that follows the river is absolutely stunning! The toilets are clean, and it features gravel parking with a lawned area for tents.

Whakatane and Bay of Plenty Itinerary

Distance: 286 km, 4 hours drive from Auckland

Suggested Stay: 1 – 2 Days

The Bay of Plenty is known for sunshine, great surf beaches, and friendly people. The Bay area is also steeped in Māori culture and history, just waiting for you to discover.

Situated on the Bay of Plenty, dotted with various large islands, the Whakatane township is a mix of a beach resort and cosmopolitan city living.

Things to do in Bay of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty has a variety of activities, and most can be accessed from the town of Whakatane. Nearby, Tauranga is a colonial city nestled on New Zealand’s largest export port.

A number of cool geothermal activities are located in the Bay of Plenty, the most famous being White Island, an active volcano island with a spectacular green boiling liquid crater.

Fly over an active volcano island

It’s a little costly, but if you can afford the White Island tour , do it. It’s seriously one of the coolest activities you will ever do!

The scenic flight will take you over the township of Whakatane before heading offshore over an extinct volcano called Moutohora (Whale) Island that is now a wildlife refuge. Then it’s over to Whakaari (White) Island, an active marine volcano where you can see roaring gas vents, bright yellow sulphur and even molten water boiling away inside the crater!

Be sure to bring your best camera as the photo opportunities are INCREDIBLE! The pilot will ensure you get uninterrupted views of the islands from all angles and be sure to keep a lookout for dolphins, seals, and large schools of fish. Tours are 1-hour and depart from Whakatane Airport.

Before the horrible eruption of the White Island volcano in 2019, you used to be able to do a tour that actually walked around on the island. I was able to do this tour and even vlogged my experience. Watch the video to learn more about this incredible place.

Dig your toes in the white sands of Ohope Beach

Visit the stunning, flat, 11km-long Ohope Beach, voted one of New Zealand’s best beaches. Endless white sand for you to find your own spot, swim, surf, walk, or even bring your dog!

Take a horse-riding trek with TuiGlen Farm

Horseback is one of the best ways to explore the Bay of Plenty and it’s a great activity if you’re travelling with kids. This family-owned facility offers some of the best horse-riding tours in the area and with thousands of acres to explore, there’s something beautiful around every corner!

TuiGlen Farm is about half an hour driving from the town of Whakatane.

Become a foodie in Tauranga

Tauranga is the largest city in the Bay of Plenty and is becoming known for being a foodie destination. The climate in Tauranga is warm and dry, so the land around it produces a lot of amazing produce you can enjoy at the city’s many food spots.

For the best restaurants in the city, visit The Strand precinct on the waterfront. You’ll find numerous cafes, pubs, bars and restaurants in this small area and many of them serve food that you just won’t find anywhere else.

Where to Stay around Whakatane

One88 on commerce.

If top service is what you look for in accommodation, then you can’t miss a night in One88 on Commerce in Whakatane. The staff are professional and will make sure that your visit is everything you could wish for. Housekeeping is excellent and the rooms are spacious, even with the super-king beds. The motel is located a 5-minute drive from Ohope Beach and might just be the best motel you ever stay in.

Ohope Beach Resort

Ohope Beach Resorts big apartments facing the water that have the most beautiful views! Modern rooms are clean and contain everything you could need. The property features two swimming pools, one lap pool, two spa pools, tennis court, gym, sauna, games room and BBQ facilities.

Freedom Camping around the Bay of Plenty

● Karangahake Camping: Dicky Flat Campsite ($8 per night as of Feb 2022) – Cute and clean campsite close to Karangahake Gorge and Owharoa Falls.

● Whakatane Camping: Matatā Campsite ($8 per night as of Feb 2022) – A family campsite close to Whakatane in a coastal setting with excellent fishing and swimming next to the Matatā wildlife refuge.

Rotorua Itinerary

Distance: 85 km, 1.5 hours drive from Whakatane

Next, you’ll mozy over to Rotorua which isn’t very far at all from Whakatane.

Rotorua is known as a geothermal city, and the entire area is thriving with bubbling streams and pools. The sites in Rotorua absolutely took our breath away (and it wasn’t just because of the rotting egg smell of the sulphur)!

Rotorua is one place I would really recommend visiting, even if you don’t go anywhere else on the North Island.

Things to do in Rotorua

There’s an abundance of different things to do in Rotorua, not all of them centre on volcanic activity – although most of the best Rotorua activities do!

Rotorua claims it is the best volcanic, geothermal, and cultural city in the world and is a popular destination for people who love the outdoors. Visit a redwood forest, hot springs, lakes, mountain bike trails, and local markets.

If you like extreme sports, be sure to try whitewater rafting, ZORBing or visit Velocity Valley adrenaline park.

Check out the colourful hot springs at Kuirau Park

This park is absolutely free and simply teeming with hot springs, which range from thick mud pools to clear bright green and yellow springs which light up the water in spectacular colour.

There is also a children’s park, picnic and BBQ facilities and a foot pool to soak your feet in once you’ve finished walking around. On Saturdays, there is a weekly flea market at the park.

Go whitewater rafting at Okere Falls

Get your adrenaline pumping with a whitewater rafting experience on the Kaituna River, one of New Zealand’s most exciting and beautiful rivers! Your expert guide will take you down 14 epic warm water canyon rapids, including the worlds highest rafted waterfall, 7-meter-tall Tutea Falls.

Whitewater rafting tours last around 50-minutes and the river can be rafted year-round.

Soak in the Hell’s Gate Mud Bath and Sulphur Spa

“This could be the very gates to hell,” stated George Bernard Shaw upon seeing the geothermal landscapes nestled within the native bush.

The Hells Gate Mud Baths were once used by Māori warriors to heal their battle-scarred bodies. Now visitors use nutrient-rich water and mud to ease inflammation and arthritis and rejuvenate the skin. Lather up in the volcanic mud, then exfoliate and cleanse your skin with a soak in a sulphur spa.

Grab your Hell’s Gate tickets here for the full mud bath experience.

Learn about the Buried Village of Te Wairoa

The Buried Village is New Zealand’s most visited archaeological site. Learn the story of the Pink and White Terraces, named the 8th Wonder of the World before the terraces and the entire village nearby was obliterated by the 1886 Mt Tarawera eruption.

The Buried Village of Te Wairoa features an interactive museum, scenic walking trails, and a look at the devastating effects of one of New Zealand’s greatest natural disasters. The award-winning museum sheds light on the hardships suffered by this once-bustling European and Māori village settlement.

Explore the redwoods at Whakarewarewa Forest

This astonishing forest is just 5 minutes from the city centre and is filled with huge redwoods that will make you understand just how small human life really is. The forest is beautiful enough on its own, but it has also become known for its outdoor activities.

You can explore the forest on one of the many mountain bike trails , by horseback, from above on the canopy walk or even a zip line . It’s also a famous spot for photographers, so make sure that you bring your camera during your wanderings.

Soak in the warmth of Kerosene Creek

Set amongst lush native bush, Kerosene Creek is popular among both travellers and locals, who come to relax out under the mesmerising hot volcanic geothermal falls! The water is just right for a soak and it offers a natural bathing experience like no other.

The river is easily accessed from the road (only a 200-metre walk) and there is parking with toilets and showers as well. Access to Kerosine Creek is free, making it a popular choice for locals especially.

Of note, don’t put your head under when swimming, as there are rare but deadly microbes in the water!

On the drive between Kerosene Creek from Rotorua, you will pass the Rainbow Maintains Track . This is a 3-hour return hike, with gorgeous 360-degree views of Lake Taupō and the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park. If you do this hike, Kerosene Creek would be a very welcome relaxing soak afterwards.

Get your heart pumping at Velocity Valley

New Zealand is known for its adventure sports, so you can’t skip over this part of your trip! Velocity Valley is an adrenaline park in Rotorua where you can enjoy lots of different adventure sports in one place!

Good for kids and adults with strong hearts, this park boasts BMX trails, reverse bungees, and the only pedal-powered monorail track in the world. You can also try skydiving without a plane in the Xtreme Freefall. Grab your Velocity Valley tickets here .

Belly laugh all the way to the bottom of a ZORB Track

On the drive from Rotorua to Velocity Valley, drop in to try ZORBing , that is, rolling down the side of a mountain track inside a giant inflatable ball. Opt to go fast and steep, take the windy corners, drop mid-air, or race your way down one, or all of the four tracks in Rotorua.

The most bizarre and fun bucket list activity you will ever try!

Where to stay in Rotorua

Vr rotorua lake resort.

This sustainable property is filled with history. It’s located where the First Māori settlement was settled in the region by Ihunga and his dog, on Lake Rotoiti. Just 15 minutes from the centre of Rotorua, it has 2 hot tubs, an outdoor pool, tennis courts, and is surrounded by gardens.

te Whare – Lake Tarawera tree-top nest

For really unique accommodation, you should try this guesthouse. Located in Lake Tarawera, it’s 2 minutes from the beach and has a playground and sun terrace so you can enjoy the outdoors. It also offers rooms with seating areas and kitchenettes as well as lots of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking.

Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park

The closest park to Rotorua, and unfortunately to the smell, this park offers tidy rooms, campsites, and cabins, as well as onsite hot pools where you can make the most of Rotorua’s unique geography.

Rotorua Freedom Camping

There are numerous picturesque DOC campsites for any type of freedom camper located within 15-30 minutes of Rotorua. Only self-contained vehicles will be able to overnight in the free city centre car park spots.

● Rotorua Camping: Lake Ōkāreka Campsite ($15 per night as of Feb 2022) – A scenic lakeside campsite only 15 min from Rotorua. You can swim or fish in the lake!

● Freedom Camping Rotorua: Humphries Bay Campsite (Free) – A basic camping area on Lake Tarawera. The perfect place for a swim, with beautiful water and superb views of Mount Tarawera.

● Rotorua Camping: Rerewhakaaitu, Brett Road Campsite ($8 per night as of Feb 2022) – This is the closest DOC campsite to Kerosine Creek. Camp on the shores of Lake Rerewhakaaitu with good swimming and walking nearby. Bring your own water.

● Central Rotorua: Lakefront Overnight Campervan Parking (Free) – An overnight spot for self-contained vehicles only. The address is 4 Mataiawhea Street, Ohinemutu, Rotorua, near the roundabout on Lake Road.

Stops on the Rotorua to Auckland Drive

Distance from Rotorua to Auckland: 228 km, 3 hours drive

On your trip back to Auckland from Rotorua, we recommend a stopover in Matamata to visit Hobbiton. Allow 3 hours to complete this awesome activity.

Explore the adorable movie set of Hobbiton

Located comfortably between Rotorua, Hamilton and Auckland sits the quaint town of Matamata, the starting point for tours that visit the quaint LOTR movie set, Hobbiton.

The set is located on farmland, and the owners of the land are still proud farmers who outsource the running of the movie set to others since they have no interest in it. Pretty cool, huh?

Explore The Shire first-hand on a charming tour, which is something I enjoyed far more than I anticipated. The whole place is totally adorable and I kind of lost my s**t over it all…

Watch the vlog video below to see me embarrass myself over tiny dried fish and chimneys.

You must take a guided tour of Hobbiton , as they do not allow you to wander the grounds by yourself. But the tour is full of awesome knowledge of the place and I thoroughly enjoyed myself!

Auckland to Wellington Road Trip via Hamilton and Napier

Distance Covered: 973 km, 12.5 hours driving

Total Time Needed: 8 – 14 days total

● Best long road trip from Auckland to see a huge variety of New Zealand attractions .

Driving from Auckland to Wellington is an incredibly popular NZ North Island road trip itinerary. It takes you from Auckland south to Hamilton and the Waikato region before you enter what’s known as the “Thermal Highway” where you can see amazing sites like Lake Taupō and the Emerald Lakes inside the Tongariro volcanic crater.

Then you’ll go east to Napier to sample wine at Hawke’s Bay and get up close to nesting Gannets, before making your way south to Wellington, stopping to see kiwi birds and quaint country towns along the way.

The full Auckland to Wellington drive route is fairly long, so if you don’t have the time, cut out the Napier or Wellington itinerary from your North Island road trip.

Wellington to Auckland Road Trip Highlights

● Surf or swim black sand beaches ● Go black water rafting in glowworm caves ● Hike to vivid emerald crater-lakes ● Sail to giant Māori rock carvings ● Visit the nesting gannet colony ● Sample New Zealand’s best wines ● Visit the world’s longest placename ● Visit museums and get cultured

● Hamilton / Raglan ● Waitomo Caves ● Tongariro National Park ● Lake Taupō ● Napier ● Hawke’s Bay ● Between Wellington and Napier ● Wellington

Waikato and Hamilton Itinerary

Distance: 121 km, 1.5 hours drive from Auckland

Suggested Stay: 4 – 7 days

Waikato gets its name from the Māori word “flowing river”. There are loads of awesome Waikato activities to try; it is absolutely bursting with fun attractions like hiking, caving and surfing just to name a few.

For the first leg of this road trip, you’ll be making your way south from Auckland towards Hamilton and into the Waikato region, where you can explore glowworm caves and visit the black-sand beaches around Raglan.

Next, you’ll stay in the Waikato region but start moving inland where you can attempt the famous Tongariro National Park hike to visit the emerald crater lakes and base yourself in Taupō for a few days, exploring Lake Taupō and doing a bungee jump – if you dare.

Things to do around Hamilton

Since there are so many things to do in the Waikato region, we have split this itinerary into things to do around Hamilton, and things to do around Lake Taupō. First up, here are all the best Hamilton activities.

Swim amongst the black volcanic sand at Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach, also known as Ngarunui Beach, is the main swimming beach in Raglan. This magnificent beach is covered in black volcanic sand that stretches the length of the beach.

Since waves are much smaller here than at Manu Bay, it’s the perfect beach to learn to surf. Take a lesson from the surf school that operates on the beach.

There are lifesavers that patrol the beach and picnic and BBQ facilities, bathrooms, sculptures and walking trails.

Experience the longest left-hand break at Manu Bay

Manu Bay referred to locally as The Point, is a known surf spot by surfers around the world. The perfect break allows surfers to travel for up to 2km or for a full ten minutes. It may sound like fun, but paddling back to where you left from is going to be hard work!

Watch the surfers, both professional and amateur alike, as they shred up the famous left-hand break. Or if you’re game, jump in on the action!

Go blackwater rafting through the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves

Enjoy abseiling into and exploring underground cave systems, full of glowing worms! Float down a stream inside a natural labyrinth, scramble through a tight cavern and be pushed down a river rapid. This adventurous black water rafting tour is seriously good fun and a great way to explore hidden New Zealand.

Based in the Waitomo Region, you can happily waste a whole day in this area, so long as you have extra money for the numerous adventure tours.

However, if this sort of tour is far too hands-on for you, there are several other options to see the glowworm caves, such as an easy walking tour or a guided boat tour .

Explore a church made of trees

The Tree Church was created by one man, Barry Cox, who wanted to create his own church out of nature. Painstakingly, Barry strategically planted the trees to form parts of a church and trained them to grow in the shapes he wanted using an iron frame.

The Tree Church project began in 2011 and is now almost completely finished. It’s a testament both to the adaptability of nature and to the determination of human creativity.

Trek Sanctuary Mountain to find endangered birds

Sanctuary Mountain in Maungatautari is known for its endangered birdlife, which is protected in the area. Once you step through the gate you are transported into another world where ancient forest towers above and the air is filled with birdsong.

Keep in mind, this is a conservation area and by removing all the mammals from Maungatautari, they have been able to reintroduce some of New Zealand’s most endangered species back into their natural habitat.

The Southern Enclosure features a bird feeding area and a canopy tower which takes visitors 16 metres up into the treetops of the forest canopy.

Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set

Though we included this activity in the Rotorua road trip, Matamata (where Hobbiton tours start from) is only an hours drive from Hamilton, so you could easily slip this activity to your Hamilton itinerary.

Read our full activity description and tips on the Hobbiton movie set tour by clicking here .

Things to do around Lake Taupo

While you are still reeling from your amazing Hamilton itinerary, it’s time to move on to some equally as amazing Lake Taupō activities, including a hike to Tongariro National Park.

Hike to the Emerald Lakes of Tongariro National Park

Have you seen those gorgeous pictures of moody volcanic craters with vivid bright green lakes nestled in the centre? Those photos were taken at the Emerald Lakes on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike.

There is no road access to the lakes, so hiking is the only, and frankly best, way to get there! Be sure to note the different colours on the lava flows as you make your way up the valley.

The hike will take a full day, 5 to 8 hours depending on your pace and stops. It is a through-hike, meaning you’ll need to organise a return shuttle from either National Park Village or Whakapapa Village.

Though there will likely be loads of people joining you on this hike, it really is a can’t miss activity in New Zealand. If you can, take a guided tour so that transfers, lunch, footwear, and crampons are provided, meaning you can simply enjoy the scenery.

Go bungey jumping on Waikato River

Located in the Waikato River, the AJ Hackett Taupo Bungy is one of the most popular bungee jumping spots in New Zealand. It’s also a great place for water sport tours like rafting in case you aren’t in the mood to jump off a cliff with a rubber band around your ankles.

Soak in free hot pools of Otumuheke Stream

Soak under a waterfall or in the natural rock pools whilst taking in the stunning views of the vivid green, crystal-clear waters of the mighty Waikato River, New Zealand’s longest river.

The natural hot pools of Otumuheke Stream are one of the best free things to do in Taupō. They are open every day and are located in Spa Thermal Park, near the Taupo Bungy and Swing. 

Marvel at the Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings

While visiting Lake Taupō, do a half-day kayak or sailboat tour around the scenic Western Bays to see a huge, 10-metre-high Māori rock carving at Mine Bay created by master carver Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell.

The carving depicts Ngatoroirangi, a visionary Māori navigator who guided the Tūwharetoa and Te Arawa tribes to the Taupō area over a thousand years ago. Don’t miss this breathtaking cultural activity in New Zealand.

Where to Stay around Waikato, Hamilton and Lake Taupō

Ohaupo olives bed and breakfast.

Need a night in a seriously comfortable bed? Ohaupo Olives is just 13km from Hamilton and offers homey accommodation with a barbecue and natural views. It’s also very close to the Tree Church listed above. While you’re there, make sure that you enjoy a drink on the deck overlooking the garden!

Waitomo Caves: Waitomo TOP 10 Holiday Park 

Just 600m from the famous Waitomo glowworm caves, this award-winning holiday park features a large swimming pool, outdoor hot tub, and BBQ area, close to the shops, cafes and restaurants in Waitomo Caves Village.

Mt Ruapehu: Chateau Tongariro Hotel

Right on the doorstep of the Tongariro National Park, the historical Chateau Tongariro Hotel impresses with grand architecture and interiors. The hotel features a games room, in-house cinema, sauna, indoor plunge pool and a fitness centre. The perfect way to spoil yourself after a gruelling hike.

Hamilton & Waikato Camping

● Raglan Camping: Te Kapuoa Whanau Camp ($10 per person as of Feb 2022) – A basic campsite near Ocean Beach with good reviews and nice views.

● Waikato Camping: Roselands Restaurant in Waitomo Village (Free – Temporarily Closed as of Feb 2022) – Simple campsite for self-contained vehicles only in the car park of the Roselands Restaurant.

● Tongariro National Park Camping: Kaimanawa Road Campsite (Free) – The best campsite to stay the night before/after hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

● Freedom Camping Taupo: Reids Park Farm Campground (Free) – Located on the Waikato River just out of Taupō.

Hawke’s Bay and Napier Itinerary

Distance: 141 km, 2 hours drive from Taupō

Napier, located in Hawke’s Bay, is a real-life 1930s film set, famous for its streets lined with beautifully-restored Art Deco buildings.

From disaster, came beauty, after a massive earthquake rocked Hawke’s Bay, killing nearly 260 people and destroying the city of Napier. Rebuilding commenced almost immediately, reflecting the architectural style of the times and making Napier the spectacular city it is today.

Things to do in Napier

Don’t miss an Auckland to Napier road trip! Here’s a list of just some of the cool things to do in Hawke’s Bay to keep you occupied for a few days.

Discover Napier’s History on an Art-Deco Walking Tour

Discover the fascinating story of Napier’s heritage on this easy walking tour. Learn the history of Napier and the earthquake which levelled the town in 1931. The city is now recognised as the most complete Art Deco city in the world.

Your Art Deco Trust guided tour will start in the centre with a viewing of the 1931 Earthquake film where you will hear of the devastation of the city and the stories of the people it left behind. Then you will embark on a one hour walk with a professionally trained guide.

There are four tours a day in Summer at 10 am, 11 am, 2 pm and 4:30 pm and in Winter at 10 am and 2 pm.

Visit Napier Prison

Hear stories of villains, victims and heroes while wandering through the dark corridors of New Zealand’s oldest prison. This is where Ghost Hunters International used the site as their season finale episode.

Try something different and visit this dark tourist attraction. Napier Prison specialises in escape room experiences and guided tours .

Savour New Zealand’s best wines in Hawke’s Bay

Hawke’s Bay is well-known as being one of the best wine regions in the country, possibly even the world. Visit one, or a few, of the 30+ cellar doors from 70+ wineries and 200 vineyards scattered throughout plains, mountain peaks, valleys, and coastal cliffs of Hawke’s Bay.

Some cellar doors require an appointment while others allow walk-ins. We recommend you go on a wine tour and let someone else take care of you (and drive) for the day!

Don’t miss the Cape Kidnappers gannet-watching tour

Cape Kidnappers is home to the largest and most accessible mainland gannet colony in the world. Gannets are members of the booby family, with distinctive eye and feather markings, and a 6-foot wingspan. Experience the parent birds dive into the ocean to bring back fish for their chicks, or perform their recognition ritual dance upon their return.

Technically you can visit the gannet colony between September to early April, however, go between November to late March to see the young gannets being fattened up in their nests.

Visiting the 20, 0000 gannets on a gannet-watching tour is an awe-inspiring experience and one of the best activities in Napier that should not be missed.

Where to Stay in Napier

The county hotel.

Stay in one of only two significant buildings to have survived the massive 1931 earthquake. Refurbished as a premier boutique hotel, the County Hotel is located right in the centre of all the Napier attractions and has all the facilities you could want, including a library and free secured parking.

Pebble Beach Motor Inn

Unwind after a long day on your own private balcony overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Pebble Beach has lavishly appointed each room with super-king sized beds, rainforest showerhead, and in-room spas for you to soak away your worries. Free WiFi and free on-site parking are provided.

Motel de la Mer

Stay in luxurious accommodation right on Napier’s famous Marine Parade, right on the water. This boutique accommodation features tasteful interior décor, ocean-facing suites, fully equipped kitchens, free wifi, free on-site parking, and a spa bath in some rooms.

Freedom Camping in Hawke’s Bay

● Hawke’s Bay Camping: Lake Tūtira Campsite ($8 per person as of Feb 2022) – Camp on the edge of a lake and marvel at the table mountain nearby. This freedom campsite is 40 minutes driving to Napier.

● Napier Camping: Perfume Point Carpark (Free for self-contained vehicles only) – A small car park in Napier near the water

Stops on the Napier to Wellington Drive

Distance from Napier to Wellington: 256 km, 4.5 hours drive

Most people don’t stop much along the drive between Wellington and Napier, believing there isn’t anything to see. But since you’re road-tripping we wanted to let you in on some worthwhile stopovers to help you split up the journey.

There are a few ways to drive between Napier and Wellington. The quickest route is via State Highway 50 and 3 going straight at Woodville and travelling past Palmerston North and Levin. This route takes about 4 hours of drive time.

A more scenic route, which adds only 15 minutes of drive-time, is to turn right at Woodville to stay on Highway 2 and head towards Pahiatua and Masterdon. This route has a few great attractions to stop at, we have listed a few of these below.

Visit the world’s longest placename

If you have the time, take a 60-minute detour to visit the world’s longest place name: Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu.

On the side of the road just after Pōrangahau, you’ll come across a nondescript looking hill with a sign stating the extra-long placename and a description of the area.

The name translates to “the brow of the hill where Tamatea, the man who climbed, slid, and swallowed mountains, played his koauau (nose flute) to his beloved.” In this case, beloved was actually his brother who died in battle nearby.

Enjoy a tasting of their latest drops at Tui Brewery (Tui HQ)

Sample a tasting of Tui HQs delicious and often exclusive drops, stroll the historic grounds of this New Zealand icon, try something from their menu, or make use of their famous toilets.

You can also watch the brewers in action on a personalised guided tour through their state of the art, iconic brewery, which finishes with a tasting session of tap beers of choice. Tours start at 11:30 am each day.

See endangered birds at Pūkaha Mount Bruce Sanctuary

See conservation in action and visit the first white kiwi in the world at Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre. Check out their free-flight aviary, take a two-hour tramp through the forest, and learn about endangered native wildlife.

The Mount Bruce Reserve is a restored forest and captive breeding site, home to endangered wildlife such as brown kiwi, pāteke (brown duck), whio (blue duck), takahē (flightless bird), kōkako (endangered forest birds), kākā (large native parrots), orange-fronted parakeet, tuturuatu (shore plover), giant wētā, and native longfin eels.

Try to make it to one of the animal feedings or talks if you can. You can feed the tuna (eels) at 1:30 pm if you dare, and the endangered kākā birds feeding at 3:00 pm is an absolute highlight.

Wellington Itinerary

Distance: 256 km, 4.5 hours drive from Napier

Suggested Stay: 2 – 3 days

Situated at the southern end of the North Island, Wellington offers a great mix of art, culture, history, nature, coffee and craft beer. Victorian timber architecture hugs the glowing harbour as locals get swept away in the wind. It’s the perfect end to the longest of our North Island road trips.

Things to do in Wellington

Bursting with vibrance and creativity, New Zealand’s coolest little capital city is constantly buzzing with cool events and activities. Here are a few of our favourite fun things to do in Wellington for you to add to your North Island road trip itinerary.

Explore the Te Papa Museum for everything NZ

Visit the Te Papa museum for all things New Zealand. Said to be the best museum in the country, this place has it all from amazing art installations to natural and Māori history. Even the name, ‘Te Papa Tongarewa’, translates to a container of treasures. And just to top it all off, it’s totally FREE! Unless you want a guided museum tour that is.

Get lost in film special effects in Weta Cave

This one is for the movie buffs. At Weta Workshop you’ll find behind the scenes work such as concept design and prop production used in some of the best movies Weta Digital have produced. These include; Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit films, Tintin, Avatar, Thor, Blade Runner 2049 and Ghost in the Shell.

Weta Cave is also totally free unless you would like to participate in a hands-on workshop or studio tour .

Walk Mount Victoria for incredible city views

Mount Victoria is famously featured in one of the LOTR movies and it sports brilliant views of the city below. Located right in the central business district, it is a short drive to the top or an easy walk through the bush-covered town belt.

Be immersed in the Cuba Street District culture

In this area you’ll find hipsters, buskers and businessmen alike, mingling in the culture, cafes, shopping districts and street art. Anything goes here, so be prepared to hang out with the city’s alternative crowd.

Visit The Wrights Hill Fortress historic landmark

The Wrights Hill Fortress was completed in the final years of WWII and were never used. They consist of long underground tunnels that have been recently restored and named a historic landmark. The tunnels were used to capture audio of a dwarven mine in the Fellowship of the Ring.

Where to stay in Wellington

Atura wellington.

When you stay in Wellington during your North Island road trip, you want to be close to everything. And that’s exactly what this hotel offers. It’s within walking distance of the Lambton Quay shopping area and offers a restaurant with beautiful garden views as well as free access to a gym. Parking is $25 per night.

U Boutique Hotel

There’s nothing better than a free breakfast in the morning when you stay at a hotel, and this hotel offers a gourmet one. It’s also a short walk from the waterfront and from the bars and clubs of Courtenay Place. Parking must be reserved and costs $20 per day.

Camping Wellington

● Wellington Freedom Camping: Bucks Road Campsite (Free) – The closest DOC Freedom Campsite to Wellington (1 hour 10 minutes from Wellington). It is a picturesque campsite above the Tauherenikau River set in regenerating bush and the perfect place to stay between Napier and Wellington.

Where to Next?

This is our only road trip from Auckland that ends in a different city to where it started. If you have hired a vehicle, you will need to pay for an alternative drop off location or drive the 8 hours back to Auckland.

Alternatively, you can catch a ferry from Wellington to Picton on the South Island and continue with your New Zealand road trip.

GOING SOUTH?   Here’s a List of Free things to do in Queenstown!

Can you pick up a vehicle in Auckland and drop it off in Wellington?

Yes, you can but each campervan and car hire company will have its own policy regarding one-way hires. It’s best to compare prices between hire companies as some charge little for the different drop off, while others can charge $500 extra.

Driving in New Zealand: What You Need to Know

You’ll probably find it quite relaxing to drive in New Zealand – I know I did! The country is very scenic and the traffic is extremely sparse compared to other parts of the world. However, there are still some things you should look out for during your North Island road trip.

Winding Roads

Although New Zealand is fairly small, there are also few cities with long stretches of very winding roads between them. The roads can honestly be a little hair-raising, especially at night or when they’re hilly and windy at the same time!

Weather Extremes

New Zealand is known for its temperamental weather, which can change without warning. Be vigilant, check weather reports, and never try to drive if you’re unsure. It’s always better to pull off the road if conditions are unsafe than try to navigate hilly, winding roads in high winds or storms.

NZ Driving Rules

Despite the isolation of New Zealand’s roads, traffic laws are still strictly enforced. So, always drive on the left, wear your seatbelt, and obey any speed signs you need. That will save you from having to pay expensive fines during your North Island road trip.

Emergencies

In the case of a major road accident or emergency which requires the police, fire, or ambulance, call 111 . For non-emergencies that require police assistance, call 105. Save these numbers into your phone for quick access before you start your road trip in New Zealand.

Everyone in New Zealand, including visitors, have 24-hour, seven-day-a-week, no-fault covers for the costs of medical services required to treat any injury caused by an accident under New Zealand’s Accident Compensation scheme (ACC). The cost of the scheme is covered by a levy included in the vehicle licensing. This is not a replacement for Travel Insurance and does not cover illness, disrupted travel plans or emergency travel to get you back home. We strongly recommend customers arrange travel insurance before visiting New Zealand.

Do you need an International Driver’s License in New Zealand?

Before you plan any road trips from Auckland, you need to know whether you’re allowed to drive there. In NZ, you’re allowed to drive for up to 12 months as long as you have a current driver’s license from your home country. You can also get an International Driving Permit (IDP), but it isn’t really necessary.

While in New Zealand, you need to have your driver’s license with you at all times when you’re driving. And you still have to obey all the stipulations that are on your license. So, if you need to wear glasses or only drive a certain type of car at home, that applies in New Zealand as well.

If your driver’s license isn’t in English, you will need an international driver’s license or you’ll have to get a translation from a New Zealand Translation Service or an embassy, consulate, or high commission. If you don’t get a translation, then you could be prosecuted for driving without an appropriate licence. This could cost you between $400 and $1,000 in infringement fees. That’s a sizeable chunk out of your North Island road trip spending money!

How to Rent Campervan in Auckland

Renting a vehicle in Auckland is super easy. It’s generally the same as it is anywhere else in the world. Generally, most hiring companies will prefer driver’s to be 21 or older.

Travellers Autobarn in New Zealand will rent campervans to drivers as young as 18 years (max 80 years) who have a full valid driver’s license (state, national or international). However, guidelines will vary between rental suppliers.

When renting a car or van, it’s a good idea to check the prices across a variety of companies. Just keep in mind that the lowest initial price may not end up being the lowest final price after insurance and other costs are factored in.

One of the best options to hire campervans in New Zealand is Travellers Autobarn which focus entirely on the special needs of backpackers and road trippers. They have a wide range of competitively priced campervans to suit all types of travellers, from something economic and small to a van that’s more comfortable and spacious. Plus, they don’t charge for mileage or extra drivers, which makes a great difference if anyone is planning a long road trip from Auckland with friends. 

Follow these handy tips when renting a car or campervan in New Zealand to make your experience smooth and positive.

Check Your Car First

Wherever you are in the world, you should always check your rental car before you drive it off the lot. This applies during road trips from Auckland as well. Check the condition of the car and video it to show any scratches or damage. This will ensure that there aren’t any misunderstandings at the end of your trip.

Get New Zealand Car Insurance

Technically, you don’t need car insurance to go on a road trip in New Zealand. However, this doesn’t mean that you should just skip it. If you’re at fault in an accident during your North Island road trip, you’ll have to pay for all vehicle repairs or replacements and injuries to any other party involved. You will also have to pay for repairs for the car you’re driving.

Obviously, this can get very expensive, very quickly. And accidents, mostly minor ones, are extremely common among New Zealand visitors, so you really should take steps to make sure that you’re covered just in case.

When you hire a car in New Zealand, you’ll find that most reputable car companies include comprehensive motor vehicle insurance in their daily rate. This usually includes everything from third-party and public liability, to government fees and roadside assistance membership.

I’m not going to tell you which fund you should get or lecture you on your choices. But if you’re concerned about the cost of car insurance, then here are some terms that will help you make a more cost-effective decision:

● Comprehensive Insurance covers the cost of your own car and any other vehicles involved in an accident and is the most expensive option.

● Third-Party Insurance only covers the damage you cause to other drivers, not damage to your own car. You can add fire and theft cover to this type of insurance.

● Driver-based Policies means you’re covered no matter what car you’re driving. It’s a good idea if you intend to be driving numerous cars during your stay.

● Vehicle-Based Policies cover your car no matter who drives it. It’s the best choice if you’re travelling with some mates and want to stay covered no matter what.

● Excess is the amount you will have to pay before the insurance takes over and it varies a lot from one policy to the next. Basically, the cheaper the policy, the higher the excess, which means you may have to dig deeply into your travel fund in the event of an accident.

Does Your Travel Insurance Cover Rental cars?

Some travel insurance companies may offer plans that cover rental cars. If you are considering buying travel insurance for this reason, make sure you check the fine print to ensure your rental is actually covered.

World Nomads Travel Insurance

World Nomads offers rental car coverage on their Explorer Plan. This plan cover repairs and rental charges if your vehicle was stolen, vandalised or damaged because of a collision, weather, or other forces beyond your control.

Use this box to search their travel insurance plans.

How to get good deals on motorhome hire in New Zealand

Renting your motorhome is going to be one of your biggest expenses. But there are several ways you can easily find deals for hiring a motorhome, especially if you are going to New Zealand in the low season.

If you are travelling to New Zealand in the shoulder season; Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May) or in Winter (June to August) you’re going to find it a lot easier to get great deals on campervan hire. You’ll also find most tourist attractions and activities will have special prices for the low season as well.

To find out prices, start by searching for motorhome comparison sites. Most campervan sites have deals for things like off-season and extended rental. Once on their site look for the deals page (usually at the top of the menu).

Here are a couple of deals to get you started. Note that for some of them you might have to scroll down to New Zealand, as they are international deals.

Comparison Sites

● Motorhome Republic ● Discovery Motorhomes

Campervan Hire Companies

● Travellers Autobarn ● Spaceships Rentals ● Nomad Campervans

Useful Information on Camping in New Zealand

Camping makes the best road trips from Auckland even better. But New Zealand has its own rules for camping, and you need to follow them if you’re going to have a trouble-free time. You can camp at designated campsites and parks all across the country for free or for a fee.

Freedom Camping in New Zealand

Freedom camping is when you camp on public land that isn’t a recognised camping ground or holiday park.

Every district and council has different bylaws on freedom camping. Some will not let you freedom camp within 1 kilometre of the town, or will only let you stay in a car park for 1 night.

Generally, freedom camping rules are as follows:

● Don’t camp where the signage says it’s prohibited. ● You can only camp in certain areas if your campervan is self-contained, which means it has its own toilet, fresh water, wastewater storage, and a waste bin with a lid. You can hire campervans that are specifically self-contained, check with your rental company about this option. ● Wherever you camp, take your rubbish with you when you go. ● You must use designated toilet facilities or your own toilet, don’t go in the bush. ● You can freedom camp on Department of Conservation (DOC) land, but you need to check-in and pay online where applicable.

Camping on DOC land

Freedom camping on DOC land is generally allowed, with some exceptions. There are some places on DOC land where you cannot camp because the site has a special value, for example, it’s a Māori burial site (urupā) or a protected plant or animal is there. You cannot camp at DOC reserves unless signs allow it.

Free DOC campsites

DOC has basic campsites where you can stay for free. Usually, you do not have to be self-contained to stay at DOC campsites because there are facilities available. Check each individual campsite for more information and search for free campsites here.

Find Freedom Camping in New Zealand with these Apps

● CamperMate  (It’s FREE!) Useful for locating campsites, and it is colour coded by cost so you can always remain within your budget.

● WikiCamps NZ  ($2.99) This app is also useful for finding campsites and is a little more user-friendly, however it does cost a small amount of money.

● Rankerz Camping NZ  (It’s FREE!) Features every legal New Zealand camping location, plus offline maps.

Enjoy Your North Island Road Trips

We hope you’ve found this information on taking road trips around the North Island of NZ useful. Feel free to ask us any questions using the comments form below. And make sure you save this post for future reference!

What are the places you would put on your North Island Itinerary, New Zealand?

Passionate baby goat cuddler and part-time adventurer, Crystal can often be found doing headstands on the edges of cliffs, taking photos of abandoned buildings or sleeping on deserted islands with dangerous criminals. She has too many awesome stories and helpful tips to keep them all to herself so follow along and in return she will bring you inspiring pictures, travel videos and a whole load of fun!

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North Island New Zealand Self Drives

Discover the wonders of the North Island of New Zealand with these recommended itineraries. Opting for a Self Drive holiday is an excellent way to discover the region at your own leisure.

North Island Escape

Duration: 5 days Auckland to Wellington

• North Island Self Drive

Travel through the heart of the North Island on this short 'highlights' New Zealand Self Drive Tour. From Auckland journey south through the Waikato countryside to Rotorua, the Maori culture capital of New Zealand. It’s then on to the Art Deco city of Napier in the Hawkes Bay, home to New Zealand’s oldest vineyards.  The final leg of your whirlwind tour of the North Island takes you past sheep farms and wineries as you travel through the Wairarapa region to your final destination, the capital city of Wellington.

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Auckland to Wellington 10 Day Highlights

Duration: 10 days Auckland to Wellington

Explore our most popular North Island cities and get a taste of New Zealand culture and wine regions, accompanied by quality Motels to rest your head at the end of the day.

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North Island Highlights

Duration: 11 days Auckland to Auckland

Explore the North Islands' major cities including Martinborough with the spectacular Northern Explorer Scenic Train from Wellington back to Auckland.

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Ultimate North Island Explorer

Duration: 21 days Auckland to Auckland

21 Day self-drive tour will ensure you have found all of the North Islands' hidden gems and immerse yourself in the country's culture, all while be blown away by the beautiful scenery.

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Auckland to Wellington 6 Day Highlights

Duration: 6 days Auckland to Wellington

6 Days of exploring the North Island from Auckland to Wellington including Rotorua and Hawkes Bay and enjoy 4-star hotels at the end of each day.

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Northern Highlights Escape

Duration: 8 days Auckland to Auckland

Explore the highlights of the North Island including the Bay of Islands and Rotorua, two of the most popular destinations. In the Bay of Islands, you’ll take a cruise amongst the many islands home to an abundance of marine wildlife, including dolphins which you might be lucky enough to see. In Rotorua you’ll enjoy a thrilling cultural encounter at Tamaki Maori Village and you’ll return to Auckland via the fascinating limestone formations and glow worm caves of Waitomo.

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7 Day Central North Island Explorer Tour

Duration: 7 days Auckland to Auckland

This tour takes you through the heart of the North Island, highlighting its incredible diversity. Begin with a local’s favourite, the Coromandel Peninsula, here you’ll explore Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve. Then it’s on to Rotorua to experience the rich culture of the area with a visit to Mitai Maori Village and Rainbow Springs, plus a full day to explore the thermal wonders. Next stop is Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand where you’ll ride the thrilling Huka Falls Jet Boat.  Returning to Auckland you’ll stop at the world famous Waitomo Glow Worm Caves for an underground adventure.

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A Taste of the North Island

Duration: 8 days Auckland to Wellington

Get a taste of the beautiful North Island, from Auckland to Wellington with a cultural stop in the breath-taking Rotorua and the stunning wine region of Hawkes Bay.

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North Island Spectacular

Duration: 13 days Auckland to Wellington

• Boutique Lodges & Hotels

A comprehensive North Island tour exploring from Cape Reinga in the north, to the charming capital city of Wellington in the south. Along the way you’ll travel at a relaxed pace and experience welcoming hospitality at some of the best boutique lodges. Highlights include the Bay of Islands cruise, Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach tour. In Rotorua you’ll take a tour by float plane to the Waimangu Valley and enjoy a visit to Tamaki Maori Village including dinner.

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Auckland to Wellington 7 Day Highlights

Duration: 7 days Auckland to Wellington

7-Day Tour, we have selected the North Islands highlights for you accompanied by beautiful 4-star hotels for your comfort at the end of the day.

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The Volcanic Centre Self Drive Tour

A tour through the heart of the North Island highlighting its incredible diversity. Experience the rich culture of Rotorua and its volcanic past and present.

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Nearly all our guests customise our tour ideas. That's what we do! Our expert team of New Zealand specialists can design a holiday itinerary to suit you perfectly. A tailor made package can be created for you in no time and doesn't cost you any more than one of our 'off the shelf' ideas. So get in touch with the team today to start your plans.

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The Ultimate Road Trip through New Zealand's Underrated North Island

By Erin Florio

Let me be clear: so long as you are in a car, there’s no wrong way to see New Zealand . Every route is the scenic route here. But— but —it has irked me for years that so many visitors default to spending the majority of their time in the South Island. The country’s more populated, less popular North Island has landscapes in a spectrum of colors like nowhere else on earth—think Northern California on steroids. The exceptionally pretty State Highway One slices through the island’s center, connecting Auckland up north to artsy Wellington at the southern tip in a straight eight-hour drive. Slow it down to five full days, detouring to coastal towns where Kiwis holiday, past Maori rock face carvings (you won’t find them in the South Island), and countryside patched with vineyards for a more local take.

The trip: Five days, 568 miles

What to drive.

New Zealand’s weather is inconsistent and can change within minutes, so your only caveat when renting a car is no convertibles. As long as it has good windows and tires for the often gravel-covered back roads, you’re fine.

The water is too chilly to appreciate in winter and the beach towns slow down, so plan your trip during Kiwi late spring or summer, between October and March.

Cathedral Cove, in the Coromandel.

Don’t linger in Auckland. It’s a perfectly functional city, but the least exciting part of this drive. Book it southeast down State Highway One first thing and hang a left on SH 27 to reach the Coromandel Peninsula early. This area is popular with Kiwis during summer; many have tiny holiday houses, called baches , on the spectacular beaches backed by hills the color of emeralds. From the surf beaches to the cafés serving hot chips and smoothies, it’s laid back and friendly—the kind of place to go barefoot. (Kiwis love to be shoeless in summer. Roll with it.)

Drive east to Hot Water Beach , where a thermal river underneath the sands creates natural hot pools. If none are formed, dig your own. (Note: this is not a swimming beach, you’ll want to head a little north to Hahei for that.) This is some of the oldest inhabited land in all of New Zealand and is sacred to local tribe, the Ngati Hei—so respect the area. Don’t eat or drink in the pools; go across the way to Hot Water Cafe for pavlova and cold brew in the outdoor garden if you’re peckish.

By lunch, you’ll want to be on the road again, driving south on SH 25 to Mount Maunganui, which locals call 'The Mount.' Another Kiwi summer playground, it’s unpretentious and beautiful. That large hill you see on the drive in, with a bay on one side and the mighty Pacific on the other, is the “mountain” that the town is named for. There’s a corkscrew trail that will take you 45 minutes to climb from the bottom to the peak. After your hike, soak in the hot pools at Maunganui’s base (or jump in the ocean, it’s right there). Take your pick of wine bars and bistros along the main drag of Marine Parade, or head one road inland to Astrolabe, where my parents and I—and then my friends and I once we got older—have come for local Mac’s beers and grilled steaks for decades. Check in to the Oceanside Resort and Towers right on the main beach for the night.

The sleek Kinloch Club is one of the country's famed luxury lodges.

Start your day with a flat white at the café in the resort and stroll down the beach before it gets packed later in the day. Then hop back on SH 1, swerving inland toward Lake Taupo, the heart of the North Island. The towering volcanoes and waterfalls en route make it easier to leave the beautiful coastline behind. You’ll pass Rotorua, a tour bus favorite for its bubbling hot pools and geysers (yep, that smell is sulphur in the air). Stop if you must, though the better experience is outside the town limits in the Buried Village of Te Wairoa, a Maori and colonial hamlet that was covered and preserved in ash and mud when Mount Tarawera erupted in 1888. It’s New Zealand’s own mini Pompeii .

Carry on south, passing Lake Tarawera, to the northern tip of Taupo. Once there, ditch the car and hop in a kayak or onto a charter boat (many companies, including Ernest Kemp, sail throughout the day) to see the remarkable Mine Bay carvings, where master carver Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell has chiselled a ginormous Maori priest figure known as a Ngatoroirangi right into the cliff face. Do a late lunch at the nearby Bay Bar—the seafood in puff pastry or ceviche is the way to go—or head straight for the very chic Kinloch Club . Full disclaimer: this is not the part of the trip where you will feel even remotely local (shoes, preferably polished, should remain firmly on your feet). It’s $1,500 a night, but the floor-to-ceiling windows, designer furniture, roaring fires, and delicious pan-seared lamb make it a worthwhile splurge.

Hawkes Bay has Jurassic Park -style coasts and sophisticated wine.

Start the day with a stroll on the resort’s pathway that cuts through the rolling hills overlooking Taupo. Stretch your legs, as it’s a long three hour drive southeast to Hawke's Bay . You’re here for the vino (mostly chardonnays and syrahs), though the first stop will be in the seaside city of Napier. It’s an architectural marvel, destroyed by a powerful earthquake in 1931 and then rebuilt in a mash-up of styles of the time. You’ll find Spanish Mission, Art Deco, and Stripped Classical designs all in the same block. Park your car by the water and start walking. A string of pale pink, green, and yellow estates line the boardwalk, including a particularly gorgeous coral tobacco warehouse and a number of old publishing houses. It’s easy to grab a map and stroll by yourself, though the wonderful Art Deco Trust does guided tours.

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Now, it’s finally wine time. Just outside of the city is Church Road , a sophisticated countryside winery producing some of New Zealand’s boldest syrahs. Order the roasted spiced pumpkin and blue cheese ravioli for lunch with a glass of their crisp pinot gris and then hop on the 2 p.m. tasting and museum tour. Don’t overdo it on the merlot samples, even if the final stop today is six minutes away. There is plenty more to drink at the historic Mission Estate , the country’s oldest winery founded by French settlers in 1851. Drop your bags in the vineyard’s sun-lit guest room for the night, before wandering through the chardonnay vines and landscaped gardens that circle the main colonial style farmhouse.

The historic Martinborough Hotel has views over the town's square and is walking distance to tasting rooms.

Three hours south through country back roads is Martinborough , a quaint town near the capital city of Wellington in the boutique wine region of the Wairarapa. Vineyard hopping here feels like the world’s greatest block party, where neighbors produce and pour some of the world’s top wines and keep their doors wide open.

Since nearly all of the wineries are within walking distance of the town’s central square, drop your car at your hotel: the historic, recently restored Martinborough Hotel with its wonderful multi-level, wraparound balcony. Then stroll to Poppies , a delightful winery run by a young husband and wife team that serves superb charcuterie boards and bottles of their own Riesling on an outdoor terrace. Poppy herself will likely be on hand to enthusiastically guide you through the difference between New Zealand’s wine regions and convince you, ever so charmingly, to ship a case of her pinot and sauvignon back home. Make your way back to the square with stops for some pinot noir at Te Karainga and the Martinborough Vineyard along the way, and cap the day at the Union Square Bistro and Bar back at the hotel.

Wellington is the southern-most point of the North Island. You can hop on a ferry here to access to the South Island.

If you leave early enough, stop just south of Martinborough in the colonial village of Greytown, en route to Wellington for a coffee at Food Forest Organics (its owner is director James Cameron, who lives in the area) and pop your head into one of the many furniture design stores. Then carry on over the winding Rimutaka mountain range—if you had one too many savs the night before, you may start feeling it here—before arriving in the middle of Wellington, about an hour’s drive from the vineyards. It’s a quirky, artistic, foodie city pinned in by hills on one side and a harbor that opens up to the Cook Strait that leads to the South Island on the other. Stay at QT Wellington on the waterfront to be walking distance from cafes like Olive and Fidel’s and boutiques on Cuba Street, the nightlife of Courtney Place, and the unmissable Te Papa Museum of New Zealand . This is a city to just hang out in, lingering in the cafés like the Wellingtonians. Don’t rush out after one night like so many naively do. Park the car, end the drive, and stay a while.

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The World on my Necklace

A Travel Blog by Katie Chavez

The Ultimate Northland Road Trip: Auckland to Cape Reinga

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Despite living in the North Island of New Zealand for the majority of my life there, I only really started exploring Northland in the last ten years. I had seen so many photos of the famous lighthouse at Cape Reinga and Northland’s stunning beaches growing up and I thought that I was long overdue to see it all in the flesh.

And Northland wowed me more than I could have ever imagined.

The drive from Auckland to Cape Reinga is spectacular and there are so many incredible places to see along the way. Here are my favorite places to visit on a Northland road trip.

The Ultimate Northland Itinerary From Auckland to Cape Reinga

Check out my interactive map for the Ultimate Auckland to Cape Reinga Northland Road Trip.

Over my week-long Northland Itinerary, I camped, hiked, swam, and drove through New Zealand’s sub-tropical north.

It was all wonderful. 

Northland is a popular destination for tourists visiting the North Island and rightly so. The main stop is generally the Bay of Islands, with some people also making it from Auckland to Cape Reinga, before rushing back down to Auckland again.

Don’t get me wrong, if you only have a couple of days, The Bay of Islands is a great destination and it is stunning – you should definitely go there and it is on this list. But there is so much more to Northland.

In the short time that I had for my Northland Itinerary, I managed to visit so many incredible beaches and small towns and I was blown away by how exceedingly beautiful it is in this part of the world.

New Zealand isn’t well-known for its beaches, but Northland travel is alllll about the beaches.

After seeing the deserted white sands and turquoise waters of the beaches in the far north, I don’t think it will be long before everyone knows how amazing the beaches are in New Zealand.

I traveled from Auckland to Cape Reinga along the east coast of Northland, then headed back down to Auckland along the west coast – although you could do it either way. 

I listed the places I visited during my Northland Road Trip in the order I visited them, to help with your planning.

I hope to inspire you to visit this unique and picturesque region soon – before the rest of the world is let in on the secret too. This is a quintessential Northland travel itinerary in my opinion.

Pakiri Beach

Pakiri is a rugged long, sandy beach, popular with surfers and for horse riding along the sand.

Although not technically in Northland (Pakiri is in the Rodney District, which is part of Auckland), Pakiri is a great place to stop to break up your drive from Auckland City.

I strolled along a short section of the 14km beach, paddling in the translucent shallows and collecting multi-colored shells.

Where to Stay in Pakiri: Stay in a self-contained cabin at Leigh Central , or camp or stay in an apartment right on Pakiri Beach at Pakiri Beach Holiday Park .

For vacation rentals, stay at the cute Leigh family bach , or this classic Kiwi bach .

Whangarei Heads – Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach in the Whangarei Heads is one of the best beaches in Northland for its perfect-sized waves for jumping and bodysurfing, glorious clear water, giant sand dunes, and the short track up the headland for spectacular views over the beach and out to sea.

I love swimming here and the drive out there past small beachy communities, lush green forests, and volcanic peaks is something special unto itself. 

If you have time, you should check out Whangarei Falls too – it’s one of the most beautiful falls in New Zealand .

Where to Stay in Whangarei Heads: Stay near Whangarei Heads in a suite or cottage at Kauri Villas , or stay in Whangarei at The Cell Block Backpackers – in a former Police Station/Jail.

For vacation rentals, stay at this iconic Kiwi bach with sea and bush views, or at the Craypot Cabin on a peaceful lifestyle block.

The Tutukaka Coast is home to some of the best beaches in Northland. The white sand beaches of Tutukaka’s Whale Bay and Matapouri are surrounded by lush, green native bush and lapped by the blue-green waters of the South Pacific Ocean. 

The Tutukaka Coast was voted one of the best coastlines in the world by National Geographic Traveler Magazine in 2010, and when you see it you will see why. The slow pace and lack of crowds make it an ideal destination and a must for any Northland itinerary.

Some of the best diving in the World is just off-shore around the Poor Knights Islands . The Marina in the small settlement of Tutukaka is a beautiful place to eat dinner while watching the sunset.

I camped in Tutukaka and was amazed by all the stars lighting up the clear night sky.

Where to Stay on the Tutukaka Coast: Stay in an apartment and enjoy the pool and hot tub at Pacific Rendezvous Motel , or enjoy the views from your chalet at The Lighthouse Lookout .

For vacation rentals, stay at the Seahorse Studio , or this beautiful waterfront studio .

Bay of Islands

It’s the most obvious Northland itinerary stop and the most touristy – but I think it still has to be done. 

I loved taking the ferry over to Russell, the sleepy historic seaside town that was once known as the hellhole of the Pacific when it was the first capital of New Zealand.

It is a great place to spend a morning, checking out the shops and having a coffee or breakfast at one of the waterfront restaurants.

You have to get out on the water on an island or dolphin-watching tour – I did one that stopped at beautiful Urupukapuka Island , which is the largest of the 140 islands in the bay.

If you are interested in New Zealand history, you can visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Museum in Waitangi, the birthplace of New Zealand.

Where to Stay in the Bay of Islands: Stay at the beautiful, historic Duke of Marlborough Hotel on the waterfront in Russell, or stay at Pickled Parrot Backpackers in Paihia for a budget option.

For vacation rentals, stay at this cozy cottage in central Paihia, or the Allure Lodge Cottage on a bushland hill overlooking the ocean.

A lovely little town surrounded by orchards with some fantastic cafes. I stopped for lunch and nabbed a leisurely spot in a café garden – bliss.

There are some lovely beaches nearby as well and Kerikeri is a great spot to base yourself to visit upper Northland.

Visit the Stone Store – the oldest surviving stone building in New Zealand, and beautiful Rainbow Falls.

Where to Stay in Kerikeri: For a luxury option, stay at beautiful Moon Gate Villa which has an outdoor pool and lush garden, or at the popular Woodlands Motel which offers quality rooms at a low price, and also has an outdoor pool and beautiful gardens.

For vacation rentals, stay at lovely Kendall Cottage , or the charming Honeymoon Cottage on a citrus orchard.

Matauri Bay

This beach has to be seen to be believed. With turquoise waters and sugary white sand, it wouldn’t look out of place somewhere like French Polynesia or Fiji . It is undeveloped, there is no settlement there, just a couple of houses and a camping ground.

You first catch sight of the incredible beach as you crest a hill before the long drive down – be prepared to be wowed. You may not want to leave.

Where to Stay in Matauri Bay: Stay at gorgeous Crab Cove or at the magical Magic Cottages at Takou River .

For vacation rentals, stay at the Kingfisher Cottage with sea views, or this one-bedroom clifftop cottage with views over East Bay.

Tauranga Bay

A lovely beach with golden-tinged sands and clear water. It is a beautiful spot but I was more impressed by the other beaches I visited in Northland.

The competition was just too strong for Tauranga Bay to make it one of my favorite Northland beaches, but it is still definitely worth stopping at.

Where to Stay in Tauranga Bay: Camp at Tauranga Bay Holiday Park right on the beach which has cabins, tent, and RV sites, and motel units, or this one-bedroom clifftop cottage with views over East Bay.

A cute, seaside village that is a great place to stop for a wander. The pace of life is slow and the locals are friendly. The Mangonui Fish Shop claims to have the best fish and chips in New Zealand; I don’t know about that but they are pretty damn good.

There is something special about this little town, it has a calming effect on me. I have only ever stopped in Mangonui for a short time but I would love to linger for a while.

Where to Stay in Mangonui: By the Bay Beachfront Apartments for well-appointed apartments by the beach or a room at the historic Old Oak Boutique Hotel in a restored 1861 building just outside of town.

For vacation rentals, stay in this cute Kiwi beachfront bach , or this charming studio suite with beautiful views.

Matai Bay on the KariKari Peninsula is rugged and technicolored; a long, white beach that only had one other person on it when we visited in the height of summer.

It’s another perfect beach for peace, quiet, and reflection.

Where to Stay in Matai Bay: Stay at KariKari Lodge where breakfast is included or the Department of Conservation camping ground on a grassy peninsula above the beach with inspiring views.

For vacation rentals, stay at this renovated bach across the road from the beach, or this beachfront holiday home with ocean views.

Tapotupotu Bay

My Dad told me about this hidden bay, reached by a small side road near Cape Reinga, and I am SO glad that I visited. There is a beautiful beach (they all are up here) but what is really great about it is the unbelievably clear river flowing into the ocean.

You can jump in about 100 meters down and ride the fast-flowing river into the sea. So much fun! I wasn’t intending on swimming so was not wearing my bathing suit, I was too excited to go back to the car and get changed so I ended up just jumping in with my clothes on.

A definite highlight – I felt like a kid again.

Where to Stay in Tapotupotu Bay: Camp right by the beach at Tapotupotu Campsite , New Zealand’s most northern. It is basic but the location can’t be beaten.

Nearby vacation rentals are The Little Cottage by the beach in Houhora, of this spacious home in Ngataki.

Spirits Bay

It was a long, bumpy drive to get there but every bump was worth it. This isolated beach is made up of a slow curve of sand and lapped by pale blue water and surrounded by rounded, rocky peaks covered in lime-green grass.

The Maori believe that the spirits of their dead depart this world via Spirits Bay. It has an end-of-the-world feel to it.

I walked around a small black-rock island connected to the beach and along the sun-bleached sands. There was so much silence. It was blissful.

Where to Stay in Spirits Bay: Camp right on the beach at Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite , a Department of Conservation campground with basic facilities.

Cape Reinga

I thought that it could be overrated. I thought that the tourist hoards would be off-putting. I didn’t think it could live up to the hype.

It did. By God, it did.

Cape Reinga is stunningly beautiful, and exploring the area is Northland travel at its finest.

A low mist lingered over the iconic New England-style lighthouse – one of the top Cape Reinga attractions.

Aquamarine waters raged far below us and the faint glimmer of impossibly white sands gleamed in the broadening sunlight, further along the sharp coastline.

I was in awe of the colors and the beauty.

After walking down to the lighthouse, I decided to do the short hike along a lofty ridgeline and down steep switchbacks to Te Werahi beach below.

Although short, at only about 90 minutes return, it was one of the most spectacular hikes I have ever done. The views were unsurpassable. And this was one of the Cape Reinga attractions that not many people bother experiencing – they are missing out.

I would love to do some of the longer hikes next time I visit.

There will definitely be a next time.

Where to Stay in Cape Reinga: The closest accommodation to Cape Reinga is the campgrounds in Spirits Bay and Tapotupotu Bay, otherwise stay at the Pukenui Lodge Motel which is a 40-minute drive away.

Ninety Mile Beach

Ninety Mile Beach is in fact only 88km long, but that is still long nonetheless. It is officially deemed a highway but is only really suitable for 4-wheel drive vehicles. I didn’t risk it.

It’s pretty cool to stand on Ninety Mile Beach and not see the end of it. The Te Paki sand dunes at the northern end of the beach are a great place to sandboard. I didn’t have the time to do it but it looked like fun.

Wandering amongst the dunes, it feels as if you are in the Sahara Desert. The cute beach town of Ahipara is a great base for the beach.

Where to Stay in Ahipara: Stay at the massive Ahipara Holiday Park which has campsites, cabins, and motel rooms, or at Ahipara Bay Motel which has rooms with sea-view balconies.

For vacation rentals, stay at the 90 Mile Paradise Apartment overlooking the beach and ocean, or this stunning eco cabin with beach views.

This tiny community in the remote Hokianga definitely surprised me. I took the ferry across the Hokianga Harbour from Kohu Kohu and decided to stay at the camping ground in Rawene after an exhausting day of driving.

Originally I had planned to stay further on in the small beach town of Opononi but I was exhausted. Rawene didn’t look like much when I was driving through the town center as the sky was darkening.

I had an excellent coffee at the trendy Boat Shed Café and loved the historic buildings and giant trees draped in vines. At times I felt I was in the Deep South USA rather than a tiny town in New Zealand.

Where to Stay in Rawene: Camp at Rawene Holiday Park , which offers campsites and cabins and is set amongst native bush overlooking the harbor with a fantastic pool. Alternatively, stay in the nearby beach town of Opononi at the Opononi Hotel .

For vacation rentals, stay at this cozy modern cottage with harbor views, or this beautiful apartment within walking distance of town.

Ngawha Hot Springs

The Ngawha Hot Springs is a great wet weather alternative if you get a bit of rain on your road trip like I did.

These rustic springs consist of many small hot pools of varying temperatures with silt-laden water, there is even mud you can lather all over yourself and wash off in one of the pools.

I had a great time there, chatting with locals and other visitors while relaxing in the hot waters.

Where to Stay at Ngawha: Stay at the neo-classical designed Left Bank in nearby Kaikohe which offers charming private rooms and backpacker dorms.

For vacation rentals, stay at this historic cottage on poles over the water in nearby Taheke, or this cozy mini home farm retreat .

Tane Mahuta

New Zealand’s largest known living Kauri tree, Tane Mahuta ’s sheer height, and girth are quite impressive and if you are driving through the Hokianga region of Northland, it is definitely worth stopping to see this impressive native tree.

Where to Stay for Tane Mahuta: Stay at the luxurious Waipoua Lodge . For vacation rentals, stay at this spacious house with harbor views at Omapere, or the peaceful Waiotemarama Healing Space holiday home.

Kai Iwi Lakes

I had sun every day of my Northland road trip except for the last day, which was the day I visited these famous freshwater dune lakes.

They didn’t look that impressive under the grey skies but I have been told that they are a stunning baby blue when the sun is shining. And the lake beach is white sand.

It is definitely somewhere I will need to revisit when it is sunny.

Where to Stay at the Kai Iwi Lakes: Stay at the Kai Iwi Lakes Resort right on the lake edge in an apartment rental or dorm, or a campsite.

For vacation rentals, stay at this two-bedroom property  close to the beach, or this Omamari Beach holiday house .

Northland should be on anyone’s New Zealand Trip Itinerary – it really is that amazing – and even if you don’t have a lot of time to explore, you can reach a number of amazing Northland destinations on a day trip from Auckland.

Did I inspire you to do a Northland Road Trip? Which place stands out to you the most?

The Best Travel Insurance for your Northland Road Trip

Make sure you get travel and health insurance before your trip, just to be on the safe side. Safety Wing  is my go-to and they are cheap and easy to claim with. 

Safety Wing also allows you to sign up when you are already traveling, unlike a lot of other travel insurance providers.

If you liked this post, check out some more of my North Island New Zealand content:

• The Very Best Things To Do in Coromandel Town
• 10 Fun and Offbeat Things To Do in Coromandel
• The Best Cheap Eats in Auckland
• 26 Fun Things To Do in Auckland To Best Experience the City
• Fun Things To Do in Matakana, North Auckland
• Hiking the Hillary Trail on Auckland’s Wild West Coast
• Fun Things To Do on Waiheke Island: A Subtropical Island Paradise
• 8 Interesting Things To Do in Hamilton New Zealand
• 12 Fun Things To Do in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand
• Hiking the Tongariro Northern Circuit: One of New Zealand’s Great Walks
• My Experience Glamping in the Wairarapa, New Zealand
• Exploring Hobbiton: My Dad’s Home Town

47 Comments on The Ultimate Northland Road Trip: Auckland to Cape Reinga

Its amazing Post

It’s amazing isn’t it! There is definitely something special about that little village

I want to go Northland, Thanks for sharing this amazing information with us.

No problem Aman, hope you make it there.

Thanks for all the tips. I’m just planning a trip myself.

Enjoy! Northland is a gorgeous part of the country

Hi Katie, I love how adventurous you are. Based on your itinerary I went off a little bit. My Northland highlight was Te Paki coastal track through Waitahora Lagoon and Pandora Campsite. Only accessible on foot from Spirit Bay to Cape Reinga Lighthouse. It is literally off the beaten track, no crowd, just you and nature. On the way back we found the best basic campground in Shipwreck bay. Only a handful of fun people, unforgettable.

https://nzjane.com/nine-places-to-camp-in-the-hokianga-ahipara-district-far-north/

I really want to do that hike – my brother did it and loved it. It’s definitely on my list for a future visit

Genuinely the perfect time to find this post as it’s my 1 year anniversary (can anniversaries be sad?) of moving out of NZ. Cape Reinga is so gorgeous and even though I called it Cape Regina for forever without realizing, I loved the spiritual significance of the place.

I’m glad to hear you made it there during your time in NZ Nina – it is a very spiritual and beautiful part of the country

My god New Zealand is gorgeous. I always kick myself for not visiting when I was living in Australia, but I’ll be back one day!

I hope you make it there one day Caitlin!

I loved this! When I was younger, we would always go camping in Tauranga Bay so I’m so happy this was on here! Loved all of your photos too, definitely shows off New Zealand’s beauty!

Thanks Jasmine, what a great spot to spend family holidays!

I want to visit NZ so badly! This looks like such a great road trip and so many beautiful spots! Can’t wait to use this guide one day 🙂

Thanks Kelly! Northland is a gorgeous part of New Zealand

The beaches in New Zealand are unbelievably beautiful! I would love to visit them when I’ll come to New Zealand. Thanks for sharing!

Thanks Shany! New Zealand does have gorgeous beaches

New Zealand looks like such a dream! I can’t wait to visit. Thanks for such an informative post!

Thanks Shay, I hope you get to New Zealand one day

Thanka for sharing the less popular but gorgeous beaches. I will take note for when I visit. The Kauri tree is amazing.I’ve mainly been on the South Island so it’s great to know about great places in the north.

Both islands have so much beauty and are so different so I hope you get to the North Island one day too

New Zealand has been on my list for awhile. The Ninety Mile Beach looks ah-mazing! Would love to visit NZ soon. Such a great and detailed post.

Thanks, I hope you make it there once borders open again!

These stops all look so amazing! It makes me want to come to New Zealand even more.

I hope you make it there one day MacKenzie!

You are right! They are gorgeous beaches!!

We only had two weeks when we visited NZ, so we never made it up to the Northland. But seeing all this gorgeous scenery (and hot springs!) it looks like my cup of tea! If I can make it back to Kiwiland I’d love to explore this area.

Northland is a very good reason to come back!

I’ve bene to quite a few of these places. I spent nearly a month in the Bay of Islands, visiting Opua, Russell, Keri Keri, etc. We also stopped at Tutukaka, which I thought was just a freaking adorable town. Would like to go back and dive Poor Knight’s someday.

Nice! I would love to go up there for a month, I have done lots of short 4-8 day trips. I would love to dive in the Poor Knights Islands too.

Lovely article. Thanks for sharing. I am planning a trip to NZ and ETA is being introduced. Do you know whether its July or October? There is conflicting advise on websites

https://official-newzealand-eta.org/

I’m glad you enjoyed it. I just had a look at the website and it is confusing. I think either way it is only going to be a small charge. I would check back in July and see what the site says then.

I spent a month working and exploring a bit from kerkeri and had an awesome time, I didn’t get to do all of your list (and didn’t know about all of it either) but I can’t wait to go back and explore more!

Kerikeri would be a great base to explore from. I hope you make it back to do more exploring Gemma!

Wow! New Zeeland looks almost tropical! So beautiful!

The very north of New Zealand is subtropical so it’s very different than the Lord of the Rings mountain scenery in the South Island. I hope you get to experience it!

You really made me want to take this trip with your photos and descriptions.

Thanks Lauren! I hope you do make the trip – it’s a great one 🙂

THose beaches look so pristine! i never understood why everyone is going for australie when NZ is so close by. Sadly flight from europe take like 20 million hours – else i’d be there more often.

Oh and before i forget it. WHen i was a kid lighthouses were something magical for me. The idea of someone living high up and lonely in that small little tower and lightening the way for other ships was…uh..i guess romantic!

Australia is amazing too but they are scenically quite different so both worth a visit. There is definitely a romantiscism with lighthouses, one of the reasons I love them too 🙂

We are doing this journey next weekend and this post has got me so excited now! Can’t wait to see all this natural beauy ourselves 🙂

Enjoy! It is such a beautiful road trip with so many lovely beaches to stop off at 🙂

Wow, look at that beach! Added to my NZ travel list when we make it there.

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I have to say Matakana is one of the few spots I love returning to over and over in NZ, and luckily it’s so close to Auckland!

It’s amazing isn’t it! There is definitely something special about that little village 🙂

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North Island 1 Week (7 Days) Road Trip Itinerary (Auckland to Wellington)

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, the ultimate 1-week north island road trip itinerary (starting in auckland and ending in wellington).

We won’t go over the whole spiel of how travelling the North Island in one week isn’t enough time. We get it, that’s how much time you have. If you are prepared to do a lot of driving and have a super action-packed trip in New Zealand then you’re ready to do the North Island in seven days!

The 7-day North Island itinerary below covers most of the major highlights of the North Island, incorporating a bit of everything from mountain landscapes, coastal landscapes, adrenaline activities, natural wonders, wildlife, culture and the city. This one-week in the North Island itinerary also offers you a choice of different types of activities you can do each day, as well as various accommodations to consider. We’ll also give you some bonus power tips on renting a car for one week in New Zealand, just because we’re nice like that.

North Island Road Trip Itinerary for 1 Week (7 Days): Overview

• Day 1 – Auckland Airport to Hahei (Coromandel)
• Day 2 – Hahei to Waitomo (via Karangahake Gorge)
• Day 3 – Waitomo to Rotorua (via Hobbiton)
• Day 4 – Rotorua to Taupo or Tongariro National Park
• Day 5 – Explore Taupo or Tongariro National Park
• Day 6 – Tongariro National Park to Wellington
• Day 7 – Explore Wellington + Departure

Renting a Car or Campervan for 1 Week on the North Island

Travelling for one week on the North Island and looking for the perfect road trip itinerary? Renting a car or campervan is going to be the best way to squeeze everything you want into one week on the North Island. This means no waiting around for buses and gives you the freedom to hit all the incredible North Island destinations listed below.

For a car or campervan rental in the North Island, consider the following:

• Choose a rental company with a low or no one-way fee. The itinerary below means you will pick up a rental vehicle in Auckland and drop it off in Wellington. Most car rental companies will charge a one-way fee for this.
• Consider car relocation. See if there are any car relocation deals at your time of travel between Auckland and Wellington for as little as NZ$1 a day! Find out more in our Car Relocation Guide to New Zealand .
• Use a car rental company based at Auckland Airport. And make sure the “premium location fee” is fair (less than NZ$30) and offers a free shuttle to their depot.

For a complete comparison of rental companies, check out The Best Car Rental Companies in Auckland and  The Best Motorhome & Campervan Rentals in Auckland .

Alternative Transport: 7-Day Bus Tours of the North Island

For travellers who would rather let someone else do the driving, escorted bus tours are a great option to take you around the North Island. Some of the tour companies that offer 7-day tours of the North Island are listed in  The 7 Best 7-Day Tours of the North Island . Plus, see   How to Travel by Bus in New Zealand for more ways to experience the North Island without a car.

Day 1 – Auckland Airport to Hahei (Coromandel)

Drive time: 2 hrs 15 mins

You’ve arrived at Auckland Airport ! Once you have picked up your rental vehicle, it’s time to hit the road to Hahei in the Coromandel Peninsula ! Why leave the city so soon? Well, we’re guessing you have come to New Zealand to see the natural beauty of the country; not the city life. So for the first day of your road trip, go check out some of the stunning coastal scenery and beaches of the North Island.

Things to Do in Hahei

These are pretty relaxing and accessible activities/sights to see for your first day in New Zealand:

• Hike to the famous Cathedral Cove and its beach with white cliffs and a giant coastal arch
• Take a boat tour with Hahei Explorer to Cathedral Cove
• Explore beaches and islands with Cathedral Cove Kayaks
• Go to Hot Water Beach at low tide to dig yourself a hot pool in the sand.

For more ideas, head to the  25 Best Things to Do in The Coromandel .

Accommodation in Hahei

• Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park
• Hahei Holiday Resort
• Tatahi Back Packer

See more like this in the  10 Best Budget Accommodations in the Coromandel .

• The Church Accommodation
• Tatahi Lodge Beach Resort
• Hahei Beach Apartment

For more mid-range stays, take a look at the  15 Best Hotels & Resorts in the Coromandel .

Day 2 – Hahei to Waitomo (via Karangahake Gorge)

Drive time: 3 hours

Your final destination today is Waitomo , famous for its glowworms and caving activities. Before you get there, don’t miss the Karangahake Gorge , halfway through the drive. There are a number of walking tracks in the area between 45 minutes to 4 hours going through a historic mining area taken back by the forest and the river. Walk through mining tunnels, through native forest, alongside mining relics and to magnificent waterfalls.

You’ll have the opportunity to explore the Waitomo caves tomorrow morning, but if you just can’t wait, here are some options:

Things to Do in Waitomo

• Explore the Waitomo caves with one of the 8 Best Waitomo Cave Tours
• Do a walking tour of the Ruakuri Cave  or the Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• Do the Ruakuri Bush Walk  at night to see glowworms
• Go on a caving adventure with Waitomo Adventures , The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co. (more info on Viator and Klook ) or Cave World Waitomo .

Check out the  15 Best Things to Do in Waitomo for more recommendations.

Accommodation in Waitomo

• Juno Hall Backpackers
• Waitomo TOP 10 Holiday Park
• Waitomo Caves Guest Lodge

Learn more in the  10 Best Budget Accommodations in Waitomo .

• Waitomo Orchard Estate B&B
• Woodlyn Park Motel

See more options in the  10 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Waitomo .

Day 3 – Waitomo to Rotorua (via Hobbiton)

Drive time: 1 hr 50 mins

If you want to do one of the caving activities in Waitomo  or didn’t get to do one of the Waitomo activities yesterday, this morning would be a great time to do so! Join one of the caving operators in Waitomo, throw on a sexy wetsuit and tube/abseil/climb your way through the Waitomo Caves – compare all of your options in the 8 Best Waitomo Cave Tours .

Once the adventure is over, it’s time to hit the road to Rotorua . Depending on what you prefer, there are things to do along the way to Rotorua, such as Hobbiton in Matamata , or save some time for more things to do in Rotorua this evening.

Things to Do on the Road to Rotorua

• Stop by Otorohanga to see a kiwi bird in the kiwi house or quickly learn a bit of New Zealand history down the Ed Hillary Walkway
• See the Arapuni Swing Bridge , a huge suspension bridge crossing New Zealand’s longest river
• Do the Te Waihou Walkway  to the Putaruru Blue Spring to see some of the purest and clearest water flowing in a stream
• Take a detour to Matamata to visit The Hobbiton Movie Set (more info on  Viator and  Klook ) . This will add an extra 30 minutes to your drive time.

Things to Do in Rotorua

If you get to Rotorua with time to spare, here are a few suggestions.

• Relax in a natural geothermal hot pool. There are paid options, such as the Polynesian Spa (more info on  Klook  or  KKday ) , or go find some of the 5 Free Natural Hot Pools in Rotorua
• See an evening cultural performance at one of the Maori attractions
• Go for a bite to eat on Eat Streat and beyond
• See the forest decorated on the Redwoods Treewalk
• Have a race on the night Luge at Skyline Gondola .

For more recommendations, check out the  25 Best Things to Do in Rotorua .

Accommodation in Rotorua

• Holdens Bay Holiday Park
• BKs Rotorua
• Rock Solid Backpackers

For more options, check out the  20 Best Budget Accommodations in Rotorua .

• Kings On Peace
• Silver Fern Rotorua
• Aura Accommodation

See more stays in  The 50 Best Accommodations in Rotorua .

• Pullman Rotorua
• Regent of Rotorua
• Ngamihi Lodge

More lavish finds are available in the  20 Best Luxury Accommodations in Rotorua .

Day 4 – Rotorua to Taupo or Tongariro National Park

Drive time: 1 hour to Taupo or 2 hr 15 mins to National Park Village

Today, spend some time doing awesome stuff in Rotorua before hitting the road. But why the crazy drive time? Well, if you are into hiking and landscapes, then we suggest that you pass through the town of Taupo and base yourself in the Tongariro National Park so that tomorrow morning, you can tackle the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or another hike in the national park .

However, we know long hikes are not for everyone, so another option is to stay in Taupo which has a huge variety of activities on offer. Find out more about what there is to do in either Taupo or Tongariro National Park in tomorrow’s section. Before then, you have a day in Rotorua to enjoy before hitting the road!

• Geysers, steaming lakes, bubbling mud, silica terraces and so much more can be seen in one of the many geothermal parks of Rotorua
• Catch a Maori cultural performance (if you missed doing so yesterday)
• Do some adrenaline activities Zorb your way in a giant hamster ball down a hill, go luging from the top of the Skyline Gondola , hike or mountain bike in the Redwood Forest , jet boat or do a freefall experience at the Velocity Valley , and so much more!
• See native New Zealand wildlife at Wingspan or National Kiwi Hatchery (more info on Viator and Klook ) .

Again, we have a lot more recommendations in the 25 Best Things to Do in Rotorua .

Accommodation in Taupo

For those who decide to stay in Taupo, here are your best accommodation options:

• Haka Lodge Taupo
• Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort
• Chevron Motel

Check out more options over at the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Taupo .

• Millennium Hotel Lake Taupo
• Suncourt Hotel

For more, check out the  20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Taupo .

• Hilton Lake Taupo
• Flying Trout Boutique Lodge

Discover more upscale finds in the  15 Best Luxury Accommodations in Taupo .

Accommodation in National Park Village

Get closer to the Tongariro Crossing by staying at one of these accommodations:

• National Park Backpackers
• Howards Mountain Lodge
• The Crossing Backpackers

See more options in the  7 Best Hostels in National Park Village & Whakapapa .

• Plateau Lodge
• The Park Hotel
• Tongariro Crossing Lodge

Day 5 – Taupo or Tongariro National Park

Spend the whole day in Taupo or Tongariro National Park doing awesome activities. There’s no driving to do today other than to your chosen activity. Plus, you can stay in the same accommodation as last night.

Things to Do in Tongariro National Park

• Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing , taking you over the volcanoes of the central North Island. The 6-8-hour hike is one-way and requires some planning in terms of transport and keeping safe; take a look at our Guide to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing to work out a plan
• Ski or snowboard at Whakapapa Ski Field in winter
• Choose from other hikes in Tongariro National Park, such as Tawhai Falls , Silica Rapids and Taranaki Falls
• Discover the birthplace of the Haka at the historical Opotaka .

For more ideas, check out the  15 Best Things to Do in the Tongariro National Park .

Things to Do in Taupo

• Take a trip out on New Zealand’s largest lake , whether it’s fishing, kayaking, sailing, cruising or parasailing
• Bungy jump over the Waikato River with Taupo Bungy
• Do a skydive with Taupo Tandem Skydive
• Go on a white water rafting trip on the Tongariro River with Tongariro River Rafting
• Walk along the Waikato River to a natural hot pool at Spa Park , then onto Huka Falls
• Sail to the Maori Rock Carvings with Sail Barbary (more info on Viator and Klook ).

For more inspiration, take a look at the 20 Best Things to Do in Taupo .

Day 6 – Taupo or Tongariro National Park to Wellington

Drive time: 4 hours from National Park; 5 hours from Taupo

Your final destination today is the capital city of New Zealand! However, there’s plenty to do along the way to break up the 4-hour drive.

Things to Do on the Road to Wellington

• Stop by Ohakune for its walking and biking trails. Hire a bike and do the 2-hour Old Coach Road  or hike in the Mangawhero Forest (1 hour)
• Visit the National Army Museum in Waiouru
• Stop by Taihape , see the giant gumboot and do the short walk to the Mt Stewart Reserve lookout
• Do a quick detour to Palmerston North to check out the Wildbase Recovery Centre, the National Rugby Museum and Te Manawa Museum
• Check out the quirky town of Bulls and spot all the bull-related puns of the town
• Along the Kapiti Coast , stop by one of the beaches like Peka Peka Beach or Queen Elizabeth Park. Or take a tour to Kapiti Island to check out the native bird sanctuary.

Accommodation in Wellington

• Microtel by Wyndham Wellington
• The Dwellington
• Trinity Hotel

Need more options? Head to the  15 Best Budget Accommodations in Wellington .

• Willis Village
• U Boutique Hotel
• Quest on Thorndon

Check out The 50 Best Accommodations for all of your best options.

• InterContinental Wellington
• Rydges Wellington
• Sofitel Wellington

See more stays in the 15 Best Luxury Accommodations in Wellington .

Day 7 – Explore Wellington + Departure

It’s your last day on the North Island! New Zealand’s capital is a good place to end your time on the North Island not only because it has an international airport, but because there are actually a lot of things to do here! Choose from the following…

Things to Do in Wellington

• Visit the Te Papa Museum to learn everything there is to know about New Zealand
• Go to Zealandia to see native New Zealand wildlife
• Do a self-guided  Lord of the Rings tour or be guided by Xplor Tours
• Tour the city sights of Wellington from the Waterfront to Cuba Street to the Botanic Gardens to Mt Victoria. Find out more in our   One Day in Wellington: City Walking Tour Itinerary …

… And more as listed in the  25 Best Things to Do in Wellington .

Leaving the North Island

Finally, after a week on the North Island, it’s time to wrap this adventure up and head to Wellington Airport .

Remember to give yourself plenty of time to return your rental vehicle . There are connecting flights between Wellington and Auckland if you are flying out of Auckland .

Alternatively, take a train journey to Auckland with the Northern Explorer , which is more scenic and has a lower carbon footprint.

Goodbye from New Zealand! Next time, why not try the South Island in 1 Week: Road Trip Itinerary ?

More New Zealand Itineraries for 1 Week / 7 Days

That’s the end of our New Zealand North Island road trip itinerary for 1 week / 7 days starting in Auckland and ending in Wellington. If this itinerary didn’t take you fancy, see our alternative one-week itineraries:

• North Island 1 Week Road Trip Itinerary (Start/End Auckland)
• North Island Budget & Backpacking Itinerary: 1 Week
• North Island Luxury Itinerary: 1 Week
• North Island Food  Itinerary: 1 Week
• North Island Family Itinerary: 1 Week
• North Island Honeymoon & Romance Itinerary: 1 Week
• New Zealand in 1 Week : Road Trip Itinerary
• How to Create the Perfect New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Best Travel Guide to New Zealand .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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Perfect 1-Week New Zealand North Island Travel Itinerary

Are you planning a road trip around New Zealand? Here is our perfect 7-day New Zealand North Island travel itinerary for first-time visitors. Explore the North Island's must-visit places and top attractions in one week with our travel guide, including the best things to do, tips on how to get around, and where to stay.

New Zealand's North Island is one of the most diverse and incredible places we've ever visited, and as we spent several months living, working, and exploring this incredible corner of the world, we still can't believe how lucky we were to be able to enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of this country.

New Zealand has two main islands - North Island and South Island. We are not going to compare which island is more beautiful, and will solely focus on the North Island travel itinerary and provide you with information how to plan your time the best, however, it's important to decide if you want to visit only one or both of them before you set off on a journey.

According to us, you should for sure visit both islands, and seven days for the North Island is just the right time to see the main highlights.

And what's so different about our New Zealand North Island itinerary when we compare it with other travel itineraries you can find on the internet?

We tried to make our guide as much practical as possible, which means that we take into consideration also travel distances and travel times between destinations.

We also visited all the places on the list by ourselves, so we know what is possible to do in one day and what's not.

Then we tried to put together the best of New Zealand and capture the essence of this beautiful part of the world in only seven days but sensibly and logically, so you can still have an enjoyable road trip and fun.

In other words, this North Island itinerary is something you can actually use in practical life, and it's not a bunch of randomly put New Zealand must-visit places in one blog post.

Feel free to follow it, if you have some questions, use the comment section!

On some days, you will spend a lot of time driving, however, we tried to be realistic when it comes to planning the distances between destinations. But to be honest, driving in New Zealand is quite fun, because the scenery is almost unnatural, and you never know what will appear behind the corner.

Here is our introduction to New Zealand's North Island, hope you will find inspiration here.

ARRIVAL DAY

We usually call the arrival day a Day Zero, and try not to plan any serious sightseeing on that day, we only check into a hotel, rent a car when necessary and do some shopping.

It, of course, depends on your timetable, but as New Zealand is quite far from most of the countries, we recommend you to do the same.

We flew from the Czech Republic to New Zealand, and it took us 31 hours, which is a lot.

So we arrived in the afternoon totally exhausted, and couldn't force ourselves to do anything meaningful the first day. Also, the jet lag didn't help either.

DAY 1 - AUCKLAND

Auckland is the biggest and most vibrant city in New Zealand surrounded by a beautiful landscape of volcanoes, hills, and sea, and you have plenty of choices of what to do to fill your day.

Start your day early in the morning, eat a nourishing breakfast, and head off the city.

Leave the 'City of Sails' as is Auckland often nicknamed, and take a ferry to Devonport village, Waiheke or Rangitoto Island, and after you come back in the afternoon, explore the Central Bussines Area, where you will find captivating museums, Sky Tower which dominates the city, and lovely waterfront.

Watching the yachts and sails coming and going out to seas was a splendid sight and the area near the Wynyard Crossing was surely one of our favorites in Auckland.

After a tiring day, you can try one of the fancy restaurants near the waterfront to get to know the local cuisine a little better and enjoy the tasty seasonal food of the region. There are also cheap eating out options, which is great for budget travelers, and we think you should try local food no matter your budget.

In other words, Auckland offers things to do for every visitor , and it is a great introduction to the country.

Where to stay in Auckland | Budget : Econo Lodge City Central | Mid-range : M Social Auckland | Luxury : Stamford Plaza Auckland | Airport : Naumi Auckland Airport Hotel

DAY 2 - COROMANDEL

Hit the road early and make your way to the east side of the island.

Today we are going to explore the Coromandel, a stunning peninsula featuring beautiful beaches and scenic drives along the coastline.

Once you arrive at Kopu, turn left and head northwest. From Auckland, it's 250 kilometers long drive to Hahei, a small resort village, and a favorite holiday spot for locals.

In Hahei, you can visit probably the most popular attraction on Coromandel, the walk to famous Cathedral Cove, a natural rock archway. You can also go kayaking, which is one of the best ways to explore this beautiful part of Coromandel.

On the way back, there is another must-visit spot - Hot Water Beach, where you can dig up a hole and warm up your body.

It's another 200 hundred kilometers (about 3 hours ride) from Hahei to Rotorua, next stop on our itinerary, so we would recommend leaving a part of the journey for the next day, but this is highly individual, and it depends how tired are you going to feel.

DAY 3 - ROTORUA

The next stop on our list is Rotorua, which is all about Maori culture and geothermal activities.

You might easily spend a week in the area and not get bored, however, our itinerary is sadly not that flexible, so we have to see the best of Rotorua in one day. And it's going to be a busy day, believe us.

First, the town itself is very interesting, and the omnipresent smell of sulfur will quickly fill up your nostrils.

You can start your day with an early walk around Rotorua Kuirau Park, which has to be the best city park in the world. This centrally located park is full of colorful pools, boardwalks, hot springs, and steaming hot water. On top of that, it really is a city park, so there is no entry fee.

Then head to Wai-O-Tapu, which is the most famous place in Rotorua.

It's basically a large complex of mud pools, awesome formations created by volcanic activity, and colorful ponds. Just wait until you see the Champagne Pool from the upper viewing platform, and you will understand what is all this fuss about.

Is this attraction worth the 32.50 NZD you have to pay for the entrance fee? Definitely.

On the way to the entrance, you can stop at Lady Knox Geyser to see an eruption at 10:15 AM. The eruption is not natural anymore, and the experience is a little bit underwhelming, but it's included in your ticket, so it's a totally optional thing to do.

If you would like to go with a guide and learn more about the area in another form than just from reading the information signs, join a Waimangu Volcanic Valley Tour .

In the afternoon, you should visit one of the Maori villages and taste the traditional Hangi dinner. You will learn more about Maori history, culture, habits, and traditional dances.

You can reserve a Mitai Maori Village Tour here.

Those are just a few examples of the best things to do in Rotorua , unfortunately, the day has only twenty-four hours, and you should get a night of good sleep to function normally the next day.

Where to stay in Rotorua | Budget : Funky Green Voyager | Mid-range : Wylie Court Motel Lodge | Luxury : Peppers on the Point Lake Rotorua

DAY 4: HOBBITON & WAITOMO CAVES

On the fourth day of our itinerary, we will visit one of the most unique places in New Zealand, the famous Waitomo Caves .

The destination is 145 kilometers away from Rotorua, however, we will take a small detour first and make a very enjoyable stop on the way.

Leave Rotorua via the State Highway 5 and head northwest towards the village Matamata, where you will find the Hobbiton Village.

If the characters of Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee are unknown to you, or you think, that they are the finalists of the last Dancing with the Stars show, probably head to Waitomo Caves directly.

The rest of us will enjoy a Hobbiton Movie Set Guided Tour around the Shire. For LotR fans, this is a must-visit place.

From Matamata, head southwest, and you should arrive in Waitomo in about an hour and a half.

Once you arrive at Waitomo, you have to take the Waitomo Glowworm Caves Boat Tour into a dark cave illuminated only by glowworms.

This is simply one of the most amazing experiences you will have in New Zealand.

When your boat tour is over, visit Aranui Cave and Ruakuri Cave .

You can try one of many adventure activities such as Black Abbys Caving Experience , water rafting, tubing or zip-lining, that's why is Waitomo one of the most popular destinations in New Zealand among backpackers.

There are more attractions along the way if you follow Te Anga Road towards the west coast, such as Mangapohue Natural Bridge and Marokopa Falls, which is worth to visit, only if you have an abundance of time. Which we seriously doubt, after this crazy day full of tours and activities.

In the afternoon, leave Waitomo behind, and hit the road once again. You are getting closer to Tongariro National Park, a destination you simply cannot miss.

Where to stay in National Park | Budget : National Park Backpackers | Mid-range : The Park Hotel Ruapehu | Mid-range : Tongariro Crossing Lodge

DAY 5: TONGARIRO ALPINE CROSSING

Do you dare to walk into Mordor?

We did many amazing day hikes and multiday treks on both New Zealand islands, but if we had to choose the best day hike, it would be probably Tongariro Alpine Crossing in the North Island .

Not only because Tongariro National Park is the home of Sauron's evil empire, but mainly because the landscape is incredibly beautiful.

In other words, the scenery is out of this world, and once you are enclosed by the dramatic landscape, you will never want to leave. But no worries, New Zealand has many more aces in its sleeve.

It is pretty easy to arrange transport to the beginning and from the end of the trail, so the only thing you should focus on is the hiking, admiring the beauty, and photographing.

Do you say you are not an avid hiker, and you are not sure about the level of your fitness? Well, in this case, put your prejudices and fears aside, this hike is must-do. End of story.

When looking for more info about Tongariro National Park, you will for sure stumble across information on a multi-day hike Tongariro Northern Circuit.

This multi-day track takes three days but is totally worth it, in case you are a bit more flexible with time.

DAY 6 - MARTINBOROUGH

Today is going to be a long day on the road.

From Tongariro National Park head south, you have a 4-5 hour drive ahead of you to the enchanting village of Martinborough .

Enjoy the scenery along the way, and if you are incredibly lucky, you might even spot a sheep or two, though we don't want to jinx it.

So you might be now asking, why on earth would you want to go to Martinborough, a place you've never heard of in your entire life.

That's partly true, but we bet you heard about New Zealand's wine, and Martinborough is one of the best places you can visit in New Zealand when it comes to wine tasting.

See? Trust us.

You can either visit some of the vineyards on your own (always check opening hours) or join a guided tour . Every November, the village hosts a popular one-day event called Toast Martinborough, so in case you will be in the area around this time, put this event in your calendar.

The second reason why to visit Martinborough is that you have to start moving south to arrive in Wellington at the scheduled time.

We can't fail to mention, that we spent three months working on one of the local vineyards, and have very fond memories of this place.

If you arrive early and still have the energy to explore the surroundings, you can drive to Cape Palliser. The southernmost point on the North Island features seal colony, farmlands, and lighthouse, and the drive itself is very scenic.

You can also stop at the Putangirua Pinnacles, a really cool rock formation where one of the scenes from the Lord of the Rings was shot.

If you are still looking for more inspiration about what to do in the area, you can hike in nearby Tararua Forest Park, which features a beautiful Mount Holdsworth Jumbo Circuit hike (without crowds) or before you reach Martinborough, turn left in Masterton and head to Castlepoint with fabulous views over the New Zealand coastline.

Where to stay in Martinborough | Budget : Martinborough Top 10 Holiday Park | Mid-range : Martinborough Experience B&B | Luxury : The Martinborough Hotel

DAY 7 - WELLINGTON

The last day of our North Island adventure has come, and we will spend it by exploring Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand .

Wellington is a coastal city and the windiest city in the country (it has a nickname Windy Welly). The city is home to Government, Parliament and Supreme Court plus a dozen museums, theatres, and libraries.

The center of the New Zealand government, Wellington features many impressive buildings, and the Parliament building known as Beehive is the most prominent one. You can go inside on a guided tour, and we highly encourage you to that.

Excellent guides will walk you around the accessible parts of the building while explaining the purpose of the building, history, and the earthquake system that protects this structure.

Te Papa Tongarewa Museum is another must-visit place in Wellington, and one of the reasons why this museum is so popular among backpackers and international visitors is, that it has free entry (unlike many museums in Auckland, where you have to pay a steep entrance fee).

If time allows, visit the harbor, botanical garden, have a drink at Cuba Street, take a Wellington's famous cable car up to the Kelburn district, or just grab a fish and chips to celebrate you've just finished one part of your journey successfully.

Where to stay in Wellington | Budget : Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers | Mid-range : C Hotel Wellington | Luxury : InterContinental Wellington

WHERE TO GO NEXT?

At this point, you have two choices, catch a flight back to Auckland and fly home, or cross the Cook Strait by ferry and start your South Island adventure.

For more information, read our comprehensive one-week South Island itinerary .

The most obvious way to continue your road trip around New Zealand is by taking a ferry to South Island and start exploring this incredibly beautiful island. Some people argue that the South Island is even more beautiful than the North Island, and we will leave it to you to decide which one will you like better.

IS ONE WEEK ENOUGH FOR NORTH ISLAND?

Seven days in the North Island will allow you to see the best of the island, although two-weeks would for sure allow you to fully explore the beauty of this island.

But we totally understand not many people have so much time, and there is still South Island to discover, so in all honesty, we can say that by following this itinerary, you will see the best of the best on North Island. Of course, if this trip to New Zealand is supposed to be your once in a lifetime adventure and dream holiday, that you think is never gonna happen again, you might want to stretch your itinerary for a few more days to embrace your experience.

In a perfect world, we would suggest you to spend at least fourteen days on North Island, and then another fourteen days on the South Island. But we know that getting a month off is almost impossible in the real world, especially if you want to travel with your partner or family.

The possibilities are almost endless here, and it depends on many factors.

You can explore first the North Island only, and then return later to explore the South Island or vice versa. You can also spend a week on one island, fourteen days on the other island, we think you see the pattern now, and it's a hard decision, but it's only up to you.

Or you can check out our New Zealand: The Perfect 4 Weeks Itinerary if you think 1 week per island is to rushed and hectic.

PLACES WE SKIPPED

Seven days on the North Island is not enough to allow you to see everything.

We completely left out from the itinerary the northern part of the island, where you will find kauri trees, sand dunes, and Maori towns, the east coast where you will find East Cape, Gisborne, area around Lake Waikaremoana , and the art-deco town of Napier , from where you can visit Cape Kidnappers .

Also, we couldn't fit in the itinerary southwest area around New Plymouth, Mount Taranaki, and Whanganui National Park.

We also skipped Lake Taupo , which is close to Rotorua, and which you probably find on every NZ itinerary. We think you will visit more beautiful lakes along the road.

In other words, you have to make compromises, and that means you can't see it all.

Although, it can be a great excuse to visit this beautiful part of the world someday in the future.

HOW TO GET AROUND NEW ZEALAND'S NORTH ISLAND

Well, it's a road trip, so you are going to need a car.

And although you can get around New Zealand by bus or try to hitchhike, a car will give you the ultimate freedom to explore all the places at your own pace.

And honestly, we think that seven days just for the North Island are barely enough, and you can't waste your time waiting for the bus.

And what are your options?

You can rent a regular car , and sleep in the hostels or hotels along the way if you are a budget traveler, or stay in camps and sleep in the tent.

Then you have the big motorhomes. If you can't live without the comfort of your home even on the road, rent a motorhome. These self-contained big homes on wheels will allow you to stay in many free campsites, where even campervans are not allowed to stay overnight.

Campervans are somewhere in between. They are 'comfortable' enough, and you will save tons of money on accommodation, thought the rental fee is usually much higher, than what you would pay for a hatchback car.

Regardless of what kind of, there is one more thing to know.

New Zealanders drive on the left side, and if you are from the EU, the US or any other country, where driving on the right side is mandatory, it's a thing you need to adjust to.

It takes a little bit of practice to get comfortable with driving on the opposite side of the road, and things can go wrong quickly if you are not paying attention to driving. When driving, be attentive, drive responsibly and carefully, and always be aware of the traffic.

So, what should you do, when you are a solo traveler and renting a car only by yourself is way too expensive? The answer is usually simpler than you would think, ask around your hostel, there are usually people in the same situation who are looking for a companion they can share the cost and experiences with.

As we lived in New Zealand, we bought a car, which is a great option for travelers who spend several months exploring the islands, though this option doesn't make much sense for people on vacation.

In only a week, you need to cover very long distances by car.

On top of that, you will be walking, hiking, kayaking, and doing plenty of other activities during the day. To avoid driver fatigue, share the driving if possible, and take regular breaks.

Also getting a good night's sleep is essential to enjoy your road trip.

WHEN TO VISIT NORTH ISLAND

In general, the best time to visit New Zealand is in summer, which is from December to February.

The reason behind this is very simple. New Zealand gets the best weather during summertime. With summer being the most popular traveling season for both locals and international tourists, the prices for accommodation skyrocket, and it might be hard to find (affordable) room.

And steer clear of Christmas and New Year's Eve.

So we think the best time to visit the North Island is during shoulder months in spring and autumn. The weather will be still great, you will see fewer tourists along the way, and also the hotels will be cheaper. Not to mention, that in autumn some parts of New Zealand will turn into vivid colors of crimson red, golden yellow, and russet brown.

Winter is the perfect time to visit New Zeland if you want to avoid the crowds, but you must know what to expect.

Keep in mind that the days will be colder and rainier. Also, extreme weather is common on Tongariro Alpine Crossing, and snow and ice might cover the trek, and there is also the risk of avalanches.

You can do this popular trek even in winter though you are going to need crampons and winter gear, so it's much better to go with an experienced local guide for obvious safety reasons.

Or you can completely change your plans and go skiing for a day on the slopes of Tongariro National Park.

Travel Insurance

We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.

Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.

SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.

Travel smarter and safer!

WHAT TO PACK FOR VISITING NEW ZEALAND'S NORTH ISLAND

Think layers and pack only essentials.

There are two factors that you need to take into account when packing for New Zealand.

Time of the year you'll be visiting New Zealand, and your usual way of traveling.

Are you planning to stay in the hotels or stay in basic DOC campsites? Both have pros and cons, and you need to approach packing from the right perspective.

You sure don't need a sleeping bag when staying in the motel, but you need proper hiking boots regardless of the place you choose to spend your night.

A sleeping bag for camping in the car is the most essential thing to pack, and the sleeping bag should be warm enough, especially when you travel outside the summer months.

And even in summer, the nights can be really cold, especially in the mountains and in higher elevated areas even on the North Island, while South Island will be even colder.

Always bring a good windbreaker and a strong sunscreen .

In the worst case, you can stop by in the local Kathmandu store to buy hiking or camping gear you left home, or whatever store you will meet along the way. Some campervan rental companies offer to rent gear, but it's usually way too expensive, and honestly, we like to sleep in our own sleeping bags, etc.

For more information, head to our article Ultimate New Zealand Packing List .

Travel Resources

Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.

Accommodation : When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld .

Tours : Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.

We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator .

Rental Cars : When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com , a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.

Flight Tickets : When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.

Travel Insurance : World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.

This site uses affiliates. Thank you for buying through our links and supporting this blog.

New Zealand North Island Road trip – 2 week itinerary

• July 14, 2020
• Oceania , New Zealand

Geothermal hot springs, glow worm caves, 2000-year-old trees, white sandy beaches, massive volcanoes and heaps of other crazy landscapes; New Zealand’s North Island has it all and so much more!

The list of things that you can do on New Zealand’s North Island is almost never-ending, and you can spend months or even years exploring without seeing it all (I know I did!).

If you only have a few weeks, it can feel like a mind-boggling task to choose what to see and what to skip. But don’t worry, I got you covered! I did multiple trips to the North Island, even lived in Auckland for a while and in total, I spent about a year exploring the North Island. Safe to say, I already did all the research for you!

By following this 2-week New Zealand North Island itinerary you’ll cover all the best things to do and see, and take the optimal route to make the most out of your time on the North Island.

P.S. This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase following one of these links we’ll get a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only share products and services that we love and believe you will love too.

Who is this itinerary for?

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This New Zealand itinerary of the North Island takes you the long way around from Auckland to Wellington and shows you all the highlights to help you make the most of your time here.

To follow this itinerary you will need your own wheels. The best way to explore New Zealand is by campervan, but if you prefer to get a car instead that is fine too, we’ve included where to stay in both cases.

If you’ve been road tripping around New Zealand’s South Island first and just took the ferry up to Wellington, then just follow this itinerary in reverse.

We’ve written this itinerary for people who like to make the most out of their time when travelling, but without rushing. This means taking the time to experience what this beautiful country has to offer, seeing the highlights as well as some more obscure places, and taking in the scenery and incredible views.

This itinerary is for you if you don’t mind driving each day, you love authentic experiences and exploring and sightseeing out in nature.

Book your NZ North Island must-dos:

• Auckland SkyTower
• Donut Island
• Maori cultural experience
• Hobbiton movie set
• Waitomo glowworms
• Rotorua geothermal parks & spas
• Hawkes Bay wine tasting

Two weeks is the optimal amount of time for a New Zealand North Island road trip. 10 days is the minimum amount of time you need to see the highlights of New Zealand’s North Island. Less than 10 days would mean rushing and skipping a lot, and that is not something we advocate for.

Depending on how much time you have to spend on New Zealand’s North Island, you can shorten or lengthen this two-week itinerary as follows:

10 days – If you have 10 days in New Zealand’s North Island, then follow this itinerary, but skip going north of Auckland (day 3, 4, 5, and 6). This makes your route a New zealand North Island 10 day itinerary. If you have less than 10 days to spend, then this itinerary is not for you.

14/15 days – Great! Then this is the itinerary for you. Follow it from A to Z to get the most out of your time on the North Island.

3 weeks or more – Awesome! This allows you to go off the beaten path a bit to see some really unique places. Have a look at the three-week New Zealand North Island road trip route at the end of this article for suggestions on more amazing things to do in New Zealand’s North Island!

2 Week Itinerary Overview

DAY 1 – Auckland DAY 2 – Waiheke Island or Piha DAY 3 – Paihia DAY 4 – Bay of Island DAY 5 – Cape Reinga DAY 6 – Waipoua Forest DAY 7 – Cathedral Cove DAY 8 – Donut Island DAY 9 – Rotorua DAY 10 – Taupo OPTIONAL DAY – Tongariro Crossing DAY 11 – Waitomo DAY 12 – Taranaki Peninsula DAY 13 – Drive to Wellington DAY 14 – Wellington

Day 1 – Auckland

Kia ora, and welcome to Aotearoa; the land of the long white cloud! After landing in Auckland, New Zealand’s biggest city, get a SIM card (so you can look up and follow this itinerary on the go) and then you can start exploring!

Either get a taxi or hop on the SkyBus to make your way into Auckland. This shuttle bus takes you directly from the airport into Auckland CBD for $22.5, which unless you’re travelling in a group, is a lot cheaper than a taxi.

While you probably decided to visit New Zealand for its natural beauty (and a big city like Auckland doesn’t really fit into that picture), this is the best place to start from and Auckland offers some really cool things that are worth checking out. You can explore on your own or join this guided tour of the city. Let’s start exploring!

Read next: Auckland Itinerary Where to stay in Auckland Best Day Trips from Auckland

Let’s start the day with something exciting, and check out the Sky Tower. This 328 meter high telecommunications tower is the most iconic building in Auckland’s skyline, and you can go up to its observation deck … to then jump off of it.

Wait, what? Yes, you can jump off of the Sky Tower. On the 53rd floor at 192 meters high sits the SkyJump . For $158 you can jump off the Sky Tower and safely land on your feet at ground level! They do this by attaching you to a cable system that slows you down when you get close to the ground. We can say from personal experience that stepping off the edge is a bit scary, possibly even scarier than bungy jumping, but the thrill you get as you soar down makes you instantly forget that!

If jumping off feels like too much, but you still want to see the view, then buy this Skip the Line ticket that gets you access to the upper levels as well. Between the 50th and 60th floor, there is a café, two restaurants and two observation decks, the highest of which at 220 meters high, giving views up to 82 kilometers in the distance.

Right, after that excitement it’s best to do something more relaxed and with both feet on the ground. And learning about the Māori people and Maori culture and history seems appropriate since you’re in New Zealand.

The Auckland War Memorial Museum which has a permanent Māori exhibition. The whole ground floor is filled with Māori treasures and items like a massive canoe called a “ waka ”, totems, weapons, and even a beautifully decorated Māori meeting house called a “ wharenui ”. This museum is a great place to get a bit of an understanding of the lives of New Zealand’s first settlers.

Get tickets for the museum here .

Auckland is built on top of 50 volcanoes, The highest of which is Mount Eden . This 196-meter high hill stands in the middle of the city. You can take public transport to the base of the hill or visit as part of this city tour.

Mt Eden hill and its surroundings are covered in greenery and on a sunny day its a beautiful area to go for a walk, but the real appeal is the summit. From the summit, you can look straight down into what used to be the volcano’s crater, and you get 360-degree panoramic views over the whole city.

By now you’re probably hungry, and that’s a good thing because one thing we do really like in Auckland is the bar and restaurant selection. There are heaps of little eat streets full of bars, café and restaurants that serve all sorts of good food, and best of all; craft beer. We LOVE craft beer, and New Zealand is great at it! If you’re a bit of a beer conouseur, make sure to book this craft beer tour.

For good food, we recommend taking a stroll on either High Street or at the Waterfront. High Street has a lot of options for good food, from chique restaurants for fine dining to little cafés and takeaway Asian fusion. The Waterfront doesn’t have any options for fine dining, but the food there is still good and the vibe and scenery are awesome. If you consider yourself a foodie or would like to learn more about NZ wine, make sure to join this food tour with a local guide which will also take you through the markets.

For drinks the options are pretty overwhelming in Auckland. The city alone already has more than 200 breweries, and that number just keeps rising. We really like Brother Beer City Works Depot for their tasty craft beers, industrial look and relaxed atmosphere, or 16 Tun for their insane amount of craft beers on tap and their location by The Waterfront.

Chic Princes Wharf Studio

HOME WITH VIEWS

This studio offers a chic escape in the heart of the action, with stunning harbor views and easy access to the city’s top attractions.

CHECK PRICES

SO/ Auckland

STYLISH & CENTRAL

Fusing urban luxury with creative design, avant-garde décor, exciting events, and delicious food, SO/Auckland brings a whole new level of fun to your stay.

Park Hyatt Auckland

HARBOUR LIVING

An exquisite waterfront retreat with world-class amenities, stunning vistas, and unparalleled hospitality in the heart of the city.

Today starts with a choice. Either spend the day on an island full of wineries just off the coast of Auckland or pick up your car/campervan and start your New Zealand road trip by going to the beach.

Which choice to make depends on what you like to do and on your budget. Waiheke Island is considered a bit of an upscale place and tends to be pricier than the mainland. If you can afford to splurge a little, we wholeheartedly recommend you opt for Waiheke Island as it’s absolutely stunning. And did we mention the wine?

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is an island just off the coast of Auckland. Known for its beaches and wineries. It is a popular escape from the busy city among locals and tourists alike.

In the morning, check out of your accommodation and make your way to the wharf to take the Passenger Ferry to Waiheke Island. The ferry goes every half an hour, takes about 45 minutes to get there. Buy your ferry ticket here .

Drop off your bags at your accommodation and check out the beach. We recommend either Oneroa Beach , which is a nicely sheltered beach but tends to get quite busy, or Onetangi Beach , the island’s largest beach that is great for swimming and has lots of cafés and restaurants around.

When you’ve soaked up enough sunshine, let’s taste some of that wine that Waiheke Island is so famous for! Book your hop-on, hop-off bus ticket to explore the wineries on your own or join this group tour if you’d like some company.

There are countless wineries to choose from, but we recommend Tantalus Estate because on top of good wine they have delicious craft beer as well. Alternatively, take a look at Obsidian. We love them for their down-to-earth simplicity and incredible wine.

In the evening everyone heads to Charlie Farley’s for a drink. Located right next to Onetangi Beach this is arguably the island’s most popular pub. We’re sure you’ll understand why once you’re sitting on their deck with a drink while watching the sunset.

Kiwi House Waiheke

PERSONAL TOUCH

This cute bed and breakfast looks like the perfect holiday house. The owners have put heaps of thought and effort into the interior and decoration, giving the whole place a lot of character. Oh and the breakfast is delicious!

GREAT LOCATION Prefer having your own place? At Four Huia, you get your own little chalet with a garden, terrace, and a balcony with sea views. It is also just a stone’s throw away from Oneroa Beach and a bus stop on the main bus lane.

The Moorings Studio Apartments

AMAZING VIEW Your own luxury apartment with arguably the best views on the whole island. The Moorings Studio Apartments is next to a bus stop, and only a few minutes away by foot from the ferry terminal, which makes arriving and leaving super easy.

Driving distance: 40 km | driving time: 45 minutes

Alright, time to really start your North Island road trip! Have a good breakfast in Auckland and get ready to start exploring New Zealand’s North Island.

Make your way to your rental vehicle pick-up location. If you’ve opted for a campervan (you really should!), then the campervan rental company will show you all the features of the van and explain how everything works. It might seem complicated, but folding down the bed, filling and emptying the water tanks, and using the battery is actually pretty simple and straightforward.

If you prefer to roadtrip in a car then have a look at Discover Cars to find the best deals. They let you easily compare offers from different car rental companies and offer pick up and drop off locations all across the country.

In either case, make sure that you can drop off your rental vehicle in Wellington or on the South Island if you’re planning to cross over after your North Island road trip. This will allow you to explore a lot more as you don’t have to drive back to Auckland.

Pack all your stuff into your vehicle, and drive to the supermarket to stock up on some supplies (remember to drive on the left side of the road!). Make use of the fact that you’re still in a big city and do your grocery shopping at PAK’n’SAVE. They are the cheapest supermarket chain in the country, but you only find their supermarkets in the bigger cities.

Time to hit the road and drive to Piha ! Actually, if it isn’t late in the afternoon yet, you can take a short detour and check out the Karekare Falls on the way to Piha. These falls definitely won’t be the most impressive waterfall you’ll see in New Zealand’s North Island, but it’s still pretty to look at, easy to get to and has a nice plunge pool at the bottom that is perfect for a little dip.

After your short stop at the waterfall (if you had time for it), continue to Piha. This tiny coastal is town well known for its awesome surf, beautiful beach and stunning sunsets. But before you run in for a surf, make sure that you know what you’re doing. The current and riptides in Piha are strong and conditions on the water can change quickly, making it dangerous for less experienced surfers.

Danger aside, Piha is an incredibly scenic beach. Lion Rock , a big rock in the middle of the beach that looks like a lying male lion, and the black colour of the sand give it this moody and rugged feel that is so typical to New Zealand. Make sure you find a nice and comfy spot on the beach in the evening, because you don’t want to miss the sunset here that lights up the sky in all shades of red, purple and pink.

Piha Domain Motor Camp

BEST CAMPERVAN OPTION

This is the only option for campervans in Piha, but that doesn’t mean it is a bad option. The camp is only a few minutes to the beach by foot, they have a decent kitchen, and clean bathroom and toilet facilities.

Piha Beachstay Accommodation

GREAT VALUE

This lovely homestay has both dorm rooms and private rooms. If you’re on a tight budget, go for the dorm rooms. If you want more comfort and privacy, then opt for a private room.

Romantic Piha

INCREDIBLE VIEW

This holiday house has everything you could possibly wish for. It is beautifully designed, has spacious and luxurious rooms, a big sundeck and the most incredible ocean views.

Day 3 – Paihia

Driving distance: 263 km | driving time: 3 hours, 50 minutes

Hope you rested well in the past few days, because from today on most days will consist of a lot of driving, all the way to Paihia in the winterless north. This buzzing town is known as the gateway to the Bay of Islands and in summer there are always plenty of things to do here.

If you stayed on Waiheke Island last night, then take the ferry back to Auckland in the morning and do the steps we’ve described above under “Pick up your rental vehicle ” and head straight to Paihia.

If you stayed in Piha last night, got up early and don’t mind driving a bit more (what, even more?!), then we suggest driving to Muriwai before heading on to Paihia. Muriwai has a black sand beach just like in Piha, but the coolest thing here is a massive gannet colony. What is a gannet I hear you think? Don’t worry if you don’t know, Tom thought that they were Pelicans when he first saw them (he can be a bit silly sometimes). Gannets are large seabirds that sorta resemble seagulls.

Now you probably won’t get too excited by the thought of seagulls and already fear getting pooped on, but hear us out. Gannets are massive. They have a wingspan of two meters and this colony consists of roughly 2500 of them. The birds are nested on two massive limestone pillars that rise up out of the sea, and a short walking path leads to a viewing platform right above the colony from where you can see them fly off and land again with hundreds at a time.

Even if you don’t care about seeing the birds, seeing the awesome cliffside rock formations still makes visiting this place worthwhile.

When you’re done watching the birds and possibly got pooped on – sorry, it can happen – get back behind the wheel and continue to Paihia.

One of the most popular activities in the Paihia area is skydiving , and it’s easy to see why with such amazing scenery. On top of that, they also have New Zealand’s highest skydive here at 20.000 feet! The thrill of jumping out of a plane and then soar in the sunshine over turquoise waters and golden sands underneath you sounds like something that perfectly fits into a New Zealand adventure, right?

Read next: Skydiving in New Zealand

Scared of heights, or can’t swing the costs of skydiving? Then how about some history and culture! Next to Paihia lies Waitangi, one of the most significant places in New Zealand’s history.

Waitangi is the place where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed. This treaty was signed to enable the British settlers and the Māori people to live together in New Zealand under common law. The treaty was signed on the 6th of February 1840, and nowadays the 6th of February is a national holiday called Waitangi Day.

On these grounds you’ll find a museum that offers educational content and a performance. Make sure to book your tickets in advance.

Even though Paihia is a small town, it still has a more than decent nightlife. This becomes abundantly clear if you stroll into Kings Road after 9 PM. The Base Backpackers Hostel and Bay Adventurer Hostel organize pub crawls to check out all the bars in town. If a pub crawl is not your thing and you prefer something more low-key then we recommend heading to the Sandpit to play some pool or to Thirty30 for some delicious craft beers.

Bay Adventurer Backpacker & Apartments

Right on Kings Road in the middle of Paihia, it has the best location in town for a budget price. They offer dorms, private rooms, and apartments. There is free WiFI and an outdoor swimming pool.

Check prices

Paihia BEach House

GREAT BREAKFAST

This beautiful bed and breakfast is located across the street from the beach, just outside the busy town center. The rooms are large and comfortable, the hosts are super hospitable and helpful, and the breakfast is delicious!

The Waterfront Suites

BEAUTIFUL VIEW

Your own luxurious suite on the waterfront just a few minutes stroll from the wharf. These big and modern rooms come with a private balcony with stunning sea views, world-class service, and a heated swimming pool. What more could you want?!

Seaview Holiday Park – This is your best campervan option. For $15 per person, you get a spot, cooking and washing facilities, and hot showers. Find it in the Campermate app.

Day 4 – Bay of Islands

While Paihia is a fun town, the real appeal of the Bay of Islands is its 144 subtropical islands full of hidden coves and beautiful sandy beaches. And what better way to explore this than by boat?!

It’s time to explore the Bay of Islands on a boat tour! Most day cruises will tour you around the bays and islands, do a stopover on one of the islands for lunch, and anchor a couple of times to go swimming, snorkelling and paddleboarding/kayaking.

This 5-hour cruise is a lot of fun and includes two stopovers on remote islands, walking up to a viewpoint overlooking the Bay of Islands, and snorkelling and paddleboarding, but the boats are quite small.

For something more comfortable, go for the Barefoot Sailing Adventures cruise on a catamaran. This boat is way nicer and the tour includes basically the same but swaps the viewpoint for a visit to a wildlife sanctuary.

If you’d like to take the sailing aspect a bit further then opt for this private sailing experience.

You’ll probably see loads of advertisements for dolphin cruises when you’re in Paihia and might be wondering why we’re not recommending a dolphin cruise. That’s because swimming with dolphins has recently been banned in the Bay of Islands, and we feel that is wrong to chase dolphins around. Seeing dolphins is awesome, but only if they come to you out of free will. Dolphins are still wild animals and should be treated that way. On top of that, there are way better places to see dolphins in New Zealand . That said, chances are that some dolphins will come to say hi somewhere along your Bay of Islands cruise.

Stay in the same place you stayed the previous night in Paihia.

Day 5 – Cape Reinga

Driving distance: 331 km | driving time: 4 hours, 37 minutes

Onwards to the far north! Well, as far north as you can go in New Zealand. This area is known for its wild beaches, massive sand dunes and rugged, wind-swept sceneries. Once you pass Kaitaia, there are no more towns other than a few tiny settlements, so make sure you have enough food, water and fuel to get to Cape Reinga and back.

On your way north, make a stop somewhere along Ninety Mile Beach. Other than its name would suggest, Ninety Mile Beach isn’t actually ninety miles, but “only” 88 kilometers (or 55 miles) long. The craziest thing about this beach isn’t its length, but that it is an official New Zealand highway. Unfortunately, most rental companies won’t allow you to take your rental vehicle onto the beach because people often get stuck or get caught in the incoming tide.

If you’re into surfing you’ll probably get excited to find out that 90-mile beach has one of the best left-hand surf breaks in the world. And if you’re not into surfing, how about blo-karting on the beach or just simply working on your summer tan?

Cape Reinga is the end of the road, literally. Although it isn’t officially the northernmost point of New Zealand, it is as far as you can go. The northernmost point is North Cape, further to the east (and a tiny bit to the north), but that isn’t publicly accessible. Regardless of it being the northernmost point, Cape Reinga is a stunning sight.

Right in front of the cape, you can clearly see two different coloured bodies of water meet. This is where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean turbulently clash, or so is said; the truth about these oceans colliding is a bit more complicated.

Not only is the cape with its lighthouse on top an incredibly picturesque sight, but the cape is also a place of local mythology. At the tip of the cape stands an 800 years old pohutukawa tree. According to Māori belief, the spirits of deceased Māori ascend from this tree to let the ocean take them away to their ancestral homeland.

Cape Reinga is quite a tourist hotspot, and the deck around the lighthouse is often swarming with people. Fortunately the cliffs in the surrounding area are at least as an impressive sight as the lighthouse. From the car park, walk towards the lighthouse until the path splits. Take a left here and go down the steps. Keep walking for a few more minutes and you’re most likely all by yourself with cliffside views that just keep getting better and better.

We’ve already mentioned the sand dunes twice, and now on the way back down from Cape Reinga is the time to see them. The Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes do their name justice because they are truly massive. They go up to heights of 150 meters and are seriously steep. Climbing up is difficult, but once you’re on top it almost feels like you’re in the middle of a vast desert.

The real fun is in going down again, especially when sandboarding down.

In order to do so, get a sandboard from one of the vendors along the road and see how far you can go. Zi made it almost all the way down before coming to a stop, and Tom thought he could beat that, but dove headfirst into the sand instead. Now you might think that won’t happen to you, but it’s honestly a lot harder than it looks!

Beachcomber Lodge & Backpacker

BEST VALUE Located just off the town center close to shops and stores, this is the most popular hostel in Kaitaia. They offer both dorms and private rooms and have a bar and restaurant on site.

Orana Motor Inn

GREAT LOCATION Located in the middle of town, this hotel offers super comfy beds, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant on site.

Kiwi Call Cottage

BEAUTIFUL SCENERY

This comfortable cottage is beautifully located amidst lush green hills. The cottage itself is spacious, modern and stylish. It has a massive garden and also comes with a hot tub! Look up at night, because the night sky is extremely clear from here

If you have a campervan, then you can stay at the Tapotupotu Camping Area close to Cape Reinga. This remote DOC campsite lies next to a beautiful secluded bay with a rugged beach. There is no phone signal, no potable water, and only cold showers, making staying here a real off the beaten path adventure.

Keep in mind that if you choose to spend the night here instead of in Kaitaia, you do add another hour and a half of driving to your day tomorrow, which already consists of a lot of driving. But if you don’t mind driving a bit more and have a campervan, then staying at this campsite is really worth it in our opinion.

Day 6 – Waipoua Forest

Driving distance: 348 km | driving time: 5 hours, 26 minutes

Today you’ll walk amidst the ancients in Waipoua Forest. Some of these trees are so old that they were already there long before the Māori people arrived in New Zealand. When driving from Kaitaia, take the ferry from Kohukohu to Rawene instead of going around. This saves you a considerable amount of time and distance driving.

This big native forest is special because of the many kauri trees that stand in it. Kauri trees are big coniferous trees that only grow on New Zealand’s North Island, and the biggest of them stands in the middle of Waipoua Forest. This tree is called “ Tāne Mahuta ”, which means God of the Forest, and in Māori belief, this tree is actually considered a God. It stands 51 meters tall, but even more impressive is its girth of over 13 meters. That equals at least 8 people standing around it with their arms spread wide.

A short walk takes you from the road going through the forest to this behemoth of a tree where a guide stands to tell you its story if you want to hear it. Tāne Mahuta is estimated to be 2000 years old but isn’t even the oldest Kauri tree in the forest. The oldest Kauri tree is Te Matua Ngahere , meaning Father of the Forest, and is estimated to be nearly 3000 years old.

If you liked walking in the forest and seeing these incredible trees, then also stop a bit further down the road to see the Four Sisters and Te Matua Ngahere.

After passing the town of Dargaville you’re driving through mostly flat farmland, except from one hill standing out, visible from miles away. This is Tokatoka Peak , and you should walk to the top! Don’t worry, this isn’t some strenuous hike.

Tokatoka Peak isn’t even that high, but because the surrounding area is so flat you can see very, very far from the top. It takes only 20 minutes to get to the top and is a nice activity to break up the driving. Do wear proper shoes though because the track is quite steep.

After climbing Tokatoka peak (and having a picnic on the top) drive onward to Auckland. If you’d like another break from driving then make a quick stop in Warkworth , where another impressive Kauri tree stands.

Stay in the same place you stayed the last time in Auckland.

Day 7 – Cathedral Cove

Driving distance: 237 km | driving time: 3 hours, 23 minutes

Today you get to sleep in, yay! With less than four hours of driving and only one sightseeing spot on the agenda today you can take it easy. After a lazy morning, drive to the Coromandel Peninsula.

But if you’re an early riser and want to see more of the Coromandel, make sure to check out out Coromandel travel guide for more beautiful spots and activities on this peninsula.

The Coromandel Peninsula might well be our favourite area on the North Island so it’s totally worth waking up for! Secluded bays, misty rainforest,cliffside views and the best beaches in New Zealand’s North Island are awaiting here.

Take the costal road in Thames, then drive straight to Hahei. Park at Hahei Beach and start getting excited for the magical Cathedral Cove , an absolute must see in New Zealand’s North Island.

An easy and beautiful 45-minute walk takes you from the beach, through the trees, over a grassy saddle with wide-open ocean views to the insanely picturesque Cathedral Cove and its adjacent near-perfect beaches.

If you prefer to explore by water then this boat tour is the perfect choice for you.

Cathedral Cove’s main feature is the massive picture-perfect archway that frames the Te Hoho Rock that rises up from the sea just right and gives passage from one beach to the other. Just off the beach more rocks rise up out of the water to make the scenery more interesting, and if you feel like shenanigans today then swim out to the flat rock to do some acrobatic jumps off of it.

In summer Cathedral Cove gets really crowded during the day, so we recommend to walk here a few hours before sunset so you have time for a swim and to relax on the beach, and then stay for an amazing sunset. We went here for sunset on a weekday in summer and had the whole cove to ourselves for most of the evening. Remember to bring a torch with you as the walk back will be in the dark.

Read Next: All you need to know about Cathedral Cove

When the sun is down, make your way back to your car or campervan and drive to the laid-back surf town Whangamata. It will be dark by now so you won’t see much of it, but that will change tomorrow.

Surf N Stay Whangamata

This hostel is only one street away from the beach, so you wake up to the sound of the waves rolling onto the shore. They offer both dorms and private rooms and have a surf school and surf rental in the hostel.

Brook Lodge

BEAUTIFUL LOCATION

Located a bit away from the town center, staying in this peaceful lodge set amidst a jungle garden feels like a getaway. All rooms have their own patio, they have a beautiful garden and sun deck, and a spa and wellness center.

Whangamata Vistas B&B

BEST BREAKFAST Overlooking the harbour, the marina, and the pacific ocean this place has the best views in town. They offer very large and comfortable rooms, have a big sundeck, and an amazing breakfast is included.

Whangamata Information Centre Carpark – This is your best campervan option. Free overnight campervan parking in town. Usually, it doesn’t completely fill up, but if it is full check the Whangamata Marina for $10 per person instead. Find both in the Campermate app.

Day 8 – Donut Island

Driving distance: 184 km | driving time: 2 hours, 49 minutes.

Wake up nice and early, head to the beach and park at this overnight campervan parking . If you have a campervan, you’re probably wondering why we didn’t tell you to stay the night here. Well, there are only three spots available for overnight parking, and in summer they are basically always full.

Anyway, this is where you should park now because it is the closest you can park to Whenuakura Island , more commonly knows as Donut Island . Donut Island is an old dormant volcano where a cave-in left it with an open roof and a flooded center. The center of the island can be accessed from the sea through a cave opening, and for us going here is one of our absolute favourite experiences to date!

Put on your togs (Kiwi slang for swimwear), rent a kayak or paddleboard from the beach for $30 per person and paddle to Donut Island . But beware of the tides and currents.

If you’re not used to paddling out on the ocean it is best to book this kayaking tour to Donut island.

The opening is on the south-eastern side of the island and paddling there takes about half an hour one way. We assure you that it will be one of the most awesome things you’ll do in New Zealand.

When you’re back from Donut Island you’ve most certainly worked up an appetite, so now is a great moment to head into town. Take a stroll on Whangamata’s main street to peek into all the quirky boutique shops and then grab some food at Soul Burger . They’re a serious contender for serving the country’s best burger if you ask us!

Coromandel: 24 amazing things to do in the Coromandel Peninsula

Cathedral Cove:   A guide to Cathedral Cove

Donut Island:   How to paddle or kayak to Donut Island

After you’ve munched down a delicious soul burger (or two, we won’t judge) drive to Matamata for a must-do for any Lord of the Rings fan; the Hobbiton movie set ! If you are a fan, then this place is most definitely already high up on your ‘NZ bucket list’, and if you don’t like Lord of the Rings, then just skip this activity.

The Hobbiton film set is the only film set from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies that hasn’t been broken down after filming, instead, it has been turned into an open-air museum. To enter Hobbiton you need to pre-book tickets , so make sure that’s covered before heading there.

During the two-hour long tour through The Shire, you get a chance to see 37 hobbit holes. This includes Bag End where you can imagine Bilbo and Frodo in their waddling around on their big hairy feet preparing tea and ends with a jug of ale in the Green Dragon Inn. The tour does feel a bit rushed in all honesty, but if you’re a fan then you’ll regret not going.

Read Next: Lord of the Rings filming locations

We hope you didn’t drink too much in the Green Dragon Inn, because there is still a bit of driving to go. Head to Rotorua and go straight to the Whakarewarewa Forest. Within this forest stands 7 hectares of Californian Redwood trees. These trees are over 100 years old and some of them are over 75 meters high. The most interesting thing about these trees, however, is that you can walk among high above the ground.

Redwoods Treewalk created a treewalk consisting of wooden platforms high up in the trees connected by 28 suspension bridges. You get to see the forest from a whole new perspective, and in the evening the whole walk is illuminated by lanterns in art installations, giving the forest a magical ambience.

The Backyard Inn

This place is pretty unique. They’re located right next to the Kairau Park and their swimming pool gets geothermally heated from the same underground vents. They offer campervan parking, dorms, and private rooms.

Jet Park Hotel Rotorua

GREAT LOCATION

This building was recently refurbished into a beautifully designed, modern hotel with a clean look in the center of town. Comfortable rooms, a café, and an outdoor pool and spa.

Karanda BnB

AMAZING VIEW

If you have a bit more to spend you’ll love Karanda BnB for a more luxurious stay. Wake up in a gorgeous, massive villa on top of hill just outside of Rotorua, with incredible views over Rotorua towards the lake.

Hinemoa Street Carpark or Lakeside Rotorua – There are two free overnight campervan parking areas in Rotorua, but both usually fill up quickly. Find both of them in the Campermate app.

Day 9 – Rotorua

Rotorua is one of the most interesting cities on the north island. It is the country’s core of Māori culture, and full of (smelly) geothermal activity. The smell of sulphur – which in reality smells like rotten eggs – might scare you off at first, but once you get used to the smell a bit you’ll find that Rotorua is an awesome place to spend a few days . So let’s dive right in, possibly literally!

How does rafting off a 7-meter high waterfall sound? Awesome? Scary? A bit of both? Rotorua is home to highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, and today you’re going to conquer it! Book this rafting tour with Kaituna Cascades and they’ll pick you up from your accommodation in the morning to take you to the Tutea Falls .

After instructions and a safety briefing by your highly experienced guide (really, they’re the best in the world), you’ll get into the raft and onto the river. The adventure on the river takes about 45 minutes, takes you over 14 rapids and small waterfalls, and ultimately the big 7-meter high one.

About 50% of the rafts flip over while going down the waterfall. So did ours, but we wouldn’t have it any other way because it was such a fun thrill! And don’t worry, it is perfectly safe. Tom was completely unharmed after flying out of the raft in the picture above.

After all that excitement, we bet that you could use something a bit more relaxing. Get yourself some food on Eat Street – we recommend BREW | Craft Beer Pub (Craft beers, yes!) – and walk to Kuirau Park in the center of town.

This geothermal park is full of bubbling mud pools, small geysers and a steaming lake with a boardwalk going right over the middle. Taking a stroll through this park while watching these otherwordly features is the perfect way to wind down from the thrill of plunging down that waterfall.

A big perk of the geothermal activity is the natural hot springs it creates. What better way to papmer yourself than by sitting in a warm bath or mud bath? If you’re looking to relax, I suggest you check out (at least) one of the following options.

Hell’s Gate

Don’t let the name put you off, more than hell, this spa is heaven! It takes mud baths to a whole new level. This therapeutic  mud bath and sulfur spa package  will leave your body rejuvenated, your skin smooth and nourish and your mind relaxed and calm.

Polynesian Spa

The iconic Polynesian is situated just off the shores of Lake Rotorua and has everything you need to  indulge in a day of rest and relaxation.  Here you can enjoy 5 mineral hot pools overlooking Lake Rotorua, a cold plunge, geothermally heated poolside recliners and massive relaxation areas.

Secret Spot Hot Tubs

Tucked away in the native bush, these hand-crafted cedar hot tubs are as relaxing as it gets.  Reserve yours here  and just soak as the stress and aches fade away.

As we mentioned, Rotorua is New Zealand’s heartland of Māori culture, and now it’s time to experience this firsthand. There are multiple Māori villages in and around Rotorua that you can visit, but we recommend getting tickets for the Te Pa Tu Māori Village (formerly Tamaki Maori Village) to get a real show.

They’ll pick you up in town and drive you to the village where you’re welcomed by the men of the village with an imposing haka. After the welcoming ceremony, your guides walk you through the village to teach you about arts & crafts like their tattoos, the famous haka, and how to make a hangi meal.

After the tour, the people of the village will put on a show for you and then you get to eat a delicious hangi meal. We can assure you that you’ll go for multiple food runs to the buffet!

Stay in the same place you stayed the previous night in Rotorua.

Rotorua guide:   32 breathtaking things to do in Rotorua

Rotorua itinerary:   Best things to do in Rotorua in 1, 2, 3 & 5 days

Day 10 – Taupo

Driving distance: 182 km | driving time: 2 hours, 25 minutes

Don’t get out of bed too late because today will be a busy day in and around Taupo. The town of Taupo lies on the shore of Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s biggest lake. Lake Taupo is actually the flooded caldera of the Taupo supervolcano. Have a look at the size of Lake Taupo to get an idea of how incredibly big this volcano is. The Taupo volcano is responsible for most of the geothermal activity in the center of the island, and you’ll see some more of that today.

On the way from Rotorua to Taupo, about half an hour in, lies Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland; your first stop for today. This big park is full of steaming lakes and oddly coloured hot pools, and boardwalk paths take you past all of it. It is considered as New Zealand’s most diverse and colourful geothermal sightseeing attraction, and definitely worth a visit.

Make sure you get here no later than 10 AM because shortly after that the park’s most spectacular feature happens. Every morning, at 10:15, the Lady Knox Geyser erupts and shoots boiling hot water 20 meters up in the air. Get your tickets for Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland in advance.

After Wai-o-tapu, continue driving and stop at the Huka Falls just before reaching Taupo. It is literally next to the road to Taupo, so this stop isn’t even a detour. The Huka Falls aren’t impressive in terms of size, we wouldn’t even call it a waterfall but rather rapids or cascades, but they are very impressive in terms of volume. Every second, almost 250m3 of water comes down the Huka Falls, that is a quarter of a million liters of water per second and it would fill an Olympic swimming pool in 11 seconds!

A small footbridge goes over the falls, from where you can see all of this water thunder underneath you. Or, for a more exciting experience you can take this jet boat ride to the bottom of the falls and feel the force of the water first hand.

Get some lunch in Taupo (we recommend Victoria’s for good food) and check out the lake. Lake Taupo is approximately the same size as Singapore and is so big that it has tides!

One of the coolest things to see on the lake are the Maori Rock Carvings , on the lake’s northeastern shore. These carvings are an impressive artwork of a 14-meter high tattooed face carved into the cliffside, and some smaller sculptures carved into the surrounding rocks. They are only accessible by water, and there are basically two options of getting there.

• Guided kayak tour – The most fun way to get there is by kayak! Book this half-day kayaking tour for an awesome experience. From Taupo, your tour guide takes you to a bay close to the Maori Rock Carvings, from where you’ll paddle the rest of the way. There is plenty of opportunity to explore a bit more of the lake and to go for a swim.
• Boat tour – Seeing the Maori Rock Carvings and Lake Taupo by boat is obviously the most relaxing way. Book this Lake Taupo boat tour and step aboard a beautiful sail yacht for 2,5 hours. Sunbathe on deck while you sail on the lake on your way to the carvings.

Time for the natural hot pools we mentioned earlier! Especially if you went kayaking to the Maori Rock Carvings, you’ll love relaxing your muscles in these warm waters. Park in this car park and follow the path to the Otumuheke Spa Park .

Here hot water bubbles up from the ground and creates a stream that flows into the Waikato Rives. Where the water bubbles out of the ground it is way to hot to get in (really, don’t try as you can get severe burns from it), but where the hot water meats the Waikato river it gets cooled down to a perfect hot tub temperature.

Beware that you don’t put your head underwater , there are bacteria in the hot water that can get in your system and make you sick.

When you’re done soaking and your fingers are all wrinkly from the warm water there is a choice to make.

If you’re up for a hike, drive to National Park to do the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. It is a tough but oh, so rewarding day hike. If you like hiking, this will be a true highlight of your trip in New Zealand. Even if you’re not that into hiking, the scenic views are still absolutely worth it and might even turn you into an avid hiker. Hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing will add one day to this itinerary.

Otherwise, skip the hike and drive straight to Waitomo instead.

National Park Alpine Lodge

This is an option both for campervan and car. They have campervan sites for $20 per person, and budget rooms if you need a room. The facilities include cooking and washing facilities, and hot showers.

Plateau Lodge

This lodge has dorms, private rooms and apartments. A great addition is that they also offer a shuttle service to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, and they have a hot tub that guest can use to relax their muscles after the hike.

Tongariro Springs Boutique Suites

INCREDIBLE SCENERY

These mountain-hut-style suites are located a bit south of National Park and have incredible views on Tongariro National Park. To make things even better they also have a large hot pool to admire the view from.

Optional Day – Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Driving distance: 142 km | driving time: 1 hour, 47 minutes

Today you’ll hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing , the most popular of all the New Zealand North Island hikes, and arguably also the most rewarding one. This 19.4 kilometer long track takes through steamy thermal fields, up steep mountain slopes, past volcano craters and colourful lakes, and then winds down over tussock fields into the forest.

Don’t underestimate this hike just because it is so popular. It is long, steep and exposed, so prepare well with the right equipment before setting off. An important detail to know before you go is that it is a one-way track and parking on each side is limited to 4 hours. The track will take 6-8 hours to complete, so you can’t drive there yourself and park at the start.

The solution is booking this shuttle service . They take you from National Park to the start of the hike in the early morning and pick you up again at the end to take you back to National Park.

When you’re back in National Park at the end of the afternoon and you feel like your legs can carry you again, drive to Waitomo. Get an early night, you must be exhausted. Waitomo is where you’re going caving tomorrow!

JunoHall Backpackers  

This hostel has campervan sites, dorms and private rooms. There is an attached petting zoo and the manager has an endless supply of jokes and always has a Lord of the Rings movie playing on the tv.

Waitomo Caves Guest Lodge

Located in the center of town but still completely surrounded by greenery and native trees. From the rooms, you have a beautiful view over the valley, and a delicious breakfast is included.

Woodlyn Park Motel  

QUIRKY & UNIQUE

This could be the coolest and most unique New Zealand North Island accommodation. Their rooms are all truly unique. How about a room that is built into an old airoplane?! Or a boat, a train carriage, or a hobbit hole?!

Day 11 – Waitomo

Driving distance: 330 km | driving time: 5 hours, 18 minutes

Waitomo is famous for its many cave systems. There are over 300 known caves in the area, and it is estimated that the total number of caves is even quite a bit higher. The main attraction in Waitomo isn’t the caves themselves though, but the glowworms that live in them. If you ask us, this is another New Zealand North Island must see.

Time to see what Waitomo is famous for. Book this black water rafting tour for the morning. We recommend going for the 3-hour tour rather than the 5-hour tour, as the 5-hour tour doesn’t really give you much more and is quite a bit more expensive. The tour will start with your guides explaining a bit about the caves, and dressing up in a wetsuit, gumboots and a fashionable helmet before going underground.

After a bit of crawling you’ll get to a spectacular sight; a hall FULL of glowworms. There are so many glowworms that their light is bright enough for the guides to take some pictures of you with them.

Then you get to the rafting part of the tour. Don’t expect something like the rafting in Rotorua, but leisurely floating under a sky of glowworms in an underground stream on an inflatable donut. Less thrilling, but absolutely not less interesting. The guides love joking around and will definitely keep you entertained while keeping everyone safe.

If you’re not a big fan of floating in the water or narrow caves, then this boat tour of the glowworm caves is a better choice for you.

Once you’ve emerged from underground again, drive to the Marakopa Falls . The 35-meter height of this waterfall is already quite something, but when you combine that with its width you’ve arguably got the most impressive waterfall on New Zealand’s North Island. The amount of water and the force the water comes down with is so big that you can feel the spray on the viewing platform, more than 100 meters away.

There is a fence behind the viewing platform, but you can easily skip it (through the massive gap right next to it, haha) to get closer to the waterfall. The path down can be quite slippery, so be careful, but it is worth it for a much better view of the waterfall. Depending on the time of day, you might even see a rainbow at the bottom of the falls.

Wipe the spray from the waterfall off your face, drive to Kawhia on the island’s west coast and park at the end of the road here . You might have heard about Hot Water Beach in the Coromandel, one of the big attractions in New Zealand’s North Island, and might also have wondered why we haven’t included in this itinerary. That is because we’re hardly exaggerating when we say that on a regular summer day there are more people than grains of sand there.

Fortunately, we found a far less crowded alternative, and that is the hot water beach in Kawhia where you’re going now.

Get your beach bag out, grab something you can dig with and walk over the sand dune to the beach. As you come down from the sand dune there is a pole sticking out of the sand. From this pole, walk in a straight line towards the water and keep an eye out for little bubbles in the sand or the smell of sulphur.

When you see bubbles or smell sulphur, just start digging! Once you’re about 30-40 centimeters deep, warm water comes up from the ground and you’ve got yourself your very own hot pool on the beach. After yesterday’s challenging hike your legs will thank you for this!

The next stop is the Three Sisters and Elephant Rock. These rock formations are only accessible around low tide, and if possible try to combine this with arriving just before sunset because that’s when they are a truly stunning view. Park your car at this car park on Clifton Road and follow the rocky coastline for about 5 minutes until you get to the beach.

When you get around the corner, you are met by the Three Sisters , standing where the beach meets the sea. These 25-meter high rock formations look a little bit like Te Hoho Rock at Cathedral Cove. Funny enough there are actually only two sisters still standing, and 20 years ago there were even four of them. Erosion has taken its toll and made two of them collapse in recent years.

Continue past the three sisters to get to Elephant Rock . This is a big rock that (you guessed it) resembles the shape of an elephant. It looks a bit disfigured, but this is again due to erosion. It used to look like the elephant had its trunk in the water, but a few years ago the poor thing lost its trunk to the sea.

Get back in your vehicle and drive another hour alongside the coast to New Plymouth, at the foot of the magnificent Mount Taranaki.

YHA SUnflower Lodge  

Located just out of the city center and surrounded by greenery, this hostel has both dorms and private rooms. It also has a sun lounge that looks out on Mount Taranaki.

Country Retreat Glamping  

MOST UNIQUE

Ever been glamping? This is your chance! And what better place than at the foot of the magnificent Mount Taranaki?! These luxurious tents out in nature are equipped with all necessary facilities.

Tivoli Homestay  

This stunning wooden mansion is located on the top of a hill just outside of New Plymouth’s center. From the big terrace, you have beautiful ocean views. The rooms are big, stylish and comfortable, and the included breakfast is incredible.Try the Eggs Benedict!

Lake Rotomanu – This is your best campervan option. It is located in a park right next to a beautiful lake and a few minutes walk from the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, which is a sightseeing option for tomorrow. Find it in the Campermate app.

Day 12 – Taranaki Peninsula

Driving distance: 105 km | driving time: 1 hour, 23 minutes

What you’ll do today depends on how you feel and what you want to see. If your legs feel fine again, then there is a 5-hour return hike on Mount Taranaki that is well worth the time. If you’re still sore then it is best to skip this hike. Instead, we can suggest a few spots to see Taranaki from, and some nice beaches that are perfect for a relaxing day.

If you’ve done some more research on spots to see, you most likely came across pictures of Mount Taranaki and its perfect reflection in the water. These pictures were taken on this hike. Getting there takes about 2,5 hours one way, and then the same way back. The elevation change is only gradual, but almost the whole track long. While it isn’t nearly as straining as the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, it is not a leisure walk in the park. So don’t forget to wear proper hiking gear and bring plenty of water and some snacks.

In the morning, drive towards the mountain and park in this car park at the end of Mangorei Road, this is where the track starts. The first 1,5 hours of the way leads you up through the forest. The forest is beautiful, but other than the forest there is nothing to see in this part. After you pass the Pouakai hut and reach the top of the ridge, Mount Taranaki peaks out and as you reach the saddle you can really see how HUGE this volcano is.

Another 20 minutes and you’re at the tarns. If you’re lucky enough to get a clear and wind still day, you get a perfect reflection of Mount Taranaki in the water. Get your Instagram shot, have a snack by the water and return back the way you came.

If you’ve decided not to hike up to the Pouakai Tarns, then start your morning with a stroll in New Plymouth. This small city is full of quirky coffee shops. Just pick one that catches your eye and go in for breakfast. New Plymouth is known for its art scene, and many coffee shops double as art galleries to allow local artists to showcase their work.

Still want a nice view and a decent picture of Mount Taranaki? Then go to the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge . The shape of this bridge is made to look like a breaking wave, and if you look straight across it from the northern side it perfectly frames Mount Taranaki. The bridge lies next to a nice park with a lake, and it is also the start of the coastal walk to New Plymouth.

Another option is to go to Lake Mangamahoe . This lake feels a bit like a hidden oasis in the middle of a forest. From the northern shore of the lake, you have an incredible view on Mount Taranaki over the water.

Just don’t make the same mistake we made and don’t get into the water of the lake. We took our paddleboards out on the lake, but then a DOC ranger came to take us out and told us that going in the lake is prohibited. Apparently this lake is used as New Plymouth’s water supply, whoops…

Highway 45 going west from New Plymouth, alongside the coast of the Taranaki Peninsula, is known as the Surf Highway . On top of awesome surf break after surf break, this coast is also known for its beautiful black sand beaches. The nicest beaches along the way are Oakura Beach, Opunake Beach, and Ohawe Beach.

Another worthwhile stop is at the Cape Egmont Lighthouse. Looking from the coast inland you get an amazing photo opportunity with the lighthouse in the foreground and Mount Taranaki in the back.

Wheatly Downs Farmstay  

Located in the middle of a massive farm with wide-open views on Mount Taranaki. They offer dorms, private rooms and self-contained chalets. If you’re there in spring you can help feed the calves if you like.

Kerry Lane Motel

This 4-star motel located just outside of Hawera’s center is surrounded by big gardens with farm animals. The motel has a hot tub with an unobstructed view on Mount Taranaki.

Tairoa Lodge  

AMAZING BREAKFAST

Big wooden house in the middle of a beautiful estate. They offer spacious, elegantly furnished rooms, a big terrace, and an outdoor swimming pool. A delicious breakfast is included.

Day 13 – Drive to Wellington

Driving distance: 282 km | driving time: 3 hours, 35 minutes

Today you’ll make your way down alongside the coast to Wellington, the last stop of your New Zealand North Island road trip. You’ll pass a few interesting spots and beaches, and the Kapiti coast with Kapiti Island just off the shore.

Have an easy morning, maybe go to the beach for a bit and then drive to Whanganui. The town of Whanganui itself isn’t all that much, but it the Whanganui Regional Museum is worth a visit. This museum has a lot on the history of New Zealand’s flora and fauna. Have you ever heard of the Moa ? A massive ostrich-like bird that reached almost four meters in height and was hunted to extinction by the Māori people. Well, they show loads about the Moa here. They have a giant waka in the center of the museum, and something that can only be described as a mad scientist’s lab.

Have some lunch in Whanganui, and drive on to the Kapiti Coast . The Kapiti coast consists of 40 kilometers of uninterrupted beaches. The west coast is notorious for strong riptide and undercurrents, which makes that not all the beaches are suitable for swimming, but most of them are beautiful and tranquil.

You can either explore the beaches on the mainland or hop over to Kapiti Island. This island is a predator-free bird sanctuary 5 kilometers off the coast and a must do for all bird watchers. Take this tour to get acquainted with the native birdlife.

Otaki Beach is known for its epic surf and always has a surf watch in summer. Peka Peka Beach is the smallest town on the Kapiti Coast but has the most beautiful beach. Waikanae Beach is the best beach for swimming and has the best views of Kapiti Island.

After all that beach hopping in the past few days, you’ve probably seen enough beaches for a while. Brush off the sand and drive to Wellington for the last day of this itinerary.

Hotel Waterloo And Backpackers

This hostel in the city center has dorms and private rooms for great prices. They host activities and games in their bar for those interested. Value for money you won’t find anything better in Wellington.

Astelia APartment Hotel  

Located in the center of town, a few minutes walk away from Civic Square and the wharf. These spacious and modern apartments are perfect if you want a quiet night and a good sleep.

InterContinental Wellington

MOST LUXURIOUS

The InterContinental brand is known all over the world for its excellence. In this case, you get a 5-star luxury hotel located on the city’s waterfront. Big and elegant rooms, a fitness center, indoor heated pool and spa, two bars and an award-winning restaurant. Pure luxury!

Owhiro Bay or Evans Bay – These free campervan parking sites are your best campervan option. Combined they have 67 parking spots, but they tend to fill up fast. Have a look at the suggestions above as a back-up. Find both in the Campermate app.

Day 14 – Wellington

Welcome to New Zealand’s capital, also known as Windy Welly or Wellywood!

The nickname Windy Welly comes very simply from Wellington being very windy. Wellington lies on a point of land sticking out into the Cook Strait. The Roaring Forties, strong westerly winds found below 40 degrees latitude on the Southern Hemisphere, push through the Cook Strait even stronger, making Wellington extremely windy.

The nickname Wellywood comes from the massive film production business that was established in Wellington by Peter Jackson for the Lord of the Rings movies.

Whichever name you use for Wellington, it is a buzzing city with lots to do and see, with great food culture, and generally just one of the nicest cities in New Zealand’s North Island if you ask us!

Driving around Welly in a campervan and finding parking can be a challenge so we recommend you rent these e-bikes to explore without a headache, or book this sightseeing tour for a fuss-free experience.

Are you a Lord of the Rings fan? Then you have to check out the Weta Cave, or better yet, join this LOTR tour for the ultimate Middleearth experience.

The Weta Cave is part of the Weta Workshop where all special effects, most of the props and costumes for the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Movies were made. After filming, the Weta Cave was opened to show visitors the making of special effects and props, and where many of the props used in the movies are displayed. Make sure to book your tickets for the Weta Workshop in advance.

Drive up Mount Victoria (or walk up if you’re in for a bit of a workout) and stop at the Mount Victoria Lookout . This lookout provides unobstructed 360-degree views over the city and the harbour. On a clear and less windy day, you can even see New Zealand’s South Island from here! On a windy day, Mount Victoria is as windy as it gets and walking uphill will be a real struggle. Oh, and don’t wear a hat or a cap up here. Tom lost his to the wind basically the second he stepped out of the car.

This museum is housed in a beautifully designed building on the waterfront in the center of Wellington and houses a permanent exhibition on the Māori people, New Zealand’s incredible wildlife, and the earthquakes that regularly terrorize the country. It also has an earthquake simulator that lets you experience just how severe the 2011 earthquake that laid waste to Christchurch and cost the lives of 185 people was.

One of the things we love the most about Wellington is the many bars and craft beer breweries! Take a walk around the wharf and sit down at one of the many bars (like on the massive lawn in front of St John’s ) or head into town to visit one of the many craft beer breweries.

Our favourite one is The Garage Project . As the name suggests, they started brewing beer in their garage (and still kinda do) and the beer they make is just yummy! Even though they’ve grown quite a bit since then, they still have a bit of this underground microbrewery vibe.

We also like the Whistling Sisters brewery that is more centrally located. A bit further out of town you’ll find the Parrotdog Brewery . Their beers are delicious and the name is just hilarious. There are many more breweries to choose from in Wellington, and if you’re a craft beer enthusiast like us you’ll love this Craft Brewery Tour .

  Read Next: 20 secrets nobody tells you about travelling in New Zealand

So that’s it, the end of this New Zealand North Island road trip itinerary! So what’s next? What to do if this is the end of your New Zealand trip, and what to do if you’re going to the South Island?

Pack up your stuff and go to your car or campervan rental company. All the bigger rental companies have locations both in Auckland and Wellington, and in Wellington, most of them are conveniently located near the airport. Go to the airport and fly home or to your next destination.

That’s awesome, good for you! New Zealand’s South Island is possibly even more scenic than the North Island. The easiest way to get to the South Island (and the only way to take your vehicle with you) is by ferry.

There are two New Zealand North to South Island ferry companies that can take you there, and it doesn’t really matter which one you pick as they are very similar and equally priced, just make sure you drive to the correct one as they each depart from a different port.

• Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferry – They have a small cinema aboard this ferry where they play movies. The Bluebridge ferry terminal is located at 50 Waterloo Quay , Pipitea, Wellington.
• Interislander Cook Strait Ferry – They have free Wi-Fi on board, which in all honestly is too slow to be of any use. The Interislander ferry terminal is located at Aotea Quay, Pipitea, Wellington.

Read next: NZ South Island itinerary

3-week North Island Itinerary

If you have more than two weeks to spend for your New Zealand North Island road trip you can add some stops to the above itinerary.

Below we’ve listed some suggestions of places that would be a great addition to your trip. If want to add these extra days, we recommend changing your route to make it more efficient.

The optimal route, in this case, would be the same up until day 8, and then from Hobbiton change the route as follows: Hobbiton – Waitomo – Taranaki – Forgotten World Highway – Tongariro Alpine Crossing – Taupo – Rotorua – Gisborne – Napier & Hastings – Castlepoint – Putangirua Pinnacles – Wellington.

This is basically the same route we took ourselves, except that we travelled it veeeery slow and spent over three months exploring everything around. If you have three months too, lucky you! If you don’t, then three weeks is enough for this route.

3-week itinerary overview

Days 1-8 – As above Day 9 – Waitomo Day 10 – Taranaki Peninsula Day 11 – Forgotten World Highway Day 12 – Tongariro Alpine Crossing Day 13 – Taupo Days 14 & 15 – Rotorua Day 16 – Drive to Gisborne Day 17 – Gisborne Day 18 – Napier & Hastings Day 19 – Castlepoint Day 20 – Putangirua Pinnacles Day 21 – Wellington    

State Highway 43 is more commonly known as the Forgotten World Highway. This 148 kilometer long road winds its way from Stratford near Mount Taranaki over green rolling hills, through dense rainforest, and past impressive rocky cliffsides to Taumarunui close to National Park. While 148 kilometers doesn’t seem that long, driving it will take you all day. This is because the road goes up and down over the many hills in the region, most of the time you’re driving on gravel roads, and there are plenty of (peculiar) things to see along the way.

The most peculiar thing on the Forgotten World Highway is Whangamomona . This tiny settlement of only a few dozen buildings declared itself an independent republic in 1989, and now has its own government and president. In the center of town stands the Whangamomona Hotel, where you can get your passport stamped.

The second peculiar thing is the Moki Tunnel . The Forgotten World Highway is a two-lane and two-way road all the way, except for the Moki Tunnel. This 180-meter long tunnel was carved out by hand, and is only wide enough for one vehicle. You better check if no one is in from the other side as you enter, or you might get stuck in the middle!

The last point of interest is the Mount Damper Falls . Driving there is about an hour detour off the Forgotten World Highway, and then another hour return walk over private farmland full of sheep to the waterfall, but it is more than worth the extra time. With a 74 meter drop, this is one of the highest waterfalls on New Zealand’s North Island, and after some rainfall, it is a truly spectacular sight.

Gisborne is New Zealand’s most eastern city, and it is the first city in the world to see the sunrise! Apart from getting up early to be able to brag to your friends that you saw the sunrise before anyone else, there is enough to do in Gisborne to fill a few days.

Another good thing that comes from Gisborne being located on this eastern peninsula is a pumping surf. If you’re into surfing then this is an amazing place to get your surfboard (and wetsuit because the water is cold) out as it is regarded as one of the best places for surfing on New Zealand’s North Island

The coolest thing we found around Gisborne is the Rere Rockslides and Rere Falls, about 45 minutes from Gisborne. Here you’ll find a big, curtain-like waterfall that you can walk behind, to then jump through the waterfall into its plunge pool.

The real attraction, however, is a short drive upstream from the waterfall, where the water has polished the rocks into a 60-meter long natural slide. Bring a bodyboard or an air mattress and speed down on the rocks. When you’re done with all this fun head south to Haweks Bay to indulge at one of the many wineries in the area.

Napier and Hastings are well known for their wineries, possibly even more so than Gisborne. Visiting a winery is always a good idea, but how about visiting multiple in a row, without having to worry about drunk driving? Book this bicycle tour if you feel like you nee a bit of exercise or join this wine tasting tour for a lazier and more comfortable experience.

Both tours take you through the beautiful Hawke’s Bay region and visit multiple wineries where you can sample some of their delicious wines.

Next up is Napier itself. Napier is known as the art deco capital of the South buildings and landmarks that make the town so interesting. Take a stroll through the quirky city center, join this guided Art Deco tour or explore by vintage car to be transported back in time.

Then head to Te Mata Peak just south of Hastings. If you feel like hiking, then walk up as it is a beautiful walk, but if you’re feeling lazy you can just drive to the top (which is what we did). From the top, you have an incredible 360 degrees view over Hawke’s Bay and all its rolling hills, green fields, and vineyards.

Castlepoint is a small town at the end of a long road, leading away from anything else, but it is honestly the most worthwhile detour you can make on New Zealand’s North Island. This off the beaten path location is absolutely stunning. We decided to go to Castlepoint, thinking we’d have a quick look and turn back in a matter of hours, but got completely mesmerized by the scenery and ended up staying for three days.

So why is Castlepoint so special? Well, for starters it has a beautiful, long, sandy beach. But what makes it one New Zealand’s top 10 most loved beaches is actually the surrounding scenery. Read all about Castlepoint here , and we’ll guarantee that you’ll want to make the detour as well.

Close to the South Island’s most southern point; Cape Palliser, you’ll find the Putangirua Pinnacles . This otherwordly landscape of gravel pillars is seven million years old, and are arguably the most awesome rock formations in New Zealand.

A two-hour loop track takes you up through the forest to a platform overlooking the Pinnacles and then takes you down to walk in between these giants. You get a bit of an eerie feeling when you walk past all these barren rocks, which makes you understand why this location was chosen to film the Dimholt Road in The Lord of the Rings – Return of the King.

Typical costs of travelling in New Zealand

The costs of travelling in New Zealand are greatly determined by your choice in travelling by campervan, or by car. A campervan costs a lot more to rent per day, but you can save a lot by sleeping in campsites and cooking your own food, whereas with a car your accommodation and food costs are a lot higher.

The cost breakdown below is based on eating one meal in a restaurant per day and cooking the rest yourself, and doing some of the activities that we suggested in the itinerary. The difference between 175 and 225 NZD per person per day comes down to what type of car/campervan you choose and the type of accommodation you stay in.

Suggested New Zealand road trip budget: 175 – 225 NZD per person per day as a couple

Cost breakdown  

HOTEL: 80 – 300 NZD / NIGHT HOSTEL: 20 – 30 NZD / NIGHT/ PP CAMPSITE: 0 – 30 NZD / NIGHT GROCERIES: 5 – 10 NZD / MEAL / PP RESTAURANT: 20 – 40 NZD / MEAL / PP ACTIVITIES: 20 – 300 NZD CAMPERVAN RENTAL: 100 – 300 NZD / DAY CAR RENTAL: 50 – 100 ND / DAY DIESEL: 1,65 NZD / LITER PETROL: 2,39 NZD / LITER  

• Cook your own meals as much as you can. Al lot of accommodations have a kitchenette and your campervan will come with a cooker. Campsites often have cooking facilities too and you can find free or coin-operated barbeques in parks around the country.
• Do your grocery shopping at PAK’nSAVE. We found this to be the cheapest supermarket chain in New Zealand, but they only have stores in the bigger towns. FourSquare is generally the most expensive one. We also found that grocery prices can vary a lot depending on your location, so we recommend to stock up in the bigger cities and less touristic places as they tend to be cheaper.
• If you’re renting a campervan, stay in free campsited where you can.
• When eating out, check First table for 50% off on food at restaurants. They have a big variety of participating restaurants you can choose from. You need to book the table in advance via their website. The reservation is 5-10NZD and you get 50% off on your meals, but not drinks. We used this quite a bit to eat at some very nice restaurants, without having to pay top dollar for it.

By now we’ve probably made it clear that you really need your own transportation in New Zealand, and one of the main things to be aware of when driving in New Zealand is that they drive on the left side of the road .

The next thing to keep in mind is that New Zealand roads are different and you should always account for some extra time when driving from A to B. The roads are often steep, windy and narrow, there are one-lane bridges everywhere, roads are hardly ever more than two lanes and gravel roads are a common occurrence. Take your time, stop regularly (which is not a punishment with all that beautiful scenery) and don’t see maximum speeds as a target, because there are often unsafe.

That being said, let’s talk about the best way to get around in New Zealand; in a campervan! Not only does it help you cut down on costs as we explained before, but you also don’t have to pack and unpack all the time, you always have your home with you in bad weather, and it gives you a lot more freedom to go where you want to go. We’ve converted our own campervan and travelled around New Zealand in it for a year, so we can tell you from personal experience why a campervan is the best way to travel New Zealand .

The best time to visit New Zealand all depends on what you prefer. The weather, cost of travelling, amount of people and even how the landscapes look is different in every season of the year. The weather in New Zealand’s North Island is subtropical to temperate. In summer temperatures go up to around 30 degrees celsius, and in winter they go down to around 0 degrees celcius, with snow and ice on higher altitudes.

SPRING: September, October & November – With spring starts the hiking and outdoor adventuring season as temperatures start to rise and the country is in full bloom. Funnily enough, the lakes and rivers are the coldest in spring, as they fill up with melting water from snow in the mountains. New Zealand is the greenest in spring, and the prices for vehicle rental and accommodation are relatively low. Spring is best if you like mild temperatures but don’t mind the occasional rain shower, like to see New Zealand in its fairytale-like state and want to avoid the crowds.

SUMMER: December, January & February – Summer is high season in New Zealand. This means that higher amounts of people and higher prices come along with the higher temperatures. Summer is the best season to spot most of New Zealand’s incredible wildlife and to visit New Zealand’s beaches. Go to New Zealand during summer is you want high temperatures, don’t mind crowds or just actually want to meet people, and don’t mind paying more for vehicle rental and accommodation.

AUTUMN: March, April, May – Autumn is great for hiking and outdoor activities. The country changes to autumn colours and the days are still relatively long with pleasant temperatures. Most of the crowds have left and with them the high prices as well. Autumn is best if you want to focus on outdoor activities without overheating in the summer sun.

WINTER: June, July, August – When it comes to tourism, winter in New Zealand has one focus: Winter sports. With snow on almost every mountain, skiing and snowboarding is what it is all about in New Zealand during winter. Outside of the winter resort areas, all the crowds are gone, and vehicle and accommodation prices are half of what they are in summer. Winter is great is you want to save money and avoid the crowds or if you want to go skiing. For skiing in New Zealand’s North Island; check out Mount Ruapehu.

New Zealand is not your typical holiday destination, so what you should pack isn’t typical either. Of course there are the basics like our clothes and toiletries but be sure to put some thought in what you’re going to need specifically for New Zealand, like your hiking gear, an extra sweater and rain jacket for the unpredictable weather, a daypack, your camera gear, and plenty of insect repellent.

  Read Next: New Zealand Packing List

If you’re travelling with someone, we recommend to each get a SIM card from a different provider. Mobile reception in New Zealand is patchy to say the least, and when one provider doesn’t have any coverage, the other one often does. This gives you the biggest chance of at least one of you having reception. We went with Spark and 2degrees and this combination worked well for us.

We found that fuel is the cheapest around Taupo and Rotorua. So it is a good idea to fuel up as much as you can before leaving this region.

ACC covers you for accidents but if you get sick or loose your luggage or anything else happens, you’ll need a good insurance to cover it for you. We always get insured before we leave and Travel Insurance Masters is our go to platform to find the best insurance options for the specific trip.

Download the Campermate app – This app shows you where (free) campsites on New Zealand’s North Island are, where facilities like public toilets, water taps are, and even gives you suggestions on things to see nearby.

Download the Maps.me app and download the map of New Zealand in the app – This navigation app works without any data, as long as you have a GPS signal. This is great for when you’re in an area without mobile coverage.

Learn from our experience and read our breakdown of New Zealand’s good, bad, and ugly .

Good travel insurance is an absolute must when travelling abroad, and we’ve learned that the hard way!

ACC in New Zealand covers you for accidents but if you get sick or loose your luggage or anything else happens, you’ll need a good insurance to cover it for you.

We always get insured before we leave and Travel Insurance Masters is our go to platform to find the best insurance options for the specific trip.

The TIM platform works as a search engine and suggests the best insurance company and insurance plan for your criteria so you don’t end up paying more for things you don’t need!

You can get your quote & provider recommendations here .

New Zealand is a really easy country to travel in. It is safe, the people are friendly and helpful, and there are facilities for travellers everywhere. The country caters really well to travellers, and this shows in the increasing amount of visitors the country welcomes each year. Because New Zealand is not densely populated and has all these vast areas of rugged landscape, it is easy to get off the beaten path, but if you stick to the main touristic hotspots you can still expect some crowds.

New Zealand’s North Island is an amazing place full of culture and the most beautiful sceneries. Following this New Zealand North Island road trip itinerary will be the adventure of a lifetime, but a real New Zealand road trip isn’t complete without including New Zealand’s South Island, which is possibly even more impressive!

NZ South Island: New Zealand South Island Road trip – 2 & 3 week itinerary

Auckland: Auckland Itinerary Where to stay in Auckland Best Day Trips from Auckland

Rotorua: Rotorua itinerary Where to stay in Rotorua

Coromandel Peninsula: Coromandel Peninsula road trip Cathedral Cove guide Where to stay on the Coromandel

Skydiving in New Zealand

All you need to know about NZ – good, bad, ugly

Zi @Craving Adventure

Zi is the Founder and Editor in Chief behind Craving Adventure.

19 Comments

This blog was amazing… I came here for Waitomo info because those caves are on my bucket list. However, it was almost as if each place you listed was even cooler & more beautiful than the last. Pinning & saving this blog for when I make it to NZ.

Hi Shelley, that’s great! The Waitomo caves are heaps of fun, but there is so much more amazing stuff to do around that it would be a shame to miss out. Super glad that we were able to inspire you!

Your photos are so beautiful and always grab my attention! Great post and so many stunning recommendations for a holiday in North Island!

Thank you so much Cass, that is such a nice compliment!! We could honestly easily write about enough places on the North Island to double the length of this blog haha, there is just sooooo much out there that is worth seeing.

What an amazing blogpost!! I absolutely loved reading it and to see how much time and effort went into creating this one. The design and lay-out is so clear and it’s easy to navigate. I’ve wanted to travel to New Zealand for YEARS but it’s so far away from the Netherlands. I just graduated university and hopefully have a job soon. I can’t wait to save my money and plan a trip in the future! Will definitely do a full-on road trip for at least the 2 weeks you suggested.

Yay, we are so happy to read your comment, Melissa! And super awesome that New Zealand is so high on your list. We know exactly what you mean, Tom is from the Netherlands too and it is just so far away that we feel we can’t justify going unless we can spend at least multiple weeks there. Then in our case, it turned into multiple years, haha Let us know when you’re making the actual plans to go, we’d love to help!

Love your pictures and the details in your itinerary 🙂 I love it when blogs have maps with the path highlighted. It’s an essential to plan a road trip!

Thanks Lekha! We love adding little design bit like those maps. Glad to know that they help!

New Zealand is stunning! This is a great itinerary to follow.

Thank you Rebecca, New Zealand sure is! We just can’t get enough, even after already spending so much time in New Zealand, haha!

Cool road trip. We still haven’t made it to Taranaki yet. Good suggestions here.

Thank you, Rhonda! Taranaki is such an incredible mountain and the region as a whole is just beautiful. Definitely worth a visit when you get the chance next time!

Such a comprehensive road-trip itinerary! You covered all potential questions…and loved the photos. New Zealand is beautiful! Pinning for a future visit!

Thank you so much! Hopefully, New Zealand opens its borders again soon so you get to visit! We can’t wait to go back either.

This article provides details about new Zealand north island road trip . This blog happens to be one of the best blog, which give proper details about it. I enjoyed reading this blog and would suggest others too, and you would get to read about it in this link.

I would love to go on a longer road trip like this! There are so many incredible locations to stop at – thanks for all of the tips!

I love your guys map. Did you guys created? or someone did the edition? thanks

Hi. I plan to visit NZ for the 3rd time and this time will bring group, family and friends. We are from Indonesia and most of us are above 55 years. We need sugestion which place should we skip from your list. And whether campervan is easy enough to handle. Thank you. This article is awesome.

Hi, so glad you found this article helpful! A campervan is a fantastic way of exploring New Zealand and there’s plenty of campsites for you to choose from. however, if you don’t feel comfortable driving one you might consider opting for a car instead. Some roads can get quite narrow, steep and windy. As per what places to skip – that’s a tough one to answer and it will depend on how much time you have, what your interests are as well as your traveling style and fitness level.

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New zealand north island – 4 day road trip itinerary to explore.

New Zealand North Island or South Island is always a question difficult to answer.

So when we decided on New Zealand for our short holiday last year we had to make the tough choice between North Island and South Island. Even though just a small island nation, the absurd amount of choices that it offers makes it hard to decide.

My husband and I are somewhat like these islands. He and I like to experience different things, yet we both love traveling. Crossing the decision making hurdle when it came to which island of New Zealand was critical for us.

To add to this we just had enough leave for a short holiday. So we called a truce. Let us explore the closer end of the adventure and soak in the culture and geothermal regions of New Zealand North Island.

If the Maori culture, big (as big as it gets in Oceania) urban cities, active volcanoes, bubbling mud pools, geysers that shoot up columns of hot water, hot beaches are what interests you, then look no further book your tickets to Auckland and explore New Zealand’s North Island.

New Zealand North Island Trip

The first hurdle crossed: Decision made. We flew to Auckland on New Zealand’s North Island.

We decide to explore the regions of Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty on our first trip to the Kiwi nation. Our initial plan was to drive from Auckland to Hamilton on towards Taupo and Rotorua, the geothermal areas of New Zealand and then head north towards the Coromandel peninsula to check out the national parks and Hot water beach and return to Auckland.

However to our bad luck when we landed in Auckland in mid-April, only to find most of the north island inundated with the flood.

Tip: Never travel without travel insurance. It is a must, especially if flights are canceled due to weather or mechanical emergencies. The airlines never reimburse and you could be stuck without accommodation or shell out extra on alternate booking.

Hurricane Cook had just battered the region and was continuing to be plentiful along the Bay of Plenty. Adapting to the situation in hand we decided to skip the East coast and just do Auckland and the Geothermal regions of New Zealand.

Read More – New Zealand South Islands Must See Must Do

Tip: Book free cancellation accommodations for added flexibility. In this case, we canceled our bookings for the Coromandel Coast and did not incur any loss.

Auckland-Hamilton-Matamata-Rotorua – A round trip

The round trip is around 500 kilometers and can easily be covered over 3-4 days. Driving through rolling hills and meadows we made our way to Hamilton. Our first evening was at Hamilton, a quaint town 140 kilometers south of Auckland. It is the perfect place to keep a base and explore the geothermal region of New Zealand’s North Island.

Hamilton Gardens

A lovely waterfront, surrounded by a huge botanical garden, this small city is a beautiful blend of urban life with rural charm. The gardens of Hamilton are a treat for kids and adults alike. Showcasing the different styles of gardens that existed in the bygone days to a modern day greenhouse, this was an eye-opener to the world of botany.

Hobbiton @ Matamata

The next day was all about exploring the world of the Hobbits. Driving to Matamata around 70 kilometers from Hamilton we entered the town of Hobbiton. Surprise! Surprise! We are at a sheep farm that unexpectedly fits the description of the fantasy world created by Tolkien. It was the perfect place for Peter Jackson to shoot the film trilogy. Stepping into Hobbiton was a magical experience.

Hobbiton – The Shire homes

From the home facades to gardens, elf clothing to all the professional tools of the hobbits in the movies has been beautifully recreated. Be it Bilbo or Frodo the Shire is a treat to walk around and of course, do spot the fake oak tree atop the hill. Yes, you read right. The oak is not native to the region and the farm did not have one. So they designed and created a metal one with thousands of green metal leaves. We walked past the water mill to the Green Dragon and had some hobbit brewed ginger beer.

  Fake Oaktree created to suit the story

The sheer detailing and hard work that has gone in to creating the Shire and maintaining it in top condition for the 3 movies and the offshoot series is indeed commendable. I loved the experience as I had read the books and my husband loved it because he hadn’t! A definite must do for both fantasy lovers and non-believers.

https://www.hobbitontours.com/en

New Zealand’s Geo Thermal region: Rotorua

Moving on to Rotorua a 2-hour drive from Hamilton we trod into the GeoThermal section of the North Island. Enroute we saw a glimpse of the great Mount Tarawera, which exploded at the end of the 19 th Century causing great devastation in the area. One of New Zealand’s worst earthquake and volcanic eruptions, the event resulted in several villages and towns destroyed.

The pyroclastic flow wiped out the village of Te Wairoa some 6 kilometers away, which today is a Maori/Victorian village preserved for eternity under ash.

The Champagne pool – Wai-O-Tapu

A fault line that extends over 17 kilometers has permanently altered the lakes in the region. This catastrophic event also submerged the 7000-year-old pink and white terrace springs, a natural development of water and silica taking form owing to the warm volcanic water. It is a short steep trek to the top of Mount Tarawera, however, the view apparently is worth the effort. We weren’t very lucky (again) as the rains had made the slopes inaccessible and trekking was adjourned.

A strong smell of sulfur hangs in the air and you can feel the heat and vapors rising from the bowels of the earth a long way before actually arriving at the Wai-o-Tapu. A spectacular display of the earth’s powers, an entire area showcasing active geothermal activity. The first stop is Lady Knox geyser, which apparently runs to a timetable and whooshes out each morning around 10, throwing a column of hot sulfur-infused water. No points for guessing, it is induced to whoosh out by adding soap to the hot bubbling water.

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The rain followed us and it was extremely windy and chilly as we moved deeper into the Thermal Wonderland. A testament to geothermal activity for over thousand years the pools and waterfalls come in different shapes, sizes, colors, hues, strong smells, depths and now I have run out of adjectives to describe them.

Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park

In short, an absolutely stunning display of a uniquely different natural landscape that gives you a chance to look at what goes below the surface. One of the world’s extensive geothermal systems, Wai-o-Tapu is a treat for all those who want to experience the charm of natural beauty in New Zealand North Island. Keep a minimum of 3 hours on hand if you plan to explore the park. If the rate at which we stopped to admire and click pictures, it would definitely take more than that.

The steady drizzling turned in to a complete downpour and we were chilled to our bones. Driving back towards Hamilton, it finally eased up and what lovely rainbows greeted us.

Enroute to Auckland – Check our Raglan on the west coast

The next day dawned bright and sunny. We hit the road early and decided to get to Auckland by mid-afternoon. As it was the last day of the long weekend we were sure of getting stuck in traffic and decided to take a different route than what we had taken on our way to Hamilton.

We took a detour via Raglan and made a pit stop at the Bridal Veil Falls. Raglan is famous for its black sand Ngarunui Beach and a favorite spot with surfers. The Bridal Veil Falls is across the now extinct volcano of Karioi and is a stunning waterfall gushing downs the rock face. Nestled in the ancient rainforests of the region, you can hear the gurgling Pakoka River and the falls from a distance.

A short walk from the car park and what a sight to behold. Rainbows sparking of the fine mist that the waterfall created were the highlight of our detour drive

Heading towards Auckland, we did get stuck in a 7-kilometer traffic jam and crawled our way to our accommodation. A drink and a warm meal had us hitting the bed.

Tip: Driving in in this region is a challenge. For most parts, it is a 2 lane highway. So always keep extra time in hand.

Exploring Auckland – New Zealand’s largest city

Auckland is like any other urban city with a healthy mix of Victorian architecture and new 21 st century amenities sprinkled all over it. New Zealanders are very warm-hearted and charming people and always ready to help.

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Driving first to the Auckland War Memorial Museum we were blessed with great views of the open parklands, city, and the port beyond. There are a ton of touristy things to do in Auckland, the usual museums, buildings, viewpoints and ferry rides to the different islands/ suburbs of the city.

The memorial gave us some interesting insights into the Maori culture. Be it their customs, the ingenuity of creating things from naturally available stuff, beautiful homes and artifacts, it was an enriching experience for us.

Exploring the city by foot is the best way to see and imbibe the culture of the place. So parking our car we did just that. As the weather cooled towards the evening, we headed to the ferry terminal to board a vessel and go across the harbor to Devonport. A short boat ride and you enter one of the older suburbs of the city with fascinating views of the harbor city. The Devonport Hill/Jetty offers some stunning views of the harbor and Auckland from across the water.

Navigating our way back in peak hour traffic we got back to our hotel. Next day was our last day in Auckland and we wanted to get in as much as we could.

Museum of Transport and Technology

It is but natural that a couple likes to do different things, so do we. I headed to the MOTAT (Museum of Transport and Technology) while my husband headed to the Cricket Ground. A big fan of the game he wasn’t very keen on the tram rides and old airplanes. I on the other hand thoroughly enjoyed the old tram ride and the beautiful recreation of Auckland in the 1850s, to the first pump house that provided water and energy to the city. New Zealand’s early settlement history is beautifully captured here. A place both kids and adults can enjoy.

We generally drove around the leafy suburbs of the city and concluded the day by watching the sun go down from atop an extinct volcano – Mount Eden Lookout.

Our short holiday to North Island was coming to an end and I knew, there was so much more left unexplored. I had still not had enough of the rolling hills that bordered the highway. Bidding adieu was tough and by the time the plane took off I was already making a list of places we need to visit next time.

Things you could see or do only in New Zealand North Island

• Drive on 2 lane highways between rolling meadows- a la sound of music style
• Visit active Volcanoes and indulge in some serious mud spa sessions in the area
• Witness the gorgeous colors, shapes, patterns and of course sulphuric fumes from the bowels of the earth – Geothermal at its best
• Maori villages giving you a glimpse of their lives and culture
• Explore hobbit holes and drink mead like one
• Warmer waters to go swimming on the beaches and also world class scuba adventures

Read More – Roadtrip through Scenic Lofoten Islands of Norway

Best time: All year round, the region offers a lot of different things to do. Late summer and autumn (Mid-March–April) is usually cyclone season and can be tricky.

Travel Fashion: Pack layers as the weather can change and get windy and wear comfortable all weather shoes. A nice all-weather jacket/coat would be handy in all seasons.

This is a Guest Post by  Ambika Subramanian     

I am a travel enthusiast with a keen sense of planning and adventure. I have traveled extensively since I was a child with each experience being memorable and truly unique. For me, writing is an avenue to share the thoughts I have within me. Combining my love for travel and writing is something I cherish the most, hence travel blogs. Text, visuals and people get the creative me charged up. Currently based in Sydney, I am planning future explorations.

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Hi Ambika, this is one of the best itineraries I’ve never seen.. I will recommend this for my clients.

True guide to Northern Islands,New Zealand. Very informative especially for those who travel without much research and definite plans. Well done.

After reading this post definitely, I will visit New-Zealand. Nice Post beautiful picture. thanks for the post.

North Island of New Zealand is known for its volcanic activity, national parks, and cosmopolitan cities.

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The Ultimate 2 Week Itinerary - New Zealand North Island Road Trip Guide Via Campervan

We had a blast in New Zealand, and to my surprise, it was a super easy place to travel around in. We booked our trip for the end of November, hoping for good weather and less crowds, as December in New Zealand gets twice as expensive and is much more crowded. I think we picked an amazing time to see the North Island. There were hardly any tourists and the weather, except for a couple of rainy days, was perfection. Our van was fairly inexpensive compared to December prices and we didn't have to book much of anything in advance because there was plenty of space available for activities in November.

The map below is the general driving route we took across the North Island. I have a bunch of holiday parks and DOC sites marked on this map too from when we were planning our trip before we left. I'll go into more detail on what we decided to do.  You can click on the map below to be taken to an interactive google map to explore it further.

I'll break up our trip in the order we traveled. It might be kind of a long post.. 12 days is a lot to cover.

Day 1: Aukland and Clark's Beach

We started our trip flying into the Aukland airport (we spent about $800 USD each on our tickets), and took a taxi to pick up our camper van from Spaceship Rentals . We rented the Beta 2S, with table and chairs, and gps. This cost us around $800 USD for the 12 days of travel. This was going to be where we slept and ate for the next 12 days, as well as our transportation across the North Island. It was already later in the afternoon when we arrived our first day so we didn't end up exploring Aukland, we drove straight to Clarks Beach to check in at the Clarks Beach Holiday Park . However, there are a ton of great things to do in Auckland should you choose to spend some time here on your road trip!

There was almost no one there except for us, and it was a cute relaxing area. We picked up some fresh fruits and veggies from a local market we passed on our way there and some more groceries and beer and the gas station. The lady at the Holiday Park recommended we try Clarks Beach Takeaways for fish and chips and so we took a chance and went there on our first night. It was a small little restaurant and when our order was ready she brought us out our food wrapped in a big paper package. It was the best fish and chips we had our whole trip. Perfectly crispy, perfectly seasoned. We devoured it. We had a chill evening, with a beer, showers, and our first New Zealand sunset. A nice way to ease ourselves into vacation mode.

Day 2: Hobbiton and Froggatt Edge

When we woke up on Day 2, our car battery was dead. Fortunately we found someone at the holiday park who could give us a jump, and then we were off to go to the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour in "The Shire".

We made it there just in time for the day tour we had booked earlier that week. We had really wanted to go to the Hobbiton Evening Tour (where you get to eat hobbit food and walk around Hobbiton in the evening), but it was all booked up when we looked to book earlier November. Apparently it books up pretty fast. The day tour was still cool, but sort of felt like a zoo with all the people that were there, but it ended with a Hobbiton Beer at the Green Dragon, and that was good with us.

After the Hobbiton tour we made our way to a climbing area on our agenda called Froggatt's Edge . When we arrived we checked in with a local climbing shop (just a local who lives there and runs a small shop in his home it seemed like), he sold us the North Island Climbing Guidebook and gave us a list of some of his favorite climbs in the North Island, and then we went to go climb for the rest of the day.

Froggatt's Edge was beautiful, and on the weekday we had the place to ourselves. Located on a local's farm property with the most beautiful pastures ever. It was dreamy. The climbing was rad too. We climbed all sport climbs there and they were pocket and sharp and overhung and slabby. Lots of cool variety.

We got wrecked there and then camped at the Wharepapa School which was only 5NZD/person per night, and it allowed you to camp on some grassy land at the back of the school and use their outdoor facilities.

Day 3: Froggatt's Edge and Waitomo

Day three we spent most of our morning and afternoon doing some more climbing at Froggatt's Edge. Then we headed out for Waitomo to check into the Waitomo Top 10 Holiday Park , where we would be sleeping in our van the next 2 nights. Back home it was Thanksgiving Day, so we went to Curly's Bar in Waitomo and ordered a Thanksgiving feast and shamelessly borrowed their wifi to download the Lord of the Rings Movies and Music. Hobbiton had got us wanting to watch them.

Happy Thanksgiving!

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Day 4: Waitomo

Our van battery died again, and we had to ask some locals to give us a jump again.. and we were starting to think there might be a bigger issue with the battery.

However, it didn't put a stop in our plans that day because we were within walking distance of the company we were going to go caving with that day. We signed up for the 7-Hour Epic Caving Tour with Waitomo Adventures .

It started out with a 100m abseil, which looks more terrifying in the photos that it actually was, but it was an awesome intro into the cave. Once we were in the cave, we waded in and out of water, squeezed through some tight passes, climbed up some rocks until eventually we ended up in a big area where there were a bunch of these beautiful glow worms. Like nothing I've ever seen before. It was like looking up into a cave galaxy. We spent some time there admiring the natural cave lighting and continued our trip out of the cave, and then showered up and had dinner with our group cooked by our guides.

It was a great tour, definitely would recommend doing this or one of the other tours to go check out the glow worms if you ever visit Waitomo.

Day 5: Tongaporutu and Mokau

Our original plan for this day was to hit up Tongaporutu, check out the Sister and Elephant Rocks on the coast, and then head back inwards to Tongariro. However, On our way to Tongaporutu , in the middle of no where road, we pulled over to take a picture of something and then the car wouldn't start again. Battery died. So 30 minutes of roaming calls later ($80USD charge), we were able to get someone out to us to get us a jump, and then were told to hit up New Plymouth for a new battery (since it was out near Tongaporutu). So we made our way to New Plymouth, got some fish-n-chips (but left the car running in fear of it dying again), until we finally got a new battery (covered by the Spaceships Rentals company, they did end up comping us 1 day of our travel and paying for our taxi back to the airport to help cover us missing one day of travel).

After losing a good part of the morning and afternoon, we finally made it out to Sister and Elephant Rocks , with just barely enough time to see them before we had to head back in due to high tide. It was still really beautiful out there though.

We decided to spend the night on the coast in a town called Mokau . It ended up being a really great evening. We walked around this cute little empty town for a while, and we ran into these "pet sheep" in front of one of the locals house. She told us their names, Mary and Dragon, and we made friends with some sheep.

Then we spent some time goofing around on the beach. The waves were intense on the coast, but the lighting and the weather was amazing that day.

We spent the night cooking food, drinking wine, and talking with other travelers at a Holiday Park in Mokau. It ended up being one of my favorite days of the trip, even though our plans were changed.

Day 6: Tongariro

The day we drove up to Tongariro , it was raining basically all day long. We had originally planned to Whanganui National Park and maybe do some paddleing/water rafting, but it was too rainy. We checked into the Tongariro Holiday Park and spent most of our day driving around and trying to see pretty things, but the visibility wan't very good.

However, even the most rainy days in New Zealand were still beautiful. We ended up going to some hot springs for a while and then cooking dinner, doing laundry, and watching Lord of the Rings in our van.

Day 7: Tongariro and Hawkes Bay

We were planning to do the popular Alpine Crossing Trek in Tongariro, which would have taken us a good chunk of the day to complete, but when we woke up it was still pretty bad weather and there were no shuttles running (in order to discourage tourists from doing the Alpine Crossing I'm guessing). We decided to try to hike up to Blue Lake and turn around.

The hike was awesome! We brought ponchos to try and stay dry and lots of layers in our attempts to stay warm. In the end however, the Alpine crossing won and we ended up turning around before we got to the Blue Lakes because the rain turned to ice and the winds made it super cold.

Our hands were frozen and legs soaked. I think we turned around just in time for it to stay fun. :)

We decided to get a leg up on our schedule and drive to Hawkes Bay, which ended up being one of my favorite drives that we did.

When we got to Hawkes Bay we checked into Hastings Top 10 Holiday Park and then headed to Mata Peak for a bit of hiking and Hawkes Bay views. Going at sunset was so worth it.

Day 8: Hawkes Bay

We decided to rent a couple of bikes from our holiday park and go ride around Hawkes Bay to do some Wine Tasting. We made it to 3 awesome winery's and shoved some bottles in our backpacks for later. 

After riding around we went to go find a beach to hang out and read and relax out, and we went in search of more fish and chips. The wind was crazy at the beach though, and we kept getting blasted with sand, so that didn't last long. The fish and chips were on point though.

Day 9: Taupo

We slept in and made our way to Lake Taupo and checked in to Lake Taupo Top 10 Holiday Park. We decided to go to the lake and rent some Kayaks and go check out the Mauri Rock Carvings.

It took us a  little over an hour to make it to the carvings, which were super epic looking, like something out of an Indiana Jones Movie. We did found out later that the carvings were only 30 years old, but they were still cool. We were pretty exhausted after the kayaking, so we drove over to see Huka Falls and walk around town a bit.

We ended the night at the Holiday park, soaking in the hot tub and making dinner and chatting with fellow travelers. 

Day 10: Kawakawa Bay and Rotorua

We had our sights set on more climbing, and decided to hit up Kawakawa bay and climb some classics before hitting up Rotorua. In our guidebook we read that the approach was 2 hours long, but I guess we were feeling pretty confident we could probably trim that down to an hour/hour and a half. 

Well, when we got down closer to the climbing area, it was around an hour 45, but then we got confused by the directions in the guidebook and totally got lost and ended up bush whacking (through spider webs and up steep hills) for another hour or so.... until, 3 hours later we finally found the specific multi pitch climb we were looking for. Ha! 

The views were fantastic though! The one multi pitch climb we did was cool, but had a bunch of spiderwebs all over it, and then we had wasted so much time trying to find the climbing, we had to leave soon after to do the approach hike back. I didn't have a lot left in me either after all the spider webs. We realized when we got back that we hiked a half marathon pretty much with over 3000' of gain.

So on our way to Rotorua,not even barely outside of Taupo we get a flat tire. AND right when we get that flat tire a rain cloud plopped itself right on top of us! Michael was a champ though and busted out some man skills and fixed the flat with the spare and we made it to Rotorua in time to check out the Thursday Night Market and get some well earned treats.

Day 11: Rotorua

There were so many things to do in Rotorua, but we only really had a day here, so in the morning we went to go check out the California red wood trees in New Zealand. We got to walk around high up in the trees. :)

Then we spent the second half of our day renting mountain bikes and shredding inWhakarewarewa Forest Mountain Bike Park. Michael says it was some of the best riding he's ever done. It was awesome!

We ended the day checking out hamurana springs, getting thai food, and drinking beers. We were staying at the Rotorua Top 10 Holiday Park, which has some natural hot springs hot tubs. We sat in these for a while and talked with a bunch of people at the holiday park before calling it a night.

Day 12: Coromandel

For our last day, we headed up North to Coromandel, and checked into the Hot Water Beach Holiday Park. We went to grab some fish-n-chips for lunch and then hike to Cathedral Cove (a good hour out and back hike).

We were definitely in beach vibes… trying to hang onto our last day of vacation.

We decided to go check out hot water beach after our hike to Cathedral Cove. There are a few spots of the beach you can dig down deep with shovels and create natural hot springs for yourself on the beach. However, the area where the thermal activity is, is very small, and when we got to the beach it was PACKED! So we dipped our toes into other peoples baths to feel what it was like and just messed around on the non-thermal parts of the beach.

We ended our evening trying to drink all the alcohol we still had left (4 beers and a bottle of wine), packed our stuff, and finished the Lord of the Rings movie in the van.

Birds of New Zealand

I think Michael has a talent for bird watching in his future. He captured these beauties while on our trip across the North Island.

It was sad to leave New Zealand. We really enjoyed our vacation there and we really enjoyed the van life. I love how simple things can feel on vacation. Sleep in, get a coffee, go wreck yourself climbing or mountain biking, and then come back cook a good dinner and drink some wine and watch a movie. No schedules, beautiful scenery, minimal crowds. It was awesome. We can’t wait to go back and see the South Island… Maybe in 2018.

I also made a home video on youtube about our trip. You can check it out here:

A few key notes and special things we learned on our trip to New Zealand

If you get a rental van, make sure your battery is in good condition! and make sure you have the tools to change a spare tire. Also, it might be worth investing in an international phone plan in case you have car issues. Also, rent a gps.

Drive on the left hand side of the road, and be prepared to take round-a-bouts everywhere

Be prepared to see sheep.. everywhere! learn to love them :)

Order Flat Whites when you get coffee

Fish and Chips (Clarks Beach Takeaways were our favorite fish and chips of the whole trip)

Van camping is only allowed at holiday parks or DOC sites, don't pull off on the side of the road anywhere

Download the Lord of the Rings movies PRIOR to arriving in New Zealand, because the free wifi is not very good in most places

DO check like 4 months ahead of time to book an evening tour at Hobbiton, if you're into that kind of thing.

DO go caving in Waitomo

Bring 2 towels... we only brought one.

I really hope you get a chance to experience everything that New Zealand has to offer! It has been one of my favorite trips we have ever taken!

Allison - She Dreams of Alpine

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Top 5 Scenic Road Trips from Auckland for a Perfect Weekend Getaway

• fastrackseo
• May 27, 2024

Are you ready to swap the city hustle for breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable adventures? Auckland, surrounded by stunning destinations, is the perfect launchpad for scenic road trips loaded with new experiences, gourmet delights, and relaxation. Here are the top five self-driving tours from Auckland, each offering unique attractions within a few hours’ drive.

And remember, if you’re looking for a cosy home away from home at any of these locations, book your stay with Bachcare now .

Coromandel Peninsula: Nature’s Playground

Driving Time: 2.5 hours from Auckland

Cathedral Cove

When planning a road trip itinerary from Auckland, The Coromandel Peninsula provides the ultimate weekend escape for nature lovers. Start at Cathedral Cove , where you can walk or kayak amongst the stunning scenery – and don’t forget to dig your own hot pool at Hot Water Beach . Next, hit the trails in Coromandel Forest Park , where lush forests and hidden waterfalls provide epic views. It’s perfect for casual hikers and serious trekkers. If fishing is more your style, the 400 kilometres of coastline spanning Mercury Bay, Mercury Islands, Castle Rock, Colville, and Fletchers Bay offer some of New Zealand’s best fishing spots. Then, it’s only a matter of returning to your Coromandel home to prepare your catch of the day

Rotorua: A Geothermal Wonderland

Driving Time: 3 hours from Auckland

Rotorua Rafting Self-driving tours from Auckland hit their peak with Rotorua, offering geothermal wonders and thrilling adventures. Explore geysers, hot springs, and mud pools at Te Puia and Wai-O-Tapu , followed by a visit to Mitai Maori Village to immerse yourself in Maori culture with traditional performances and hangi feasts. Thrill-seekers can roll downhill in giant inflatable spheres (yes, we’re talking about zorbing Rotorua ) or tackle over 200 kilometres of mountain bike trails in the Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest with Mountain Bike Rotorua . For those who prefer water over land, Rotorua Rafting will take your heart rate to the next level on the Kaituna River, home to the

Bay of Islands: Marine Paradise

Driving Time: 3.5 hours from Auckland

Bay of Islands

Making plans to hit the bitumen on a driving itinerary from Auckland? Drop your pin on the Bay of Islands, a marine paradise loaded with rich history. Begin by visiting the historical towns of Russell and Waitangi for a fascinating lesson into New Zealand’s past. But the real magic happens when you hop aboard a Bay of Islands boat tour and sail the Bay’s 144 islands, where spotting dolphins is practically guaranteed. And for those with an adventurous streak, plunge into the crystal-clear waters for some serious snorkelling and diving experiences . Explore vibrant coral reefs with exotic marine life, or uncover the secrets of ancient shipwrecks. When the sun drops, relax and unwind in the comfort of your Bay of Islands home .

Matakana Coast: A Gourmet Getaway

Driving Time: 1 hour from Auckland

Matakana Estate

Cruise over to the Matakana Coast, the perfect destination for food and wine enthusiasts with a dash of natural beauty. Warm up the taste buds with wine tasting at vineyards, like Matakana Estate , scattered across the coast. Then, fill your soul (and baskets) at the Matakana Farmers Market , a Saturday morning event featuring fresh local produce and artisanal treats. Of course, there are plenty of scenic coastal walks to work off the morning’s feast, ranging from pristine beaches to rugged coastline hues. Whether you’re a foodie, wine lover, or simply chasing a relaxing escape, the Matakana Coast promises one of the best Auckland road trip itineraries that you’ll never forget.

Waitomo Caves: Underground Adventures

Waitomo Caves Ready to hit the road from Auckland? Pop your seatbelt on and type ‘ Waitomo Caves ’ into your GPS. Then swap your car for a guided boat cruise, where you can marvel at the glowworm displays deep within the caves. But the adventure doesn’t stop there! Gear up for the ultimate thrill 80 metres below ground with black water rafting , navigating subterranean rivers and waterfalls as you journey through the caves’ hidden depths. And don’t forget to take some time to admire the breathtaking limestone formations and underground wonders that make Waitomo Caves a truly unique destination.

Plan Your Auckland Getaway with Bachcare

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these scenic road trips from Auckland offer something for everyone. Make your weekend getaway even more special by booking your stay with Bachcare and enjoying the comfort of a home away from home in some of the most beautiful destinations around Auckland.

Book your perfect weekend getaway home with Bachcare today!

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Wild Kiwi Tours

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Wild Kiwi Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Flying from melbourne to Samoa with a 1 hour layover in Aukland- is this enough time?

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Find all the best 4 week adventures heading to New Zealand North Island, stopping at places like Wellington and Auckland. There are 5 trips that go to New Zealand North Island, with the most popular time to go being October, which has the most number of tours.

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Moving from Auckland to Wanaka

If you’ve been thinking of swapping the busy city lifestyle for a more laid back alternative, then moving from Auckland to Wanaka might be for you. Trading the north island business hub for the south island resort town has been a popular choice among both Kiwis and foreigners in recent years. As work from home and remote working opportunities have become the norm, many city-dwellers are choosing to move towards places with a small town feel, and Wanaka is one such place.

But what can you expect when moving from north island to south island ? And how can you prepare for the change? Here at Allied moving services , we can answer those questions, and help get you from Auckland to Wanaka, ready to begin your next chapter.

Why Choose Wanaka?

Auckland may have the hustle and bustle that some people crave in a city, but if you find yourself feeling more at home in nature, then Wanaka has a lot to offer. Here are some of the factors that set these locations apart:

Living in Auckland, you’re probably used to high-rise buildings, a busy city, and jam-packed rush hours. With a population that’s just shy of 1.7 million, that doesn't come as a surprise. Wanaka is home to just 12.5 thousand people, and while this is more than double what it was a decade ago, it has still retained an idyllic sense of hometown warmth. Known for its bohemian atmosphere and abundance of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, the population growth makes sense, and has been addressed with increased housing developments.

Adventurous opportunities

Spread over a breathtaking landscape covering almost 30 square kilometres, Wanaka offers its inhabitants countless opportunities to enjoy a life lived outdoors. The town is a gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park - 3,500 kilometres of open land where keen adventurers can explore the southern Alps, glaciers, and fiordlands of the south island.

Wanaka itself has two ski fields for winter days, which double for unbeatable hiking during the summer months.

Further afield

When you’ve made the move from Auckland, there’s more than just Wanaka to explore! With Queenstown just over the hill, you’ll have a handy spot within driving distance for shopping and a day out, as well as airport access. For more relaxed days off, Central Otago and wine country are less than an hours’ drive. Owing to this, you’ll be on the doorstep of wineries where you can sip some of New Zealand’s finest pinot noir.

Small town culture

The town may have doubled in size in recent years, but the welcoming atmosphere and close-knit community feel is as strong as ever throughout this peaceful locale. In cities like Auckland, it’s common to not even know your neighbour, but moving to Wanaka, you can make a family out of the town. Low crime rates also lend to a safe living environment.

Good to Know

Now that you know some of the best things to expect from life in Wanaka, it’s time to prepare for the more practical elements of the move.

Home sweet home

As the population in Wanaka has gone up, so too have the housing prices. Today, the median sale price in the town sits at around $1.4 million, compared to $1 million in Auckland. Some popular spots to live in the region include Wanaka Town, Lake Hawea, and Cardrona, giving dwellers access to hiking trails, ski areas, and stunning views throughout the changing seasons.

Getting around

If you’ve become accustomed to Auckland’s buses, trains, and ferries, then Wanaka’s public transport system may take some time to adjust to. The town has just a shuttle bus to bring people around, so owning a car is likely to be more useful here than in the city. With Queenstown airport situated within driving distance, you’ll be well connected with many other destinations across New Zealand and Australia.

How to move inter-island

Relocating between islands is trickier than local moves as you and your belongings need to cross the Cook Strait. If organising ferries and van rentals is a bit much for you, then inter-island moving company Allied is here to help. Our services don’t just cover the task of moving items from A to B. Our team will help with everything from assessing, packing, and loading, to delivery and unpacking so you can start to settle in as soon as you arrive.

Contact Allied

Hail storm batters Auckland, strong winds and thunderstorms to continue

A fast-moving thunderstorm that sparked a call for Aucklanders to shelter indoors has now passed - but forecasters are warning the danger isn't over yet.

The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) shared a map of Auckland, speckled with lightning strike locations.

NIWA said showers and thunderstorms over the region were moving to the north-east.

But it added: "Some may have damaging wind and hail. Threat for damaging wind will increase from about mid-afternoon."

MetService earlier said the weather system was moving quickly northeastwards over Wellsford, the Hauraki Gulf, and northern Coromandel, and heading towards Great Barrier Island.

Six orange and six yellow weather warnings/watches remain over the country, but the earlier red warning has been reduced.

The weather agency still has a severe thunderstorm watch in place for Auckland and Great Barrier Island, the Coromandel Peninsula and Waikato.

"Squally showers embedded in a very strong southwest flow are expected across Auckland, and western parts of Waikato and Coromandel Peninsula during Wednesday afternoon and early evening," MetService said.  

"There is a moderate risk of severe thunderstorms during this time, with localised damaging wind gusts in excess of 110 km/h. Wind gusts of this strength can cause some structural damage, including trees and power lines, and may make driving hazardous." 

Story contintues after live blog.

An earlier severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Rodney, Gulf, Thames Coromandel, Kaipara, Auckland City, Waikato, Hauraki, Waitakere, Franklin and Albany.

"At 09:30am, MetService weather radar detected a line of severe thunderstorms lying from offshore Kaipara West Coat to offshore Auckland west coast to Mercer. This line of severe thunderstorms is moving towards the northeast, and is expected to lie from offshore Kaipara west coast to Kaukapakapa to Firth of Thames at 10:00 am and from Tokatoka to Leigh to Matarangi at 10:30am" Metservice warned.

"These thunderstorms are expected to be accompanied by damaging wind gusts."

The National Emergency Management Agency advises that as storms approach you should:

• Take shelter, preferably indoors away from windows
• Avoid sheltering under trees, if outside
• Get back to land, if outdoors on the water
• Move cars under cover or away from trees
• Secure any loose objects around your property
• Check that drains and gutters are clear
• Be ready to slow down or stop, if driving
• During and after the storm, you should also:
• Beware of fallen trees and power lines
• Avoid streams and drains as you may be swept away in flash flooding

A strong wind warning was also issued for Auckland and Great Barrier Island, with severe gusts up to 120km/h forecast for exposed places. 

"Strong wind gusts could damage trees, powerlines and unsecured structures. Driving may be hazardous, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles," MetService warned. 

Meanwhile, there's also a strong wind watch in place for Northland, from Dargaville and Whangārei southwards, as well as Coromandel Peninsula and the Kaimai Range. 

In the central North Island, there's a road snowfall warning for Desert Road (SH1). 

"Rain may briefly turn to snow about the summit Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning, and up to 1 cm of snow could accumulate," MetService forecast. 

A road snowfall warning is also in place for the South Island's Lindis Pass (SH8), Crown Range Rd and Milford Rd (SH94), with up to 4cm of snow expected in Milford. 

And mimicking the north, it'll be windy for the bottom of the south on Wednesday, with strong wind watches in place for Coastal parts of Dunedin and Clutha, from the Otago Peninsula southwards, as well as Stewart Island and coastal parts of Southland. 

MetService said people should expect severe gales in exposed areas. 

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Homes flooded in Auckland as rain lashes North Island

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Torrential rain and thunderstorms overnight in Auckland have seen fire crews called to 71 flooded or weather-damaged homes.

Up to 100mm of rain fell in places between 9pm and 11pm on Monday, MetService said.

Homes were flooded in the east and south of Auckland, including water pouring through ceilings, Fire and Emergency New Zealand (Fenz) said. It said it received calls mostly from Kohimarama and St Heliers.

📡 How is the rain moving? 💦 Heavy rain affected the upper North Island last night, where several stations recorded over 100mm of rain in 12 hours and some areas experienced flooding. ⛈ A line of thunderstorms is moving eastwards across the Bay of Plenty this morning, causing… pic.twitter.com/nAgIzjDbEp — MetService (@MetService) May 20, 2024

Between 11pm and 2am, fire services responded to about 47 calls to flooding in people's residences, Fenz group manager Phil Larcombe told Morning Report.

He said they did not respond to another 15 calls relating to road flooding which was "prioritised as a lower tier".

Additionally, 28 private fire alarms went off in the time frame, he said.

"So around about 90 calls in that out three-hour window. The troops were really busy last night."

Meteorologist John Law this morning told RNZ that wet weather was now feeding through to the western Bay of Plenty.

"It is a prolonged event.

"We've got some heavy rainfall in places like Hawke's Bay from today, right through to Wednesday - 150mm to 200mm of rainfall possible there.

"But the low-pressure system that brought those thunderstorms continues, this wet weather is lingering with us even through towards the end of the week."

Civil Defence is warning motorists in the Bay of Plenty to take care.

Heavy rain has caused surface flooding and debris on some roads near Rotorua.

A severe thunderstorm watch is in place for Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Rotorua, Taupō and Gisborne till noon.

MetService meteorologist Dom Barry earlier said the system was a "Tasman Sea Special". 

"A complex low-pressure system - a 'Tasman Sea Special' - is currently approaching Aotearoa/New Zealand, with an extended band of rain already affecting parts of Northland,"

"As the low moves southeastwards across the motu, we can expect areas such as Marlborough and Northern Canterbury to encounter some wet weather from Tuesday, with the rain mainly remaining in the eastern North Island."

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Flying from melbourne to Samoa with a 1 hour layover in Aukland- is this enough time?

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