An Easy Way to Explore Aotearoa
New to New Zealand? A road trip is one of the best ways to take it all in. The country’s well-kept roads, low traffic outside of major cities, and wildly varied scenery make it ideal for independent travel.
For first-time visitors, it can be tricky knowing which routes are realistic — especially if you're unsure how far you can comfortably travel in a day. The following road trip ideas are well-suited for shorter drives, a range of interests, and a variety of trip lengths. Many of these align with popular North Island and South Island itineraries often used as a starting point for planning.
Top 5 Road Trips for First-Time Travellers
1. Auckland to Wellington: North Island Highlights
Good for: Geothermal wonders, Māori culture, and scenic greenery
Trip length: 7–9 days
This route links New Zealand’s largest city to its capital via central highlights such as:
- Rotorua – a hub for geothermal activity and cultural experiences
- Taupō – home to the country’s largest lake and lakeside walks
- Tongariro National Park – volcanic landscapes and short alpine hikes
2. Wellington to Auckland: Wine, Culture & Nature
Good for: Food lovers, wine tasting, and countryside drives
Trip length: 7–10 days
Travelling north (or south), this route follows the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail through:
- Martinborough and Hawke’s Bay – well-known for Pinot Noir and architecture
- Napier – art deco buildings and seaside vibes
- Rotorua and Taupō – for thermal pools and native bush walks
Drive along some of New Zealand's most breathtaking roads. Our packages are fully customisable and can be tailored according to your preferences.
3. Christchurch to Christchurch: South Island Loop
Good for: A full-circle trip with minimal backtracking
Trip length: 10–14 days
A popular circuit that covers:
- Lake Tekapo and Aoraki/Mount Cook – dark skies and alpine scenery
- Queenstown – outdoor adventures and local dining
- West Coast – rainforests, glaciers, and rugged coastlines
- Arthur’s Pass – alpine roads and mountain views
4. Queenstown to Christchurch: One-Way Scenic Route
Good for: Travellers short on time who want South Island variety
Trip length: 7–10 days
This route can go:
- Through Central Otago and lakes like Wanaka
- Or along the West Coast past Franz Josef and Hokitika
5. Auckland to Queenstown: Full-Length Journey
Good for: Travellers wanting to experience both islands
Trip length: 14–21 days
This cross-country trip starts in Auckland and continues through:
- Rotorua and Lake Taupō
- Wellington and the Interislander ferry
- Kaikōura, Tekapo, and finally Queenstown
Before You Start the Engine
Driving Tips
- Keep left! New Zealanders drive on the left-hand side
- Many rural and alpine roads are narrow or winding
- Plan for 3–4 hours of driving per day for a more relaxed pace
Seasonal Conditions
- Weather can vary wildly between regions
- In winter, some alpine routes may require snow chains or detours
New Zealand Self-Drive Holidays
With smooth highways, dramatic landscapes, and endless photo stops, there's no better way to see the country than by car.
Need Help Planning?
It’s one thing to pick a route – but figuring out travel times, booking the right accommodation, and finding activities that suit your pace is another matter. That’s where custom self drive itineraries come in handy. You tell us how long you’ve got and what kind of experiences you’re after, and we’ll put together a flexible plan that includes everything you need – with local support while you’re travelling.