10 Day North Island Self Drive Holidays

Our self-drive packages are based on hybrid rental vehicles, with electric or petrol vehicles available if preferred, subject to availability. Tell us your passenger numbers, luggage requirements and vehicle preference when enquiring. For example, the 10 Day Southern Sojourn Self Drive includes an intermediate rental car, with upgrades available. Your quote will confirm the vehicle category, fuel type and collection and return arrangements.

Yes. Christchurch return self-drive tours can be customised to suit your travel plans. You can extend your holiday, add extra nights in selected destinations or adjust your route to include additional South Island attractions.

For travellers wanting to explore both islands, our Christchurch to Auckland Self Drive Tours offer alternative itineraries travelling north.

You can also browse our Christchurch self-drive holidays for more itinerary ideas.

Yes, most rental car companies allow additional drivers to be included in the rental agreement, although fees and conditions vary between providers.

All drivers must meet the rental company's age and driving licence requirements and be registered on the rental agreement before driving.

Popular northern routes connect Auckland with the Bay of Islands, Waipoua Forest, the Coromandel Peninsula and Waitomo. These itineraries combine beaches, maritime history, ancient forests, caves and smaller coastal communities, often returning to Auckland at the end of the journey.

Central and southern routes travel through destinations such as Hobbiton, Rotorua, Lake Taupō, Tongariro National Park, Napier, Hawke’s Bay and Wellington. Depending on the route, you can experience geothermal attractions, Māori culture, volcanic landscapes, wineries, wildlife encounters and city sightseeing.

Most North Island itineraries are planned around driving periods of approximately 2 to 4 hours on travelling days. Routes through rural areas, coastal regions and volcanic landscapes can take longer than the distance may suggest, so itineraries allow time for rest stops, viewpoints and attractions along the way.

Some longer sectors may involve 4 to 5 hours behind the wheel, particularly when travelling between major regions. Multi-night stays in places such as Rotorua, Taupō, Napier, the Bay of Islands or Wellington help balance these travel days with time to explore without packing and driving every morning.

You may not need one. You can drive with a current, valid overseas licence if it is in English. If your licence is not in English, you must also carry an approved English translation or an international driving permit, together with your physical licence. Australian licences issued in English are accepted. Check NZTA’s overseas-driver requirements and your rental company’s rules before travelling. Also, see driving in New Zealand.