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A 14 day North Island self drive holiday offers time to explore New Zealand's diverse landscapes, cultural attractions and coastal destinations. Depending on the itinerary, highlights may include Auckland, the Bay of Islands, Waitomo Caves, Rotorua, Lake Taupō, Tongariro National Park, Hawke's Bay and Wellington. Compare self-drive packages from 12 to 14 days, with accommodation, rental cars and sightseeing options varying by itinerary.

Explore New Zealand's North Island at Your Own Pace

Two weeks gives you the flexibility to discover the North Island's remarkable variety of landscapes and attractions. Explore the beautiful beaches and historic towns of the Bay of Islands, visit the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, cruise across Lake Taupō or experience the volcanic scenery of Tongariro National Park. Depending on your chosen route, you can also discover the vineyards of Hawke's Bay and the museums, restaurants and waterfront attractions of Wellington.

A 14-day self-drive holiday allows time for sightseeing, scenic detours and longer stays in selected destinations. Visit Hobbiton Movie Set near Matamata, explore the underground world of Waitomo Caves or enjoy a Māori cultural experience in Rotorua. With accommodation and rental car arrangements organised as part of your chosen package, you can concentrate on enjoying the journey.

Compare 12 to 14 Day North Island Self Drive Holidays

Each North Island self-drive package offers a different combination of destinations, experiences and travel styles. Compare the three itineraries below to find the holiday that best suits your interests, available time and preferred way of travelling.

Self Drive HolidayDurationStart/FinishBest For
12 Day Northern Explorer Family Adventure12 daysAuckland/AucklandFamilies seeking a combination of sightseeing, outdoor activities and memorable experiences.
13 Day North Island Highlights with Northern Explorer13 daysAuckland/AucklandTravellers wanting to combine a scenic rail journey with North Island sightseeing and self-driving.
14 Day North Island Discovery14 daysAuckland/WellingtonTravellers wanting a more extensive North Island road trip with time to explore different regions.

Discover More of the North Island in 14 Days

A two-week North Island road trip provides opportunities to explore destinations beyond the main sightseeing routes. Depending on your itinerary, you could visit the Coromandel Peninsula for its beaches and coastal scenery, discover the historic settlements of Northland or explore the vineyards and Art Deco architecture of Napier. These destinations add variety to your holiday and offer a different perspective on New Zealand's landscapes and regional character.

Your North Island self-drive holiday can be adjusted to include additional nights in selected destinations, alternative accommodation or extra sightseeing experiences. Spend longer exploring Rotorua's geothermal attractions, the beaches of the Bay of Islands or the restaurants and waterfront of Wellington. If you prefer a different route, compare our North Island Self Drive Holidays for more itinerary options.

What rental vehicles are available for North Island self-drive holidays?

Our North Island self-drive packages are based on hybrid rental vehicles, combining petrol and electric power. Fully electric vehicles (EVs) and conventional petrol vehicles are also available if preferred, subject to availability.

Vehicle selection depends on passenger numbers, luggage requirements and your chosen itinerary. Different vehicle categories can be arranged to suit your travel needs and preferences.

Frequently asked questions

Yes. Additional nights can be arranged in destinations such as Auckland, Rotorua, Taupō or Wellington, depending on your itinerary. You can also shorten or extend your holiday to suit your available travel dates. Explore our North Island Self Drive Holidays for alternative routes and durations.

Yes. The 13 Day North Island Highlights Self Drive with Northern Explorer combines independent driving with travel aboard the Northern Explorer scenic train. This provides an alternative way to experience parts of the North Island. See the 13 Day North Island Highlights Self Drive with Northern Explorer in the tour listings for itinerary details.

Yes. Additional Māori cultural experiences can be arranged in destinations such as Rotorua, subject to availability and your itinerary. Options include cultural performances, traditional food experiences and visits to geothermal attractions. Browse our Rotorua Tours and Activities or contact Go New Zealand to discuss suitable additions.

Yes. Self-drive packages provide pre-arranged accommodation and rental vehicles, allowing first-time visitors to travel independently while following a planned itinerary. Driving distances and overnight stops vary between packages. Compare our 10 Day North Island Self Drive Holidays if you have less time available.

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