Auckland to Auckland Self Drive Tours
New Zealand’s biggest city and main gateway, Auckland is ideal for Auckland self drive tours, as it is close to the main North Island attractions. The sub tropical Bay of Islands to the north is popular for its beaches, water activities, Maori culture and history. A short drive south of Auckland are Waitomo with its network of caves, sinkholes and undergound rivers; geothermal attractions of Rotorua and Taupo; as well as the beautiful bays and beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula. For Lord of the Rings fans, a visit to Hobbiton is a highlight. The drive around Lake Taupo to Tongariro National Park is spectacular.
From Rotorua or the Coromandel drive east to the Bay of Plenty and take a tour out to White Island, New Zealand’s only active volcano. On the East Coast discover Gisborne with its superb food, wine and surf beaches. With long sunny days it is always summer in Hawkes Bay, New Zealand’s largest wine growing region. Jump on a bike and explore the cycle trails, taste the food and wine, or visit a Gannet sanctuary on a 4WD trip.
Sitting at the bottom of the North Island is Wellington New Zealand’s capital. Wander down Cuba street with its many artists, shops, cafes and restaurants; visit Weta Caves on a Lord of the Rings Tour; browse the exhibits in Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum; take a cable car ride to the botanic gardens; or visit Zealandia and Karori Wildlife Park, an eco-sanctuary in the heart of Wellington.
Over on the west coast the drive north to the historic city of Whanganui (also spelt as Wanganui). Take a paddle steamer cruise on Whanganui River, or visit the Bridge to Nowhere. Driving further north the scenery is dominated by stunning Mount Taranaki. Whilst there stop at New Plymouth and take a stroll in some of the magnificent parks and gardens. During spring they are a riot of colour and renowned world-wide for their rhododendrons.
Amendments
Our Auckland self-drive itineraries are fully flexible, so they can be amended or combined with other itineraries. So if you have any changes or special requests, just put a note in the booking/enquiry form.
Airfares
International flights can be included from Australia for all Australian residents.
