Harbour cities, subtropical coastline, geothermal landscapes and Hawke’s Bay wine country feature throughout this 10-day North Island self-drive holiday. The route begins in Auckland before travelling north to the Bay of Islands, then south through Rotorua and Napier to Wellington.
Nine nights of accommodation and 10 days of compact car hire are included, together with a Hole in the Rock cruise, Hobbiton Movie Set tour, a two-hour Wai Ariki restorative experience and a guided Hawke’s Bay city and wine tour. The itinerary balances included activities with free time for independent sightseeing along the way.
Flexible Itineraries: Customise your itinerary or combine it with other tours. Please specify any amendments when requesting a quote.
Code: NZB26NZNI
"Haere Mai" – welcome to New Zealand’s North Island! Your rental car will be ready for you to hit the road straight away. Start your journey with a visit to the Sky Tower, where panoramic views from 220 metres above the city offer a stunning introduction to Auckland. For a memorable dining experience, consider enjoying a meal at the rotating Orbit Restaurant.
Stay 1 night Auckland
The drive north leads towards Paihia and the Bay of Islands. Coastal scenery and historic towns can be included along the route, depending on your preferred pace.
Stay 2 nights Paihia
A scenic cruise travels through the Bay of Islands towards Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock. Passage through the rock formation depends on sea conditions.
Included: Hole in the Rock Cruise
The return drive to Auckland can include optional stops around Whangārei, Matakana or the Hibiscus Coast.
Stay 1 night Auckland
The route south includes a 2.5-hour guided visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata. Film locations, Hobbit Holes and the Green Dragon Inn form part of the included experience before continuing to Rotorua.
Included: Hobbiton Movie Set
Stay 2 nights Rotorua
A two-hour restorative journey at Wai Ariki provides time among geothermal pools and wellness spaces influenced by Māori healing traditions.
The remainder of the day is free for Rotorua sightseeing.
Included: 2 Hour Restorative Journey at Wai Ariki Hot Springs
Forested ranges and rural landscapes lead towards Hawke’s Bay. Napier’s Art Deco streets, waterfront and local restaurants provide several options after arrival.
Stay 2 nights Napier
A guided tour combines Napier sightseeing with Hawke’s Bay vineyards and wine tasting. The experience includes city heritage, panoramic viewpoints and time among the region’s wine-growing landscapes.
Included: Hawke’s Bay City and Wine Tour
The southbound route travels through the lower North Island towards Wellington. Time permitting, the capital’s waterfront, laneways and cultural attractions can be visited after arrival.
Stay 1 night Wellington
Spend today exploring Wellington until you have to say farewell as you return your rental vehicle to Wellington Airport before boarding your onward flight or return flight home.
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.
Yes, you can customise your accommodation to suit your preferences and budget. Our Christchurch self-drive holidays typically include pre-arranged accommodation, ranging from comfortable hotels and motels to boutique lodges and luxury properties. You can request accommodation upgrades or alternative properties, subject to availability and any additional costs.
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.
Travel insurance is typically not included in self-drive packages, so it is essential to purchase comprehensive travel insurance separately. Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen events that may occur during your self-drive holiday.
All-inclusive insurance can also be added to your rental car if you book your self-drive package with us.
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.
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