14 Day North Island Discovery Self Drive

Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, where vibrant waterfronts and coastal scenery set the tone for your journey. Take some time to settle in and enjoy a relaxed introduction to Aotearoa.

Inclusions – Private Airport Transfer
You’ll be met on arrival and transferred directly to your central Auckland accommodation. This ensures a smooth and stress-free start to your North Island experience.

Today is yours to discover Auckland, a city surrounded by harbours, islands and volcanic landscapes. From cultural attractions to scenic viewpoints, there’s plenty to explore at your own pace.

Inclusions – Return Ferry to Tiritiri Matangi Island and Guided Walk
Take a scenic ferry ride from Auckland to Tiritiri Matangi Island, a remarkable open sanctuary in the Hauraki Gulf where native forest has been restored and endangered wildlife thrives. Enjoy a guided walk with expert insight into the island’s conservation story, followed by free time to explore its walking tracks and spot rare birds in a protected natural setting.

Collect your rental car and begin your scenic journey to the Coromandel Peninsula. The drive offers a mix of farmland, coastal views and charming small towns along the way.

Inclusions – Rental Car Hire
Your vehicle provides the flexibility to explore the North Island at your own pace. Travel comfortably with the freedom to stop and enjoy the scenery whenever you like.

Suggested Activity – The Lost Spring
Relax in natural geothermal pools surrounded by lush native gardens in the heart of Whitianga. This peaceful retreat is perfect for unwinding after your scenic drive.

Spend the day discovering the Coromandel’s stunning coastline and marine life. This region is known for its natural beauty and crystal-clear waters.

Inclusions – Glass Bottom Boat Cruise
Explore Cathedral Cove and the surrounding marine reserve from the water. View marine life through the glass bottom for a unique experience.

Travel south through scenic countryside and coastal landscapes towards Tauranga. The drive is relaxed and rewarding, with plenty of opportunities to stop along the way.

Suggested Activity – Hot Water Beach Stop
Visit this unique beach where you can dig your own natural hot pool in the sand. It’s a fun and memorable stop along the Coromandel coast.

Drive inland to Rotorua, a region known for its geothermal activity and strong Māori cultural heritage. The landscape changes to forests, lakes and volcanic terrain as you travel.

Inclusions – Te Pō Māori Indigenous Evening Experience
Enjoy an evening of traditional Māori performance and a delicious hāngī dinner. This immersive experience provides a meaningful insight into local culture and traditions.

Today is yours to discover more of Rotorua, a region famous for its geothermal activity, forest landscapes and strong Māori cultural heritage. Whether you’re after relaxation or light adventure, there are plenty of ways to shape your day.

Suggested Activity – Redwoods Treewalk
Walk high among towering redwoods on a network of suspended bridges and platforms. This unique experience offers a peaceful forest perspective both during the day and when illuminated at night.

Suggested Activity – Explore the Lakes Tour
Discover Rotorua’s beautiful lake district on a scenic half day tour featuring Hamurana Springs, the Kaituna River, waterfalls and views of the Blue and Green Lakes. It’s a great way to see a quieter and more scenic side of the region.

Suggested Activity – Hells Gate Mud Bath and Sulphur Spa
Relax with a rejuvenating mud bath followed by a soak in natural sulphur pools at Hells Gate. This geothermal wellness experience is both soothing and uniquely Rotorua.

Travel through volcanic landscapes towards Taupō, with scenic stops along the way. The journey highlights the region’s geothermal activity.

Inclusions – Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Explore colourful geothermal features including geysers and mud pools. This is one of the most striking natural attractions in New Zealand.

Suggested Activity – Huka Falls Jet Boat Ride
Add a burst of excitement to your Taupō visit with a thrilling jet boat ride along the Waikato River. The experience ends near the powerful Huka Falls, where you can enjoy an incredible close-up view from the water.

Today is yours to enjoy Taupō, a lakeside destination surrounded by volcanic landscapes and outdoor adventure. Whether you prefer scenic relaxation or high-energy experiences, there is plenty to discover here.

Suggested Activity – Lake Taupō Scenic Cruise to the Māori Rock Carvings
Cruise across the clear waters of Lake Taupō to see the impressive Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay. This relaxing experience also includes beautiful views across the lake towards the mountains of Tongariro National Park.

Suggested Activity – Wairakei Terraces Walkway and Thermal Pools
Wander through geothermal terraces and cultural carvings before soaking in soothing thermal pools. This experience combines natural beauty, local history and a chance to unwind in a peaceful setting.

Today you’ll leave Taupō and travel east towards Napier, moving from volcanic landscapes to the sunshine of Hawke’s Bay. This scenic route combines geothermal highlights with changing countryside and coastal character.

Inclusions – Craters of the Moon Geothermal Walk
Visit Craters of the Moon and follow the well-marked walkway through steaming craters and bubbling mud pools. It’s a fascinating stop that showcases another side of the region’s geothermal activity.

Continue your journey over the Ahimanawa Range towards the Pacific coast and the Art Deco city of Napier. The drive offers a beautiful contrast between inland scenery and the charm of Hawke’s Bay.

Spend the day discovering Hawke’s Bay, a sun-soaked region known for its Mediterranean climate, coastal beauty and rich food and wine scene. From Art Deco architecture in Napier to vineyard-covered landscapes, this area offers a perfect blend of culture, relaxation and outdoor experiences.

Walking Tracks in and around Hawke’s Bay
Explore a variety of scenic walking tracks that wind through coastal cliffs, river paths and native bush. Whether you choose a gentle stroll or a more challenging hike, these trails offer a fantastic way to experience the region’s natural beauty.

Suggested Activity: Gannet Safaris
Journey along the rugged coastline to Cape Kidnappers and witness one of the world’s largest mainland gannet colonies up close. Travel by 4WD across farmland and dramatic terrain, stopping at panoramic viewpoints before standing high above the ocean surrounded by soaring seabirds.

Suggested Activity: Native Icons Guided Tour in National Aquarium of New Zealand
Discover New Zealand’s unique wildlife with a guided experience focusing on iconic native species. Get up close to kiwi, tuatara and little penguins while learning about their habitats, behaviours and conservation efforts.

Today you’ll travel south from Napier to Wellington, passing through rolling countryside and the scenic Kapiti Coast. The journey finishes in New Zealand’s creative capital, where harbour views and a lively city atmosphere await.

Suggested Activity – Wellington Cable Car
Ride the historic Wellington Cable Car and enjoy lovely views over the city and harbour as you climb to Kelburn. At the top, you can explore nearby attractions or stroll back down through the Wellington Botanic Garden.

Today is yours to explore Wellington, a compact capital packed with culture, creativity and great food. From museums and film experiences to laneway cafes and harbour walks, the city offers plenty to see and do.

Inclusions – Entry to Te Papa The Museum of New Zealand
Visit Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand’s national museum, and discover interactive exhibitions covering art, history, science and Māori culture. It’s one of the country’s most engaging cultural attractions and a must-see while in Wellington.

Suggested Activity – Zealandia By Night Wildlife Sanctuary Tour
Head out after dark for a memorable guided visit to Zealandia, a remarkable eco-sanctuary just minutes from the city. This evening experience offers the chance to spot rare native wildlife in a protected natural setting.

Today marks the final day of your North Island self drive, with time to enjoy a last look around Wellington before you leave. It’s a gentle finish to a journey filled with coastal scenery, geothermal wonders and memorable city stays.

Rental Car Return
Make your way to the airport depot to return your rental car before continuing your onward journey. If time allows, you may like to enjoy one last coffee or waterfront stroll before heading off.

Take with you the memories of a remarkable North Island holiday, from Auckland to Wellington and everywhere in between. This final day is a chance to reflect on the landscapes, culture and experiences that made the trip so special.