9 Day North Island Highlights Self Drive with Northern Explorer

Your North Island highlights adventure begins in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest and most lively city, set between two harbours and framed by volcanic cones. With its mix of harbour views, cultural hubs and laid‑back urban charm, Auckland is the perfect place to start your journey.

After arrival, a driver meets you at the airport and transfers you straight to your hotel in comfort. This smooth start means you can begin exploring as soon as you’re ready.

Welcome to Auckland

Auckland blends exciting city life with stunning natural surroundings, from bustling waterfront restaurants to lush parks. Wander through world‑class galleries, relax by the harbour, or simply enjoy the ocean breeze with a gelato in hand.

Today is all about discovering Auckland’s best experiences – from iconic harbour thrills to relaxed urban exploring. The breadth of activities means there’s something for every type of traveller.

Collect Rental Car

Pick up your intermediate‑sized rental car, giving you freedom and flexibility on the road ahead. Choose from economy hatchbacks to premium SUVs to suit your travel style.

Explore Auckland

Auckland sits on the edge of a large natural harbour and offers something for everyone — beaches, parks, volcanoes and vibrant neighbourhoods. Take the ferry to Waiheke Island for wine tasting, or soak up city views from Mt Eden and the Sky Tower.

Suggested Activity – America’s Cup Sailing Experience with Explore

Step aboard a genuine America’s Cup yacht and participate as part of the crew or simply enjoy the ride. These iconic racing vessels offer a hands‑on way to feel the wind and sea on Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour.

Your drive south from Auckland leads you into the geothermal and cultural heart of the North Island. Along the way, the rolling farmland of Waikato transitions to signs of steam and bubbling earth as you near Rotorua.

Te Pā Tū Evening Māori Cultural Experience – Dinner Included

This acclaimed cultural experience blends song, performance and traditional cuisine in a forest Pā (village) setting. The evening’s entertainment gives insight into Māori history and community life through celebration and storytelling.

Rotorua sits atop one of the world’s most active volcanic landscapes, brimming with steaming valleys, bubbling mud pools and natural hot springs. This day is yours to explore the city, enjoy wildlife encounters and soak in geothermal wonders.

Suggested Activity – National Kiwi Hatchery Experience

Get close to New Zealand’s iconic kiwi bird and learn about conservation efforts at this well‑designed hatchery. Friendly guides share fascinating insights into kiwifruit rearing and habitat protection.

Suggested Activity – Original Ziplining Experience with Rotorua Canopy Tours

Fly through native forest canopies on exciting ziplines and walkways, guided by locals with a passion for conservation. It’s a thrilling way to experience the forested valleys from high above.

Suggested Activity – Polynesian Spa Lake View Private Pool

Indulge in a private spa session overlooking Lake Rotorua, soaking in mineral‑rich waters at a comfortable temperature. With uninterrupted views and calming surroundings, it’s a perfect way to unwind after a busy day.

Today’s drive first takes you through more geothermal wonders before descending toward the Pacific Coast into Napier, famed for its Art Deco oasis and sunny climate. Along the way, volcanic landscapes give way to lakes, waterfalls and rolling hills.

Orakei Korako Hidden Valley

Orakei Korako offers an immersive geothermal experience with active geysers, bubbling hot springs and a maze of walking trails. A highlight is Ruatapu Cave, leading down to a thermal pool framed by native bush.

Suggested Activity – Triple Chocolate Dipper Tour with Silky Oak Chocolate Company

Indulge your sweet tooth with tastings, café treats and a take‑home chocolate gift. It’s a fun and delicious stop for families and chocoholics alike.

Hawke’s Bay combines Mediterranean‑style sunshine with pristine beaches, vineyards and unique wildlife encounters. Today is all about the region’s signature experiences.

Suggested Activity – Gannet Safaris

Head out over Cape Kidnappers in a 4×4 safari to see one of the world’s largest and most accessible gannet colonies. The journey includes dramatic clifftop views and informative commentary on local ecology.

Suggested Activity – Hawke’s Bay Half Day Wine Tour with Grape Escape

Savour local wines from boutique vineyards as you tour scenic estates with expert guides. Cheese platters, countryside views and unforgettable wines make this a relaxed and memorable outing.

Suggested Activity – Native Icons Guided Tour in National Aquarium of New Zealand

Meet native birds and reptiles — including kiwi and tuatara — as expert guides share fascinating stories and conservation insights. This behind‑the‑scenes experience adds another dimension to your Hawke’s Bay exploration.

Suggested Activity – Little Penguin Close Encounter with National Aquarium of New Zealand

Get up close to little penguins and learn about their care and rehabilitation at a dedicated encounter. Feeding and viewing opportunities make this a highlight for families and wildlife lovers.

Your journey south takes you through rolling farmland and rich rural valleys as you re‑enter the North Island’s cooler climes. A detour through Masterton or Martinborough offers wine, history and classic kiwi countryside scenery.

Suggested Activity – Zealandia By Night Wildlife Sanctuary Tour

Explore Wellington’s eco‑sanctuary after dark on a guided wildlife tour to see rare native birds and reptiles in their natural habitat. It’s an engaging way to connect with New Zealand’s unique biodiversity.

Today you trade four wheels for six wheels on the Northern Explorer, a scenic train journey back to Auckland with panoramic views of the North Island. From volcanoes to river gorges, this rail experience showcases the diversity of New Zealand’s landscapes in total comfort.

A private driver collects you from your Wellington hotel and delivers you to the train station in good time. This ensures a smooth start to your rail adventure with no hassles.

Northern Explorer Scenic Train: Wellington to Auckland

The Northern Explorer traverses lush farmlands, volcanic plateaus and river valleys, with large windows perfect for taking in the views. Optional Scenic Plus upgrades add multi‑course dining and premium service for a truly special journey.

Arriving in Auckland, your private driver transfers you to your city hotel. Relax and reflect on the varied landscapes you’ve seen on this unforgettable journey.

Suggested Activity – Northern Explorer Scenic Plus Add‑on (KiwiRail)

Elevate your rail experience with a Scenic Plus add‑on, including regionally inspired multi‑course meals and New Zealand wines. Dedicated service and open‑air viewing decks enrich the journey through the North Island’s heartland.

Your journey concludes with a private transfer from your Auckland hotel to the airport. Depart with a well-rounded view of the North Island’s cities, landscapes and cultural highlights.