16 Day North Island Spectacular Self Drive

Arrive in Auckland, a vibrant harbour city surrounded by sparkling waters and lush volcanic landscapes. This lively destination offers a perfect introduction to New Zealand’s mix of urban energy and natural beauty.

Included: Private Transfer Auckland Airport to your Auckland Accommodation with Tourcorp
Enjoy a smooth and stress-free arrival with a private transfer to your hotel. This personalised service allows you to relax and take in your first impressions of the City of Sails.

Suggested Activity: Harbour Sailing Cruise with Explore
Set sail on the Waitematā Harbour and admire Auckland’s skyline from the water. This relaxing cruise provides a unique perspective of the city’s maritime charm.

Suggested Activity: Wētā Workshop Unleashed
Step into a world of creativity and explore how movie magic is brought to life. Interactive displays and detailed sets make this a fascinating experience for all visitors.

Suggested Activity: All Blacks Experience
Immerse yourself in New Zealand’s rugby culture through interactive exhibits and storytelling. Discover the passion and pride behind one of the country’s most iconic teams.

Today you'll take a scenic 45-minute Fullers ferry cruise from downtown Auckland across the Hauraki Gulf to Waiheke Island. Once there, you'll gear up at EcoZip Adventures to fly side-by-side down three dual flying fox ziplines, followed by an eco-immersive guided forest walk. Afterward, pick up a one-day Eride e-bike to explore the island's rolling terrain and hidden gems at your own pace before taking the return ferry back to the city.

Included: Return Fullers Ferry between Auckland and Waiheke Island

Scenic approximately 45-minute cruise through the Hauraki Gulf between the Auckland downtown ferry terminal and Matiatia Wharf

Included: EcoZip Adventures Waiheke Island 

Three 200m dual flying fox ziplines and an eco-immersive forest walk

Included: One Day Eride Waiheke E-Bike hire at Waiheke Island

Begin your scenic drive north through rolling countryside and coastal landscapes. The journey leads you to Russell, a charming seaside town rich in history and natural beauty.

Included: Collect Rental Car
Pick up your rental vehicle and enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace. This flexibility allows you to discover hidden gems and scenic stops along the way.

Spend the day discovering the subtropical beauty of the Bay of Islands, known for its clear waters and abundant marine life. This region offers a blend of relaxation, adventure and cultural heritage.

Included: Hole in the Rock Cruise with Fullers
Cruise through a spectacular island-dotted seascape and experience dramatic coastal scenery. Keep watch for dolphins as you journey to the famous Hole in the Rock.

Suggested Activity: Waitangi Treaty Grounds Guided Tour and Cultural Performance
Visit one of New Zealand’s most significant historic sites and learn about its founding story. The cultural performance provides an engaging insight into Māori traditions.

Travel to the northernmost point of New Zealand where rugged coastlines and cultural significance meet. This unforgettable journey reveals some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes.

Included: Cape Reinga & Ninety Mile Beach Full Day Tour with Fullers Bay of Islands
Explore vast sand dunes and windswept beaches while learning about the spiritual importance of Cape Reinga. Witness the meeting of the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean in a powerful natural setting.

Continue south into the ancient Waipoua Forest, where towering kauri trees create an awe-inspiring natural setting. Take time to enjoy the short, signposted walks, including the easy loop to see Tane Mahuta, the largest and most iconic tree in the forest. As you travel onward, consider a visit to the award-winning Matakohe Kauri Museum before heading towards Matakana and the quiet, unspoilt beaches of Tāwharanui Marine Reserve.

Travel south through Auckland and across fertile plains to the stunning Coromandel Peninsula. This region is known for its pristine beaches and laid-back coastal lifestyle.

Spend the day enjoying one of New Zealand’s most picturesque coastal regions. Golden sands and clear waters create the perfect setting for relaxation and exploration.

Suggested Activity: Cathedral Cove Classic Sea Kayak Tour
Paddle along a spectacular coastline, discovering sea caves and marine life along the way. This guided experience offers a unique perspective of Cathedral Cove.

Head inland through historic towns and rolling farmland toward Waitomo. The scenery gradually transforms into limestone hills and underground cave systems.

Included: Private Footwhistle Glowworm Cave Tour with CaveWorld
Explore a magical underground world illuminated by thousands of glowworms. This intimate experience offers both natural beauty and fascinating geological insight.

Travel through lush farmland and geothermal regions as you make your way to Rotorua. Steam rising from the الأرض signals your arrival into this remarkable destination.

Included: Te Pā Tū Evening Māori Cultural Experience - Dinner Included
Experience an evening of storytelling, performance and traditional cuisine in a forest setting. This immersive event provides a meaningful connection to Māori culture and heritage.

Discover Rotorua’s geothermal landscapes and rich cultural experiences. This vibrant destination offers a mix of relaxation, adventure and heritage.

Suggested Activity: National Kiwi Hatchery Experience
Gain insight into New Zealand’s national bird and conservation efforts. This unique experience offers the chance to see kiwi up close.

Suggested Activity: Original Ziplining Experience with Rotorua Canopy Tours
Soar through native forest on an exhilarating zipline adventure. Learn about conservation while enjoying breathtaking views from above.

Suggested Activity: Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Explore colourful geothermal features shaped by volcanic activity. Bubbling mud pools and vibrant mineral terraces create a surreal landscape.

Suggested Activity: Mount Tarawera Helicopter Landing and Geothermal Parks with Volcanic Air
Take to the skies for incredible views of crater lakes and volcanic terrain. Landing on Mount Tarawera adds a truly unforgettable highlight.

Jourey from Rotorua to Tongariro National Park along the thermal highway. The drive passes through Taupo and offers opportunities to view scenic wonders like Huka Falls or the Craters of the Moon geothermal reserve before you arrive at your base in National Park. You will spend the night at The Park Hotel Ruapehu, where you can unwind by the open fireplaces or in the outdoor hot tubs, with breakfast included the following morning.

Included: Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland: A self-paced walk through an expansive volcanic landscape featuring unique geothermal elements, the massive Mud Pool, and the daily 10:15 AM eruption of the Lady Knox Geyser.

Included: Lake Taupo Scenic Cruise: A cruise across Great Lake Taupo to view the spectacular Māori Rock Carvings and hidden bays, complete with commentary on local mythology and volcanic history.

Drive south from Tongariro through the central plateau and rural heartland towns like Taihape and Bulls, eventually reaching the beautiful 40-kilometer stretch of the Kapiti Coast.

Your day trip to Kapiti Island begins at Paraparaumu with a short ferry ride over to Waiorua Bay at the northern end of the island. Upon arrival, you will receive a warm welcome and an introduction to the island's natural and human history from an experienced nature guide. You will then set out on a 1-hour guided nature walk to experience the remarkable bird life thriving on this predator-free island sanctuary. Afterward, a delicious cooked lunch will be provided for you at the island lodge. Includes lunch

Journey south from the Kapiti Coast, with optional scenic detours through the coastal seaside towns of Paekakariki and Plimmerton, before arriving in New Zealand's compact capital city, Wellington. Return your rental car.

Included: Wellington Half Day Private Tour: A personal guided tour with Capital Personalized Tour showcasing the best of the capital. You will take in panoramic views from Mt Victoria, follow the coastline to the iconic Weta Cave Museum, ride the historic Cable Car, walk through the Lady Norwood Rose Gardens, and visit Parliament's famous Beehive building.

Enjoy a final morning in Wellington before heading to the airport and returning your rental car. Take time to reflect on the unforgettable landscapes and experiences from your journey.

This marks the end of your North Island self drive, filled with diverse scenery and cultural discoveries. Depart with lasting memories of Aotearoa’s beauty and hospitality.