Get ready for a two-week epic, a 14-day odyssey that sweeps you through the heart of New Zealand.
Starting in the bustling Auckland, this journey unravels the captivating secrets of Northland, the cultural marvels of Bay of Islands, the volcanic majesty of Tongariro, the coastal charm of Napier, and an array of unique stops that promise a kaleidoscope of experiences.
This is your chance to embark on a 14-day adventure that paints the landscapes of New Zealand in vivid colors.
Begin your North Island adventure in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. Day 1 is all about getting acquainted with the city, its stunning harbor, and iconic landmarks.
| Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Arrival in Auckland | Arrive at Auckland International Airport and check into your accommodation. | – |
| Late Morning | Breakfast at a Local Cafe | Start your day with a hearty Kiwi breakfast at a local cafe. | – |
| Midday | Auckland War Memorial Museum | Explore the Auckland War Memorial Museum, known for its Maori and Pacific artifacts, and enjoy panoramic views from the museum’s balcony. | – |
| Afternoon | Auckland Domain and Wintergardens | Stroll through Auckland Domain, a beautiful park with walking trails, and visit the Wintergardens to see a range of exotic plants. | – |
| Late Afternoon | Parnell Village | Visit Parnell Village, a charming historic district with boutique shops, art galleries, and lovely cafes. | – |
| Evening | Dinner in Viaduct Harbour | Enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants in Viaduct Harbour, known for its culinary delights and harbor views. | – |
| Night | Sky Tower Observation Deck | Optionally, you can visit the Sky Tower’s observation deck for stunning nighttime views of the city. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 2, you’ll take a ferry to Waiheke Island, a haven of beautiful beaches, vineyards, and artistic communities, just a short ride from Auckland.
| Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Ferry to Waiheke Island | Take a morning ferry from Auckland to Waiheke Island. Enjoy scenic views during the journey. | – |
| Mid-Morning | Onetangi Beach | Arrive at Onetangi Beach, one of the island’s finest. Relax on the sandy shores or swim in the clear waters. | – |
| Lunch | Lunch at a Vineyard | Visit a local vineyard for lunch, savoring wine and cuisine with picturesque vineyard views. | – |
| Afternoon | Oneroa Village and Art Galleries | Explore Oneroa Village, home to art galleries and boutique shops. | – |
| Late Afternoon | Cable Bay Vineyard | Head to Cable Bay Vineyard for wine tasting and views of the Hauraki Gulf. | – |
| Evening | Return to Auckland | Take the ferry back to Auckland and have dinner at one of the city’s many restaurants. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 3, you’ll travel to Rotorua, a city known for its unique geothermal attractions, Maori culture, and stunning natural landscapes.
| Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Travel to Rotorua | Depart from Auckland and drive or take a scenic bus ride to Rotorua. Enjoy beautiful countryside views along the way. | 228 km |
| Mid-Morning | Te Puia Geothermal Valley | Explore Te Puia, home to geysers, mud pools, and the iconic Pohutu Geyser. Learn about Maori culture and see traditional arts and crafts. | – |
| Lunch | Lunch at Rotorua Eatery | Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local eatery in Rotorua. | – |
| Afternoon | Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland | Visit Wai-O-Tapu, a geothermal wonderland with colorful pools, geysers, and surreal landscapes. | – |
| Late Afternoon | Polynesian Spa | Relax at the Polynesian Spa and experience Rotorua’s famous geothermal hot springs. | – |
| Evening | Traditional Hangi Dinner | Attend a traditional Maori Hangi dinner and cultural performance to immerse in Maori traditions. | – |
| Night | Rotorua Accommodation | Check into your accommodation in Rotorua. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 4, you’ll continue your exploration of Rotorua, experiencing thrilling adventure activities and encountering native wildlife.
| Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Redwoods Treewalk | Start your day with a tranquil walk through the Redwoods Treewalk, a suspended bridge and tree canopy experience. | – |
| Late Morning | Skyline Rotorua Gondola & Luge | Take the Skyline Rotorua Gondola to the top and enjoy thrilling luge rides with scenic views. | – |
| Lunch | Lunch at Rotorua | Have lunch at a local restaurant in Rotorua. | – |
| Afternoon | Rainbow Springs Nature Park | Visit Rainbow Springs, a wildlife sanctuary, and see native birds and the famous Kiwi bird. | – |
| Late Afternoon | Agrodome Farm Show | Attend the Agrodome Farm Show for a taste of New Zealand’s farming heritage and sheepdog demonstrations. | – |
| Evening | Dinner in Rotorua | Enjoy dinner at one of the city’s restaurants. | – |
| Night | Rotorua Accommodation | Check into your accommodation in Rotorua. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 5, you’ll journey to Taupo, located on the shores of Lake Taupo, and enjoy a day filled with adventure and stunning natural beauty.
| Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Travel to Taupo | Depart from Rotorua and head to Taupo, a scenic drive with picturesque views. | 82 km |
| Late Morning | Huka Falls | Witness the powerful Huka Falls, a natural wonder on the Waikato River. | – |
| Lunch | Lunch in Taupo | Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Taupo. | – |
| Afternoon | Taupo Bungy Jump or Skydiving | For the thrill-seekers, choose an adrenaline-pumping activity like bungy jumping or skydiving. | – |
| Late Afternoon | Lake Taupo Scenic Cruise | Relax with a scenic cruise on Lake Taupo, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. | – |
| Evening | Dinner in Taupo | Have dinner in Taupo with a view of the lake. | – |
| Night | Taupo Accommodation | Check into your accommodation in Taupo. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 6, you’ll journey to the stunning Tongariro National Park, known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and outdoor adventures.
| Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Travel to Tongariro National Park | Depart from Taupo and drive to Tongariro National Park, offering breathtaking mountain scenery. | 122 km |
| Late Morning | Tongariro Alpine Crossing | Embark on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a world-renowned hike with volcanic terrains, emerald lakes, and stunning vistas. | – |
| Lunch | Picnic Lunch on the Trail | Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the spectacular landscapes of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. | – |
| Afternoon | Taranaki Falls Hike | After completing the Crossing, unwind with a shorter hike to Taranaki Falls, a beautiful waterfall. | – |
| Late Afternoon | Soak at Tokaanu Hot Pools | Relax your muscles with a soak in the Tokaanu Hot Pools, a thermal hot spring facility. | – |
| Evening | Dinner in Tongariro National Park | Dine at a restaurant or lodge in the park, savoring local cuisine. | – |
| Night | Tongariro National Park Accommodation | Check into your accommodation in Tongariro National Park. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 7, you’ll journey to Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, and explore its rich culture, scenic waterfront, and vibrant arts scene.
| Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Travel to Wellington | Depart from Tongariro National Park and drive to Wellington, enjoying the scenic route. | 325 km |
| Late Morning | Te Papa Tongarewa Museum | Visit Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum, to explore New Zealand’s cultural and natural heritage. | – |
| Lunch | Lunch in Wellington | Enjoy a delicious lunch at a restaurant or cafe in Wellington. | – |
| Afternoon | Wellington Waterfront Walk | Stroll along the Wellington Waterfront, taking in the harbor views, sculptures, and cafes. | – |
| Late Afternoon | Weta Workshop Tour | Go on a tour of the Weta Workshop, known for its work on famous films like “Lord of the Rings” and “Avatar.” | – |
| Evening | Dinner in Wellington | Savor dinner at one of Wellington’s many culinary establishments. | – |
| Night | Wellington Accommodation | Check into your accommodation in Wellington. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 8, you’ll continue your exploration of Wellington, with a focus on outdoor adventures and natural beauty.
| Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary | Visit Zealandia, an urban eco-sanctuary, and discover New Zealand’s unique wildlife, including the elusive kiwi bird. | – |
| Late Morning | Botanic Garden Visit | Explore Wellington Botanic Garden, with its lush landscapes and various plant collections. | – |
| Lunch | Lunch in Wellington | Enjoy lunch at a local eatery in Wellington. | – |
| Afternoon | Matiu/Somes Island Excursion | Take a ferry to Matiu/Somes Island, a predator-free sanctuary with walking trails, history, and stunning views. | – |
| Late Afternoon | Wellington Cable Car | Experience the Wellington Cable Car for panoramic views and access to the Kelburn Botanic Garden. | – |
| Evening | Dinner in Wellington | Conclude the day with dinner in Wellington. | – |
| Night | Wellington Accommodation | Check into your accommodation in Wellington. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 9, you’ll journey from Wellington to Whanganui, making a stop in Levin, a town known for its charm and local attractions.
| Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Depart from Wellington | Check out of your Wellington accommodation and start your journey to Whanganui, with a stop in Levin. | – |
| Late Morning | Scenic Drive to Levin | Enjoy a scenic drive to Levin, taking in the countryside and exploring local attractions. | 90 km |
| Lunch | Lunch in Levin | Have lunch in Levin at a local cafe or restaurant, sampling their specialties. | – |
| Afternoon | Levin Exploration | Explore Levin’s local attractions, which may include a visit to a local museum or park. | – |
| Late Afternoon | Continue to Whanganui | Resume your journey to Whanganui, appreciating the natural beauty of the region. | 91 km |
| Evening | Dinner in Whanganui | Arrive in Whanganui and have dinner at a local eatery, enjoying the town’s hospitality. | – |
| Night | Whanganui Accommodation | Check into your accommodation in Whanganui. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 10, you’ll journey from Whanganui to New Plymouth, a coastal city known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant arts scene.
| Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Depart from Whanganui | Check out of your Whanganui accommodation and begin your journey to New Plymouth. | – |
| Late Morning | Scenic Coastal Drive | Enjoy a scenic coastal drive along State Highway 3, with beautiful sea views. | 150 km |
| Lunch | Lunch in New Plymouth | Arrive in New Plymouth and have lunch at a local restaurant or cafe. | – |
| Afternoon | Pukekura Park and Gardens | Explore the picturesque Pukekura Park and Gardens, known for its lush greenery and walking trails. | – |
| Late Afternoon | Coastal Walk or Beach Time | Stroll along the Coastal Walkway or relax on one of New Plymouth’s beautiful beaches. | – |
| Evening | Dinner in New Plymouth | Enjoy dinner at one of New Plymouth’s excellent dining establishments. | – |
| Night | New Plymouth Accommodation | Check into your accommodation in New Plymouth. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 11, you’ll journey from New Plymouth to Hamilton, with a delightful stop in Raglan, a coastal town known for its surf culture.
| Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Depart from New Plymouth | Check out of your New Plymouth accommodation and start your journey to Hamilton, making a stop in Raglan. | – |
| Late Morning | Scenic Drive to Raglan | Enjoy a scenic drive to Raglan, appreciating the countryside and coastal views. | 45 km |
| Lunch | Lunch in Raglan | Have lunch in Raglan at a local cafe or restaurant, savoring the coastal atmosphere. | – |
| Afternoon | Raglan Beach and Surfing | Spend time at Raglan Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores or try some surfing. | – |
| Late Afternoon | Continue to Hamilton | Resume your journey to Hamilton, a drive offering various scenic views. | 47 km |
| Evening | Dinner in Hamilton | Arrive in Hamilton and have dinner at a restaurant, exploring the city’s dining options. | – |
| Night | Hamilton Accommodation | Check into your accommodation in Hamilton. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 12, you’ll travel from Hamilton to Coromandel, making a stop in Waihi, a town known for its rich gold mining history.
| Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Depart from Hamilton | Check out of your Hamilton accommodation and start your journey to Coromandel, with a stop in Waihi. | – |
| Late Morning | Scenic Drive to Waihi | Enjoy a scenic drive to Waihi, taking in the picturesque landscapes and gold mining history. | 69 km |
| Lunch | Lunch in Waihi | Have lunch in Waihi at a local eatery, exploring the town’s heritage. | – |
| Afternoon | Waihi Gold Discovery Centre | Visit the Waihi Gold Discovery Centre to learn about the town’s gold mining heritage and maybe even try gold panning. | – |
| Late Afternoon | Continue to Coromandel | Resume your journey to Coromandel, with scenic routes and lush greenery. | 79 km |
| Evening | Dinner in Coromandel | Arrive in Coromandel and have dinner at a local restaurant, experiencing the coastal charm. | – |
| Night | Coromandel Accommodation | Check into your accommodation in Coromandel. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 13, you’ll journey from Coromandel to the Bay of Islands, a region renowned for its stunning coastlines and rich cultural history.
| Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Depart from Coromandel | Check out of your Coromandel accommodation and begin your journey to the Bay of Islands. | 397 km |
| Late Morning | Scenic Drive to Paihia | Enjoy a scenic drive to Paihia in the Bay of Islands, with breathtaking coastal views. | – |
| Lunch | Lunch in Paihia | Arrive in Paihia and have lunch at a local restaurant or cafe, savoring fresh seafood. | – |
| Afternoon | Waitangi Treaty Grounds | Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, an important historic site where New Zealand’s founding document was signed. | – |
| Late Afternoon | Relax at Paihia Beach | Spend some time relaxing at Paihia Beach, enjoying the golden sands and clear waters. | – |
| Evening | Dinner in Paihia | Have dinner in Paihia, sampling local dishes and exploring the vibrant dining scene. | – |
| Night | Bay of Islands Accommodation | Check into your accommodation in the Bay of Islands. | – |
Highlights:
On your last day, you’ll continue your exploration of the Bay of Islands, taking in the beauty and culture, before returning to Auckland, where your North Island adventure concludes.
| Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Explore the Bay of Islands | Spend the morning exploring the Bay of Islands. You can take a scenic boat tour, visit Russell, or relax on one of the beautiful beaches. | – |
| Lunch | Lunch in the Bay of Islands | Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant or cafe in the Bay of Islands. | – |
| Afternoon | Further Exploration | Continue exploring the Bay of Islands, visiting attractions like the historic Pompallier House or Haruru Falls. | – |
| Late Afternoon | Return to Auckland | Begin your journey back to Auckland, enjoying the scenic drive. | 225 km |
| Evening | Dinner in Auckland | Arrive in Auckland and have a farewell dinner at a restaurant in the city, reminiscing about your North Island adventure. | – |
| Night | Auckland Accommodation | Check into your accommodation in Auckland for your last night. | – |
Highlights:
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