Days 1-2: Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, might not be the capital, but it’s where most flights land, so it’s a great spot to start your adventure and get over jet lag.
To get a feel for the city, check out the Auckland Domain, a lovely park perfect for a stroll, and if you’re into snorkeling, head to Goat Island. For wine lovers, a tour on Waiheke Island is a must. To see the city from above, visit the Sky Tower, offering panoramic views of Auckland and its 1.6 million residents. Don’t miss the Auckland War Memorial Museum—though it’s called a “war memorial,” it actually covers the city’s entire history, from the Māori arrival to European exploration.
Where to Stay: The Attic Backpackers is a fun, affordable hostel in the heart of Auckland. It’s got everything you need—private and dorm rooms, a great kitchen, and a lively common room where you can meet fellow travelers.
Days 3-4: Bay of Islands
Just three hours north of Auckland, the Bay of Islands offers beautiful beaches, rocky coastlines, and plenty of outdoor activities like dolphin and whale watching, kayaking, and swimming. It’s also one of my favorite spots in New Zealand for beaches.
Don’t miss the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, a key historical site, and Cape Reinga, where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean meet. If you’re into adventure, Waitangi Mountain Bike Park offers some fantastic trails.
Where to Stay: Haka Lodge in Paihia is clean, comfortable, and has great views over the harbor. It’s a relaxed place with lots of social spaces to meet people.
Day 5: Hobbiton
Even if you’re not a huge Lord of the Rings fan, a visit to the Hobbiton movie set is a fun and unique experience. The tour takes you through a picturesque sheep farm with stunning views, leading you to iconic spots like Bag End and the Green Dragon Inn.
You can choose from different tours, including a classic tour, a twilight tour with a Hobbit feast, or a morning tour with breakfast. Prices start around 89 NZD.
Where to Stay: The Cosy Country Stay B&B in Matamata is just a short drive from Hobbiton. It’s a peaceful, charming place with excellent hosts, a complimentary breakfast, and some friendly cats and goats roaming the property.
Days 6-7: Rotorua
A short hour’s drive from Hobbiton, Rotorua is a must-visit for anyone interested in Maori culture or geothermal activity. You can learn about New Zealand’s original Polynesian inhabitants at a Maori cultural show and explore the famous geothermal parks, geysers, and hot springs.
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Rotorua’s got plenty of adventure activities, from skydiving to Zorbing (rolling down a hill in an inflatable ball). There are also great walks through nature, making it a fun place for outdoor lovers.
Where to Stay: Rock Solid Backpackers is a well-equipped hostel in the heart of Rotorua, offering a cinema, bar, communal kitchen, and even a rock-climbing wall for extra fun.
Day 8: Waitomo
Waitomo is famous for its glowworms, which are actually bioluminescent larvae. The Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must-see, and while it’s a bit touristy, the experience of floating through the caves under a ceiling of glowing creatures is unforgettable.
You can choose from several tours, including a short boat ride or a longer abseiling adventure. Prices range from 55 NZD for a boat tour to 195 NZD for an extended experience.
Where to Stay: Juno Hall is a great option near the glowworm caves. It’s a cool, social place with a pool, tennis court, large kitchen, and BBQ area.
Days 9-10: Taupo
Taupo, nestled by the shores of Lake Taupo (New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake), is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The town is quieter than Queenstown, but you’ll find plenty to do here, from hiking and exploring local markets to skydiving with amazing views over the lake.
Don’t miss the Taupo Museum to learn about the area’s Maori history and volcanic past.
Where to Stay: Finlay Jack’s is a modern hostel with a spacious kitchen, big common room, outdoor BBQs, and even bike rentals. The friendly staff and hostel dog add to the welcoming vibe.
Day 11: Tongariro Alpine Crossing
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is often rated as one of the best day hikes in the world. This 19-kilometer trek takes you through volcanic landscapes, past craters and sulfur lakes, and ends in a lush forest. The hike is challenging in parts but offers stunning views throughout.
Make sure to bring essentials like water, sunscreen, a hat, and a jacket. Shuttle services cost around 50 NZD for a round trip, or you can book a guided hike for about 325 NZD.
Where to Stay: After your hike, head back to Taupo for the night to relax and recover.
Days 12-14: Wellington
End your trip in Wellington, the cultural heart of New Zealand and my personal favorite city on the North Island. Wellington has a vibrant arts scene, fantastic food, and a laid-back vibe. Visit the Te Papa Museum, take a ride up the cable car to the Cable Car Museum, and explore the quirky Weta Workshop.
For wildlife lovers, head to Zealandia, a sanctuary that recreates New Zealand’s natural environment. You can even take a guided night tour to see local wildlife up close.
Where to Stay: The Marion is a cozy boutique hostel in central Wellington. The staff is friendly, and the rooms are clean and comfy—perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
Additional Tips for Road-Tripping in New Zealand
Before you hit the road, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Drive on the left side of the road.
- Always park in the direction of traffic.
- Use designated pull-off spots for photos—pulling over on narrow roads can be dangerous.
- Roads can be winding, so allow extra time for travel.
- Your current, valid English driver’s license is enough—no need for an international permit.
New Zealand is an incredibly scenic and friendly country, perfect for a road trip. Follow these tips, and you’ll have an amazing time exploring everything this beautiful island has to offer!
