Discover New Zealand: 14-Day Road Trip Itineraries Across the North Island
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the scenic wonders of New Zealand’s North Island. Discover diverse landscapes, cultural treasures, and thrilling outdoor experiences with our meticulously crafted 14-day road trip itineraries. Get ready for an epic journey!
1. Coastal Escapes & Cultural Delights: A 14-Day North Island Road Trip
Indulge in a 14-day odyssey across New Zealand’s North Island, where sun-kissed beaches, vibrant cities, and natural wonders beckon. Explore Napier’s art deco charm, unwind on Coromandel’s pristine shores, and delve into Rotorua’s geothermal wonders. From the cultural richness of Gisborne to the adrenaline-fueled adventures of Taupō, this road trip promises an unforgettable blend of coastal escapes and cultural delights.
View the itinerary
Week 1: East Coast and Bay of Plenty Exploration
Day 1: Palmerston North to Napier
- Depart Palmerston North and drive to Napier.
- Explore Napier’s art deco architecture and visit local wineries.
- Overnight in Napier.
Day 2: Napier
- Spend the day exploring Napier and its surroundings.
- Visit wineries, relax on the beach, and explore attractions like the National Aquarium of New Zealand.
- Overnight in Napier.
Day 3: Napier to Gisborne
- Drive from Napier to Gisborne.
- Explore Gisborne’s beaches and attractions.
- Overnight in Gisborne.
Day 4: Gisborne to Whakatane
- Drive from Gisborne to Whakatane.
- Visit Ohope Beach or soak in the serene atmosphere of Otarawairere Bay.
- Overnight in Whakatane.
Day 5: Whakatane to Tauranga
- Drive from Whakatane to Tauranga.
- Hike the Mount or explore Tauranga’s beaches and downtown area.
- Overnight in Tauranga.
Day 6: Tauranga to Coromandel
- Drive from Tauranga to the Coromandel Peninsula.
- Explore Cathedral Cove, Hot Water Beach, and other scenic spots.
- Enjoy outdoor activities.
- Overnight in the Coromandel.
Day 7: Coromandel
- Spend the day exploring the Coromandel Peninsula.
- Relax on the beach, hike, or visit local attractions.
- Overnight in the Coromandel.
Week 2: Geothermal Wonders and Central North Island
Day 8: Coromandel to Rotorua
- Drive from the Coromandel to Rotorua.
- Explore Rotorua’s geothermal wonders and cultural attractions.
- Overnight in Rotorua.
Day 9: Rotorua
- Spend the day exploring Rotorua and its attractions.
- Visit Te Puia, Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, or take part in adventure activities such as luging.
- Overnight in Rotorua.
Day 10: Rotorua to Taupō
- Drive from Rotorua to Taupo.
- Explore Taupo’s natural attractions, such as a walk along Lake Taupō or see the impressive Huka Falls.
- Overnight in Taupō.
Day 11: Taupo
- Spend the day exploring Taupō and its surroundings.
- Take part in outdoor activities like hiking, bungee jumping, or jet boating.
- Overnight in Taupō.
Day 12: Taupo to Tongariro National Park
- Drive from Taupō to Tongariro National Park.
- Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or explore shorter trails.
- Enjoy stunning volcanic landscapes.
- Overnight in Tongariro National Park.
Day 13: Tongariro National Park
- Spend the day exploring Tongariro National Park.
- Continue hiking or visit nearby attractions.
- Overnight in Tongariro National Park.
Day 14: Tongariro National Park to Palmerston North
- Drive back to Palmerston North, stopping at scenic viewpoints or small towns along the way.
- Arrive back in Palmerston North in the afternoon or evening.