New Zealand is one of our favourite destinations – a place of thrilling experiences in raw nature. This self-drive itinerary gives you time to explore the multicultural hub of Auckland before taking you south to the Bay of Plenty with its exceptional wines, the mud pools of Rotorua, and Huka Falls with their jetboard rides.
Auckland | Tauranga & Bay of Plenty | Rotorua (2 days) | Taupo to Napier | Napier | Napier to Wellington | Wellington | Depart Wellington
Day 1: Arrive Auckland
Collect your rental car to drive to your accommodation before exploring this gateway city to North Island under your own steam.
Day 2: Tauranga & Bay of Plenty
Head south through Waikato farmlands to this area of exceptional wineries, kiwi orchards and kilometres of white sandy beaches.
Day 3: Rotorua
Venture inland to the geothermal home of geysers and mud pools alongside the sparkling lakes and dormant volcano of Mount Tawawera.
Day 4: Rotorua
Continue to explore Rotorua, discovering its rich layers of Maori culture and taking an optional gondola ride or canopy treewalk.
Day 5: Taupo to Napier
Visit the mighty Huka Falls for a pulse-racing jetboat ride, then explore the popular lakeside town of Taupo.
Day 6: Napier
Enjoy a guided walk of the fascinating Art Deco city then get to know Hawke’s Bay, with optional winery visits.
Day 7: Napier to Wellington
Travel through the rural Wairarapa region and stop at Zealandia wildlife refuge to see some of the most endangered native animals.
Day 8: Wellington
Spend the day discovering this harbourside city including Te Papa National Museum, Space Place Observatory and the botanic gardens.
Day 9: Depart Wellington
Sneak in some last-minute sightseeing or shopping before returning your rental car to the airport ahead of your flight.
To book your New Zealand break with full financial protection, call your Travel Counsellor today.
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