Best of the North Island
Daily.
SELF-DRIVE tour
- Room only.
- 4* Airedale Boutique Suites, Auckland; 4* Scenic Hotel Bay of Island, Paihia; 4* Castaways Resort, Waiuku; 4* Beachside Resort, Coromandel Peninsula; 4*Plus Distinction Rotorua; 3* Skotel Alpine Resort, Tongariro; 4* The Crown Hotel, Napier; 4* Rydges Wellington.
- The price shown for this self-drive tour includes international flights, accommodation as shown and 13 days compact all inclusive car hire.
- This holiday is 100% financially protected. ATOL protected 2713
Explore New Zealand's North Island at your own pace on this self-drive adventure. Start in exciting Auckland before heading to the Bay of Islands for boat trips and the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds, then unwind on the white sands of the Coromandel Peninsula and its stunning Cathedral Cove. Discover the bubbling mud pools and geothermal wonders of Rotorua, the volcanic landscapes of Tongariro National Park and Napier's beautifully restored Art Deco streets and nearby Hawke's Bay wineries. Finish in Wellington, known as the "coolest little capital in the world," with its cable car, Te Papa museum and creative energy. Beaches, volcanoes, wine and culture - the very best of the North Island in one journey.
Our suggested itinerary is a starting point
We're specialists in tailor-made holidays, where we can adapt each itinerary to suit your requirements
Days 1-2 Auckland
Fly to Auckland.
Days 3-4 Auckland
On arrival make your way to your hotel. Step out and see the sights of this multi-cultural urban oasis where world-class shopping and phenomenal dining are never too far from harbours, islands, native bush and black-sand beaches. Top sights and experiences include the Auckland Art Gallery, walking the edge of the iconic Sky Tower, or heading to the Auckland Harbour Bridge for a Bridge Climb.
Days 5-6 Paihia
Your tour of the North Island really gets underway today as you collect your hire car and set off for the Bay of Islands. Your base will be Paihia, where lots of boat trips are available as well as delicious eateries (153 miles). We highly recommend joining a tour to see the ‘hole in the rock’ at the tip of Cape Brett, visiting the historic Treaty House at Waitangi Treaty Grounds which marks the beginning of New Zealand as a nation. Those seeking water based activities are spoilt for choice with sea kayaks, sailing and more.
Day 7 Waiuku
Drive to South Auckland where you may wish to amble around the Botanic Gardens (154 miles).
Day 8 Coromandel
Today's destination is The Coromandel, a popular holiday destination with a mountainous interior cloaked in native rainforest, hundreds of miles of dazzling white sand beaches and a relaxed vibe. Don't miss the spectacular Cathedral Cove, the jewel of a protected marine reserve (106 miles).
Days 9-10 Rotorua
Before you leave Coromandel, why not pop into one of the many studios to pick up a unique piece of art or pottery to take home with you? Drive onwards to Rotorua, a geothermal wonderland known for bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs, as well as showcasing fascinating Māori culture (129 miles). The city offers a raft of attractions and experiences for everyone from adventure-seekers to those just looking to unwind.
It’s a must to visit a geothermal park to marvel at the distinctive landscapes and volcanic activity, or maybe enjoy a relaxing soak in a natural hot stream?
Day 11 Tongariro
The incredible scenery continues to astound today as you make your way to Tongariro National Park, which is a spectacular landscape of volcanic wonders including emerald lakes, old lava flows and steaming craters. It is an environment of staggering beauty and diversity (95 miles).
Days 12-13 Napier
Drive to the coast and the city of Napier, where you’ll find street after street of stunning and beautifully-restored Art Deco buildings (129 miles). You may wish to spend the day simply strolling through the fascinating streets and admiring the historical architecture. Napier is also home to many fine wineries, as well as fabulous restaurants, bars and, boutique shops. If wine really is your thing, head out into the Hawke’s Bay region where no end of wineries and cellar doors welcome you.
Days 14-15 Wellington
Travel to the southern end of North Island the country’s capital, Wellington (199 miles). Recently named the “coolest little capital in the world” by Lonely Planet, this compact city is a powerful mix of culture, history, nature and cuisine. Be sure to hop on the Wellington Cable Car, take a behind the scenes tour at the award-winning Weta Workshop or, spend time at the Museum of New Zealand, Te Papa.
Day 16 Wellington
The tour concludes as you return your car at the airport for your onward journey.
Need to know
Departures
Daily.
Meals
Room only.
Accommodation
4* Airedale Boutique Suites, Auckland; 4* Scenic Hotel Bay of Island, Paihia; 4* Castaways Resort, Waiuku; 4* Beachside Resort, Coromandel Peninsula; 4*Plus Distinction Rotorua; 3* Skotel Alpine Resort, Tongariro; 4* The Crown Hotel, Napier; 4* Rydges Wellington.
Tour price
The price shown for this self-drive tour includes international flights, accommodation as shown and 13 days compact all inclusive car hire.
