North Island Self Drive

Travel through the heart of the North Island on this short 'highlights' New Zealand Self Drive Tour. From Auckland journey south through the Waikato countryside to Rotorua, the Maori culture capital of New Zealand. It’s then on to the Art Deco city of Napier in the Hawkes Bay, home to New Zealand’s oldest vineyards.  The final leg of your whirlwind tour of the North Island takes you past sheep farms and wineries as you travel through the Wairarapa region to your final destination, the capital city of Wellington.

Starting and finishing in Wellington explore Napier, Rotorua, Auckland Waitomo and Tongariro National Park on this circular North Island route.

Starting in Wellington explore Napier, Rotorua, Auckland and the Bay of Islands.

Journey south through New Zealand’s North Island from Auckland, the ‘City of Sails’ to the quirky capital city of Wellington.  Along the way you’ll encounter Maori culture in Rotorua,  explore the Art Deco architecture and vineyards of Napier and travel at a relaxed pace allowing you to really soak up the atmosphere of each destination.

Starting with a relaxing break on Waiheke Island, you'll explore the boutique wineries on this balmy haven. You'll then journey south for a Coromandel Wilderness Adventure, Maori culture in Rotorua and the majestic mountains of Tongariro National Park as you hike the renowned Tongariro Crossing.

Explore the best of the North Island at a relaxing pace, allowing you time to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the diverse scenery. From the ‘City of Sails’ you’ll journey north to the tropical Bay of Islands for 3 nights. Then meander back down the island via the Kauri Coast, Snells Beach and the Coromandel Peninsula before hitting the cultural centre of Rotorua.  Continue on to the vibrant city of Wellington via the wine regions of the Hawkes Bay and the Wairarapa.

Spend 10 days in Middle Earth. This itinerary takes you to Mt Doom, Mordor, Hobbiton, and the Weta Cave...

Add this itinerary to some existing plans. Starting in Rotorua your whirlwind adventure includes visiting Hobbiton, Jet Boat riding, staying on the side of a volcano and glow worm caves!

What a fantastic itinerary. Exploring the tropical north while enjoying some fine hospitality in unique accommodations. There really is nothing to match this.

Get a taste of the beautiful North Island, from Auckland to Wellington with a cultural stop in the breath-taking Rotorua and the stunning wine region of Hawkes Bay.