New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary: 2-4 Weeks (Updated 2023)

Posted: 5/8/2023 | May eighth, 2023

With its snow-capped mountains, historical glaciers, rolling verdant hills, extremely pleasant locals, and considerable world-class wine, New Zealand is as fantastic as you’ve heard. In truth, take what you’ve heard and instances it by ten. New Zealand will merely blow your thoughts once you go to.

People suppose as a result of it’s a small nation, you are able to do all of it in two weeks. That’s not true. There’s loads to do right here. From the north island to the south island, you want quite a lot of time right here to do all of it. You can fill months with actions. New Zealand could also be small nevertheless it punches above its weight with issues to do.

But what for those who don’t have months? What do you do then? What route do you’re taking? What island must you begin with? Where do you go?

Or what for those who do? Then what? Where do you start planning that sort of journey?

I get these questions in my inbox on a regular basis. Having traveled everywhere in the nation a number of instances, I do know the complexities of making an attempt to determine learn how to get to these distant cities and out-of-the-way parks and glaciers.

While buses and trains can take you most locations, one of the simplest ways to see the nation is by taking a street journey. With your personal set of wheels, you’ll be capable to get deep into the pure landscapes that make this nation so well-known. New Zealand is a street journey nation. It’s one of the simplest ways to discover.

Below are my steered itineraries that may assist you to plan your New Zealand street journey for optimum effectivity. Whether you’ve two weeks, one month, and even longer, these will be sure that you see the highlights and get off the crushed path.

Note: Two weeks is the minimal beneficial time for a New Zealand street journey. There’s a lot to see and do right here, but you continue to don’t need to be rushed or spend all of your time within the automotive. If you solely have two weeks, deal with one island.

If you need to study extra about Maori tradition, see the Waitomo glow worms, spend time in New Zealand’s foremost cities, and luxuriate in stress-free actions like mendacity on the seashore and sitting in sizzling springs, street journey the North Island.

If you need to spend your time climbing glaciers, doing journey actions, and absorbing the epic landscapes of New Zealand, head to the South Island to your street journey.

With one month, you possibly can mix the next two-week itineraries to essentially be capable to take pleasure in all that each islands have to supply. More than a month? There’s nothing you possibly can’t do!

 

 

Choosing the Right Vehicle

Before you even plan your route, you want a method to get round. Road-tripping New Zealand by campervan could be very common, particularly among the many extra budget-conscious traveler, as they function each lodging and transportation. There are 5 foremost rental businesses:

Prices fluctuate loads. Your each day price will change relying on the place you decide up the car in case you are dropping it off at a special place, how lengthy you’re renting it for, how far upfront you e book, and once you e book (within the excessive season, costs appear to double!).

If residing out of a van for just a few weeks doesn’t sound like your thought of a enjoyable time, merely lease a standard automotive and e book lodging alongside the best way. To e book a automotive, take a look at Discover Cars, which searches rental businesses massive and small to seek out the most effective offers.
 

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary: A Two-Week North Island Route

Days 1–2: Auckland

Auckland is the most important and most populous metropolis in New Zealand and, opposite to common perception, it isn’t the capital (that’s Wellington). Since most flights land right here, spend a few days recovering out of your (seemingly) lengthy journey.

Spend a while hanging out on the Auckland Domain, go snorkel on Goat Island, and for those who love wine like I do, take a wine tour on Waiheke Island.

For an inventory of extra issues to do in Auckland, take a look at my information to town!

Where to Stay: The Albion – This historic lodging started as a “pub hotel” within the nineteenth century. Today there’s nonetheless a pleasant previous tavern within the lodge. The rooms are snug and the place is quiet.

Days 3-4: Bay of Islands

Head to the Bay of Islands on the northern tip of the North Island for just a few days. With mile after mile of seashore and rocky shoreline surrounding the bay (which comprises 144 islands), this space has a few of the greatest alternatives for dolphin and whale watching, kayaking, swimming, and boating. The Bay of Islands can be residence to what I feel are a few of the greatest seashores within the nation.

While you’re right here you possibly can go to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds (some of the essential historic websites within the nation), discover Cape Reinga (the northernmost level of New Zealand), and see wild dolphins on a boat tour.

For an inventory of extra issues to do in Bay of Islands, take a look at my full information!

Where to Stay: Haka Lodge – Located in Paihia, Haka Lodge has quite a lot of widespread areas, a big kitchen, and nice views over the harbor. Everything is tremendous clear and the beds are snug. It’s a superb place to satisfy folks.

Day 5: Hobbiton

Visiting the Hobbiton film set featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films is definitely one in all New Zealand’s most well-known actions and a should for followers of the movies and books. Even for those who’re not a superfan, it’s fascinating to see the film magic and go behind the scenes on this distinctive setting.

To see Hobbiton, you’ll need to take a tour that begins with a drive by means of the proprietor’s 505-hectare (1,250-acre) sheep farm, providing epic views over the Kaimai Range. From right here, you possibly can discover Bag End, wander across the hobbit holes, and go to the Green Dragon Inn. Tours begin at 89 NZD.

Where to Stay: Cosy Country Stay B&B – This is a cute bed-and-breakfast positioned in Matamata just some miles from Hobbiton. The hosts are implausible, there’s complimentary breakfast, and the property is quiet and tranquil, with roaming cats and goats for added environment.

Days 6–7: Rotorua

It’s only one hour from Hobbiton to Rotorua, some of the common vacationer locations on the North Island. The identify comes from the unique Maori “Te Rotorua-nui-a-Kahumatamomoe,” that means “second lake,” because it was the second lake that Maori chief Ihenga found within the space.

The Maori have been the unique inhabitants of New Zealand, having arrived from Polynesia between 1320 and 1350. This is the most effective space to study Maori historical past and tradition. Don’t miss seeing a Maori cultural present whilst you’re right here (the Te Pa Tu Maori Cultural Experience is the one I attended).

The area can be recognized for its geothermal exercise, and the dynamic panorama makes for thrilling nature walks, journeys to smelly sulfuric geysers, and soaks in luxurious spas with water from the recent springs.

Where to Stay: Rock Solid Backpackers – This is a centrally positioned hostel with an expansive array of services, together with a cinema, a bar, a communal kitchen, and even a rock-climbing wall.

Day 8: Waitomo

Waitomo is understood for its worms — glowworms, that’s (spoiler alert: they’re truly fly larvae that emit a bioluminescent glow). Definitely one of many coolest locations I visited in New Zealand, the Waitomo glowworm cave could also be very touristy nevertheless it’s merely breathtaking and in contrast to something you’ve ever seen.

For an entire record of issues to do in Waitomo, take a look at my information in town.

Where to Stay: Juno Hall – Close to the glowworm caves, Juno Hall has a swimming pool and tennis court docket on-site. There’s a big kitchen in addition to an out of doors grill for barbecuing.

Days 9-10: Taupo

Taupo sits on the shores of Lake Taupo and is a part of the Taupo Volcanic Zone, an space that has had excessive volcanic exercise for the previous two million years. Taupo has tons of unbelievable hikes, a number of boating excursions, charming native markets, and gorgeous nature. Think of it like a quieter model of Queenstown (the South Island’s journey capita)l.

It’s additionally one in all the most effective locations to go skydiving in New Zealand because of the views and clear skies (although I didn’t do that whereas I used to be there).

I beloved the small-town really feel of Taupo, sitting by the lake, and having the ability to take action many hikes. I may have stayed right here for weeks.

For an inventory of extra issues to do in Taupo, take a look at my information!

Where to Stay: Finlay Jack’s has an enormous kitchen, a giant widespread room, a spacious patio with BBQs, enjoyable and welcoming workers, bike leases, and an excellent pleasant hostel canine. Everything within the hostel is up to date, with new, trendy pod-style beds so you will get an excellent evening’s sleep. In quick, all the things a backpacker or price range traveler would need from a hostel.

Day 11: Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Trekking by means of this otherworldly, red-colored surroundings of volcanoes and sulfur was one of many highlights of my time in New Zealand. One of the Great Walks of New Zealand and infrequently thought of probably the greatest day hikes on the earth, that is an epic 19-kilometer (12-mile) trek that takes a full day to finish (most individuals take 6-9 hours, relying in your health stage).

As you wind your method by means of Tongariro National Park, you’ll stroll by means of volcanic terrain (together with the place Mordor in Lord of the Rings was filmed), previous excessive peaks and sulfur lakes, and finish the day in a dense forest. It’s straightforward in elements (the start and finish) and steep in others (particularly the portion after “Mount Doom”), so that you’ll get a superb mixture of problem ranges.

Be certain to deliver water, sunscreen, a hat, rest room paper, and a sweater or jacket (the climate can change quickly). Expect to pay round 40 NZD per particular person for a round-trip shuttle to and from the path or 280 NZD for a full-day guided hike.

Where to Stay: National Park Alpine Lodge – Located in National Park Village (the most effective place to remain if doing the trek), this lodge options budget-friendly non-public rooms, a communal kitchen and customary space (with a comfortable fire for chilly nights!), and a useful workers.

Otherwise, you possibly can keep in Taupo, which is the place folks often base themselves after they do that trek.

Days 12–14: Wellington

Wellington is my favourite metropolis in the complete nation. It’s an artsy, eclectic place, boasting tons of cultural actions, an unbelievable nightlife, a few of the greatest meals within the nation, tons of murals, world-class artwork reveals, insightful museums, and a lovely harbor (which is greatest seen from Mount Victoria, which overlooks the complete metropolis).

Be certain to go to Te Papa (New Zealand’s nationwide museum), trip the cable automotive to the Cable Car Museum, and tour Weta Workshop (an Academy Award–profitable props and particular results studio).

For an inventory of extra issues to do in Wellington, take a look at my detailed information to town.

Where to Stay: The Dwellington – More than half the Dwellington is widespread area, with a video games room, a cinema room (with soft seats!), residing rooms, outside patios, and even tennis and squash courts. The workers additionally actually goes out of their method to be sure you really feel welcome.

If you’ve solely obtained two weeks and are ending your street journey in Wellington, you possibly can fly out of the airport right here to wherever you have to go subsequent. If you’ve extra time, you’ll take the automotive ferry (round 3.5 hours) to Picton on the South Island to proceed your journey (wherein case, observe the next two-week South Island itinerary, however in reverse).
 

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary: A Two-Week South Island Route

If you select the South Island to your two-week street journey, begin in Queenstown. Even in case your worldwide flight lands in Auckland on the North Island, you possibly can simply get an affordable flight to Queenstown. Queenstown additionally has direct flights to many main cities in Australia in case your journey to New Zealand is an element of a bigger journey in Oceania.

Days 1-3: Queenstown

Queenstown is a small, picturesque city overlooking Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the attractive peaks of the Remarkables mountain vary. It has a feisty and outdoorsy vitality to it, with slender streets and pedestrian lanes stuffed with outlets and eating places.

Known as “the adventure capital of New Zealand” (it’s the launching pad for each form of journey exercise you possibly can consider), Queenstown lives as much as the hype. Even although it has change into massively common, I can’t categorical my love of Queenstown sufficient. I like sitting by the lake, watching the sundown with a bottle of wine, and climbing the close by trails.

Explore close by vineyards, benefit from the waters of Lake Wakatipu, bungy leap, zipline, rafting, or skydiving. There’s loads to do right here.

For an inventory of extra issues to do in Queenstown, take a look at my detailed metropolis information.

Where to Stay: Nomads Queenstown – Most rooms have balconies, the showers have prodigious water strain, and the pillows are thick. There are actions each evening and a free dinner and quiz evening on Sunday. Overall, it is a excellent place to remain.

Days 4-6: Fiordland

The Fiordland area is without doubt one of the nation’s most scenic and distant (and as such, additionally residence to quite a few Lord of the Rings movie places). Given its gigantic mountains, deep lakes, swelling rivers, untamed forests, and resplendent fjords (lengthy, slender inlets banked by steep cliffs, created by glaciers), the federal government has largely made the land off-limits to guard these pure sources.

Milford Sound is an incredible fjord that’s greatest recognized for the towering Mitre Peak and its surrounding rainforest. You can stroll the wooded path alongside the sandy shore for good views of the height, or take the Chasm Walk on the Cleddau River to get near highly effective waterfalls.

The fjord itself is residence to seal and penguin colonies. You can usually see pods of dolphins frolicking within the waters too. Explore by boat and take a look at the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory to see uncommon black coral and different underwater life. Southern Discoveries is the one firm doing cruises that embody the Underwater Observatory. Cruises begin from 129 NZD.

While much less well-known than Milford, Doubtful Sound is the deepest and second-largest fjord within the nation. You can solely get to Doubtful through boat. A wilderness cruise of Doubtful Sound prices 199 NZD.

Where to Stay: Milford Sound Lodge – This is sort of actually the one place to remain inside about 50 kilometers (31 miles). It’s not low-cost, however the views are unmatched, the complimentary breakfast is scrumptious, and the up to date rooms are cozy but trendy. Otherwise, when you’ve got a automotive, you possibly can keep within the closest city, Te Anau the place you’ll discover cheaper lodging.

Days 7-8: Wanaka

Wanaka is a ski and summer season resort city framed by snowcapped mountains. As close by Queenstown has change into overcrowded lately, journey to Wanaka has exploded and this sleepy however actually cool little city has change into common with backpackers and outside lovers, particularly skiers and boaters. There’s not a ton to do right here past having fun with the outside. Most folks come right here for just a few nights to hike, calm down, and transfer on.

For an inventory of extra issues to do in Wanaka, take a look at my detailed metropolis information.

Where to Stay: Mountain View Backpackers – This hostel has an enormous outside area with a grill, area to lie within the solar, and a giant desk to congregate round (there have been many pleasing nights spent ingesting wine open air).

Day 9: Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef is a tiny city that’s primarily used as a jumping-off level for seeing the Franz Josef Glacier and the Fox Glacier.

Hiking the glaciers right here is an unforgettable expertise. Sadly, as a result of they’ve receded and are melting shortly on account of local weather change, the caves and walks have been shut down. Now, the one method to trek on the glaciers is through heli-hike (an epic half-day or full-day helicopter/climbing expertise). These are costly (500 NZD), however the helicopter trip, trekking, and expertise as an entire are definitely worth the value for my part.

Conversely, you possibly can simply hike to the glacier face and take photographs from a distance. There are tons of viewing factors (and also you’ll see photographs of simply how far the glaciers have receded in over time).

Where to Stay: Chateau Backpacker & Motels – Just a ten-minute drive from the glacier, this lodging presents free selfmade soup each evening, free breakfast (selfmade waffles and pancakes!), two communal kitchens, and a sizzling tub.

Days 10–11: Abel Tasman National Park

Drive simply six hours north of glacial Franz Josef and also you’ll be in beachy Abel Tasman National Park. With its turquoise water, dense jungles, and heat temperatures, this park makes you are feeling such as you’re within the tropics somewhat than New Zealand. It covers over 23,876 hectares (59,000 acres), that means there are quite a lot of single and multi-day hikes (together with the 3-5-day Abel Tasman Coast Track, one of many Great Walks of New Zealand).

The greatest method to see the park is by kayak, so you possibly can discover the little coves and seashores that basically make the realm particular. Full-day leases begin at round 85 NZD, or you possibly can be a part of a guided kayaking tour beginning at 130 NZD. You may take a scenic cruise across the park for 79 NZD.

Where to Stay: Marahau Beach Camp – Offers each dormitories and small non-public cottages, a communal kitchen, and a seasonal restaurant. There are additionally tent and campervan websites if you wish to lower your expenses.

From right here, decide your final cease: both drive onwards to Christchurch and finish there or take the ferry over the Wellington (an journey in and of itself!) and finish there. Either method, you’ll be capable to catch an affordable and fast flight again to Auckland to your worldwide flight residence.

If you’re heading to Christchurch, preserve studying. If you’d like to go to Wellington, scroll again up and observe the guidelines within the North Island itinerary part.

Days 12-14: Christchurch

Though severely broken by earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 (over 185 folks have been killed and three,000 buildings have been broken), Christchurch has rebounded and advanced right into a brand-new metropolis. This revival has instilled a newfound sense of hope and vibrancy, and led to extra funky bars and markets, and new eating places, outlets, and reveals. The locals have labored arduous to rebuild, and there’s a neighborhood spirit right here that basically shines. I like the place Christchurch goes.

While there’s not loads “to do” per se, the vibe right here is basically relaxed, and it’s value not dashing by means of for those who aren’t quick on time. Be certain to trip the gondola, go to the Canterbury Museum, and tour Quake City (a novel and interactive museum that recounts private tales from the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes).

For an inventory of extra issues to do in Christchurch, take a look at my metropolis information.

Where to Stay: Urbanz – This is an superior hostel positioned in downtown Christchurch with pleasant workers and an enormous kitchen. There’s additionally a hostel bar, a pool desk, quick Wi-Fi, laundry, films, and cozy couches, in addition to a car parking zone.

If you have to get again to Queenstown, it’s a 6 hour drive from right here. Alternatively, you possibly can fly to Auckland. The flight is simply over an hour and tickets will be discovered for as little as 65 NZD for those who e book upfront.
 

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary: One Month

You’ve obtained longer to discover New Zealand, nice! You’ll seemingly fly into Auckland, and make your method south by means of the North after which South Island following the above itineraries. You can take your time, linger longer, go to extra locations, and shift your plans for those who really feel pulled in a sure route.

Again, these are simply beneficial itineraries — I encourage you to adapt as wanted!
 

Things to Remember When Road-Tripping New Zealand

To assist you to take advantage of your street journey, please keep in mind the next guidelines:

• Traffic flows on the left right here (not the suitable, like within the US or Canada).
• You should at all times park your automotive within the route that site visitors goes (or threat a wonderful).
• There are loads of pull-off factors for taking photographs — use them as a substitute of stopping at a random spot alongside the aspect of the street, which will be fairly harmful given how tight the roads are right here.
• Roads listed below are winding, so keep in mind that it would take longer than you anticipate to cowl a specific distance.
• As lengthy as your present and legitimate driver’s license is in English, you don’t want an International Driver’s Permit.
• If you’re touring by campervan, use the CamperMate app to seek out close by campsites, gasoline stations, and dump stations.

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New Zealand is an unforgettable nation, loaded with epic landscapes, pleasant Kiwis, and a wealthy tradition. Due to its distant location, visiting is often a once-in-a-lifetime journey for many vacationers. Taking a street journey is one of the simplest ways to take advantage of your time right here, tailoring your itinerary to your personal preferences and New Zealand bucket record.

Need a rental automotive to your epic journey? use the widget under to seek out the most effective offers!