Scenic 3-Day Road Trip from Auckland to Wellington and Back

Day 1: Auckland to Rotorua

Auckland to Rotorua, New Zealand on July 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Federal Delicatessen, Auckland

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Federal Delicatessen, known for its New York-style bagels and inventive brunch dishes, open from 7:00am.
NZD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive Auckland to Hamilton

Drive south from Auckland to Hamilton, approx 1h30m, enjoying the lush landscapes of the Waikato region.
NZD0, 1h30m

11:00am

Visit Hamilton Gardens

Explore the award-winning themed gardens showcasing horticultural styles from around the world, open daily 9:30am-5:00pm.
NZD0, 1h30m

12:45pm

Lunch at Palate Restaurant, Hamilton

Savour contemporary New Zealand cuisine focusing on local produce, a perfect spot for a midday break, open 11:30am-2:30pm.
NZD40, 1h0m

2:00pm

Drive Hamilton to Rotorua

Continue your journey driving east towards Rotorua, estimated travel time 1h15m through beautiful countryside.
NZD0, 1h15m

3:30pm

Visit Te Puia Geothermal Reserve

Watch geysers erupt and explore Māori culture; Te Puia is open until 5:00pm, offering a unique geothermal and cultural experience.
NZD60, 1h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at The Stratosfare Restaurant, Rotorua

Dine at the top of Mount Ngongotaha with panoramic views over Rotorua, specializing in New Zealand lamb and seafood.
NZD65, 1h30m
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Day 2: Rotorua to Wellington

Rotorua to Wellington, New Zealand on July 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Capers Epicurean, Rotorua

Enjoy a gourmet breakfast with specialty coffee at Capers Epicurean, open from 7:00am.
NZD20, 45m

8:30am

Drive Rotorua to Taupo

Travel south along State Highway 5 to Taupo, a scenic drive taking approximately 1h15m.
NZD0, 1h15m

10:00am

Walk along Lake Taupo Waterfront

Take a peaceful walk by New Zealand's largest lake, enjoy views of the volcanic mountains nearby.
NZD0, 1h0m

11:15am

Drive Taupo to Tongariro National Park

Head south towards Tongariro National Park, about 1h20m drive offering great mountain scenery.
NZD0, 1h20m

12:45pm

Lunch at The Park Hotel Bistro, National Park Village

Enjoy a hearty lunch with Kiwi pub classics before exploring the area, open for lunch until 2:30pm.
NZD30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Short hike in Tongariro National Park

Explore short walks such as Taranaki Falls or Silica Rapids to enjoy volcanic landscapes; suitable for an afternoon stroll.
NZD0, 2h0m

4:30pm

Drive National Park to Wellington

Drive south to Wellington, a longer stretch taking about 4h30m. Aim to arrive by evening.
NZD0, 4h30m

9:00pm

Dinner at Logan Brown, Wellington

Finish the day with a fine dining experience showcasing New Zealand's best local ingredients, open until 10:00pm.
NZD70, 1h30m
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Day 3: Wellington to Auckland

Wellington to Auckland, New Zealand on July 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Fidel’s Cafe, Wellington

Start your morning with a vibrant Cuban-inspired breakfast in central Wellington, open from 7:00am.
NZD20, 1h0m

9:15am

Visit Te Papa Tongarewa (Museum of New Zealand)

Explore New Zealand’s national museum demonstrating history, art and Maori culture, open 10:00am-6:00pm.
NZD0, 2h0m

11:30am

Drive Wellington to Palmerston North

Drive northwards around 2h30m to Palmerston North, passing through lovely pastoral scenery.
NZD0, 2h30m

2:00pm

Lunch at The Botanist, Palmerston North

Enjoy a cosy restaurant known for fresh, locally sourced dishes, open for lunch until 3:00pm.
NZD30, 1h0m

3:15pm

Drive Palmerston North to Auckland

Complete the journey back to Auckland, a drive of about 3h30m, arriving in the early evening.
NZD0, 3h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar, Auckland

Celebrate your return to Auckland with fresh seafood and vibrant atmosphere at Depot, open until 10:00pm.
NZD60, 1h30m
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