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Ultimate 7-Day Auckland Road Trip Adventure

Viewed by 104 travelers

Day 1: Beach Day at Matakana

Matakana, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Rusty Pelican

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Rusty Pelican while enjoying the stunning views of Matakana.
Drive 1 hour 15 minutes from Auckland City to Rusty Pelican in Matakana.
25 NZD, 1 hour

10:00AM

Relax at Omaha Beach

Spend the morning relaxing on the white sandy beaches of Omaha Beach and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters.
Omaha Beach is a short 10-minute drive from Rusty Pelican.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Farmer's Daughter

Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at The Farmer's Daughter, known for its fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
The Farmer's Daughter is a 15-minute drive from Omaha Beach.
30 NZD, 1 hour

2:00PM

Wine Tasting at Brick Bay Wines

Indulge in a wine tasting experience at Brick Bay Wines and explore their beautiful sculpture trail.
Brick Bay Wines is a 20-minute drive from The Farmer's Daughter.
20 NZD, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Matakana Village

Take a stroll through Matakana Village, browse the local shops, and maybe pick up some unique souvenirs.
Matakana Village is a 10-minute drive from Brick Bay Wines.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Matakana Market Kitchen

End your day with a delicious dinner at Matakana Market Kitchen, known for its fresh and seasonal dishes.
Matakana Market Kitchen is located in Matakana Village.
40 NZD, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cave Exploration at Waitomo Caves

Waitomo Caves, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Stables Restaurant

Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at The Stables Restaurant before heading to Waitomo Caves.
Drive 2 hours 30 minutes from Auckland City to The Stables Restaurant near Waitomo Caves.
20 NZD, 1 hour

10:00AM

Guided Tour of Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Embark on a magical guided tour through the enchanting Waitomo Glowworm Caves and marvel at the luminescent glowworms.
The Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a short drive from The Stables Restaurant.
65 NZD, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Huhu Cafe

Enjoy a unique dining experience at Huhu Cafe, known for its innovative New Zealand cuisine.
Huhu Cafe is located near Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
35 NZD, 1 hour

2:00PM

Black Water Rafting Adventure

Embark on an adrenaline-pumping black water rafting adventure through the underground caves and rivers of Waitomo.
The Black Water Rafting starting point is a short distance from Huhu Cafe.
150 NZD, 3 hours

5:00PM

Scenic Drive to Rotorua

Enjoy a scenic drive from Waitomo Caves to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua.
Drive 2 hours from Waitomo Caves to Rotorua.
Gasoline Cost, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Eat Streat

Savor a delicious dinner at Eat Streat, a vibrant dining precinct in the heart of Rotorua with a variety of cuisine options.
Eat Streat is located in central Rotorua.
45 NZD, 1 hour
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Day 3: Geothermal Wonders in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ciabatta Bakery

Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Ciabatta Bakery, known for its fresh pastries and coffee.
Ciabatta Bakery is located in central Rotorua.
15 NZD, 1 hour

9:00AM

Te Puia Geothermal Valley

Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Te Puia Geothermal Valley, home to bubbling mud pools, geysers, and the iconic Pohutu Geyser.
Te Puia is a short drive from Ciabatta Bakery.
50 NZD, 2 hours

11:00AM

Rainbow Springs Nature Park

Visit Rainbow Springs Nature Park to see native wildlife, including kiwi birds, and learn about conservation efforts in New Zealand.
Rainbow Springs Nature Park is located near Te Puia.
40 NZD, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Stratosfare Restaurant

Enjoy a buffet lunch with panoramic views of Lake Rotorua at Stratosfare Restaurant atop the Skyline Gondola.
Take the Skyline Gondola up to Stratosfare Restaurant.
60 NZD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Redwoods Treewalk

Embark on a magical walk among the treetops on the Redwoods Treewalk and admire the majestic Redwood forest.
The Redwoods Treewalk is a short drive from Skyline Rotorua.
30 NZD, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Polynesian Spa

Unwind and rejuvenate at the Polynesian Spa, soaking in the geothermal hot springs overlooking Lake Rotorua.
Polynesian Spa is a short drive from the Redwoods.
50 NZD, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sabroso

Indulge in a flavorful dinner at Sabroso, a Spanish-influenced restaurant offering a unique dining experience.
Sabroso is located in central Rotorua.
50 NZD, 1 hour
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Day 4: Adventure in Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Storehouse Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Storehouse Cafe, known for its delicious coffee and pastries.
Storehouse Cafe is located in central Taupo.
20 NZD, 1 hour

9:00AM

Huka Falls

Witness the powerful cascades of Huka Falls and take a scenic walk along the crystal-clear waters of the Waikato River.
Huka Falls is a short drive from Storehouse Cafe.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Jet Boating on Lake Taupo

Experience an exhilarating jet boat ride on the waters of Lake Taupo, showcasing the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.
The jet boat departure point is near Huka Falls.
100 NZD, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Brantry

Enjoy a gourmet lunch at The Brantry, a waterfront restaurant offering stunning views of Lake Taupo.
The Brantry is located near the jet boat departure point.
40 NZD, 1 hour

2:30PM

Skydiving over Lake Taupo

Experience the thrill of skydiving over Lake Taupo and marvel at the breathtaking aerial views of the region.
The skydiving center is a short drive from The Brantry.
300 NZD, 3 hours

5:30PM

Relax at Taupo Hot Springs

Unwind and relax at the Taupo Hot Springs, rejuvenating in the natural geothermal pools with therapeutic properties.
The Taupo Hot Springs are a short drive from the skydiving center.
40 NZD, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Bistro Lago

Enjoy a delectable dinner at Bistro Lago, a lakeside restaurant known for its contemporary New Zealand cuisine.
Bistro Lago is located near Lake Taupo.
60 NZD, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 5: Coastal Exploration in Coromandel

Coromandel, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Umu Cafe

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Umu Cafe, known for its organic and locally sourced menu.
Umu Cafe is located in central Coromandel.
25 NZD, 1 hour

9:00AM

Cathedral Cove

Embark on a scenic hike to Cathedral Cove, a picturesque beach with white sands and turquoise waters, made famous by 'The Chronicles of Narnia'.
Cathedral Cove is a short drive from Umu Cafe.
5 NZD (for parking), 2 hours

11:00AM

Hot Water Beach

Visit Hot Water Beach and dig your own natural hot pool in the sand, where hot water bubbles up from the depths below.
Hot Water Beach is a short drive from Cathedral Cove.
5 NZD (for spade rental), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pepper Tree Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at Pepper Tree Restaurant, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Pepper Tree Restaurant is located near Hot Water Beach.
30 NZD, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Driving Creek Railway

Take a ride on the Driving Creek Railway, a narrow-gauge mountain railway through regenerating native forest with unique pottery sculptures along the route.
Driving Creek Railway is a short drive from Pepper Tree Restaurant.
35 NZD, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at The Lost Spring

Unwind at The Lost Spring, a luxurious thermal resort with natural hot pools and tropical gardens, perfect for relaxation.
The Lost Spring is a short drive from Driving Creek Railway.
60 NZD, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Coromandel Oyster Company

Indulge in fresh seafood delights at Coromandel Oyster Company, known for its delicious oysters and seafood dishes.
Coromandel Oyster Company is located in central Coromandel.
50 NZD, 1 hour
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Day 6: Return to Auckland City

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Chuffed

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Chuffed, a cozy cafe known for its delicious brunch options.
Chuffed is located in central Auckland.
20 NZD, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Auckland Art Gallery

Spend the morning exploring the Auckland Art Gallery, home to an extensive collection of New Zealand and international art.
Auckland Art Gallery is located in the heart of Auckland City.
25 NZD, 2 hours

11:00AM

Shopping at Queen Street

Indulge in some retail therapy along Queen Street, Auckland's premier shopping destination with a mix of high-end boutiques and local stores.
Queen Street is a short walk from Auckland Art Gallery.
Varies, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar

Enjoy a casual lunch at Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar, known for its fresh seafood and relaxed atmosphere.
Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar is located on Federal Street.
35 NZD, 1 hour

2:30PM

Sky Tower

Head up the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views of Auckland City and its stunning harbor.
The Sky Tower is a short walk from Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar.
30 NZD, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Wynyard Quarter

Unwind at Wynyard Quarter, a vibrant waterfront precinct with bars, restaurants, and stunning views of the Auckland Harbor.
Wynyard Quarter is a short walk from the Sky Tower.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Euro Bar & Restaurant

End your road trip with a sophisticated dinner at Euro Bar & Restaurant, offering contemporary European cuisine and waterfront views.
Euro Bar & Restaurant is located in Viaduct Harbour.
70 NZD, 1 hour
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Day 7: Departure Day

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Oaken

Enjoy a final breakfast at Oaken, a cozy cafe serving up delicious coffee and breakfast fare.
Oaken is located in central Auckland.
20 NZD, 1 hour

9:00AM

Souvenir Shopping at Parnell Village

Browse through the charming boutiques and art galleries in Parnell Village for unique Kiwi souvenirs.
Parnell Village is a short drive from Oaken.
Varies, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Auckland War Memorial Museum

Explore the rich history and culture of New Zealand at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, set in the picturesque Auckland Domain.
Auckland War Memorial Museum is a short drive from Parnell Village.
30 NZD, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Cigale French Market

Indulge in a gourmet lunch at La Cigale French Market, sampling a variety of French delicacies and local produce.
La Cigale French Market is located in Parnell.
40 NZD, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Auckland Waterfront

Take a leisurely stroll along the Auckland Waterfront, soaking in the views of the harbor and watching the boats go by.
The Auckland Waterfront is a short walk from La Cigale French Market.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return Rental Car

Head back to the rental car agency to return your vehicle before departing for the airport.
Drive to the rental car agency from the Auckland Waterfront.
Depends on rental company, 1 hour

5:00PM

Departure

Bid farewell to Auckland as you head to the airport for your departure, taking with you unforgettable memories of your 7-day road trip adventure.
Drive to Auckland Airport from the rental car agency.
Varies, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Auckland
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