7-Day Family-Friendly Adventure Road Trip to Cape Reinga

Day 1: Auckland Adventures

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at O'Hagan's

Start your trip with a hearty breakfast featuring classic Kiwi options like eggs benedict and fresh coffee.
Walk to the nearby Auckland Domain Park for a scenic stroll.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Auckland Zoo

The kids will love exploring the vast variety of animals while you can enjoy the lush surroundings of the zoo.
Drive to Auckland Zoo, approximately 10 minutes.
NZD82, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Glass Goose Bar & Eatery

Relax with a family lunch on the outdoor terrace offering delicious wood-fired pizzas.
Drive back to the city center, about 15 minutes.
NZD100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Sky Tower Experience

Get breathtaking views of Auckland from the observation deck of the Sky Tower, the tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere.
Walk to the Sky Tower from lunch, about 5 minutes.
NZD140, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Aotea Square

Take some afternoon time to relax and enjoy the street performers and art installations in this vibrant urban space.
Short walk from Sky Tower, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Head to Whangarei

Embark on the scenic drive to Whangarei, enjoying the lush landscapes of Northland.
Drive approx. 2.5 hours to Whangarei.
Fuel cost approx. NZD50, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Homestead

Enjoy a cozy family dinner offering New Zealand favorites, including fresh seafood and local wines.
Located in Whangarei, just a short drive from your accommodation.
NZD120, 1 hour

8:30PM

Check-in at Whangarei Hotel

Settle in for a restful night as you gear up for more adventures.
Hotel located in Whangarei city center.
NZD180, N/A
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Day 2: Exploring Whangarei

Whangarei, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tonic Café

Enjoy a delightful breakfast of pancakes or fresh smoothies to energize your day.
Short walk from the hotel, about 5 minutes.
NZD40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Whangarei Falls

Admire the stunning falls and enjoy the walking tracks around the area which are suitable for families.
Drive approx. 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Whangarei Art Museum

Explore local art at this family-friendly museum housing New Zealand's contemporary artworks.
Drive approx. 10 minutes.
NZD25, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The LOOP

Break for lunch with a menu showcasing local produce and relaxing ambiance.
Short drive back to the city, about 10 minutes.
NZD90, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Adventure Forest

Experience the thrill of high ropes challenges surrounded by nature with options suitable for all ages.
Drive approx. 15 minutes.
NZD120, 3 hours

5:00PM

Head to Paihia

Before sunset, leave for Paihia to soak in the picturesque bay views.
Drive approximately 1 hour.
Fuel cost approx. NZD40, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Duke of Marlborough

Savor a delicious meal with a stunning view of the Bay of Islands, perfect for ending your day.
Located in Paihia once you check in.
NZD150, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Check-in at Paihia Hotel

Rest up and enjoy the coastal air, preparing for exploring more of the Bay of Islands tomorrow.
Hotel located in Paihia.
NZD200, N/A
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Day 3: Bay of Islands Discovery

Paihia, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Today's Cafe

Indulge in a family breakfast with ocean views and hearty options on the menu.
Near your hotel, about 5 minutes walking.
NZD50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Cape Brett Track

Embark on a family hike to witness breathtaking views and unique landscapes, suitable for older children.
Drive approx. 30 minutes to the track start.
Free, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Return Hike

Partake in the return hike while enjoying the beautiful scenery and fresh air.
Follow the same path back.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Bull

Refuel with a casual family lunch offering burgers, salads, and local beers.
Drive back to Paihia, approximately 30 minutes.
NZD100, 1 hour

2:00PM

Take a Cruise of the Bay

A family-friendly cruise around the Bay of Islands to see dolphins, islands, and stunning coastline.
Walk to the Paihia wharf, a short 10-minute walk.
NZD250, 3 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Te Tii Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon at the beach, sunbathing and swimming in the warm waters of the bay.
Short drive approx. 10 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at El Cafe

Enjoy a family-friendly dinner featuring diverse options from tacos to gourmet fish and chips.
Returning to Paihia, approximately 15 minutes.
NZD120, 1 hour

8:30PM

Evening at the Hotel

Unwind as a family at the hotel, playing games, or enjoying the view.
Hotel located in Paihia.
N/A, N/A
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Day 4: Cultural Heritage Journey

Russell, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Gables

Savor a coastal breakfast with fresh ingredients and stunning bay views.
Travel to Russell on a short ferry ride from Paihia, about 15 minutes.
NZD40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Russell Museum

Learn about the maritime history of New Zealand in this interactive museum, perfect for families.
Short walk from The Gables.
NZD25, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Flagstaff Hill

Enjoy a hike up to the Flagstaff Hill for panoramic views and discover the area's historical significance.
Walk from the museum, 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Duke of Marlborough

Savor your lunch at a historic site offering a delightful menu framed in a vibrant atmosphere.
Walk back to the restaurant, about 10 minutes.
NZD100, 1 hour

1:00PM

Swim at Long Beach

Spend the afternoon swimming and playing at the picturesque Long Beach, great for kids.
Drive to Long Beach, about 10 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Okiato

Discover this tranquil area rich in Maori culture and natural beauty, perfect for a peaceful outing.
Drive approx. 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Head to Kaitaia

Make your way to Kaitaia, where the adventure continues towards Cape Reinga.
Drive about 1.5 hours.
Fuel cost approx. NZD50, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at G'Cafe

Enjoy a casual meal with a menu highlighting local flavors and options for the whole family.
Located in Kaitaia.
NZD80, 1 hour

8:00PM

Check-in at Kaitaia Hotel

Wind down for the night preparing for your most thrilling adventure tomorrow.
Hotel located in Kaitaia.
NZD180, N/A
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Journey to Cape Reinga

Cape Reinga, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a convenient breakfast from your hotel before the big adventure.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Cape Reinga

Set off early to arrive at this iconic northern tip of New Zealand before the crowds.
Drive approximately 2 hours to Cape Reinga.
Fuel cost approx. NZD50, 2 hours

10:30AM

Cape Reinga Lighthouse Visit

Marvel at the iconic lighthouse set on the cliffs, providing stunning views where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean meet.
Walk to the lighthouse from the car park, about 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore Te Paki Sand Dunes

Experience the thrill of sandboarding or simply enjoy the unusual landscape at these famous sand dunes.
Short drive from the lighthouse, approximately 15 minutes.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Te Paki

Pack a picnic to enjoy at the dunes, surrounded by nature for a perfect family meal.
Setup your picnic at a designated area.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Ruatara Point

Take a scenic walk to enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery and catch a glimpse of local wildlife.
Drive approx. 20 minutes to Ruatara Point.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Kaitaia

Head back to Kaitaia after an exciting day, enjoying the picturesque views along the way.
Drive approximately 1.5 hours back.
Fuel cost approx. NZD50, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Kaitaia Sports Club

End your day with a family-friendly dinner options, perfect for bringing everyone together.
Located in Kaitaia.
NZD70, 1 hour

7:00PM

Evening at Kaitaia Hotel

Rest and share stories about today's adventure before a good night's sleep.
Hotel located in Kaitaia.
N/A, N/A
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Day 6: Relax and Reflect

Kaitaia, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your breakfast as a family, discussing your favorite moments from the trip.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Ninety Mile Beach

Spend a relaxing morning at this stunning beach, perfect for sandcastle building and walking along the shore.
Drive approximately 30 minutes to Ninety Mile Beach.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Mangonui Fish Shop

Enjoy fresh fish and chips by the waterfront, a local favorite for visitors.
Drive approx. 30 minutes to Mangonui.
NZD80, 1 hour

1:30PM

Bream Tail Conservation Area

Explore the coastal area with a potential for wildlife sightings and scenic walks.
Drive approx. 30 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax at the hotel

Take some downtime to chat, relax by the pool, or play games as a family.
Drive back to Kaitaia, about 30 minutes.
N/A, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Cabbage Tree

Savor a delicious meal featuring seasonal dishes and local ingredients.
Located in Kaitaia.
NZD120, 1 hour

7:00PM

Pack for Departure

Pack and prepare for the journey back to Auckland, reminiscing about the exceptional adventure.
N/A
N/A, N/A
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Day 7: Return to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your final meal in Kaitaia before hitting the road back to Auckland.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Depart for Auckland

Start your drive back to Auckland, cherishing memories of the journey made.
Drive approximately 5 hours.
Fuel cost approx. NZD100, 5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch en route at Taniwha

Stop for a family lunch at this popular cafe located along the way.
Drive approx. 15 minutes off main road.
NZD90, 1 hour

2:00PM

Continue to Auckland

Finish your return journey to Auckland, wrapping up an unforgettable family adventure.
Drive approximately 4 hours back to Auckland.
N/A, 4 hours

6:00PM

Arrive in Auckland

Arrive back in Auckland with lasting memories of the incredible journey through nature and adventure.
Return the rental car at the airport if needed.
N/A, N/A
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