Epic Road Trip from Auckland to Gisborne: Adventure Awaits

Day 1: Auckland Exploration

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Amano

Start your day with a delectable breakfast at Amano, known for its locally sourced ingredients and artisanal brunch options.
Take a leisurely stroll from your accommodation to the restaurant.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Sky Tower Visit

Head to the iconic Sky Tower for stunning panoramic views of the city, which will set the stage for your adventure ahead.
A 15-minute walk from Amano.
NZD32, 1 hour

11:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Hit the road as you drive to Rotorua, a journey filled with scenic landscapes that is approximately 3 hours long.
Rental car from Auckland heading southeast on State Highway 1.
NZD100 (car rental), 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Eat Streat

Upon arrival in Rotorua, grab a lively lunch at Eat Streat, featuring diverse cuisines and a vibrant atmosphere.
Located in the city centre; a short drive from your car park.
NZD25, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Te Puia

Discover the geothermal wonders of Te Puia, where you can see bubbling mud pools and the famous Pohutu geyser.
A 10-minute drive from Eat Streat.
NZD60, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Secret Ingredient

Enjoy a wonderful dinner featuring local ingredients beautifully presented at The Secret Ingredient, a well-regarded restaurant in Rotorua.
A short drive back towards the city centre.
NZD50, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Relax at the Hotel

Unwind at your accommodation and prepare for the next leg of your journey.
Return to your chosen hotel in Rotorua.
NZD150 (hotel), Rest of night
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Day 2: Rotorua to Gisborne

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before hitting the road to Gisborne.
Enjoy the convenience of on-site dining.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Gisborne

Embark on your journey to Gisborne, enjoying the scenic views along State Highway 2, which takes around 3.5 hours.
Continue on State Highway 2 southeast.
NZD100 (car rental), 3.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Works

Upon arrival in Gisborne, indulge in a fresh, handmade burger and craft beer at The Works, a local favourite.
Easily accessible from the main roads in Gisborne.
NZD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Tairawhiti Museum

Explore the Tairawhiti Museum to learn about the rich Māori and settler history of the region.
A short 5-minute drive from lunch location.
NZD20, 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax at the Beach

Head to Waikanae Beach to soak up some sun and enjoy the beautiful surf by taking a leisurely walk along the sandy shores.
Only a 10-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Rivers

Savour a delightful dinner at The Rivers, situated along the riverbank, offering fresh seafood and local produce with a view.
A short drive from Waikanae Beach.
NZD60, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Check-In at Accommodation

Settle into your accommodation in Gisborne and rest for an adventurous day ahead.
Return to your hotel or guesthouse.
NZD150 (hotel), Rest of night
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Gisborne Discovery

Gisborne, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cove

Fuel up with a delightful breakfast at The Cove, known for its stunning views and delicious breakfast offerings.
Only a 10-minute drive from your accommodation.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Wine Tasting at Gisborne Wine Centre

Enjoy a morning of wine tasting at the Gisborne Wine Centre, sampling some of the region’s finest wines.
A quick 5-minute drive.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Eastwoodhill Arboretum

Explore the beautiful landscapes and vast collections of trees at Eastwoodhill Arboretum, offering great walking trails.
An hour's drive from the wine centre.
NZD15, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Viceroy

Head back to Gisborne for lunch at the Viceroy, featuring stunning views and a menu filled with local ingredients.
Drive back towards the city centre, approximately 30 minutes away.
NZD40, 1 hour

2:30PM

Civic Square and Maritime Museum

Explore the Civic Square and Maritime Museum to dive deeper into Gisborne's maritime history.
A short drive from lunch.
NZD15, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Plenty of Time at the Beach

Take some leisure time at Makorori Beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing or just relaxing.
A quick 15-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Marina Restaurant

Wrap up your road trip with a delightful dinner at the Marina Restaurant, known for its waterfront dining and fresh seafood dishes.
Quick drive back towards the main area of Gisborne.
NZD70, 1.5 hours
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