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14-Day Family-Friendly Road Trip Itinerary in North Island, New Zealand

Viewed by 148 travelers

Day 1: Auckland Adventure

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Sky Tower Visit

Start your adventure with a trip to the Sky Tower for stunning views of the city.
Drive or take public transport to the Sky Tower.
NZD 32, 2 hours

11:30AM

Breakfast at Federal Delicatessen

Enjoy a family-friendly breakfast at this casual deli, famous for its pancakes and bagels.
A short walk from the Sky Tower.
NZD 80, 1 hour

1:00PM

Auckland Zoo

Spend the afternoon at Auckland Zoo, where kids can learn about animals from various habitats.
20-minute drive from Federal Delicatessen.
NZD 50, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at La Porchetta

Wrap up your day with family-friendly Italian food at La Porchetta.
Return to the city centre, which is about a 15-minute drive.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Rotorua Culture

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Hit the road for a scenic drive to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity.
Take the State Highway 1 and 5, road trip is about 3 hours.
Fuel Cost: NZD 30, 3 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Lady Jane's Ice Cream Parlour

A light lunch featuring delicious ice creams - perfect for the whole family!
Located in downtown Rotorua.
NZD 70, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Te Puia

Explore the geothermal wonders and Maori culture at Te Puia.
A quick 5-minute drive from lunch.
NZD 70, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Eat Streat

Enjoy a casual dinner at this popular street food hub with a variety of options.
Just a short walk from Te Puia.
NZD 150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 3: Rotorua Relaxation

Rotorua, New Zealand

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Green Dragon

Start your day at this charming café with a great breakfast menu in a Hobbit-inspired setting.
Located in the heart of Rotorua.
NZD 90, 1 hour

11:00AM

Whakarewarewa - The Living Maori Village

Discover Maori culture and geothermal wonders at Whakarewarewa.
10-minute drive from breakfast.
NZD 65, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Pig & Whistle

A family-friendly British pub offering hearty meals and a relaxed atmosphere.
Head back downtown, about a 10-minute drive.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Redwoods Treewalk

Enjoy a scenic walk high among the redwood trees, great for families.
15-minute drive from lunch.
NZD 75, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Cowabunga

Experience a fun and relaxed dining experience with a great kids' menu.
Close to the Treewalk, a quick 10-minute drive.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 4: Taupo Discovery

Taupo, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive to Taupo

A sunny drive from Rotorua to Taupo, stopping at scenic vistas.
Drive is about 1 hour.
Fuel Cost: NZD 20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

Start your day with waterfront views and great coffee and breakfast options.
Located near the lakefront.
NZD 80, 1 hour

12:00PM

Huka Falls Visit

Witness the amazing Huka Falls, a must-see natural attraction near Taupo.
A short 15-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lake Taupo Picnic Lunch

Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch by the scenic shores of Lake Taupo.
15-minute drive from Huka Falls to the lake.
NZD 50, 2 hours

4:00PM

Taupo DeBretts Spa

Relax in thermal pools at this family-friendly spa, perfect for unwinding.
20-minute drive from the lake.
NZD 120, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Brantry

Savor local cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere, great for families.
A 10-minute drive from the spa.
NZD 140, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 5: Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Tongariro National Park

Travel to one of New Zealand's most iconic national parks, known for spectacular scenery.
About a 1 hour drive from Taupo.
Fuel Cost: NZD 10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Breakfast at Whakapapa Village

Enjoy a breakfast packed with energy before your outdoor adventures.
Located in Whakapapa Village.
NZD 80, 1 hour

11:00AM

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Take on New Zealand’s famous day hike, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing (ensure kids are up for it).
Starting point is a short drive away.
Free, 7 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Rocks

After a long day, enjoy a cozy family dinner with hearty meals.
Located in the National Park.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Tongariro National Park

Day 6: Napier Exploration

Napier, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Napier

Enjoy a picturesque drive from Tongariro to Napier, famous for its art deco architecture.
Around a 2-hour drive.
Fuel Cost: NZD 25, 2 hours

10:30AM

Breakfast at The Silky Oak Chocolate Company

Treat the family to amazing chocolates and desserts for breakfast.
Located just outside Napier.
NZD 75, 1 hour

12:00PM

Napier Art Deco Walking Tour

Discover the city's rich history with a guided walking tour of its stunning architecture.
Downtown Napier.
NZD 40, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Emporium Eatery & Bar

Enjoy a relaxed family lunch with a nice variety of dishes.
Nearby the walking tour.
NZD 130, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

National Aquarium of New Zealand

Explore marine life at this family-friendly aquarium, great for kids.
15-minute drive from lunch.
NZD 30, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Baileys at Napier

Relax and enjoy great cuisine in a comfortable environment.
Just a short drive from the aquarium.
NZD 150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Napier

Day 7: Hastings Day Trip

Hastings, New Zealand

8:30AM

Drive to Hastings

Take a short drive to Hastings to explore its markets and parks.
Approximately 30 minutes from Napier.
Fuel Cost: NZD 10, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hastings Farmers Markets

Start your day by enjoying fresh produce and local goodies at the farmers' market.
Located in the city centre.
NZD 50, 1 hour

11:00AM

Splash Planet

Let the kids enjoy water fun at this popular water park with plenty of slides and pools.
10-minute drive from the farmers market.
NZD 80, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Bin 44

Dine at this lovely bistro known for its fresh ingredients and stylish atmosphere.
15-minute drive from Splash Planet.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Te Mata Peak

Spend the afternoon enjoying stunning views from this iconic peak.
20-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Common Room

Relax after your adventure with a night cap and dinner in a pleasantly casual bistro.
Just a short drive from Te Mata Peak.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hastings

Day 8: Wellington Wonders

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Wellington

Journey to the capital city of New Zealand, known for its culture and stunning harbour.
Around a 4-hour drive from Hastings.
Fuel Cost: NZD 50, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Boatshed

Upon your arrival, enjoy a delicious lunch by the waterfront.
Located near the harbour area.
NZD 150, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Te Papa Museum

Visit New Zealand's national museum, offering many interactive exhibits for kids.
Short drive from The Boatshed.
Free Entry, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Logan Brown

Enjoy a memorable dining experience at this fine dining establishment suitable for families.
Close to the museum.
NZD 200, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 9: Wellington Exploration

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aunty Mena's

Start your day with a great breakfast from this cozy café known for its family-friendly menu.
Situated in Wellington.
NZD 90, 1 hour

10:00AM

Wellington Cable Car

Take the iconic cable car for stunning views of the city.
A short drive from Aunty Mena's.
NZD 8, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Ritual Café

Enjoy a vibrant lunch at this quaint café known for healthy options.
Located in the city after the cable car.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Zealandia

Explore New Zealand's unique wildlife and conservation efforts at Zealandia.
Around a 15-minute drive.
NZD 40, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Matterhorn

Enjoy an eclectic menu filled with local ingredients popular among families.
A 10-minute drive from Zealandia.
NZD 150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 10: Palmerston North Journey

Palmerston North, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Palmerston North

Make your way to Palmerston North, a fantastic city for family exploration.
A 2-hour drive from Wellington.
Fuel Cost: NZD 30, 2 hours

10:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Company

Enjoy breakfast at this welcoming café known for delicious coffee and light meals.
Located downtown Palmerston North.
NZD 80, 1 hour

12:00PM

Visit Te Manawa

An interactive museum that showcases the culture, history, and art of the Manawatu region.
Centred in Palmerston North.
NZD 20, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Lido Cafe

Savor delicious meals in this charming café with a relaxed vibe.
A quick 10-minute drive.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Victoria Esplanade

Enjoy walking trails, gardens, and play areas at this lovely park.
A 10-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Olive Garden

End the day with a family-friendly dinner featuring Italian cuisine.
Close to the esplanade.
NZD 140, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Palmerston North

Day 11: Taranaki Discoveries

Taranaki, New Zealand

8:30AM

Drive to Taranaki

Travel to Taranaki and explore the stunning Mount Taranaki.
A 2-hour scenic drive.
Fuel Cost: NZD 30, 2 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at Elixir Cafe

Have a scrumptious breakfast to fuel yourself for a day of adventure.
Located in New Plymouth.
NZD 90, 1 hour

12:30PM

Exploring Mount Taranaki

Enjoy scenic walks and stunning views at Mount Taranaki National Park.
15-minute drive from the café.
Free, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at The Last Kitchen

Relax and enjoy a family lunch with delicious choices.
A 20-minute drive from the park.
NZD 130, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Coastal Walkway

An easy coastal walk, perfect for kids with scenic views and beach access.
10-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Orangery

Finish the day with an elegant meal at a family-friendly restaurant.
A quick drive to the restaurant.
NZD 160, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taranaki

Day 12: Waitomo Caves Adventure

Waitomo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Waitomo

Set off for Waitomo to experience the stunning glowworm caves.
About a 3-hour drive.
Fuel Cost: NZD 40, 3 hours

11:30AM

Breakfast at The Waitomo Homestead

A peaceful breakfast spot where you can enjoy a hearty meal.
Located near the caves.
NZD 80, 1 hour

1:00PM

Glowworm Cave Tour

Experience the enchanting glowworm caves through a guided tour, an unforgettable family activity.
Located just a short drive away.
NZD 100, 2 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Roselands Waitomo

Enjoy a light lunch with local flavours at this cozy café.
Just a quick drive from the caves.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre

Learn about the fascinating ecosystem of the glowworms and local history.
A 10-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Waitomo General Store

End your adventure with a wholesome dinner featuring local dishes.
A short drive from the visitor centre.
NZD 130, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Waitomo

Day 13: Hobbiton Magic

Matamata, New Zealand

8:30AM

Drive to Hobbiton

Travel to the magical Hobbiton movie set for an unforgettable experience.
A scenic 2-hour drive.
Fuel Cost: NZD 30, 2 hours

10:30AM

Breakfast at Hobbiton Cafe

When you arrive, enjoy breakfast at this charming café with a Hobbit-inspired menu.
Located on-site at Hobbiton.
NZD 100, 1 hour

12:00PM

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

Join a guided tour of the iconic Hobbiton, learning about the film's magic.
Meet the tour group at the entrance.
NZD 85, 2 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at The Green Dragon Inn

After your tour ends, enjoy a delightful lunch at the iconic inn.
A short walk from the tour area.
NZD 130, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Drive back to Auckland

Head back to Auckland for the final night of your adventure.
A 2-hour drive.
Fuel Cost: NZD 30, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Orbit 360° Restaurant

For your last meal in New Zealand, treat your family to a unique dining experience with a revolving view of the city.
Located at Sky City.
NZD 250, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Matamata

Day 14: Departure Day

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Warehouse

Enjoy a farewell breakfast at this local favorite spot before departing.
Located in the city centre.
NZD 100, 1 hour

11:00AM

Last-minute Shopping

Take a stroll around Auckland for any last-minute shopping before the trip ends.
A few blocks away.
Varies, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Check-out and Departure

Check-out of your accommodation and head to the airport for your flight home.
Car rental return and Auckland Airport.
Varies, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland
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