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5-Day New Zealand Road Trip: Central North Island Adventure

Viewed by 134 travelers

Day 1: Hobbiton and Serenity

Matamata, New Zealand

9:00AM

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

Start your adventure with a magical tour of Hobbiton, a film set featuring the iconic hobbit holes and lush landscapes.
From Auckland, drive 2 hours to Matamata. Upon arrival, follow the signs to Hobbiton.
NZD 84, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Green Dragon Inn

Enjoy a delightful lunch at The Green Dragon Inn, savoring traditional fare with a unique Hobbiton twist.
Located within the Hobbiton Movie Set.
NZD 25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Drive to Rotorua

Travel from Matamata to Rotorua while soaking in the rural scenery.
It's a quick, scenic 1-hour drive.
NZD 0, 1 hour

2:00PM

Te Puia Geothermal Reserve

Visit Te Puia to explore bubbling geysers, hot pools, and learn about Māori culture and art.
Te Puia is just a short drive from downtown Rotorua.
NZD 55, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Pig and Whistle

Dine at the historic Pig and Whistle, known for its warm ambiance and delicious pub food.
Located in central Rotorua, just a short drive from Te Puia.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Matamata

Day 2: Cultural and Natural Wonders

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Scope Cafe

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at Scope Cafe, offering delicious coffee and freshly made meals.
Centrally located in Rotorua, an easy walk from your accommodation.
NZD 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Red Woods TreeWalk

Experience an exhilarating walk among the majestic redwoods on elevated platforms for stunning forest views.
A quick 10-minute drive from the cafe.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Polynesian Spa

Relax and soak in the natural mineral pools at Polynesian Spa, known for its healing properties.
Driving distance of about 5 minutes from Red Woods.
NZD 45, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Eat Streat

Choose from a variety of eateries along Eat Streat for a casual yet diverse lunch experience.
Just a short drive from Polynesian Spa.
NZD 25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lake Rotorua

Spend the afternoon at Lake Rotorua, where you can picnic by the stunning water or try lake activities.
Less than 10 minutes' drive from lunch.
NZD 0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Visit the colorful geothermal park, with its iconic Champagne Pool and surreal landscapes that are truly photographable.
A 30-minute drive from Lake Rotorua.
NZD 32, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Atticus Finch

Finish the day with a creative menu at Atticus Finch, well known for its local ingredients and inviting atmosphere.
Return to Rotorua’s downtown area after a day's adventure.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 3: Adventures Abound

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

Start your day with a delicious breakfast complete with local coffee at The Coffee Shop/Taupo.
Located in central Taupo, just off the main road.
NZD 18, 1 hour

9:00AM

Huka Falls

Visit the breathtaking Huka Falls and enjoy stunning views of the powerful blue waters crashing through the chasm.
A short 10-minute drive from the cafe.
NZD 0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Skydiving over Lake Taupo

For thrill-seekers, take the ultimate plunge with tandem skydiving over spectacular Lake Taupo's pristine beauty.
Drive to the Skydiving office, roughly 20 minutes from Huka Falls.
NZD 350, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Kiwi Pies

Enjoy some of New Zealand's iconic meat pies at Kiwi Pies, a local favorite in Taupo.
Easy access back to the town center post-skydive.
NZD 15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Boat Cruise on Lake Taupo

Embark on a scenic boat cruise to see the famous Maori Rock Carvings of Lake Taupo while enjoying stunning vistas.
Cruise departs from Taupo boat harbor, just a short drive away.
NZD 95, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Taupo Hot Springs

Unwind in the natural hot springs that Taupo has to offer, perfect for relaxing weary muscles post-adventure.
Just a 10-minute drive from the boat ramp.
NZD 25, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Brantry

End the day with an exquisite dining experience at The Brantry, specializing in regional dishes.
Located in Taupo's town center, a short drive from the hot springs.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 4: Nature's Playground

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shack

Start with fresh coffee and homemade baked goods at The Coffee Shack in Taupo before your trip to Tongariro.
Drive to the cafe, conveniently located in the town.
NZD 15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Tongariro National Park

Take the scenic drive to Tongariro National Park where stunning landscapes await you.
The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Tackle the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of New Zealand's top hikes, renowned for its volcanic landscapes.
The trailhead is easily accessible from the main road.
NZD 0, 7 hours

6:30PM

Return & Relax

Return from your hike and soak in the natural beauty as you rest your legs.
Drive back to the Tongariro village area.
NZD 0, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Ruapehu Restaurant

Savor a well-deserved meal at Ruapehu Restaurant, known for its delicious menu featuring local ingredients.
Located in Whakapapa Village, and easily accessible after your hike.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Tongariro National Park

Day 5: Back to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Tongariro Cafe

Enjoy a simple, hearty breakfast at The Tongariro Cafe, perfect for fuel before the drive back to Auckland.
Conveniently located in the Tongariro area.
NZD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive Back to Auckland

Begin your journey back to Auckland, reflecting on the amazing adventures you just experienced.
The drive is approximately 4 hours.
NZD 0, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at La Kauff

Relax with a leisurely lunch at La Kauff in Auckland featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Located in central Auckland, an easy stop after your drive.
NZD 35, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Auckland Waterfront

Spend your afternoon strolling along the picturesque Auckland Waterfront, taking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Just a few minutes from La Kauff.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Sky Tower Visit

Conclude your trip with a visit to the Sky Tower for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding areas.
Easy 10-minute drive or a delightful walk along the waterfront.
NZD 32, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Orbit 360°

Enjoy a spectacular dining experience at Orbit 360°, the restaurant that offers panoramic views of Auckland.
Located in the Sky Tower.
NZD 100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland
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