Epic 5-Day Road Trip Adventure in Central North Island, New Zealand

Day 1: Explore Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Fat Dog Café

Kickstart your adventure with a hearty breakfast at Fat Dog Café, known for its remarkable pancakes and inviting atmosphere.
Drive approximately 3 hours from Auckland to Rotorua.
NZD 25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Te Puia

Explore Te Puia to witness stunning geothermal wonders and experience Māori culture through entertaining performances.
Short drive (10 minutes) from Fat Dog Café.
NZD 50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Raglan Roast

Savor a delicious lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients and exceptional coffee at The Raglan Roast.
Drive 10 minutes from Te Puia.
NZD 30, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Redwood Forest

Take a leisurely walk or bike ride through the magnificent Redwood Forest, all while soaking in the natural beauty.
15-minute drive from The Raglan Roast.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax in Polynesian Spa

Unwind in the mineral hot pools at Polynesian Spa, a perfect place to relax after a day of adventure.
5-minute drive from Redwood Forest.
NZD 60, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Skyline Rotorua

Enjoy a scenic dinner at Skyline Rotorua complete with stunning views over the city and Lake Rotorua.
15-minute drive to Skyline Rotorua.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Gondola Ride and Luge

Take a ride on the gondola for breathtaking views and get thrilling with the luge rides before heading to your accommodation.
Located at Skyline Rotorua.
NZD 50, 2 hours
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Day 2: Scenic Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shack

Start your day with delicious coffee and a scrumptious breakfast at The Coffee Shack, a local favorite.
Drive 1 hour and 15 minutes to Taupo.
NZD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Huka Falls

Marvel at Huka Falls, a breathtaking cascade of water that is a must-see for all travelers.
10-minute drive from The Coffee Shack.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Boat Cruise on Lake Taupo

Experience Lake Taupo on a scenic boat cruise, taking in the stunning mountains and natural beauty.
Drive 15 minutes to the boat tour departure point.
NZD 60, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Lakebar

Enjoy lunch at Lakebar, where you can savor fresh, local dishes while overlooking the beautiful lake.
5-minute walk from the boat tour.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Craters of the Moon

Explore the fascinating geothermal area at Craters of the Moon with its unique volcanic landscape.
15-minute drive from Lakebar.
NZD 20, 2 hours

4:30PM

Wine Tasting at Taupo DeBretts

Relax with a delightful evening of wine tasting at Taupo DeBretts, showcasing local vineyards.
Drive 10 minutes to Taupo DeBretts.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Storehouse

Dine at The Storehouse, a charming spot known for its fresh fare and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a road trip reflection.
Drive 10 minutes from Taupo DeBretts.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Adventure Tongariro

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at the Tongariro National Park Café

Fuel your adventurous day with a hearty breakfast at the café, known for its delicious meals and warm service.
Drive 1 hour from Taupo to Tongariro.
NZD 30, 1 hour

8:30AM

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Embark on the iconic Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a full-day trek showcasing volcanic terrain and stunning views.
Start at the Tongariro Crossing trailhead.
Free, 7-8 hours

4:30PM

Return to base

After an exhilarating day's hike, return to your starting point to rest and recharge.
Walk back to the trailhead for pick-up if necessary.
Free, 30 minutes

5:30PM

Relax at Tongariro National Park Accommodation

Take time to relax at your accommodation after the thrilling day spent embracing nature.
Located near the trailhead.
NZD 150, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Ruapehu Restaurant

Replenish your energy with a sumptuous dinner at the Ruapehu Restaurant, famous for hearty, local dishes.
Drive 10 minutes from accommodation.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Explore Waitomo

Waitomo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Waitomo Homestead

Savor a cozy breakfast that features fresh farm produce and fantastic coffee at the Waitomo Homestead.
Drive 1 hour from Tongariro.
NZD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Glowworm Cave Tour

Experience the enchanting glowworm cave tour and marvel at the natural light displays created by glowworms.
5-minute walk to the cave entrance.
NZD 75, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Ruakuri Cave

Continue your underground adventure with a guided tour of Ruakuri Cave, renowned for its stunning formations.
15-minute drive from the glowworm cave.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Huhu Cafe

Indulge in a delightful lunch at Huhu Cafe, known for its warm atmosphere and creative menu options.
Drive 5 minutes from Ruakuri Cave.
NZD 35, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Waitomo Caves‘ Walking Trails

Take a scenic walk along the trails surrounding Waitomo Caves for calm reflections on your adventure.
5-minute drive from Huhu Cafe.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at accommodation

Get refreshed at your accommodation before heading to your evening destination.
Accommodation is nearby.
NZD 100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Waitomo Homestead Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with farm-to-table dining featuring seasonal ingredients right at your lodgings.
Located within the homestead.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Hobbiton and Return

Hobbiton, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Green Dragon Inn

Enjoy a delightful Hobbit-themed breakfast at The Green Dragon Inn, where you can enjoy a touch of Middle-Earth magic.
Drive 2 hours to Hobbiton from Waitomo.
NZD 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

Join a guided tour and explore the enchanting Hobbiton movie set, immersing yourself in the world of the Shire.
Located at Hobbiton.
NZD 85, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Matamata Town

Take some time to explore Matamata town, enjoying its charming shops and local art galleries.
Short drive from Hobbiton.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Flour Room

Relax and enjoy a farm-to-table experience at The Flour Room, offering freshly baked goods and local produce.
Drive from Matamata town.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Drive back to Auckland

Pack up and prepare for your return journey to Auckland, reflecting on the incredible journey.
Drive back to Auckland (approx. 2.5 hours).
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

End of Road Trip

Arrive back in Auckland; your 5-day adventure ends here, filled with memories of breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences.
Arrive in Auckland.
Free, N/A
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