8-Day Scenic Winter Drive from Wellington: Explore Hobbiton and Beyond

Day 1: Wellington Exploration

Wellington, New Zealand on March 19, 2025

9:00AM

Te Papa Museum

Explore New Zealand's national museum, Te Papa, which offers a unique insight into the country's art, history, and culture.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Breakfast at Fidel's Café

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this popular café, famous for its hearty servings and great coffee.
NZD20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Mount Victoria Lookout

Drive up to Mount Victoria for panoramic views of Wellington and the harbour—perfect for scenic photo opportunities.
NZD0, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lunch at The Crab Shack

Enjoy fresh seafood with a beautiful view of the harbour at this laid-back venue.
NZD25, 1 hour

4:00PM

Wellington Botanic Garden

Take a leisurely stroll through these beautiful gardens, showcasing New Zealand's diverse plant life.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Logan Brown

Indulge in a fine dining experience with a menu that highlights fresh local ingredients in an elegant setting.
NZD70, 2 hours
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Day 2: Drive to Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand on March 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dinner Plate

Enjoy a fresh breakfast with locally sourced ingredients before setting out on your road trip.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Rotorua

Begin your 2.5-hour scenic drive to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity and Māori culture.
NZD0, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Arrive & Lunch at Eat Street

Explore this vibrant dining precinct with numerous restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.
NZD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley

Witness bubbling mud pools and geysers in one of Rotorua's most famous geothermal reserves.
NZD45, 2 hours

4:00PM

Rotorua Lakefront

Relax by the lake and enjoy the scenic park surrounding Lake Rotorua—perfect for a peaceful afternoon.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Atticus Finch

Dine in a cosy atmosphere with a focus on seasonal and sustainable ingredients.
NZD55, 2 hours
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Day 3: Hobbiton Tour

Hobbiton, New Zealand on March 21, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Hobbiton

Embark on a 30-minute drive to Hobbiton to explore the enchanting movie set.
NZD0, 0.5 hours

9:30AM

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

Enjoy a guided tour of the picturesque set from 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit', featuring Hobbit holes and lush landscapes.
NZD79, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Green Dragon Inn

Savor a meal at this charming inn, featuring Hobbit-inspired dishes and brews.
NZD35, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Matamata Town

After your visit to Hobbiton, take some time to explore the quaint town of Matamata.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Return to Rotorua

Drive back to Rotorua and enjoy the scenic view along the way.
NZD0, 0.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Polynesian Spa

Unwind in the natural hot springs, with pools overlooking Lake Rotorua, perfect for relaxation.
NZD60, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Fisherman’s Plate

Indulge in fresh fish and seafood offerings sourced from the nearby lakes.
NZD50, 2 hours
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Day 4: Adventure in Waitomo

Waitomo, New Zealand on March 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

A delicious breakfast to gear up for the day's adventure.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Waitomo

Drive to Waitomo for about an hour to experience the famous glowworm caves.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour

Discover the enchanting glowworm caves on a guided tour, an outstanding natural wonder.
NZD55, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Waitomo Homestead

Grab lunch at this cozy homestead with a homely vibe—perfect for a quiet meal.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Waitomo Village

Wander through the quaint village and enjoy the local shops and scenery.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Drive to Taupo

Take the short drive to Taupo, enjoying the beautiful landscapes en route.
NZD0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Arrive in Taupo & Relax

Check into your accommodation and spend the evening relaxing by the lake.
NZD0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Vine Eatery

An inviting establishment that offers a fantastic selection of meals with a focus on local produce.
NZD70, 2 hours
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Day 5: Charming Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand on March 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hohepa

A unique café that serves fantastic breakfast options, prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
NZD20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Huka Falls

Visit this spectacular waterfall, known for its stunning beauty and vibrant blue waters—a must-see attraction.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The coffee club

Relax with coffee and a light lunch at this café known for its casual atmosphere and quality offerings.
NZD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lake Taupo Scenic Cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Taupo to soak in the beautiful surroundings and islands.
NZD45, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Taupo Museum

Explore the local history and art at the Taupo Museum—great for learning more about the region.
NZD10, 1 hour

5:30PM

Relax at your accommodation

Take the time to unwind before dinner.
NZD0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Create Café

A popular café with a creative and delicious menu, perfect for a relaxed dinner after a day of activities.
NZD50, 2 hours
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Day 6: Journey to Napier

Napier, New Zealand on March 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a satisfying breakfast to start the day.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Napier

Drive approximately 1.5 hours to the beautiful Art Deco city of Napier.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Art Deco Walking Tour

Take a guided walking tour to admire the iconic Art Deco architecture of Napier.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Smiths

Sample delicious local cuisine with an emphasis on fresh flavors and quality ingredients.
NZD35, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit National Aquarium of New Zealand

Discover a variety of marine life that showcases New Zealand's unique aquatic ecosystem.
NZD20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Marine Parade

Stroll along the beautiful oceanfront promenade and enjoy local parks and sculptures.
NZD0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at your accommodation

Enjoy some downtime at your hotel, preparing for dinner.
NZD0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Pacifica Restaurant

An upscale venue focusing on fresh and seasonal cuisine, perfect for a fine dining experience.
NZD90, 2 hours
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Day 7: Visit Martinborough

Martinborough, New Zealand on March 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy breakfast before heading off to your next destination.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Martinborough

Take an easy 2-hour drive to Martinborough, a charming township known for its food scene.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Martinborough Square

Stroll around the square, visit local shops, and enjoy the quaint ambiance.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Poppy's Martinborough

Savor a seasonal menu in this cozy atmosphere known for local produce and fantastic flavors.
NZD35, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Martinborough Heritage Museum

Learn about the history of Martinborough and how it became the iconic town it is today.
NZD10, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at a local café

Enjoy a coffee and cake at a local café before heading back.
NZD15, 1 hour

5:00PM

Drive back to Wellington

Head back to Wellington with beautiful scenery along the way.
NZD0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Return to Wellington & Dinner at The Old Quarter

Finish your trip with a delightful dinner featuring Asian cuisine made from local ingredients.
NZD50, 2 hours
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Day 8: Depart Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand on March 26, 2025

8:00AM

Final Breakfast at The Hangar

Enjoy a delicious breakfast before departing, with various dishes to suit every palate.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Departure from Wellington

Return your rental vehicle and depart from Wellington, concluding your memorable journey.
NZD0, 0.5 hours
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