Epic New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary: Exploring Nature and Culture from Coromandel to Auckland

Day 1: Coromandel Exploration

Coromandel, New Zealand on April 16, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Pour House

Start your day with a delicious coffee and breakfast at The Pour House, known for its local ingredients and relaxing atmosphere.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Hot Water Beach Visit

Dig your own hot pools in the sand at this famous beach. It's a unique experience that you won't forget.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Cliff Top Cafe

Enjoy stunning views while indulging in fresh seafood and sandwiches at this cafe perched on the cliffs.
NZD40, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Coromandel Forest Park Walk

Take a scenic hike in the forest, surrounded by native flora and fauna. The views are breathtaking and it’s a nature lover's paradise.
Free, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Free Camping at Colville Skate Park

Set up your campsite at Colville Skate Park, known for its quiet and legal camping spots. Great place to relax after a long day.
Free, Evening Stay
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Coromandel Adventures

Coromandel, New Zealand on April 17, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Lemon Tree

A cozy spot with a fantastic breakfast menu that includes local favorites like Eggs Benedict.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Cathedral Cove Kayaking

Explore the stunning coastline by kayak and witness the impressive rock formations and marine wildlife.
NZD75, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Coffee Shack

A great place for a quick bite that serves delicious burgers and coffee, perfect for a midday break.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Whitianga

Explore the vibrant town of Whitianga, enjoy the beach, and maybe even take a short dip.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Free Camping at Long Bay Campsite

Settle in for the night at Long Bay Campsite, known for its beautiful beachfront and amenities.
Free, Evening Stay
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Tauranga Arrival

Tauranga, New Zealand on April 18, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Batch Café

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at The Batch Café, a local favorite known for its fresh and innovative dishes.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Mount Maunganui

Hike to the summit of Mount Maunganui for stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Plenty.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Mount Maunganui Surf Club

Savor fresh fish and chips while enjoying an ocean view—perfect for lunchtime.
NZD35, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Tauranga Art Gallery

Check out contemporary NZ art in a vibrant space. Admission is free, making it an ideal spot for art lovers.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Free Camping at Kulim Park

Find a legal camping spot at Kulim Park, which is located near the waterfront trails and perfect for night views.
Free, Evening Stay
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Tauranga Fun

Tauranga, New Zealand on April 19, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Smart Café

This quaint café offers a cozy atmosphere with delicious breakfast options, ideal for starting your day.
NZD28, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Take a Dolphin Watching Cruise

Join a dolphin-watching cruise to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
NZD85, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at the Strand

Enjoy a scenic lunch along the waterfront at a variety of eateries to choose from.
NZD40, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Relax at Papamoa Beach

Spend your afternoon unwinding at Papamoa Beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Free Camping at Papamoa Beach Reserve

Enjoy camping near the beach at this reserve. It’s an idyllic spot for a peaceful night's rest.
Free, Evening Stay
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Taupo Journey

Taupo, New Zealand on April 20, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Connection

Catch a hearty breakfast to fuel your journey at this local café known for its great coffee and freshly baked goods.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Huka Falls

Experience the power of nature at Huka Falls and enjoy walking the trails around the area.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Taupo Cafe

This café has a relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu and friendly service, perfect for a lunch stop.
NZD30, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Lake Taupo

Spend your afternoon walking along the lake and enjoying various recreational activities available.
Free, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Free Camping at Taupo DeBretts Thermal Resort

This camping spot is perfect for those wanting to enjoy natural hot springs during their stay.
Free, Evening Stay
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Taupo Activities

Taupo, New Zealand on April 21, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Bistro

Treat yourself with a classic Kiwi breakfast at a local bistro with a cozy vibe.
NZD28, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Skydiving over Lake Taupo

If you're feeling adventurous, take a tandem skydive for breathtaking views of Lake Taupo.
NZD300, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Landing Cafe

Refuel after your skydiving experience at this cafe known for its extensive menu and relaxed setting.
NZD35, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Craters of the Moon

Explore this geothermal area with walking trails and unique volcanic landscapes.
NZD8, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Free Camping at Lake Taupo Holiday Resort

Enjoy a comfortable night of camping at this serene resort beside the lake.
Free, Evening Stay
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Palmerston North

Palmerston North, New Zealand on April 22, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café Monte

Start your day at this beloved local café, famous for its pastries and coffee.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore the New Zealand Rugby Museum

A must-see for sports enthusiasts, this museum showcases the country’s rugby history.
NZD12, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at the Fat Farmer

Enjoy hearty portions of farm-to-table meals at this locally-sourced restaurant.
NZD30, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit Victoria Esplanade

Stroll through this beautifully landscaped park with walking paths and a rose garden.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Free Camping at Palmerston North City Lake Reserve

Choose a peaceful camping spot near the lake to relax and unwind for the night.
Free, Evening Stay
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Masterton Visit

Masterton, New Zealand on April 23, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Masterton Café

Enjoy fresh local produce in your breakfast at a cozy café to kickstart your day.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Aratoi Wairarapa Museum

Learn about the region's culture and heritage through art and historical exhibitions.
NZD10, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Greytown Hotel

This local hotspot offers a selection of classic pub fare alongside local wines.
NZD30, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Queen Elizabeth Park

Stroll through this beautiful park with walking paths and plenty of space to relax.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Free Camping at the Masterton Camping Ground

Find a legal camping spot at this venue, known for its community vibe and amenities.
Free, Evening Stay
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Wellington Discovery

Wellington, New Zealand on April 24, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Sweet Release

Start your day with a healthy breakfast featuring organic and locally-sourced ingredients.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Te Papa Museum

Explore the national museum of New Zealand, known for its interactive and culturally significant exhibits.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Fidel’s Café

A quirky café offering a range of food options with a bohemian vibe, perfect for lunch.
NZD30, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Cuba Street

Wander through this iconic street known for its artsy shops and vibrant atmosphere.
Free, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Free Camping at Wellington Waterfront

Experience a unique camping experience right by the water, with beautiful sunset views.
Free, Evening Stay
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Wellington Arts & Culture

Wellington, New Zealand on April 25, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Hangar

Start your day with a delicious breakfast including pancakes and great coffee.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Zealandia Ecosanctuary

Take a stroll through this unique wildlife sanctuary that’s home to native New Zealand flora and animals.
NZD22, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Botanist

Dine in a botanical-themed restaurant that specializes in seasonal dishes made from local ingredients.
NZD40, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit Wellington Botanical Gardens

Explore the stunning gardens with native plants, perfect for a leisurely walk and photos.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Free Camping at Makara Beach

Enjoy the picturesque coastline and a legal camping spot at Makara Beach for the night.
Free, Evening Stay
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: New Plymouth

New Plymouth, New Zealand on April 26, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Federal Store

Informal café known for its amazing breakfast choices including freshly baked pastries and rich coffee.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Pukekura Park

Stroll through one of New Zealand's most beautiful parks, known for its gardens and lake.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at the Public Catering Company

Relax in this airy eatery that provides a diverse menu of local dishes for lunch.
NZD35, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore New Plymouth Coastal Walkway

Enjoy the stunning coastal views while walking or biking along the dedicated pathways.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Free Camping at New Plymouth Coastal Road

Set your tent along the scenic coastline at designated areas perfect for camping.
Free, Evening Stay
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Raglan Experience

Raglan, New Zealand on April 27, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Shack

A popular local eatery known for hearty breakfasts and fresh juices to start your day right.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Raglan Surfing School

Join a surfing lesson and ride the gorgeous waves at one of the best surfing beaches in NZ.
NZD100, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Raglan Fish

Grab some of the freshest fish and chips in town at this casual eatery near the beach.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Explore Ngarunui Beach

Spend your afternoon relaxing on the beach, swimming or simply enjoying the ocean view.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Free Camping at Raglan Holiday Park

This holiday park provides legal spots for camping surrounded by scenic landscape.
Free, Evening Stay
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Raglan Relaxing

Raglan, New Zealand on April 28, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

A cozy spot known for artisanal coffee and delicious breakfast bowls.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Raglan's Art Scene

Discover local artists and galleries showcasing the vibrant cultural scene in Raglan.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Wharf Kitchen & Bar

Enjoy fresh and locally-sourced seafood while overlooking the marina.
NZD35, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit the Raglan Market (Sundays)

If it’s a Sunday, enjoy the weekly market full of local crafts, food, and music.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Free Camping at Te Kopua Camping Ground

Enjoy a night at this family-friendly camping area located near the beach.
Free, Evening Stay
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Auckland Finale

Auckland, New Zealand on April 29, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Glass Kitchen

Enjoy a delightful breakfast made with fresh, local ingredients to start your day in the city.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Sky Tower

Get panoramic views of Auckland from the Sky Tower’s observation deck!
NZD32, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Ponsonby Central

Explore this trendy food market with multiple eateries and shops offering diverse cuisines.
NZD40, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Auckland Domain

Stroll around the Auckland Domain, the city's oldest park, featuring beautiful gardens and the War Memorial Museum.
Free, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Final Free Camping at Domain Park

Enjoy a night of camping at Domain Park, conveniently located near various city attractions.
Free, Evening Stay
View Hotel Availability