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12-Day Adventure Through New Zealand's North Island: Auckland to Rotorua and Beyond

Viewed by 116 travelers

Day 1: Arrive in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand on November 21, 2025

12:00AM

Arrive at Auckland International Airport

Welcome to New Zealand! After your midnight arrival, collect your luggage and settle in for the night.
0, 0 minutes

2:00PM

Accommodation Check-in

Rest and recover from your long journey at the Ibis Budget Auckland Airport, which features comfortable rooms and is conveniently located.
$150, 1 hour
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Day 2: Hamilton Day Trip

Hamilton, New Zealand on November 22, 2025

7:00AM

Pick Up Rental Car

Pick up a comfortable AWD rental car suitable for 4 adults and luggage from Apex Car Rentals. Approx. cost is $80/day.
$80, 1 hour

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Emporium

Enjoy a delicious breakfast of fresh pastries and specialty coffees at this beloved local café before heading off.
$15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Hamilton Gardens

Take a scenic drive to Hamilton Gardens, renowned for its themed gardens, offering a peaceful exploration.
0, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Explore Hamilton Gardens

Wander through beautifully designed gardens, from Italian Renaissance to Modernist, showcasing flora from around the world.
0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The River Kitchen

Savour locally sourced dishes at this restaurant overlooking the river, offering a delightful lunch experience.
$25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Drive to Hobbiton

Enjoy a scenic drive to the Hobbiton Movie Set, where you can explore the charming movie set from 'The Lord of the Rings'.
0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

Discover the magic of Hobbiton on a guided tour showcasing iconic locations like Bag End and The Green Dragon Inn.
$79, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Shires Rest

Enjoy a Hobbit-themed dinner at The Shires Rest café before heading back to Hamilton.
$35, 1 hour

8:00PM

Accommodation

Check into Aqua Bin Inspected Hamilton, offering comfortable rooms at a price of about $160 for 4 adults.
$160, 1 hour
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Day 3: Explore Waitomo

Waitomo, New Zealand on November 23, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a satisfying breakfast buffet at your hotel to fuel up for an adventurous day ahead.
$20, 1 hour

8:20AM

Hobbiton Breakfast Tour

Enjoy a Hobbit-inspired breakfast at the Shires Rest before touring the movie set, soaking in the enchanting atmosphere.
$79, 2 hours

11:00AM

Drive to Waitomo Caves

Set off on a short drive to Waitomo, known for its magnificent caves and famous glowworms.
0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour

Experience an underground boat tour through the mystical glowworm caves, a must-see natural wonder.
$55, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Waitomo Homestead

Relax and enjoy a hearty lunch in a rustic setting, featuring options for everyone’s palate.
$25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Drive to Taupo

Take a scenic drive to Taupo, enjoying the stunning views of the region along the way.
0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Huka Falls

Witness the stunning Huka Falls, an iconic natural landmark where the Waikato River plunges into a stunning series of waterfalls.
0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Riverbank Restaurant

Overlook the beautiful Taupo lake as you savour a delicious dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients.
$40, 1 hour

7:00PM

Accommodation at Taupo

Check in at AC Hotel Taupo, where you can enjoy contemporary comforts for approximately $180 for 4 adults.
$180, 1 hour
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Day 4: Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand on November 24, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a nutritious breakfast spread offered by the hotel before heading out.
$20, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Tongariro National Park

Make your way to Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning landscapes and hiking options.
0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Self-Guided Hike

Choose from various hiking trails such as the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, renowned for its breathtaking scenery.
0, 5 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Tongariro National Park

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the stunning vistas of the park.
$30, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore National Park Village

Take some time to explore the small village with souvenir shops and local cuisine options.
0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Park Café

Indulge in a warm, hearty dinner after a long day of hiking at this homely café.
$35, 1 hour

8:00PM

Accommodation at Ruapehu Alpine Lifts

Settle in at Whakapapa Village Hotel, boasting stunning views, for approximately $200 for 4 adults.
$200, 1 hour
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Day 5: Travel to Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand on November 25, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at the Village

Enjoy a warm breakfast at the hotel before your journey to Rotorua.
$20, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Set off on a scenic drive towards Rotorua, known for its geothermal wonders.
0, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Te Puia

Explore Te Puia, showcasing geysers, hot pools and Maori culture. Don't miss the famous Pohutu Geyser!
$50, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Eat Streat

Visit a collection of casual eateries offering a variety of cuisines with lakeside views for a relaxing lunch.
$30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Check-in Wyndham Rotorua

Settle into your booked accommodation at Wyndham Rotorua to enjoy luxury and comfort.
$0, 0 hours

2:30PM

Relax at the Hotel

Take some time to relax after check-in, enjoying the hotel amenities such as hot pools.
0, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

Indulge in fresh local seafood and stunning views of Lake Rotorua at this popular restaurant.
$40, 1 hour
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Day 6: Explore Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand on November 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savour a delightful breakfast at Wyndham Rotorua to start your day.
$20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Discover vibrant geothermal features including hot springs, geysers, and the iconic Champagne Pool.
$30, 2 hours

11:30AM

Hiking at Redwoods Treewalk

Experience a unique treetop walk among the towering Redwoods, offering beautiful views and great photo opportunities.
$49, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Capers Epicurean

Enjoy a gourmet lunch at this trendy café, known for its fresh, locally sourced menu.
$35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relaxation Spa

Unwind and rejuvenate with a spa treatment at a nearby geothermal spa to relax your muscles.
$100, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Pig & Whistle

Dine at this charming pub for classic New Zealand cuisine and a warm atmosphere.
$35, 1 hour
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Day 7: Whakatane Day Trip

Whakatane, New Zealand on November 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at Wyndham Rotorua before setting off for Whakatane.
$20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Whakatane

Take a beautiful drive towards Whakatane, known for its stunning coastlines and Maori culture.
0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Moutohora Island

Take a guided boat trip to Moutohora Island for wildlife watching and stunning views of the bay.
$90, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Strand

Dine overlooking the ocean with fresh seafood and New Zealand favourites at this popular spot.
$35, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Beach

Unwind at Ohope Beach and enjoy some leisure activities or just relax by the seaside.
0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return Drive to Rotorua

Drive back to Rotorua, reflecting on a lovely day of exploration.
0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Street Food on Eat Streat

Return to Eat Streat for something casual yet delicious, with a range of street food options.
$30, 1 hour
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Day 8: Day at Leisure in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand on November 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel for a relaxed start to your day.
$20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Relaxing Day at Rotorua Lake

Spend a leisurely morning by the lake, with options for walks, picnics, or simply soaking in the views.
0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Atticus Finch

Dine at this contemporary eatery offering fresh, seasonal dishes in a stylish setting.
$35, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore local markets

Take some time to explore Rotorua's local markets for unique crafts and souvenirs.
0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Kuirau Park

Visit this geothermal park with hot springs and unique volcanic features for a delightful afternoon stroll.
0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Lakeland Bar & Restaurant

Enjoy a lakeside dinner with a focus on local ingredients at this lovely restaurant.
$40, 1 hour
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Day 9: Hawke's Bay Adventure

Hawke's Bay, New Zealand on November 29, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at Wyndham Rotorua before heading to Hawke's Bay.
$20, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Hastings

Set off for Hastings, known for its art deco architecture and wineries.
0, 2 hours

10:00AM

Hawke's Bay Wine Tour

Embark on a wine tour through the beautiful vineyards, experiencing tastings and delicious pairings.
$120, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Black Barn Vineyard

Enjoy a delightful lunch paired with local wines while enjoying scenic views.
$50, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Art Deco Walk in Napier

Stroll through the coastal town of Napier to admire its unique Art Deco architecture.
0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Mission Estate Winery

Dine at New Zealand's oldest winery, renowned for its superb food and wine pairings.
$65, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Drive back to Rotorua

Return to Rotorua for a restful night’s sleep.
0, 1 hour
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Day 10: Return to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand on November 30, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at Wyndham Rotorua before check-out.
$20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Auckland

Hit the road back to Auckland for your final day in New Zealand.
0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Orbit 360°, Sky Tower

Enjoy amazing views over Auckland while dining at the memorable Orbit 360°, a revolving restaurant.
$75, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Final Shopping/Emergency Plans

Spend your last hour shopping at SkyCity or nearby areas for souvenirs.
0, 1 hour

2:00PM

Return Rental Car

Drop off your rental car before heading to Auckland Airport for your departure.
0, 30 minutes

3:00PM

Departure from Auckland International Airport

Check-in for your flight and bid farewell to New Zealand as you embark on your journey home.
0, 0 minutes
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