North Island Circuit

Located at the top of the North Island, Auckland is the country's most populous city and a major economic and cultural hub. It is renowned for its beaches, cultural diversity, and laid-back attitude.

Explore the city with a visit to the Auckland Art Gallery or dive into New Zealand’s history at the Auckland War Memorial Museum. Then head to Wētā Workshop Unleashed, an immersive experience showcasing the special effects processes of Wētā Workshop. For unbeatable views, head up the Sky Tower, the tallest building in the country.

Or head out of the city on ferry ride to Tiritiri Matangi Island, a spectacular wildlife reserve. If you’re after a slower pace, Waiheke Island is just a short ferry away, offering fantastic beaches and wineries. Across the harbour, the seaside town of Devonport is perfect for a stroll, a coffee, and a view of the skyline.

Head southeast through Clevedon and Miranda to Thames, the gateway to the Coromandel Peninsula. Thames offers boutique shopping and a charming historical museum showcasing its gold-mining past.

From Thames, follow the coast to Coromandel Town. Don’t miss the Driving Creek Railway, a train ride through native forest to the “Eyefull Tower”, offering panoramic views. For hiking enthusiasts, the Pinnacles Walk in the Kauaeranga Valley is a must – an overnight or day hike with breathtaking summit views.

Continue along the scenic Hauraki Rail Trail, ideal for cycling through countryside and coastal landscapes. As you approach Whitianga, stop by New Chums Beach(opens in new window), one of the most iconic and picturesque spots in the region. The coastal drive offers stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf and Pacific Ocean.

Just a short drive away is Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own natural hot pool in the sand. Nearby, Cathedral Cove offers stunning scenery and a great spot for kayaking or snorkelling.

Continue south to Whangamata, a lively surf town with long white beaches and a laid-back vibe. From here, you can explore Mayor Island (Tuhua) by boat, known for its marine reserve and diving spots. Stop in Waihi or Katikati, famous for its street art and murals, before arriving in Tauranga

In Tauranga, enjoy dolphin watching with Bay Explorer, or relax at Mount Maunganui’s hot saltwater pools. The waterfront is perfect for paddleboarding, sailing, or just soaking in the views.

Head inland to Rotorua, a city famous for its geothermal attractions, Māori culture, and outdoor activities. Start your visit with a relaxing soak at Polynesian Spa, known for its lakefront mineral pools. For a more luxurious experience, try Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa, which blends wellness with Māori healing traditions. Secret Spot Hot Tubs, tucked into native bush, offer a peaceful soak with forest views.

To explore Māori culture, visit Te Puia, home to the famous Pohutu geyser and the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute. In the evening, enjoy a cultural feast and storytelling at Te Pā Tū, an immersive experience that celebrates Māori heritage.

For thrill-seekers, Rotorua offers zorbing, ziplining, and other adrenaline-pumping activities at places like Velocity Valley and Rotorua Canopy Tours. The city is also great for cycling, with scenic trails through the Redwoods Forest and around Lake Rotorua.

Travel from Rotorua to Napier through scenic countryside and vineyards. Napier is known for its Art Deco architecture, best explored on a walking or guided Art Deco tour. For wine lovers, enjoy tastings and cycling tours at top wineries like Craggy Range, Church Road, and Mission Estate.

Take a trip to Cape Kidnappers, home to one of the world’s largest gannet colonies. If you’re feeling adventurous, detour to Gisborne for surf beaches and Māori culture, then loop back to Napier.

Travel south from Napier through the picturesque Wairarapa region. Stop at Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre near Mount Bruce to see native birds like kiwi and kōkako. Continue to Greytown, a charming town known for boutique shopping, heritage buildings, and great cafés.

Wine lovers can enjoy tastings at top Wairarapa wineries such as Ata Rangi, Palliser Estate, and Poppies Martinborough(opens in new window). The region is also perfect for cycling, with flat trails winding through vineyards and countryside.

Arriving in Wellington, check into your accommodation, then explore the city’s amazing restaurants.

Start your morning in Wellington with a visit to Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, followed by a stroll down Cuba Street for boutique shopping and vibrant street life. 

If time allows, take a guided tour of Kapiti Island, a protected nature reserve known for rare birdlife and stunning views.

Continue on through the Kapiti Cost, arriving in Whanganui by afternoon. Here, you can cruise the historic Whanganui River aboard the Waimarie paddle steamer, or explore the Sarjeant Gallery(opens in new window), home to contemporary and classic New Zealand art.

Continue your journey to New Plymouth, a coastal city known for its art, gardens, and views of Mount Taranaki.

 As you approach New Plymouth, explore Te-Papa-kura-o-Taranaki (Egmont National Park), where hiking trails range from short forest walks to the scenic Pouakai Crossing, offering breathtaking views of the mountain and surrounding bush.

In New Plymouth, stroll the Coastal Walkway, visit the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, or relax in Pukekura Park.

Begin your journey in New Plymouth, then head inland toward Waitomo, famous for Waitomo Glowworm Caves. From here, continue north to Hamilton, stopping at the stunning Hamilton Gardens, a world-class attraction with themed garden collections. For a relaxing afternoon, visit Zealong Tea Estate, New Zealand’s only tea plantation, offering tastings, tours, and scenic views.

Head northeast to Hobbiton Movie Set, where you can wander through the iconic Hobbit holes, visit the Green Dragon Inn, and enjoy a themed lunch in the Party Marquee.

After your Hobbiton adventure, continue on to Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. Along the way, enjoy scenic countryside views and optional stops in charming towns like Matamata or Cambridge.