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HomeRoad TripsOceaniaNew ZealandNorth Island One-Way
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North Island One-Way Road Trip

Auckland - Paihia - Coromandel - Rotorua - Tongariro N.P. - Wellington

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Security Security
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Beach Beach
Wildlife Wildlife
Urban life Urban life
North Island One-Way Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages6 km1,573 h/stage3.6

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a North Island One-Way Road Trip in New Zealand?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 324EUR drive & more 213EUR sleep & more 946EUR eat & more 864EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,023EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 2,347EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 648EUR drive & more 288EUR sleep & more 1,265EUR eat & more 1,296EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,849EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,497EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,404EUR drive & more 388EUR sleep & more 1,903EUR eat & more 1,728EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,019EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 5,423EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,700EUR drive & more 425EUR sleep & more 660EUR eat & more 864EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,949EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,649EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
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North Island One-Way Road Trip Itinerary

Experience the beauty of New Zealand's North Island on this unforgettable one-way road trip from Auckland to Wellington. The 969-mile journey takes approximately 12 days to complete and is best done during summertime, when the days are longer and the weather is warmer. The route takes you through stunning landscapes, from the crystal-clear waters of Paihia to the lush green hills of Coromandel and the majestic mountains of Tongariro National Park. Along the way, you'll get to experience some of the world's most stunning UNESCO Heritage monuments, as well as the country's famously good road conditions. Although some of the roads can be curvy, this road trip is suitable for drivers of all levels of experience. Get ready for an unforgettable journey that will provide a lifetime of memories and experiences. Be aware, however, that this trip is best suited for those with a higher budget.
number of days 12 number of days
route length 1,573 km route length
budget high budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level moderate accident level

START Auckland

Distance 1,573 km Driving time 21.6 h Pace: fast 472.0 kWh Airports AKL , AMZ
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Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, located on the North Island. It is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city that offers a mix of cultures, stunning landscapes, and a wide range of activities. The city is the perfect starting point for the North Island One-Way Road Trip with plenty to explore and experience. Auckland is a city of adventure, with a wealth of activities to suit any taste. From the volcanic islands of the Hauraki Gulf to the stunning Waitakere Ranges, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Popular activities include kayaking, sailing, mountain biking, and exploring the numerous trails and parks. Auckland is also a great place to explore the city's cultural attractions. The Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is one of the most impressive art galleries in the country, featuring a variety of local and international art. Other popular attractions include the Sky Tower, SkyJump, the Viaduct Harbour, and the Auckland Zoo. The closest international airport to Auckland is Auckland Airport (AKL), which is located approximately 21km (13 miles) south of the city centre. Car rental is available at the airport, so visitors can easily get on their way for the North Island One-Way Road Trip. Auckland is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a mix of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery. With so much to explore and experience, it is the ideal starting point for the North Island One-Way Road Trip.

1 Auckland - Paihia

Distance 255 km Driving time 3.5 h Pace: fast 76.5 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting cultural site interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options dining venues scenic road camping sites
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Embark on a road trip from Auckland to Paihia and discover some of the most beautiful places in New Zealand! This 158mi journey will take you less than 4 hours to complete, and you will be amazed by the number of attractions that you can visit in between. Start your journey in Auckland and make sure to pay attention to the historical sites such as the Auckland Domain, Albert Park, and the Auckland War Memorial Museum. Then, drive along the picturesque landscapes and enjoy the scenic views of the Waitemata Harbour, the Hauraki Gulf, and the Bay of Islands. The drive from Auckland to Paihia is full of surprises, so take your time and make sure to visit the most interesting places. Stop by the picturesque and secluded Matapouri Bay, explore the famous Waitangi Treaty Grounds, and take a stroll along the stunning Haruru Falls. Once you arrive in Paihia, make sure to visit the nearby islands and take advantage of the numerous activities that are available. Try out kayaking, take a boat tour, and explore the marine wildlife. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

2 Paihia - Auckland

Distance 373 km Driving time 5.5 h Pace: fast 111.9 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting cultural site interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options EV charging station stretches of gravel road dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road camping sites
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Are you ready for a fantastic road trip from Paihia to Auckland? This 227-mile journey takes less than 6 hours of driving and offers some of the most spectacular views in New Zealand. The winding road will take you through picturesque landscapes, past historic sites and along scenic roads. Take some time to enjoy the views and stop at the attractions in both Paihia and Auckland. In Paihia, don't miss the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, and the beautiful Haruru Falls. In Auckland, take in the views of the Waitemata Harbour, visit the Sky Tower, and explore the city's vibrant nightlife. With plenty of accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can make the most of this stage of your tour. For more information on attractions and places to stay, check out the Itinerary for this stage. Enjoy your journey!

3 Auckland - Coromandel

Distance 174 km Driving time 2.5 h Pace: fast 52.1 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting cultural site interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options stretches of gravel road dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road camping sites
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Auckland to Coromandel, a journey of only 108 miles that will take you fewer than 3 hours! Get ready to be amazed by the picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and scenic roads that you’ll encounter along the way. Take your time to enjoy the winding roads and get lost in the beauty of New Zealand’s nature. Make sure to visit some of the most interesting places in these locations, such as the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, the Waterworks art gallery, the Coromandel Town, and the Hot Water Beach. The route also offers plenty of other attractions, so make sure to plan your trip in advance. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Get your car ready and let’s start the adventure!

4 Coromandel - Rotorua

Distance 274 km Driving time 4.3 h Pace: fast 82.2 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting cultural site interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options EV charging station stretches of gravel road dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road junction of road trips camping sites
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Embark on an epic road trip adventure that starts in Coromandel, New Zealand and ends in Rotorua, a distance of 165mi, and takes less than 5 hours to drive. This route has something for everyone and offers a great variety of attractions, from historical sites to picturesque landscapes. As you make your way through Tairua, make sure to take the time to admire the stunning views of the seascape. Don’t forget to take some photos of the quaint fishing village, as you drive along the winding road. There are also plenty of opportunities to explore the many trails, beaches and rivers along the way. As you approach Rotorua, you will notice the lush green landscape, with its thermal springs and geysers. There are also plenty of cultural attractions to discover, as well as fun activities to enjoy. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Start your road trip adventure today!

5 Rotorua - Tongariro N.P.

Distance 177 km Driving time 2.1 h Pace: fast 53.1 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting cultural site interesting  historic site attractive landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site accommodation options dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road junction of road trips camping sites
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Rotorua to Tongariro National Park, a journey of 110 mi that will take you fewer than 2 hours. Along the way, you'll pass through some of the most beautiful landscapes in New Zealand, including lush forests, dramatic mountains and majestic lakes. As you drive, be sure to keep your eyes open for the UNESCO World Heritage sites that you can explore during your trip. The road can be quite winding in some sections, so take your time and enjoy the views. At the end of your journey, you'll arrive at Tongariro National Park, where you can marvel at the natural beauty of this unique landscape. For more information on attractions, accommodations, restaurants and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Don't miss out on this incredible journey!

6 Tongariro N.P. - Wellington

Distance 321 km Driving time 3.8 h Pace: fast 96.3 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting cultural site interesting  historic site attractive landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site accommodation options EV charging station dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road camping sites
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Embark on a thrilling road trip from Tongariro National Park to Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. With a distance of 199 miles and a driving time of fewer than 4 hours, this route will surely excite you with its spectacular views. On your way, you will discover historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and a winding road. Be sure to visit the Putangirua Pinnacles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a great place for hiking. As you continue your journey, you will be captivated by the breathtaking views of the Tararua Ranges. End your trip with a visit to Wellington, a vibrant city full of culture, history and art. Don't forget to explore the city's iconic landmarks such as the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Wellington Cable Car and the Wellington Botanic Garden. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

  Wellington

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At the end of your "North Island One-Way Road Trip", you will find yourself in Wellington, New Zealand. Located at the southern tip of the North Island, Wellington is a vibrant city full of culture and outdoor activities. Take a stroll through the Botanic Gardens and admire the lush greenery. Explore the Te Papa Museum and learn about the unique culture and history of the country. Or take a cable car ride up to the top of the hill and enjoy the stunning views of the city below. If you're looking for activities outdoors, Wellington offers plenty. The city is perfect for cycling, walking or running. Take a walk along the waterfront and enjoy the stunning views of the harbor. For those who want to explore further, the nearby hills provide great opportunities for hiking and exploring nature. No trip to Wellington would be complete without a visit to the nearby beaches. Enjoy a day in the sun at Oriental Bay or Lyall Bay, or take a drive along the coast to explore the nearby towns of Paekakariki and Plimmerton. For those who are flying into Wellington, the closest international airport is Wellington International Airport (WLG). From here, you can easily access the city centre with public transport or hire a car to explore further afield. At the end of your North Island One-Way Road Trip, you'll be glad you stopped in Wellington. This vibrant city provides plenty of activities and attractions for all types of travelers.

North Island One-Way Road Trip at a glance

Before you set off

Embark on an epic 969-mile Road Trip from Auckland to Wellington, traversing New Zealand's North Island. This 12-day adventure promises breathtaking views and diverse landscapes, making it an ideal journey for Road Trip enthusiasts and nature lovers. Experience New Zealand's rich Maori culture, geothermal wonders, and stunning coastal scenery while creating unforgettable memories.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • Paihia: Known as the jewel of the Bay of Islands, Paihia is a haven for beachgoers and a gateway to exploring the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where New Zealand's founding document was signed.
  • Coromandel: Boasting the famous Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach, the Coromandel Peninsula offers stunning natural attractions alongside opportunities for hiking and water sports. Don't miss the chance to dig your own natural spa at the beach's thermal springs.
  • Tongariro National Park: A dual UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for both its cultural significance to the Maori people and its outstanding volcanic features. Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, considered one of the best one-day treks in the world, and marvel at the emerald lakes and lunar landscapes.

Best Time to Go:

The ideal time for this Road Trip is during New Zealand's summer months, from December to February. You'll benefit from longer daylight hours, warmer weather, and an array of outdoor activities. This period also coincides with the peak season, so be sure to book accommodations in advance.

Potential Risks:

  • Be cautious on the North Island's winding coastal Roads, especially for those unaccustomed to left-hand driving.
  • Weather in New Zealand can be unpredictable; pack accordingly for sudden changes, particularly in alpine areas like Tongariro.
  • Budget accordingly for the Trip's duration and varied activities, as costs can accumulate from accommodations, food, and attractions.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • New Zealand is lauded for its well-maintained Roads and stunning Scenic Drives, such as the Pacific Coast Highway and the Thermal Explorer Highway.
  • The North Island is a cultural hotspot, home to the majority of the country's Maori population, offering immersive experiences like traditional hangi feasts and performances.
  • Strict Road safety laws, including compulsory seat belts and random breath-testing checkpoints, contribute to a safe driving environment.

A good choice for:

This Road Trip through New Zealand's North Island offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. It's an opportunity to delve into the island's fascinating culture, history, and natural wonders at a leisurely pace. Whether you're soaking in geothermal pools, exploring lush forests, or discovering vibrant cities, this journey has something for every traveler.

Facts for safer driving in New Zealand

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0
max speed urban max speed urban 60 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 100 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 110 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher yes
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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