Along Pacific Coast Road Trip Itinerary
Experience the stunning beauty of New Zealand's Pacific Coast on a 6 day road trip from Tauranga to Hastings. Along the route, enjoy the unique landscapes and beaches of Whakatane, Hicks Bay, and Wairoa. The journey is approximately 430 miles and best taken during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the roads are in good condition. While the roads are mostly well-maintained, you may encounter some curvy and narrow roads.
This is a road trip of a lifetime, providing an unforgettable experience and memories. It is suitable for all levels of drivers, although a higher budget is recommended. Enjoy the breathtaking views, the fresh sea air, and the warm sun on your skin as you journey along the Pacific Coast.
6
number of days
691 km
route length
high
budget
family
good for
on the left
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Tauranga
Distance 691 km
Driving time 10.5 h
Pace: fast
207.2 kWh
Airports
TRG
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ROT
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Tauranga is the perfect starting point for your road trip along the Pacific Coast. Located in the sunny Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand, Tauranga offers a wealth of opportunities for travelers.
One of the most popular attractions in Tauranga is Mount Maunganui, a dormant volcano that provides stunning views of the city and the surrounding bays. From the summit, you can take in the sights of the harbor and the Pacific Ocean. You can also take a stroll along the beach or take a dip in the warm waters of the beach.
If you're looking for some cultural experiences, Tauranga has plenty to offer. The Tauranga Art Gallery and the Tauranga Historic Village are great places to explore the city's past. There are also a number of parks and gardens to explore, as well as the famous Tauranga Botanical Gardens.
The closest international airport is the Tauranga Airport (TRG), which offers car rental services. From here, you can begin your journey along the Pacific Coast. As you make your way through the stunning scenery, you'll be able to take in the sights of the beautiful landscapes, the diverse wildlife, and the vibrant culture.
Tauranga is the perfect starting point for your road trip along the Pacific Coast. With its stunning views, cultural attractions, and vibrant atmosphere, it's sure to be an unforgettable experience.
1
Tauranga
- Whakatane
Distance 82 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: fast
24.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Tauranga to Whakatane! This 51-mile scenic route will take you less than an hour to explore. Along the way, you will get to experience some of the most stunning sights in the Bay of Plenty. From the historic village of Omaio to the beautiful panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, you will be in awe of the natural beauty of this land. As you drive, take a moment to pay homage to the local culture and visit the Māori settlement of Te Awa o te Atua. Here you will find fascinating Maori art and craft works, as well as a vibrant cultural centre. Make sure to also take in the breathtaking views of the White Island volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Finally, make a stop at the stunning Matakana Island, where you can take in the stunning views of the Bay of Plenty. When you reach Whakatane, you will have the opportunity to explore the town's rich cultural heritage, as well as its many outdoor activities. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage.
Whakatane - New Zealand - Oceania - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Whakatane
- Opotiki
Distance 45 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: fast
13.6 kWh
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Are you ready for a stunning 28mi drive from Whakatane to Opotiki? This journey will take you less than an hour, and you will be rewarded with stunning views and plenty of interesting places to visit.
Start your adventure in Whakatane, a coastal town with a rich Maori culture and a variety of historical sites. Visit the Whakatane Heads and the Moutohora Island, also known as ‘Whale Island’, a nature reserve home to a variety of native wildlife.
Continue your journey to Opotiki, a coastal village with an abundance of beaches, rivers, and forests. Take a stroll along the Waiotahi Beach and admire the breathtaking views of the ocean. Head to the Opotiki Golf Club and play a few rounds with your friends or relax at the Hot Water Beach.
Don’t forget to take in the amazing nature along the way. Keep an eye out for the stunning scenery and the historical sites.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” section of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Opotiki - New Zealand - Oceania - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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3
Opotiki
- Hicks Bay
Distance 148 km
Driving time 2.4 h
Pace: fast
44.4 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Opotiki to Hicks Bay! This scenic journey of 92 miles (less than 3 hours of driving) offers a variety of attractions for every traveler. Admire the stunning landscapes and picturesque views of the rolling hills, while driving along the winding roads. Keep an eye out for historical sites, such as the ancient pa sites of Te Kaha and Te Araroa. You will also be treated to views of the beautiful coastline, while driving through the narrow roads of the East Cape. This stage of your road trip is sure to be filled with new and exciting experiences. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Hicks Bay - New Zealand - Oceania - Road Trip - Pixabay
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4
Hicks Bay
- Gisborne
Distance 179 km
Driving time 3.0 h
Pace: fast
53.6 kWh
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Welcome road-trippers! We have the perfect road trip for you, starting in Hicks Bay and ending in Gisborne. This 111mi drive is sure to make your trip an enjoyable one, taking you less than three hours. Along the way, you will witness some of the most breathtaking scenery New Zealand has to offer, from winding roads to narrow pathways. Make sure to appreciate the natural beauty of both Hicks Bay and Gisborne- you won't be disappointed. Hicks Bay is known for its stunning beaches, while Gisborne is home to some of the most delicious seafood restaurants. Don't forget to explore the nearby Maori cultural sites, too! For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" section of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and come join us on this memorable road trip!
Gisborne - New Zealand - Oceania - Road Trip - New Zealand
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5
Gisborne
- Wairoa
Distance 97 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: fast
29.0 kWh
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Take a road trip from Gisborne to Wairoa and explore the beautiful East Coast of New Zealand! This 60mi journey will take you less than two hours to complete, so you can easily fit it into a day of sightseeing.
Start your journey in Gisborne, the first city in the world to see the sun each day. There, you can visit the Eastwoodhill Arboretum, with over 3000 species of trees and shrubs from around the world. If you're a fan of nature, you can also explore the nearby Te Urewera National Park, home to some of the country's most spectacular scenery.
Once you're ready to move on, head west towards Wairoa. Along the way, keep an eye out for some of the region's most scenic roads. As you drive, you can stop to explore the many attractions in the area, such as the Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk, the Wairoa Museum, and the Mahia Peninsula.
When you reach Wairoa, make sure to visit the Wairoa District Museum, which has a fascinating collection of artefacts from the area's rich history. You can also take a stroll along the Wairoa River and soak in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, have a look at the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Wairoa - New Zealand - Oceania - Road Trip - Pixabay
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6
Wairoa
- Napier
Distance 118 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: fast
35.5 kWh
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Welcome road-trippers! This stage of your journey starts in Wairoa, New Zealand and ends in Napier, 73mi away. The drive will take you less than 2 hours, but there are plenty of interesting sights along the way that are worth a stop.
Heading out of Wairoa, you’ll pass through Mahia Peninsula, a rugged and beautiful area with stunning coastal views. Further down the road, you’ll see the picturesque Whirinaki Beach, where you can take a break and enjoy the crystal-clear water.
Once you hit the town of Wairoa, you’ll find plenty of attractions and activities to keep you entertained, such as the iconic Wairoa Museum, the stunning Lake Waikaremoana, and the picturesque Mahia Lookout. There are also plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops to explore.
As you drive into Napier, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the beautiful Hawke’s Bay region. The city of Napier is a great place to explore, with plenty of interesting historical sites, stunning beaches, and iconic art deco architecture.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Napier - New Zealand - Oceania - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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7
Napier
- Hastings
Distance 22 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: fast
6.6 kWh
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Take a road trip from Napier to Hastings and experience the historical sites along the way. This 14-mile journey takes less than an hour and is full of interesting sites to explore. In Napier, you can visit the iconic National Tobacco Company building, a historic landmark with an impressive art deco façade. In Hastings, you can explore the beautiful Botanical Gardens and the Hawke's Bay Museum and Art Gallery. The picturesque Tuki Tuki Valley is also a must-see. As you drive, be sure to keep an eye out for the many other historical sites along the route. With so much to see and do, you won't be disappointed. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Hastings - New Zealand - Oceania - Road Trip - Pixabay
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Hastings
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Hastings is a great place to end your road trip across the Pacific Coast. Situated in the beautiful Hawke’s Bay region of New Zealand’s North Island, Hastings is a great place to unwind after a long drive. The town is full of interesting attractions and activities to explore.
The Hastings City Art Gallery is the perfect place for art lovers, with a great collection of works from local and international artists. For those interested in history, the Hawke’s Bay Museum and Art Gallery is the place to go. It houses a variety of artifacts from the area’s past, from Maori artifacts to early settlers’ memorabilia.
Nature lovers will enjoy the sights and sounds of the nearby Te Mata Peak. The peak offers beautiful views of the Hawke’s Bay region and is a popular spot for hikers. There are also plenty of great wineries in the area, so wine lovers can sample some of the best local vintages.
If you plan to fly into Hastings, the closest international airport is the Hawke’s Bay Airport (NPE). From there, you can rent a car and easily drive to the city center.
Hastings is a great place to end your road trip “Along Pacific Coast Road Trip”. With its beautiful natural setting, interesting attractions, and great wineries, Hastings is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the end of your drive.
Along Pacific Coast Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Tauranga
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End:
Hastings
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Distance:
691 km
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Stay:
6 days
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Getting there:
Tauranga Airport (TRG),
Rotorua Regional Airport (ROT)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, April, May, October, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an epic 6-day journey from Tauranga to Hastings, traversing New Zealand's majestic Pacific Coast Highway. This Road Trip spans roughly 430 miles (690 kilometers) and offers a plethora of diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches to lush forests. It's a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, with each turn revealing the stunning natural beauty that the North Island is renowned for.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Tauranga: Begin your adventure in the bustling coastal city of Tauranga, famous for its expansive harbor, the iconic Mount Maunganui, and a myriad of waterfront cafés. The summit of Mount Maunganui provides breathtaking panoramic views, making it a must-climb for any visitor.
- Whakatane: Journey to Whakatane, a gateway to the extraordinary White Island, New Zealand's most active marine volcano, which offers a unique opportunity to witness geothermal activity firsthand. Don't miss the chance to relax at the stunning Ohope Beach, often voted as one of the country's best beaches.
- Hicks Bay: Discover the serene Hicks Bay, known for its picturesque coastline and tranquil waters. It's an ideal spot for angling enthusiasts or those seeking a quiet retreat amidst nature.
- Wairoa: Visit the town of Wairoa, the gateway to Te Urewera, the country's largest protected native forest. Explore Lake Waikaremoana, with its dramatic cliffs and serene waters perfect for kayaking, and trek the lush rainforest trails teeming with unique wildlife.
Best Time to Go:
Experience the best of the Pacific Coast by traveling during the New Zealand summer, from December through February. This season promises warm temperatures, extended daylight hours, and generally stable weather conditions, providing an idyllic backdrop for your coastal escapade.
Potential Risks:
While taking on this journey, be mindful of the winding and narrow stretches of road that can be challenging for drivers, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Stay updated with local traffic and weather advisories to ensure a safe trip.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- New Zealand is home to the left-hand driving system, which may require an adjustment for those accustomed to driving on the right.
- Budgeting for this trip should account for higher expenses due to the potential cost of activities, dining, and accommodation in these sought-after coastal towns.
- Regular vehicle maintenance checks are crucial, as the varying terrain demands a reliable mode of transportation.
- Schedule frequent stops not only for safety reasons but also to indulge in the coastal scenery that includes expansive vistas, native wildlife, and unique geological formations.
A good choice for:
This captivating Road Trip from Tauranga to Hastings is an invitation to immerse yourself in New Zealand's Pacific Coast wonders. It caters to drivers of all experience levels and with judicious planning, it is poised to be a memorable expedition. The route offers not only scenic beauty but also a chance to engage with Maori culture, enjoy local gastronomy, and partake in outdoor activities like hiking, whale watching, and water sports, contributing to the richness of this travel experience.
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