Experience the best of the North Island in five days on this self-drive. Explore Auckland’s harbours, Rotorua’s geothermal wonders, Taupō’s volcanic lake, Napier’s Art Deco streets, and Wellington’s capital charm in a perfectly paced journey with time to explore.
5 Day / 4 Night Tour
$529
88+ Booked
5 Day / 4 Night Tour
$529
88+ Booked
Arrive in Auckland, collect your rental car, and check into your hotel. Explore the city at your pace—wander Viaduct Harbour, browse Queen Street, visit galleries, or relax by the marina. Auckland blends coastal charm with vibrant urban life.
Overnight in Auckland.
Breakfast at hotel. Drive south through the Waikato countryside toward Rotorua, stopping at the Hobbiton Movie Set to explore Hobbit Holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and the Party Tree. Arrive in Rotorua, where geothermal landscapes and Māori culture fill the air.
Drive: 228 km / 3 hrs
Optional: Hobbiton Tour, Te Pō Māori Evening
Overnight in Rotorua.
Breakfast at hotel. Journey past Rotorua’s geothermal fields with an optional stop at Wai-O-Tapu. Continue to Taupō to see Huka Falls, then follow rolling hills and vineyards to Napier, famed for its Art Deco streets and boutique wineries.
Drive: 222 km / 3.5 hrs
Optional: Wai-O-Tapu, Hawke’s Bay Wine Tour
Overnight in Napier.
Breakfast at hotel. Travel south through orchards and farmland, passing Waipukurau and Dannevirke before reaching the Wairarapa wine villages. Continue through Greytown and Martinborough, then cross the Remutaka Ranges into Wellington. Explore the waterfront in the evening.
Drive: 320 km / 4 hrs
Optional: Zealandia By Night
Overnight in Wellington.
Breakfast at hotel. Spend the morning exploring Wellington’s waterfront, galleries, and cosy laneway cafés. Return your rental car at Wellington Airport before your onward flight, leaving with memories of cities, coastlines, and rolling North Island landscapes.
Drive: 10 km / 20 mins
Self-Drive:
Exclusive Experiences:
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4 days ago
The North Island Signature Journey was the perfect five-day getaway. Auckland’s harbour, Rotorua’s geothermal sights, and the drive to Taupō were all incredible. The pacing was great, giving me time to explore without feeling rushed.
1 week ago
I really enjoyed how balanced this trip felt. Napier’s Art Deco streets were a highlight, and the route to Wellington was beautiful and easy to follow. Everything was planned so well that I could just relax and enjoy the journey.
2 days ago
This itinerary made it so simple to see the best of the North Island in a short time. Auckland, Rotorua, Taupō, and Wellington each had something memorable. The planning, hotel choices, and smooth driving routes made the whole experience excellent.
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Hey, I’m Roman, your go-to guide at Go New Zealand Tours. If you’re seeking something off the beaten path, I’m here for you. Whether it’s exploring the hidden gems of the North Island or hiking through the Southern Alps, I’ll make sure your trip is truly unique.
Hi, I’m Micheal, your Travel Consultant at Go New Zealand Tours. I’m passionate about crafting journeys that blend excitement and relaxation. Whether you’re after a thrilling adventure in Queenstown or a peaceful retreat in Lake Tekapo, I’ll make it happen.
I’m Shaun, and I’m all about creating the perfect balance between adventure and culture. From discovering the wild beauty of Fiordland to soaking in the rich Māori heritage in Rotorua, I’ll design a journey that speaks to your spirit of exploration.
Hi, I’m Maria! If you love rich history and vibrant culture, I’m your consultant. I’ll curate a trip that takes you from the iconic Hobbiton to the lively streets of Wellington, with plenty of authentic Kiwi experiences along the way.
Hey, I’m Mike. I’ve got a knack for designing laid-back yet exciting trips. If you’re looking to cruise through the Bay of Islands or enjoy a scenic coach tour to Rotorua, I’ll create an easy-going itinerary that’s tailored to your needs.
I’m Brian, your go-to Travel Consultant at Go New Zealand Tours. I’m a big fan of the scenic routes and incredible views New Zealand offers. If you’re looking to experience jaw-dropping landscapes or adventure-packed days, I’m here to make it all come true.
I’m Adam, and I’m here to help you take your New Zealand dreams off the page and into reality. Whether you’re up for hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or soaking up the culture in Auckland, I’ll create a trip that brings your vision to life.
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