14-Day Campervan Adventure: Exploring the Gems of Central North Island of New Zealand

We have put together this amazing 14 day itinerary for you to discover the gems of the North Island. Tailor this depending on how many days you have available and much driving you want to do. 

Day 1: Auckland

Arrive in Auckland, pick up your campervan, and explore the vibrant city. Visit the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views and indulge in delicious cuisine at local eateries.

Day 2 - 3: Coromandel Peninsula

Drive to the Coromandel Peninsula and spend two days exploring its natural wonders. Discover Cathedral Cove, Hot Water Beach, hike the Pinnacles for breathtaking views, soak up in the or explore the beautiful beaches around Opito and Otama.

Otama Beach
Oputere Beach
Oputere Beach

Day 4 - 5: Bay of Plenty

Head to the Bay of Plenty region and enjoy the pristine beaches of Mount Maunganui. Take a hike up Mount Maunganui for stunning panoramic views, relax on the beach, or try your hand at water sports.

Day 6 - 7: Rotorua

Immerse yourself in Rotorua’s geothermal wonders. Explore Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, experience Maori culture and a traditional Hangi feast at the Mitai Maori Village, and relax in the healing waters of the Polynesian Spa. Take the Skyline gondola up and cruise down with the luge or zipline or dine at the restaurant and soak in the views. For the more outdoorsy ones of you, walk or mountainbike the Red Wood Forrest. On a rainy day, the 3D Trick Art Gallery is worth a visit.

Waiotapu
Redwood Forrest
Waiotapu

Day 8 - 9: Taupo

Journey to Taupo and enjoy the stunning Lake Taupo. Take a boat cruise, catch your own salmon and eat it on the spot at Anatoki Salmon, hire a bike and cruise along the water with a stop at the beautiful Sails on the Lake to enjoy a drink and their yummy pizzas, or soak in natural hot pools at Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort. Don’t miss the impressive Huka Falls and a stop at the Lava Glass – Glassblowing Studio & Cafe.

For the kids, there is no better place to stay than the Lake Taupo Holiday Park with its big pool, slides and outdoor movies. The pool bar keeps the parents entertained as well 😉

DeBretts Taupo
Lake Taupo Holiday Park
Lake Taupo

Day 10 - 11: Tongarriro National Park

Discover the dramatic landscapes of Tongariro National Park. Embark on the epic Tongariro Alpine Crossing, hike to Taranaki Falls, or explore the park’s other stunning trails. The Tongarriro Alpine Crossing takes about 7 to 8 hours and offers stunning views of volcanoes, emerald lakes, and unique landscapes. Make sure to bring warm clothes as it is quite windy at the top. Pro Tip: park the car at the end of the track and take a shuttle to the start of the track, so you don’t have to wait around once you are done (Booking essential!). To relax your sore muscles after the hike, head over to theTokaanu Thermal Pools.

Tongarriro National Park
Tongarriro National Park
Tongarriro National Park

Day 12 - 13: waitomo caves & raglan

Make you way back up North and stop at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, a mesmerizing underground world illuminated by thousands of glowworms.

In the morning, head to Raglan, a beautiful coastal town known for its excellent surfing beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Once in Raglan, explore the town, enjoy the beaches like the Ngarunui Beach and maybe even take a surf lesson if you’re up for it. If you want to be rather active, do the short walk to the Bridal Veil Falls.

Waitomo Glowwom Caves
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Ngarunui Beach Raglan

Day 14: Return to auckland

Drive back to Auckland, taking the scenic route and stopping at attractions along the way. Spend your last day exploring more of the city or shopping for souvenirs before returning your campervan. 

This 14-day itinerary showcases the highlights of the northern North Island, allowing you to experience the region’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and thrilling activities. Feel free to adjust the itinerary based on your interests and add additional stops along the way. Enjoy the freedom of campervan travel and create unforgettable memories on your Northern North Island adventure!

Create Memories of a Lifetime in one of our campervans available for hire from Auckland/New Zealand. Book your adventure with Camper4Hire here.

Your Camper4Hire Team

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