From cosmopolitan cities to stunning nature, pristine beaches to volcanic mountains, New Zealand’s North Island really packs a punch.
Home to seventy-five percent of New Zealand’s population, a lot of travelers think you can easily see the sights in a matter of days. The island isn’t huge after all.
But there’s actually a lot of ground to cover here. Having been to New Zealand a few times over the years, I know from experience that there’s a lot more to see and do here than you think. You definitely don’t want to rush.
In a perfect world, I think most travelers visiting the North Island should spend at least a month here exploring on a road trip. That’s my ideal suggestion.
But since a month off is not realistic for most people, I suggest spending at least two weeks instead. That’s the minimum amount of time needed to do justice to the island on a road trip.
So, what should you see and do if you only have two weeks? What route do you take? Where do you go?
Below is my suggested itinerary that can help you plan your North Island road trip for maximum efficiency. This itinerary will ensure that you see the highlights and get off the beaten path, making the most of your time in this extraordinary country.
New Zealand Road Trip Highlights
Just looking for a few pointers to start your planning? Here are a few highlights from my time in New Zealand. These are things I think every visitor should experience when visiting New Zealand:
Want more info on these activities (and others)? I cover them all below!
Renting a Car in New Zealand
Before you plan your route, you need a way to get around. When it comes to road-tripping New Zealand, you essentially have two options: car or campervan.
Traveling by campervan is very popular here, especially among the more budget-conscious travelers, as vans serve as both accommodation and transportation. There are five main rental agencies:
Prices vary a lot. Your daily rate will change depending on where you pick up the vehicle, if you are dropping it off at a different destination, how long you are renting it for, how far in advance you book, and when you book (in the high season, prices seem to double!).
If living out of a van for a few weeks doesn’t sound like your idea of a fun time, simply rent a normal car and book accommodation along the way. I always use Discover Cars when renting a vehicle. They scour rental agencies big and small to find the best deals.
You can use this widget to get a free quote for your car rental:
New Zealand’s North Island Road Trip Itinerary: A Two-Week Route
Days 1–2: Auckland
Auckland is the largest and most populous city in New Zealand but, contrary to popular belief, it’s not the capital (that’s Wellington). Since most flights land here, spend a couple of days recovering from your (likely) long journey and overcoming your jet lag.