New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary – North Island

1. Auckland: Start your road trip in the vibrant city of Auckland. Explore its harbor, visit the Sky Tower, and enjoy the local cuisine.
2. Bay of Islands and the Northland: Head north to the Bay of Islands, known for its stunning beaches, historic sites, and water activities. Don’t miss the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
3. Coromandel Peninsula: Drive along the scenic Coromandel coastline, visit Cathedral Cove, and soak in the natural hot water at Hot Water Beach.
4. Mount Maunganui and Rotorua: Experience geothermal wonders in Rotorua, including bubbling mud pools and geysers. Climb Mount Maunganui for panoramic views.
5. Lake Taupo and the Tongariro National Park: Explore Lake Taupo, go hiking in Tongariro National Park (home to the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing), and admire the volcanic landscapes.
6. Waitomo and the Forgotten World Highway: Discover the glowworm caves in Waitomo and take the scenic Forgotten World Highway through rugged terrain.
7. Mount Taranaki to Wellington: Drive along the west coast, with Mount Taranaki as a backdrop. Reach Wellington, New Zealand’s capital, and explore its vibrant arts scene.

New Zealand South Island Road Trip

1. Ferry Crossing from Wellington to Picton: Take the Interislander ferry across Cook Strait to the South Island.
2. Picton to the Abel Tasman National Park: Explore the pristine beaches and coastal trails of Abel Tasman National Park.
3. Kaikoura: Known for whale watching and marine life, Kaikoura offers stunning coastal views.
4. West Coast via the Arthurs Pass National Park: Drive through lush rainforests, glaciers, and the Southern Alps.
5. Hokitika to Haast: Visit Hokitika Gorge and continue south along the wild West Coast.
6. Wanaka to Queenstown: Enjoy the adventure capital of Queenstown, surrounded by mountains and Lake Wakatipu.
7. Queenstown to Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound: Take a scenic cruise through the fjords.
8. The Sounds to the Catlins National Park: Explore the rugged Catlins coastline and its waterfalls.
9. Catlins National Park to the Otago Peninsula: Spot wildlife and visit the iconic Moeraki Boulders.
10. Otago Peninsula to Mount Cook: Witness the grandeur of Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak.
11. Mount Cook to Akaroa: Drive to the charming French-inspired town of Akaroa.
12. Akaroa to Christchurch: Conclude your road trip in Christchurch, known for its gardens and heritage.

Rental Car information

1. GO Rentals:

• Winner of the Most Satisfied Customers | Hire Cars Award 2022 according to Kiwi consumers.
• Conveniently located near Auckland Airport and other major locations.
• Offers fantastic customer service, including 24-hour AA roadside assistance and free basic car rental insurance.
• Check out their fleet and book your rental on their website.

    2.  Ezi Car Rental:

• Largest locally owned car rental company in New Zealand.
• Known for competitive rates and a wide range of vehicle options.
• Explore their offerings on the Ezi Car Rental website.

    3.  Europcar:

• With 22 locations across New Zealand, Europcar is a great choice for starting your road trip from a unique spot.
• Offers newer and safer cars for peace of mind.
• Visit their website.

    4.  Hertz:

• Overall top pick for car rental in New Zealand.
• Reliable and well-established, with a wide network of locations.
• Explore their fleet and services on the Hertz website