New Zealand is a top choice for road trip lovers, offering a wide variety of landscapes, from lush rainforests and geothermal areas to beautiful beaches and tall mountains.

If you’re looking for relaxation, excitement, or a mix of both, New Zealand’s roads provide a great setting for a memorable trip.

This guide will help you plan a 2-week road trip across both the North and South Islands.

We offer detailed itineraries suited to different interests and timeframes, so you can experience the best this country has to offer.

From the cultural energy of Wellington to the scenic fjords of Milford Sound, these itineraries will help you explore New Zealand’s well-known attractions, making sure each day of your trip brings new sights and experiences.

New Zealand: Day-by-Day Guide

SOURCE: Dangerous Business

Here is the day-by-day guide to your ultimate 2-week road trip across New Zealand, with each day designed to highlight a unique aspect of this beautiful country:

Day 1: Arrival in Auckland – Wander Through the City

Auckland: Start your adventure in New Zealand’s largest city. Visit the iconic Sky Tower, enjoy a scenic ferry ride to Waiheke Island for some wine tasting, and stroll around Viaduct Harbour.

Highlight: Catch a stunning sunset from Mount Eden, one of the city’s dormant volcanoes, for panoramic views of Auckland.

Day 2: Auckland to Coromandel Peninsula

Coromandel Peninsula: Drive to Coromandel for beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and hot springs. Visit Cathedral Cove, an iconic natural rock arch, and soak in the natural Hot Water Beach.

Highlight: Spend the afternoon visiting the Coromandel Coastal Walkway for breathtaking coastal views.

Day 3: Coromandel to Hobbiton & Rotorua

Hobbiton: Head to Matamata for a magical visit to Hobbiton, the iconic film set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Take a guided tour and see the Hobbit holes.

Rotorua: In the evening, drive to Rotorua. Known for its geothermal activity, you can relax in the Polynesian Spa or visit Te Puia for Maori culture and geysers.

Highlight: Experience a traditional Hangi dinner in Rotorua.

Day 4: Rotorua Geothermal Wonders

Rotorua: Spend the day exploring Rotorua’s geothermal wonders, such as Wai-O-Tapu with its colorful hot springs and bubbling mud pools.
Visit Orakei Korako for more geothermal marvels and Redwoods Forest for a walk among towering trees.

Highlight: Take a dip in the hot thermal pools at Kerosene Creek or enjoy a mud bath at Hell’s Gate

Day 5: Rotorua to Taupo – Lake Taupo Thrill

Taupo: Travel to Taupo, a town famous for its stunning lake and thrill activities. Enjoy a boat cruise to see Huka Falls or visit Aratiatia Rapids.

Highlight: For adrenaline junkies, try skydiving or bungy jumping over the lake for stunning views.

Day 6: Taupo to Wellington – Capital City Vibes

Wellington: Head south to New Zealand’s vibrant capital. Take the Wellington Cable Car to the Botanic Gardens for panoramic city views, then head to Te Papa Museum, known for its interactive exhibits and cultural displays.

Highlight: Spend your evening on Cuba Street, famous for its eclectic bars, cafes, and art scene.

Day 7: Wellington to Picton 

Ferry to Picton: Take a scenic ferry ride across the Cook Strait to the South Island. The journey offers stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds and the rugged coastline.

Picton: Visit Picton, a small seaside town surrounded by beautiful waterways and hiking trails.

Highlight: Enjoy a peaceful walk along the Queen Charlotte Track.

Day 8: Picton to Nelson

Nelson: Drive to Nelson, known for its sunny climate and artsy vibe. Visit local galleries, stroll along Tahunanui Beach, and go to nearby Abel Tasman National Park.

Highlight: Try kayaking or hiking in Abel Tasman to see golden beaches and clear waters.

Day 9: Nelson to West Coast

Punakaiki: Head down the West Coast to see the fascinating Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki. The rocks are known for their unique layers and the Blowholes.

West Coast: Take a scenic drive along the rugged coastline with stops at Greymouth and Hokitika for some local craft shopping and exploration.

Highlight: If you’re up for a thrill, take a helicopter tour over the West Coast’s rainforests and beaches.

Day 10: West Coast to Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier: Drive down the West Coast to reach the Franz Josef Glacier. Hike to the base of the glacier, or for the ultimate experience, take a helicopter ride to land on the glacier itself.

Highlight: Soak in the hot pools at Rainforest Retreat, just a short drive from the glacier.

Day 11: Franz Josef to Queenstown

Queenstown: Drive to Queenstown, New Zealand’s thrill capital.
Visit the Shotover River for a jet boat ride, or take the Skyline Gondola for sweeping views of the town and Lake Wakatipu.

Highlight: Thrill-seekers can try bungee jumping or skydiving for a truly memorable experience.

Day 12: Queenstown to Milford Sound

Milford Sound: Take a day trip to Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders. A cruise through the fjord will reveal towering cliffs, lush rainforests, and stunning waterfalls.

Highlight: If you’re feeling bold, go kayaking in Doubtful Sound for a quieter, more serene experience.

Day 13: Queenstown to Mount Cook

Mount Cook: Drive to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park for a day of hiking. The Hooker Valley Track is one of the most popular hikes, offering views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and the mighty Mount Cook.

Highlight: For stargazing enthusiasts, Mount Cook is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve.

Day 14: Mount Cook to Christchurch – End of the Tour

Christchurch: Drive to Christchurch, the final stop on your road trip. Visit the beautiful Botanic Gardens, visit Re: START Mall for unique shops, or take a punting ride on the Avon River.

Highlight: End your trip with a visit to Sumner Beach, or take a hot air balloon ride for a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the city.

Perfect Vehicle for Your New Zealand Road Trip

SOURCE: Dangerous Business

Choosing the right vehicle for your New Zealand road trip can make all the difference in your experience. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

Essential Tips for Driving in New Zealand

Driving in New Zealand offers a thrilling experience, but it’s crucial to understand the road rules and conditions for a safe and smooth journey. Here are some essential tips for navigating New Zealand’s roads:

• Drive on the Left: New Zealanders drive on the left side of the road, which can be a big adjustment for those used to the right.
  Be mindful of this when you first get behind the wheel.
• Speed Limits: The standard speed limit in urban areas is 50 km/h (31 mph), while on highways, it is typically 100 km/h (62 mph).
  Always keep an eye out for road signs, as speed limits can change depending on the area and road conditions.
• Road Conditions: New Zealand’s roads, especially in rural or mountainous regions, can be winding and narrow.
  Prepare for curvy, hilly roads, and drive cautiously, especially in bad weather. Always check for road closures or updates before heading out.
• Navigation: Use reliable navigation apps like Google Maps or Maps.me for accurate directions. It’s also a good idea to download offline maps for areas with limited mobile reception.
  This ensures you’re always on track, even when you’re in remote regions.

Conclusion

A road trip through New Zealand is an unforgettable experience, filled with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique escapades.

If you’re visiting the North Island’s geothermal wonders or soaking in the majestic fjords of the South Island, the flexibility of driving gives you the freedom to see it all at your own pace.

By choosing the right vehicle, understanding the road rules, and being prepared for New Zealand’s diverse driving conditions, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Follow these tips, and you’re sure to have an incredible time on your New Zealand road trip one that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Safe travels and happy wandering!