Overview
Meet friendly wild dolphins at the Bunbury Discovery Centre . Take a dolphin swim tour. Or hop on a dolphin eco cruise.
Trip Details
Day 1: Auckland to Coromandel Town
Distance: 170 kms
Travel time: ~3 hours
Roll out of Auckland and ease into road-trip mode along the Hauraki Plains and up the Coromandel coast. The curves reveal glints of the Firth of Thames and pōhutukawa-fringed bays as you approach the laid-back, artisan town of Coromandel.
Where to stop between Auckland and Coromandel
Thames Coast Road viewpoints for ocean vistas and a leg stretch.
Coromandel Oyster Company
for a fresh, seaside lunch of local oysters and mussels.
Driving Creek
for the scenic Railway ride and forest Zipline canopy experience.
Things to do in Coromandel Town
Settle into the creative rhythm of Coromandel. Ride the hill-climbing narrow-gauge railway through regenerating native bush to the Eyefull Tower lookout, then glide through the canopy on the zipline while learning about conservation and artful engineering. Cap the afternoon with platters of briny-fresh oysters overlooking the water.
Where to stay in Coromandel Town
Coromandel Shelly Beach TOP 10 sits right on the waterfront with powered sites, a pool and sunset views. It’s an easy base for town and Driving Creek, with the soothing sound of the tide to lull you to sleep.
Day 2: Coromandel Town to Hahei (Coromandel Region)
Distance: 85 kms
Travel time: ~1.5 hour
Today is about indulgence and iconic coastline. Cross to the east side of the peninsula for a blissful soak, a beachy lunch, and an afternoon paddling to one of New Zealand’s most photographed coves.
Where to stop between Coromandel Town and Hahei
Whitianga for a morning soak at
The Lost Spring
geothermal sanctuary. Little Blue Kitchen in Hahei for sunny, casual brunch fare and great coffee. Hahei Beach for your
Cathedral Cove
kayak departure point.
Things to do in Hahei
Begin with steamy tranquility at The Lost Spring, where mineral-rich waters, palms and rock pools feel like a hidden tropical retreat. Refueled in Hahei, join a guided sea-kayak to Cathedral Cove. Gliding across clear water to limestone arches and sheltered bays, you’ll snap couple-perfect shots and often spot fish in the marine reserve below your bow.
Where to stay in Hahei
Hahei Beach Resort campground is steps from the sand, with powered sites and an ocean soundtrack. It’s the most convenient base for kayaking to Cathedral Cove and a short drive to Hot Water Beach if you’re keen on an evening soak in the sand.
Day 3: Hahei to Taupō
Distance: 265 kms
Travel time: ~3.5 hours
Leave the coast for heart-of-the-Island scenery, from green Waikato hills to crystalline springs and the wide blue of Lake Taupō. Plan an early start to maximize playtime on the lakefront.
Where to stop between Hahei and Taupō
Te Waihou Walkway
to the Blue Spring near Putāruru for a short, dreamy stroll beside startlingly clear, bright-blue water. Lake Taupō waterfront for a coffee and a lakeside wander.
Things to do in Taupō
Dial up the thrill with a 30 minute
Huka Falls
jet boat ride that whips you along the Waikato River and close to the thundering base of the falls. Back in town, toast the day with a modern Pacific Rim dinner at Plateau Bar + Eatery, pairing bold flavours with a glass of something local.
Where to stay in Taupō
Taupo TOP 10 Holiday Park offers spacious powered sites, tidy amenities and easy access to the lake and town. It’s quiet and convenient after an adrenaline-charged afternoon.
Day 4: Taupō to Taumarunui
Distance: 125 kms
Travel time: ~2 hours
Ease south around Lake Taupō’s shores before turning toward the King Country. This is a day of big lake views, gentle sailing and garden romance.
Where to stop between Taupō and Taumarunui
Morning sail from Taupō to the Māori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay. Taumarunui for a late afternoon wine-and-cheese at
Bradley’s Garden.
Things to do in Taumarunui
Start the morning on a classic yacht, cruising across Lake Taupō to the intricate cliffside carvings. After the drive, find your way to Bradley’s Garden where manicured paths and a charming gazebo set the scene for a leisurely platter and a glass of wine among blooms and birdsong.
Where to stay in Taumarunui
Taumarunui Holiday Park sits alongside the Whanganui River with roomy powered sites and a bushy, peaceful setting. It’s a relaxed base ahead of tomorrow’s alpine adventure.
Day 5: Taumarunui to Mangawhero (Tongariro National Park)
Distance: 80 kms
Travel time: ~1 hour
Volcanic drama awaits. Today’s goal is one of New Zealand’s greatest day hikes across active alpine terrain with craters, vents and surreal, jewel-toned lakes.
Where to stop between Taumarunui and Mangawhero
National Park Village for shuttle pick up to the
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
trailheads. Ohakune for post-hike dinner at the
Powderkeg Restaurant & Bar.
Things to do in Tongariro
Tackle the guided Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Over 7 to 8 hours, traverse lunar-like landscapes, the Red Crater and emerald lakes with expert guidance, weather insights and safety covered. Afterward, the Powderkeg’s hearty fare and warm vibe are exactly what tired legs crave.
Where to stay in Mangawhero
Mangawhero Campsite, nestled in beech forest on the slopes of Mt Ruapehu, is a DOC campground that feels wonderfully wild yet accessible. Self-contained campervans fit comfortably among the trees for a true alpine-camping experience.
Day 6: Mangawhero to Whanganui
Distance: 110 kms
Travel time: ~1.5 hours
From mountain forest to river city, roll down to Whanganui with a spin on a new cycle trail and a taste of the town’s celebrated glass arts.
Where to stop between Mangawhero and Whanganui
Ride a section of Te Ara Mangawhero, a beginner-friendly forest cycle trail linked to the Mountains to Sea network.
New Zealand Glassworks
in Whanganui to watch live glassblowing and browse contemporary works.
Things to do in Whanganui
Wander the heritage streets, explore riverside paths, or hop aboard a historic riverboat if time allows. Whanganui’s creative scene is everywhere, from street murals to studios, and the glassworks offer a fascinating window into the city’s design legacy.
Where to stay in Whanganui
Whanganui River TOP 10 Holiday Park
sits right beside the awa with powered riverfront sites, a pool and excellent facilities. Settle in here for two nights to enjoy a full day on the river tomorrow.
Day 7: Whanganui
Distance: 20 kms
Travel time: ~0.5 hours
Spend the day discovering Te Awa Tupua, the Whanganui River that holds legal personhood and deep cultural significance. This is a day for slow travel and meaningful storytelling.
Where to stop
Join a
Discover Te Awa Tupua
experience that blends biking and canoeing with local guides sharing history and traditions along the river. Explore more of town’s galleries and cafes if you prefer a gentler pace.
Things to do in Whanganui
Cycle quiet backroads, then slip into canoes to float stretches of the river, listening to kōrero about the land, people and waterways. It’s immersive, photogenic and quietly adventurous, ideal for couples.
Where to stay in Whanganui
Return to Whanganui River TOP 10 for your second night, ready for tomorrow’s foodie foray in Manawatū.
Day 8: Whanganui to Ashhurst (Manawatū)
Distance: 90 kms
Travel time: ~1 hour
Follow SH3 through the Horowhenua and into Manawatū for markets, bikes and a delightful high tea framed by rolling countryside.
Where to stop between Whanganui and Ashhurst
Whanganui River Market for artisan treats and local produce. Fiore Bike Hire for a cruiser to explore Ashhurst’s trails. The Scoop Truck for a couple’s ice cream date.
Things to do in Ashhurst and Palmerston North
Visit Central Energy Trust Wildbase Recovery, where rehabilitating native birds can be viewed up close in thoughtfully designed aviaries. Later, dress up your afternoon with tiers of scones, finger sandwiches and sweets at Country Road High Tea, a charming way to slow the day.
Where to stay in Ashhurst
Ashhurst Domain Campground is a relaxed, grassy reserve setting with easy access to local walks and the Manawatū River. Simple, peaceful and perfect after a day of gentle exploring.
Day 9: Ashhurst to Mangaweka
Distance: 115 kms
Travel time: ~1.5 hours
Country lanes, gorge views and a serene rafting trip on one of New Zealand’s prettiest rivers set the tone today. Keep the camera handy for papa cliffs and emerald water.
Where to stop between Ashhurst and Mangaweka
Breakfast at the Gorge Quarter Store for coffee and country charm.
Te Āpiti Manawatū Gorge
for a short native-bush walk with dramatic views. Āpiti Tavern & Eatery for a hearty lunch before the river.
Things to do in Mangaweka
Join a Grade II rafting trip on the
Rangitīkei River.
It’s gentle, scenic and ideal for first-timers, winding beneath towering papa cliffs with fun, splashy rapids and plenty of tranquil stretches to drift and chat.
Where to stay in Mangaweka
Awastone is a riverside campground with powered sites, hot showers and a friendly on-site cafe. With the river just steps away, it’s as convenient as it is atmospheric.
Day 10: Mangaweka to Wellington
Distance: 213 kms
Travel time: ~2.75 hours
A relaxed run down SH1 and the Kāpiti Coast brings you to the capital. Pick a bakery stop on the way, then trade highway hum for birdsong in a remarkable urban wild space.
Where to stop between Mangaweka and Wellington
Olde Beach Bakery in Waikanae for superb pastries and coffee.
Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne,
Wellington’s predator-fenced ecosanctuary.
Te Papa Tongarewa
for a highlights tour through New Zealand’s stories.
Things to do in Wellington
Stroll Zealandia’s lush valley and spot kākā, tūī and perhaps a tuatara before heading to the waterfront to dive into Te Papa’s interactive exhibits. In the evening, watch the harbour lights from your waterfront camp spot.
Where to stay in Wellington
Evans Bay Marina car park is a designated spot for certified self-contained campervans right on the water’s edge, minutes from the city. Park up here for two nights to make the most of Wellington without moving your base, noting council limits apply to maximum nights.
Day 11: Wellington
Distance: 10 kms
Travel time: ~0.5 hours
Wake to gulls and a glimmering harbour. Today mixes small-plate breakfasts, a harbour crossing, coastal cycling and a flavour-packed dinner in the city.
Where to stop
Glou Glou on Cuba Street for a relaxed breakfast. East by West ferry across the harbour to Days Bay. Bike or e-bike hire in Days Bay for the scenic ride to Pencarrow Lighthouse. Lunch at Days Bay Pavilion on the waterfront.
Things to do in Wellington
That lighthouse ride is a coastal classic for couples, with wide skies, sea breezes and seals if you’re lucky. Back in the city, book a table at Mr Go’s for modern Asian flavours and share-plate fun before returning to Evans Bay.
Where to stay in Wellington
Return to Evans Bay Marina car park for your second night by the water.
Day 12: Wellington to Martinborough (Wairarapa)
Distance: 80 kms
Travel time: ~1.25 hours
Cross the Remutaka Range to big-sky wine country. Today blends cheese, cellar doors and a private stargazing session for an evening to remember.
Where to stop between Wellington and Martinborough
C’est Cheese in Featherston for artisan tastings and road-trip provisions. Martinborough Square to collect bikes from Green Jersey Explorer Tours.
Things to do in Martinborough
Martinborough’s cellar doors cluster within easy cycling distance, making a self-guided Cycle the Vines loop irresistible. Pedal between tastings through flat, vine-lined lanes. After dusk, head to a
Private Star Safari
under Wairarapa’s dark skies to learn constellations and peer at planets through powerful telescopes.
Where to stay in Martinborough
Martinborough TOP 10 Holiday Park is a quiet, convenient base close to the village, with powered sites and tidy facilities for a restful night after your day of sips and stars.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Day 13: Martinborough to Castlepoint via Greytown
Distance: 115 kms
Travel time: ~2 hours
From vines to lighthouse, today sweeps you to one of the Wairarapa’s most photogenic coasts. There’s time for a boutique vineyard stop en route and a golden-hour walk by the sea.
Where to stop between Martinborough and Castlepoint
Le Grá Vineyard
for an intimate tasting that reflects family winemaking and regional character. Greytown’s main street for artisan browsing and coffee.
Things to do in Castlepoint
Walk the boardwalk to
Castlepoint Lighthouse,
explore the reef and lagoon, and watch waves curl against limestone headlands. On a calm evening, the sunset paints the lighthouse and cliffs in pastels that are made for your camera roll.
Where to stay in Castlepoint
Castlepoint Holiday Park offers beachfront powered sites where you can fall asleep to the hush of the Pacific and wake to seabird calls.
