|
|
Travel Tips
New Zealand Driving Routes
Four self-drive tours are described below, covering many must-see New Zealand destinations:
- Far North Adventure (5 days)
- Central Explorer (9 days)
- North Island Escapade (10 days)
- Tip of the South (5 days)
Follow the routes as described, or use them as inspiration for creating your own self-drive tour.
Travel times are approximate only, based on an average driving speed under normal road conditions.
Far North Adventure
New Zealand’s Far North is
breathtakingly gorgeous with some of this country’s most beautiful
coastal scenery. You will find countless sandy beaches – many of which
you can have all to yourself! Discover the Far North’s marine
adventures, quaint towns, historic sites, as well as museums, art
galleries and craft shops. Stylish cafes and restaurants can also be
enjoyed along the way.
| Far North Adventure | Point to Point | Driving Time | Distance | Day 1
| Auckland to Whangarei | 2.25 Hours
| 162 Km
| Day 2
| Whangarei to Paihia | 1 Hour
| 71 Km
| Day 3
| Paihia to Kaitaia via Kerikeri | 1.75 Hours
| 122 Km
| Day 4
| Kaitaia to Dargaville | 2.75 Hours
| 211 Km
| Day 5
| Dargaville to Auckland | 2.25 Hours
| 185 Km
| | Total Time & Distance |
| 10 Hours
| 751 Km
|
Day 1: Auckland – Orewa – Warkworth – Whangarei
Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, is a place you can enjoy marine adventures, wine trails, forest walks and urban sophistication. The city has so much to over any type of traveller. Yourway rental car suggests visiting the Auckland Tourism website to help you plan your time in Auckland.
To head to the Far North you will drive over the Auckland Harbour Bridge towards Auckland’s North Shore that is renowned for it’s beautiful beaches. If times permits stop off and enjoy what the North Shore has to offer. The town of Orewa is just 30 minutes further North. Spread along the edge of a large, white sand surf beach, you can enjoy the local shopping centre, take a refreshing swim or explore the bush trails.
As you continue North to Warkworth you’ll pass through Waiwera, which means ‘hot water’ in Maori. The hot springs and water slides at Waiwera Thermal Springs are the main attraction is this small town.
The next place of interest to you is Puhoi, another small town originally settled in 1863 by immigrants from Bohemia. This town’s claim to fame is their cheese – buy some for your next snack. You’ll be able to enjoy native forest and farmland scenery all the way to Warkworth.
This district as many attractions for you to enjoy - surf beaches, marine and wildlife sanctuaries, vineyards, golf courses, regional parks and islands.
The last part of your drive today is through more rural towns including Wellsford, Pakiri – a great beach for surfing and horse treks, and Kaiwaka. It is at this point you may consider a detour to the east past the spectacular beaches of Mangawhai Heads, Langs Beach and Waipu Cove.
In Whangarei you’ll be able to enjoy stylish cafes and restaurants at the Quayside Town Basin, as well as museums, art galleries and shops. The Whangarei Falls are also worth a visit.
Day 2: Whangarei – Paihia
A short 1 hour drive will take you further North to Paihia. Along the way you’ll see a number of small settlements. Just before Kawakawa, a side road runs to the glowworm cave at Waiomio. Kawakawa is famous for it’s public toilets. Designed by an Austrian artist Frederick Hundertwasser they are worth a visit even if you don’t need to go.
From here the road to, Paihia in the Bay of Islands, becomes quite windy but you'll enjoy some wonderful scenery along the way. Paihia is an excellent base for exploring the Bay of Islands. During peak seasons, November to March, this region is very popular therefore we suggest you make accommodation arrangements before you arrive. Visit the Bay of Islands Tourism website to discover what this region has to offer. We recommend catching a cruise to the outer islands or a ferry to the charming township of Russell. The historic Treaty House at Waitangi marks the beginning of New Zealand as a nation therefore also worth a visit.
Day 3: Paihia – Kerikeri - Kaitaia
As you leave Paihia you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Haruru Falls. These falls tumble down in a perfect horseshoe. You may like to walk the track from the falls all the way to Waitangi that includes a board walk through mangrove forest. Kerikeri is just a 30 minute drive From Paihia. The road is bordered by orchards. Roadside stalls are common offering fresh seasonal fruit for very affordable prices.
Kerikeri is a town of must do’s - galleries, cafes and vineyards, gourmet food shops, several golf courses and historic sites such as the Stone Store and the Mission House. There are also fantastic bush walks in the area.
Kaitaia is a further 1¼ hour drive. If you have time stop off at the scenic side trips on the road to Kaitaia. These include Matauri Bay (the resting place of the Rainbow Warrior), Tauranga Bay and the nearby Whangaroa Harbour is a game fishing mecca.
Further north, the beautiful beaches of Doubtless Bay will tempt you with white sand and crystal clear water. Sailing, sea kayaking, horse treks and golf are some of the other activities available in this district. Kaitaia is the main centre of the Far North. From here you can catch a tour along Ninety Mile Beach or to Cape Reinga, the very top of New Zealand where you can see
the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea meet. Other local attractions include the Far North Regional Museum and the nocturnal park.
Day 4: Kaitaia - Dargarville
The 2¾ hour back-country route to Dargaville takes you past a number of forests where you can stretch you legs - Herekino Forest, Waipoua Forest (home on New Zealand’s largest kauri trees) and Trounson Kauri Park. You may also like to do some sand dune surfing in Opononi. The beautiful Kai Iwi lakes are not far from Dargaville. These sand dune lakes are popular for camping, swimming, fishing and kayaking.
Dargaville is a perfect base for exploring the Kaipara Harbour, which offers fishing, quad biking, schooner trips and bird watching. The west coast beaches in this area form part of the longest driveable beach in New Zealand.
Day 5: Dargaville - Auckland
On the way back to Auckland you can explore the kauri museum in Matakohe and the antique and craft shops in the village of Maungaturoto. At Brynderwyn you'll turn towards Kaiwaka, an opportunity to stop for some Dutch cheese if you didn’t do so on the trip North. Further south is Wellsford, take a right towards Helensville. The hilly rural road provides amazing views of the Kaipara Harbour and surrounding farmland. There are hot springs at Parakai if you have time to spare. At Kumeu you'll turn towards Waitakere, where you'll embark on a beautiful scenic drive through the Waitakere Ranges. These ranges are home to stunning black sand beaches and numerous bush walks for all abilities. From here you are a short drive back to Auckland.
Central Explorer
You’ll be amazed at the variety of scenery and
unique places you will visit on this nine-day driving tour of the
central North Island. Head east to the famed Coromandel Peninsula then
travel along the stunning eastern coastline to Hawke’s Bay, home to the
art deco city of Napier and many award-winning wineries. Turn inland to
geothermal areas where you will see boiling mud pools and experience
Maori culture in Rotorua, view snow capped mountains in the central
country, and marvel at glow-worm filled caves.
| Central Explorer | Point to Point
| Driving Time | Distance
| | Day 1 | Auckland to Coromandel | 2 Hours
| 166 Kms
| Day 2
| Coromandel to Tauranga | 2.75 Hours
| 214 Kms
| Day 3
| Tauranga to Whakatane | 1.5 Hours
| 112 Kms
| Day 4
| Whakatane to Gisborne | 5 Hours
| 386 Kms
| Day 5
| Gisborne to Napier | 2.75 Hours
| 213 Kms
| Day 6
| Napier to Taupo | 1.75 Hours
| 139 Kms
| Day 7
| Taupo to Rotorua | 1 Hour
| 81 Kms
| Day 8
| Rotorua to Waitomo Caves | 1.5 Hours
| 136 Kms
| Day 9
| Waitomo Caves to Auckland | 2.5 Hours
| 198 Kms
| Total Time & Distance
|
| 20.75 Hours
| 1645 Kms
|
Day 1: Auckland – Thames - Coromandel
Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, is a place you can enjoy marine adventures, wine trails, forest walks and urban sophistication. The city has so much to over any type of traveller. Yourway rental car suggests visiting the Auckland Tourism website to help you plan your time in Auckland.
You can choose two routes to Thames. The faster way takes you along the motorway and over the Bombay Hills, then across the green Hauraki Plains to Waitakaruru. The slower more scenic route, that Yourway recommends if you have the time, winds through farmland to the village of Clevedon before leading you around the edge of the Firth of Thames. Kawakawa Bay, Orere Point and Kaiaua are beachside settlements to visit. Either route enables you to visit the Miranda Hot Springs and bird sanctuary, as well as the one lane Kopu Bridge, which was built in 1928 and has a Historic Places Trust listing.
The historic township of Thames was founded during the Coromandel gold rush. Whilst here you may like to visit the mining museum that has a fascinating mineralogical collection. There are also gold mining relics to discover on many of the bush walks. You can also take the boardwalk through the mangroves to watch seabirds in the Thames Firth. You’ll enjoy stunning views on the road to Coromandel as it follows the edge of the coast.
Formerly a gold-mining and timber town, Coromandel is now a haven for artists, craftspeople and conservationists. The Driving Creek Railway is a must do, as well as enjoying the walks whilst in the area.
Day 2: Coromandel – Whitianga
Whitianga is just a 1/2 hour drive from Coromandel therefore you can spend the day exploring the tip of the Coromandel Peninsula - Colville, Port Jackson, Port Charles and Kennedy Bay. The roads to these places aren’t highly developed but worth the effort to see their untouched beauty. Whangapoua Beach, Matarangi and Kuaotuna are also worth a visit if you have time.
The beach town of Whitianga is a popular holiday spot in New Zealand. You can expect to enjoy some excellent seafood while you're here. The best things to do include surfing, surf casting and beach walks. You may also like to catch the ferry to the south side of the harbour, then a short taxi ride will take you to Cooks Beach, another popular holiday destination.
Day 3: Whitianga – Whangamata – Tauranga
The drive south gives you the opportunity to visit Hot Water Beach, where geothermally heated water bubbles up through the sand. At low tide you can even dig your own spa! The walk, which begins at Hahei takes you to the spectacular Cathedral Cove. If time permits you may also like to indulge in a round of golf at Pauanui or simply enjoy fresh fish and chips in Tairua.
Whangamata is an hour South of Whitianga. Here you will enjoy the beach, cafes and bush walks. Dive and fishing tours can be easily arranged. You can also hire bikes, windsurfers and kayaks if you’d like the freedom to explore at your leisure. Several charter companies also run day trips to Mayor Island, which is actually the summit of a volcano rising from the sea floor. You’ll pass through another gold mining town on the way to Tauranga, Waihi. The journey also takes you through the fresh green scenery of the Athenree Gorge before you come across the town of Katikati, known for its murals. Roadside stalls are common in this area due to the numerous orchards. You might like to take the opportunity to buy seasonal fruit, such as oranges, kiwifruit and avocados.
Tauranga is a prosperous city that sprawls along the edge of an attractive harbour. Here you might like to enjoy the café culture or get out on the water with a boat charter to take you big game fishing, snorkelling or dolphin watching. Nearby Mt Maunganui is also worth a visit known for it’s surfing and beach walking.
Day 3: Tauranga - Whakatane
It is just 1½ hours to Whakatane. You’ll pass through Te Puke, a town that is known for its kiwifruit industry. As you continue to drive eastward you’ll enjoy fabulous views of the surf coast nearly all the way. At Matata you can choose to take the main highway through the town of Edgecumbe, famous for its 1987 earthquake, or you can follow the scenic coastal route via Thornton and Paroa.
Whakatane is the main centre for the Eastern Bay of Plenty and is one of the sunniest towns in New Zealand. Just offshore is White Island, a spectacular active volcano that can be visited by launch or helicopter. To discover the other attractions in the Whakatane region visit Whakatane regional tourism.
Day 4: Whakatane – Opotiki – Te Araroa - Gisborne
The short trip to Opotiki takes you past Ohope, a friendly coastal town with 11 kilometres of uninterrupted beach for swimming, walking, surfing and fishing. You'll drive through gently rolling hill country with small settlements appearing regularly. The local Maori culture is strong in this region so try to keep a look out for carved meeting houses and unique churches. Opotiki is an ideal base to explore Eastland. It has a good range of accommodation, shops plus a diverse range of eco-tourism activities that make excellent use of the beautiful coastal and forest environment — horse trekking, kayaking, river rafting and dolphin swimming are some of the options available.
The East Cape is rich in Maori history and tourist activities. Have fun jetboating, kayaking or white-water rafting on the Motu River, then browse the tranquil seaside settlements of Omaio, Te Kaha, Waihau Bay and Hicks Bay. The village of Te Araroa has a 600-year-old pohutukawa tree, the largest and oldest in New Zealand. If you need to stretch your legs, there's a walkway to the East Cape lighthouse. At Tikitiki you'll see one of the most marvellously ornate Maori churches in New Zealand.
Further south is Waipiro Bay, which has three historical marae. If you need a hot soak in mineral water, Te Puia Springs is the place to go. You’ll then arrive in Gisborne, a sunny city with a reputation for good wine and fantastic surf beaches. There are more than 20 vineyards in the area providing visitors with plenty of choices.
Day 5: Gisborne – Waikaremoana (Urewera National Park) - Napier
You can choose from two routes to Napier as both bring you to the town of Wairoa, memorable for the lighthouse in its main street. The inland route gives you the chance to visit Hackfalls Arboratum, one of the largest private collections of trees in New Zealand whereas the coastal route provides access to Morere Hot Springs and the fabulous beaches of the Mahia Peninsula.
Waikaremoana is one of the North Island's most beautiful wilderness lakes, and the gateway to the Urewera National Park. You’ll enjoy the well maintained walking tracks, with the highlight being the Onepoto Caves.
As you near Napier, Waipatiki Beach and pretty Lake Tutira are attractive diversions. Napier was nearly levelled by a devastating earthquake in 1931. The city was rebuilt in the style of the times, and is now considered the Art Deco Capital of the world. Whilst in Napier you’ll also be able to enjoy the vineyards of Hawke's Bay and the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers.
Day 6: Napier - Taupo
You’ll enjoy fantastic scenery on the road from Napier to Taupo - rugged hills, beautiful valleys, gentle plains and huge vistas. At Tarawera you can walk to the hot springs, which are above the Waipunga River. You might also want to stop at the Waiarua Falls lookout, to view the twin waterfalls.
The resort town of Taupo sits on the edge of New Zealand's largest lake, which is well stocked with sizeable trout. A very popular destination throughout the year, particularly during the peak season (November to March) therefore we suggest booking accommodation so that you aren’t disappointed when you arrive. Taupo has everything a traveller could wish for, including an excellent choice of restaurants, bars, activities and scenery. You can also do day trips from here to the Tongariro National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are plenty of walks to do including the famous Tongariro Crossing, and in Winter you can enjoy some fantastic snow conditions for skiing and snowboarding. To find out what Taupo has to offer visit the Taupo Regional Tourism website.
Day 7: Taupo - Rotorua
The road to Rotorua will keep you entertained with its unusual, volcanic geography and refreshing tracts of plantation pine forest. Near the beginning of your journey you'll encounter Huka Falls (free entry to see the falls), a world-acclaimed golf course and the Wairakei Geothermal Power Station. If you have an hour or two to spare, take a side road to a geothermal park. You'll discover geysers, silica terraces and craters of boiling mud. If not carry onto Rotorua where the volcanic activity is also very evident.
Lake Rotorua, which is actually a large crater filled with water. Rotorua is entertaining in any weather, at any time of the year. Take the time to explore the geothermal areas where you will find geysers and boiling mud pools. You’ll also be able to discover the unique culture of New Zealand's Maori people in Rotorua.
Day 8: Rotorua – Waitomo Caves
Your 1½ hour journey to Waitomo Caves will take you through a mixture of farmland, lakeland and forest. At the town of Te Kuiti, which hosts New Zealand’s sheep shearing championships each year, you'll turn north towards the Waitomo Caves. Beneath the surface of this ancient limestone region is a series of vast cave systems decorated with stalactites, stalagmites and glow-worms. Some caves are open to the public and are easy to walk through, others require specialised caving equipment.
Day 9: Waitomo Caves – Hamilton - Auckland
On the way North you might like to stop off at the kiwi house in Otorohanga, a chance to meet New Zealand's national symbol – the kiwi bird. Te Awamutu is known for it’s roses, if travelling in summer stop off and visit the rose gardens. The city of Hamilton is carved in two by the mighty Waikato River which you will follow as you travel further North. Attractions include the gardens, museums, riverboat cruising and a giant free flight aviary. You’ll also find a wide variety of excellent restaurants and cafes.
When you leave Hamilton you’ll see side roads leading to Waingaro Hot Springs and Raglan, a surf resort on the west coast. If you have the time take a detour and see what these places have to offer. Other places of interest along the way include the coal town of Huntly and the wine growing district of Te Kauwhata.
Once you come across the motorway at the Bombay Hills, a great place to stop for fresh produce, you’ll know you’re close to Auckland.
North Island Escapade
In ten days you will take in the sites and
delights of the North Island from Auckland to Wellington and back
again. Along the way visit the beautiful beaches of the Coromandel
Peninsula, experience Maori culture in Rotorua, and explore art deco
culture in Napier. Taste some of New Zealand’s best wines in Hawke’s
Bay and the Wairarapa region before you reach the capital city of
Wellington. Then head north along the west coast through Taranaki,
visiting sites such as the famous Waitomo Caves.
| North Island Escapade | Point to Point
| Driving Time
| Distance
| Day 1
| Auckland to Whitianga | 2.5 Hours
| 212 Km
| Day 2
| Whitianga to Tauranga | 2.25 Hours
| 168 Km
| Day 3
| Tauranga to Rotorua | 1 Hour
| 82 Km
| Day 4
| Rotorua to Gisborne | 3.5 Hours
| 287 Km
| Day 5
| Gisborne to Napier | 2.75 Hours
| 213 Km
| Day 6
| Napier to Wellington | 4.75 Hours
| 334 Km
| Day 7
| Wellington to Wanganui | 2.5 Hours
| 188 Km
| Day 8
| Wanganui to New Plymouth | 2 Hours
| 166 Km
| Day 9
| New Plymouth to Waitomo Caves | 2.25 Hours
| 181 Km
| Day 10
| Waitomo Caves to Auckland | 2.5 Hours
| 198 Km
| Total Time & Distance
|
| 26 Hours
| 2029 Km
|
Day 1: Auckland – Thames – Coromandel - Whitianga
Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, is a place you can enjoy marine adventures, wine trails, forest walks and urban sophistication. The city has so much to over any type of traveller. Yourway rental car suggests visiting the Auckland Tourism website to help you plan your time in Auckland.
From Auckland you can choose two routes to Thames. The fastest route takes you along the Southern Motorway and over the Bombay Hills, then across the green Hauraki Plains to Waitakaruru. The slower more scenic route, that Yourway recommends if you have the time, winds through farmland to the village of Clevedon before leading you around the edge of the Firth of Thames. Kawakawa Bay, Orere Point and Kaiaua are beachside settlements to visit.
Either route enables you to visit the Miranda Hot Springs and bird sanctuary, as well as the one lane Kopu Bridge, which was built in 1928 and has a Historic Places Trust listing.
The historic township of Thames was founded during the Coromandel gold rush. Whilst here you may like to visit the mining museum that has a fascinating mineralogical collection. There are also gold mining relics to discover on many of the bush walks. You can also take the boardwalk through the mangroves to watch seabirds in the Firth of Thames.
You’ll enjoy stunning views on the road to Coromandel as it follows the edge of the coast. Formerly a gold-mining and timber town, Coromandel is now a haven for artists, craftspeople and conservationists. The Driving Creek Railway is a must do, as well as enjoying the various walks in the area.
Whitianga is just a 1/2 hour drive from Coromandel therefore you can spend the day exploring the tip of the Coromandel Peninsula - Colville, Port Jackson, Port Charles and Kennedy Bay. The roads to these places aren’t highly developed but worth the effort to see their untouched beauty. Whangapoua Beach, Matarangi and Kuaotuna are also worth a visit if you have time.
The beach town of Whitianga is a popular holiday spot in New Zealand. You can expect to enjoy some excellent seafood while you're here. The best things to do include surfing, surf casting and beach walks. You may also like to catch the ferry to the south side of the harbour, then a short taxi ride will take you to Cooks Beach, another popular holiday destination.
Day 2: Whitianga – Whangamata – Tauranga
The drive south gives you the opportunity to visit Hot Water Beach, where geothermally heated water bubbles up through the sand. At low tide you can even dig your own spa! The walk, which begins at Hahei takes you to the spectacular Cathedral Cove. If time permits you may also like to indulge in a round of golf at Pauanui or simply enjoy fresh fish and chips in Tairua.
Whangamata is an hour South of Whitianga. Here you will enjoy the beach, cafes and bush walks. Dive and fishing tours can be easily arranged. You can also hire bikes, windsurfers and kayaks if you’d like the freedom to explore at your leisure. Several charter companies also run day trips to Mayor Island, which is actually the summit of a volcano rising from the sea floor. You’ll pass through another gold mining town on the way to Tauranga, Waihi. The journey also takes you through the fresh green scenery of the Athenree Gorge before you come across the town of Katikati, known for its murals. Roadside stalls are common in this area due to the numerous orchards. You might like to take the opportunity to buy seasonal fruit, such as oranges, kiwifruit and avocados.
Tauranga is a prosperous city that sprawls along the edge of an attractive harbour. Here you might like to enjoy the café culture or get out on the water with a boat charter to take you big game fishing, snorkelling or dolphin watching. Nearby Mt Maunganui is also worth a visit known for it’s surfing and beach walking.
Day 3: Tauranga – Rotorua
You’ll pass through Te Puke, a town that is known for its kiwifruit industry and may also like to purchase some honey products from Paengaroa. Rotorua sits squarely on the Pacific Ring of Fire, so volcanic activity is part of the city's past and present. Lake Rotorua, which is actually a large crater filled with water. Rotorua is entertaining in any weather, at any time of the year. Take the time to explore the geothermal areas where you will find geysers and boiling mud pools. You’ll also be able to discover the unique culture of New Zealand's Maori people in Rotorua.
Day 4: Rotorua – Whakatane – Opotiki - Gisborne
Your drive to Whakatane will take in some beautiful lakes including Lake Rotoiti, Lake Rotoehu, followed by Lake Rotoma. You’ll then discover Awakeri Hot Springs, which has indoor spas filled with natural, unfiltered mineral water. Whakatane is the main centre for the Eastern Bay of Plenty and is one of the sunniest towns in New Zealand. Just offshore is White Island, a spectacular active volcano that can be visited by launch or helicopter. To discover the other attractions in the Whakatane region visit Whakatane regional tourism.
The short trip to Opotiki takes you past Ohope, a friendly coastal town with 11 kilometres of uninterrupted beach for swimming, walking, surfing and fishing. You'll drive through gently rolling hill country with small settlements appearing regularly. The local Maori culture is strong in this region so try to keep a look out for carved meeting houses and unique churches. Opotiki is an ideal base to explore Eastland. It has a good range of accommodation, shops plus a diverse range of eco-tourism activities that make excellent use of the beautiful coastal and forest environment—horse trekking, kayaking, river rafting and dolphin swimming are some of the options available.
The East Cape is rich in Maori history and tourist activities. Have fun jetboating, kayaking or white-water rafting on the Motu River, then browse the tranquil seaside settlements of Omaio, Te Kaha, Waihau Bay and Hicks Bay. The village of Te Araroa has a 600-year-old pohutukawa tree, the largest and oldest in New Zealand. If you need to stretch your legs, there's a walkway to the East Cape lighthouse. At Tikitiki you'll see one of the most marvellously ornate Maori churches in New Zealand.
Further south is Waipiro Bay, which has three historical marae. If you need a hot soak in mineral water, Te Puia Springs is the place to go. You’ll then arrive in Gisborne, a sunny city with a reputation for good wine and fantastic surf beaches. There are more than 20 vineyards in the area providing visitors with plenty of choices.
Day 5: Gisborne - Napier
You can choose from two routes to Napier as both bring you to the town of Wairoa, memorable for the lighthouse in its main street. The inland route gives you the chance to visit Hackfalls Arboratum, one of the largest private collections of trees in New Zealand whereas the coastal route provides access to Morere Hot Springs and the fabulous beaches of the Mahia Peninsula.
As you near Napier, Waipatiki Beach and pretty Lake Tutira are attractive diversions. Napier was nearly levelled by a devastating earthquake in 1931. The city was rebuilt in the style of the times, and is now considered the Art Deco Capital of the world. Whilst in Napier you’ll also be able to enjoy the vineyards of Hawke's Bay and the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers.
Day 6: Napier – Hastings – Masterton - Wellington
Hastings is just 20 kilometres south of Napier. This town was also devastated by the 1931 earthquake therefore has plenty of Art Deco and Spanish Mission-style architecture to see. You’ll then drive south through Waipukurau and Waipawa—both with historic buildings to visit. Next is Dannevirke, a town originally settled by Scandinavians. You’ll be able to inspect the locally made knitwear here. Woodville is a place for antique browsing.
The Tararua Windfarm, which makes electricity out of thin air, is not far from here. To see it simply follow the road to Ballance. Before you reach Masterton, you'll come across Eketahuna (in kiwi slang Eketahuna is the archetypal hick town). The wildlife sanctuary at Mt Bruce is an essential stop.
Whilst in Masterton you may like to visit the aviary, aquarium, deer park and a small boating lake in the town’s main park, or you could rediscover your childhood at the local toy museum. As you continue south through the green scenery of the Wairarapa, you’ll drive through Carterton, a good place to shop for paua shell souvenirs, Greytown that has many beautiful examples of Victorian architecture and a quaint museum, and an interesting locomotive museum after Featherston. Once you drive over the Rimutaka Range you’ll enjoy great views in every direction. From here the rest of your journey is an easy drive.
Wellington is compact city full of culture and character. Nestled between the harbour and the hills, the downtown area is ideal for explorations on foot. Enjoy cafes, restaurants, museums and all kinds of shops. Dance, theatre and musical performances are a Wellington specialty.
Day 7: Wellington - Wanganui
You will follow the Kapiti Coast route to Wanganui. Offshore from Waikanae is Kapiti Island, a nature reserve for close encounters with rare birds. A car museum and gourmet cheese factory are other local attractions. Further north is Levin, which has a thriving clothing industry and many factory shops. Two beautiful dune lakes are an easy detour from here if you have time. In Foxton you can spy on wading birds in the estuary and the town of Bulls is known for its antique shops.
Wanganui has a long history. Take time to explore the restored heritage areas then perhaps explore the river with one of the various expeditions on offer. You can also take the tunnel and elevator to the top of Durie Hill.
Day 8: Wanganui – New Plymouth
You’ll come across some interesting townships on your drive. Keep an eye out for small museums and quirky art shops. The rural centre of Hawera is home to New Zealand's largest milk factory and an interactive dairy farming attraction. At Hawera you have two routes to choose from. You can follow the ‘Surf Highway’ around Cape Egmont and have a beach view all the way or take the inland route via Stratford and enjoy the green serenity of farmland. Either way, the dramatic volcanic cone of Mt Taranaki will dominate the landscape for much of your journey. The forested lower slopes of the mountain are laced with walking tracks therefore feel free to explore on foot if time permits.
New Plymouth is known for its beautiful parks and gardens. The city has a strong arts focus therefore check out the current exhibitions when you are there. Otherwise you can wander through the national park that surrounds Mt Taranaki and enjoy the spectacular waterfalls and walkways.
Day 9: New Plymouth – Waitomo Caves
You will enjoy a number of seaside villages on your drive. Whitecliffs Walkway is signposted – stop off for a walk if you have time. You’ll also enjoy the wild beauty of the Tasman Sea at Mokau or Awakino before you head eastward through a mixture of farmland, forest and rugged mountain country. At the town of Te Kuiti, which hosts New Zealand’s sheep shearing championships each year, you'll turn north towards the Waitomo Caves. Beneath the surface of this ancient limestone region is a series of vast cave systems decorated with stalactites, stalagmites and glow-worms. Some caves open to the public, and are easy to walk through, others require specialised caving equipment.
Day 10: Waitomo Caves – Hamilton - Auckland
On the way North you might like to stop off at the kiwi house in Otorohanga, a chance to meet New Zealand's national symbol – the kiwi bird. Te Awamutu is known for it’s roses, if travelling in summer stop off and visit the rose gardens.
The city of Hamilton is carved in two by the mighty Waikato River which you will follow as you travel further North. Attractions include the gardens, museums, riverboat cruising and a giant free flight aviary. You’ll also find a wide variety of excellent restaurants and cafes. When you leave Hamilton you’ll see side roads leading to Waingaro Hot Springs and Raglan, a surf resort on the west coast. If you have the time take a detour and see what these places have to offer. Other places of interest along the way include the coal town of Huntly and the wine growing district of Te Kauwhata.
Once you come across the motorway at the Bombay Hills, a great place to stop for fresh produce, you’ll know you’re close to Auckland.
Tip of the South
Starting and finishing in the ‘Garden City’ of
Christchurch, this tour provides a pleasurable mix of indulgence and
challenge. Hot soaks and spa therapies at Hanmer Springs prepare you
for possible adventurous activities such as river rafting, kayaking and
mountain biking. Then relax and enjoy award-winning food and wine in
the picturesque Marlborough countryside. See if you can spot some
whales at Kaikoura before returning to Christchurch.
| Tip of the South | Point to Point
| Driving Time
| Distance
| Day 1
| Christchurch to Hanmer Springs | 1.75 Hours
| 135 Km
| Day 2
| Hanmer Springs to Murchison | 3 Hours
| 229 Km
| Day 3
| Murchison to Blenheim | 1.25 Hours
| 102 Km
| Day 4
| Blenheim to Kaikoura | 1.75 Hours
| 129 Km
| Day 5
| Kaikoura to Christchurch | 2.25 Hours
| 184 Km
| Total Time & Distance
|
| 10 Hours
| 779 Km
|
Day 1: Christchurch – Hanmer Springs
Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island and is a mixture of refined lifestyle and cultural excitement. Visit heritage sites, museums and art galleries, and enjoy the highly developed restaurant scene.
The trip north takes you past a number of beaches including Woodend, Waikuku, Leithfield and Amberley. Waipara is known for its vineyards and olive groves – an excellent place to pause for refreshment. The road continues through farm land and gentle hill country. The last part of your journey follows the beautiful Waiau River.
Hanmer Springs is a destination for relaxation and indulgence. You can choose to soak in the hot springs, treat yourself to a range of spa therapies or enjoy the numerous outdoor activities that are also a Hanmer specialty. Forest walks, horse trekking, trout fishing, jet boating, bungy jumping and golf are some of the options available.
Day 2: Hanmer Springs – Murchison
Lewis Pass takes you through beech forest to Maruia Springs, where you can enjoy a hot soak. At Springs Junction you'll turn onto State Highway 65 – a beautiful section of road that leads you through the enchanting Maruia Forest, which has New Zealand's largest natural population of Kakariki (a native parakeet). At Murchison you can find out about the massive earthquake that shook the region in 1929.
The alpine village of St Arnaud sits on the edge of Lake Rotoiti against a stunning backdrop of mountains. It's the perfect base for exploring the Nelson Lakes National Park, which has many magnificent hiking trails. Local adventure operators offer you a choice of kayaking, river rafting, mountain biking, horse trekking and 4WD motorbiking.
Day 3: Murchison - Blenheim
For most of your journey to Blenheim, you'll follow the Wairau River. Spread a picnic rug by the river bank or flick a rod and try for a trout. From the Wairau River Valley, walking tracks lead into the Mount Richmond Forest Park.
When you reach Renwick, which is surrounded by vineyards, it will be clear that you've arrived in wine country. Blenheim is the heart of wine-growing Marlborough and you'll find a pleasing selection of cafes, restaurants, pubs, shops and golf courses. Character accommodation is another Blenheim delight – everything from homestays to boutique hotels. There are more than 20 wineries within driving distance of the town.
Day 4: Blenheim - Kaikoura
State Highway 1 takes you through the coastal foothills, and then out into the picturesque Awatere Valley. In the township of Seddon you’ll find authentic New Zealand crafts. The Lake Grassmere saltworks is an interesting stop - the ponds turn coral pink in late summer. After the small town of Ward, the road turns toward the awesome beauty of the Pacific Coast. Just north of the Ure River is a road that leads to the walking trails of the Sawcut Gorge.
Kaikoura is a base for wildlife experiences of all kinds – it’s also a great place to eat crayfish. A whale watch tour can take you to see Minke, Humpback and Southern Right whales mixing it with dolphins and orcas. You can also walk to see fur seal colonies and spy on big seabirds such as mollymawks, albatross and petrels.
Day 5: Kaikoura - Christchurch
The trip south takes you along the edge of the rugged coastal ranges. From Cheviot you can detour to Gore Bay to see the fascinating cliff formations. The landscape becomes more gentle as you approach Waipara. The last leg of your journey takes you past the surf beaches you passed at the beginning of your journey.
|