Auckland 5-Day Trip Itinerary

Wellington Arrival & Car Pickup

Arrive in Wellington (flight not included in this itinerary, assumed prior arrangement), collect your pre-booked rental car at the airport, and make your way into the city center to begin your adventure.

Ensure your rental car is booked in advance, especially for the peak January season. Familiarize yourself with New Zealand road rules.

Te Papa Museum Visit

Explore Te Papa, New Zealand's innovative national museum, offering engaging exhibits on Māori culture, natural history, and art.

General admission is free, but special exhibitions may have a charge. Allow ample time to explore.

Waterfront Lunch

Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants along Wellington's vibrant waterfront, offering diverse culinary options.

Cable Car & Botanic Garden

Ride the iconic bright red Wellington Cable Car from Lambton Quay to the top for panoramic city and harbour views, then explore the beautiful Wellington Botanic Garden at your leisure.

Consider walking back down through the gardens for a different perspective.

Dinner in Courtenay Place

Experience Wellington's vibrant nightlife and dining scene with dinner in Courtenay Place, known for its wide array of restaurants and bars.

Drive to Taupō

Embark on a scenic road trip north from Wellington, passing through the beautiful landscapes of the central North Island towards Taupō.

Lunch in Taupō

Arrive in Taupō and enjoy a casual lunch with views overlooking Lake Taupō, the largest lake in New Zealand.

Huka Falls Spectacle

Witness the sheer power of Huka Falls, where the Waikato River narrows and cascades over a series of ledges into a churning pool below.

Enjoy short walks and viewpoints.

Free entry. There are several viewing platforms to enjoy the falls.

Lake Taupō Shoreline Stroll

Take a leisurely walk or relax by the shores of Lake Taupō, a stunning freshwater lake formed in the caldera of a supervolcano.

Consider a boat cruise or kayaking if you have extra time and interest.

Dinner in Taupō

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at one of Taupō's restaurants, many offering fresh local produce and lake views.

Drive to Rotorua

A short drive from Taupō brings you to Rotorua, known for its unique geothermal activity and rich Māori culture.

Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland

Witness the surreal and vibrant geothermal landscapes of Waiotapu.

Explore bubbling mud pools, steaming ground, and the famous Champagne Pool.

Don't miss the Lady Knox Geyser eruption at 10:15 AM daily. It's best to arrive before 10:00 AM. Book tickets online in advance to save time. This is a popular site featured in tours like Viator product 458977P8.

Rotorua Lunch

Enjoy lunch in Rotorua, perhaps at a cafe near the central lakefront or government gardens.

Polynesian Spa Relaxation

Relax and rejuvenate at the world-renowned Polynesian Spa, offering a range of therapeutic mineral pools with stunning lake views.

This is a highly recommended experience, also featured in tours like Viator product 458977P8.

Various pool options are available; book your preferred experience in advance, especially for a Saturday.

Māori Hāngi & Cultural Show

Immerse yourself in authentic Māori culture with a traditional Hāngi (earth oven) dinner, followed by a captivating cultural performance showcasing songs, dances, and legends.

This is a highly recommended and popular experience; advance booking is essential to secure your spot. Viator product 458977P14 is a similar experience offered from Auckland.

Drive to Waitomo

Begin your day with a scenic drive from the Rotorua/Taupō region to the Waitomo Caves area, approximately 2 hours.

Waitomo & Kiwi House Tour

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with a tour of the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves and the Otorohanga Kiwi House. Marvel at intricate limestone formations and the magical glowworms. See native New Zealand birds, including the kiwi.

Book your tour in advance to secure your spot. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for cool, damp cave environments.

Lunch in Waitomo

Enjoy a casual lunch at a local cafe or restaurant in the Waitomo area before continuing your journey.

Several options are available near the caves for quick and easy meals.

Drive to Auckland

Continue your road trip north to Auckland, New Zealand's largest city.

The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours.

Hotel Check-in & Relax

Check into your accommodation in Auckland.

Settle in and take some time to relax after your day of travel and exploration.

M Social Auckland is located on Princes Wharf, offering great harbor views and proximity to dining.

Dinner at Viaduct Harbour

Enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the many restaurants located in Auckland's bustling Viaduct Harbour, offering a wide range of cuisines and waterfront dining experiences.

This area is known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse culinary options, from casual to fine dining.

Full-Day Auckland Discovery

Embark on an exciting tour to discover Auckland's hottest and most stunning spots.

Experience breathtaking scenery, ancient volcanic craters, and panoramic city views, including parks and beaches.

This guided tour offers a comprehensive overview of Auckland's key attractions. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera.

Sky Tower Observation Deck

Visit Auckland's iconic Sky Tower for unparalleled 360-degree views of the city, harbour, and beyond.

See up to 80 kilometres in every direction.

Tickets can be purchased on arrival or online. Consider visiting the 'Sky Cafe' for a coffee with a view.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in Auckland, perhaps revisiting a favourite spot or trying a new cuisine to mark the end of your New Zealand adventure.

Private Airport Transfer

Arrange for a private transfer from your accommodation in Auckland City to Auckland Airport for your departure.

This private service ensures a comfortable and timely journey to the airport.

Departure Flight to Wellington

Take your flight from Auckland International Airport (AKL) back to Wellington International Airport (WLG), concluding your North Island road trip.