The Ultimate New Zealand North Island Itinerary
Welcome to the Ultimate New Zealand North Island Itinerary! Buckle up and get ready to dive into a whirlwind of epic landscapes, cultural treasures, and adrenaline-pumping activities that will leave you breathless (in the best possible way, of course!). So grab your sense of adventure, pack your camera, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime on this epic journey through the heart of New Zealand's North Island!
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Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Table of Contents
North Island at a Glance:
Arrive: Auckland Airport
Depart: Auckland Airport
Days: 13 days minimum to do it all. A lot of driving is involved! Click here for a shorter itinerary that still hits some of the North Island’s most epic stops.
Towns you’ll experience: Waiheke, Bay of Islands, Cape Rienga, Piha, Raglan, New Plymouth, Wellington, Rotorua, Coromandel Peninsula
National Parks you’ll experience: Tongariro National Park, Egmont National Park
Best time to go: November through April
Official languages: Māori, English, sign language
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Map
Who is this itinerary for?
If you’re someone who enjoys the outdoors and wants to see a solid sampling of some of North Island’s most epic landscapes, adventures, and experiences on a longer trip (10 days minimum), sometimes with a hike or boat involved, then this North Island road trip itinerary is for you! The longest hike is 13 miles.
Remember, You’re on Maori land!
The first known human to set foot on New Zealand was a man named Kupe who sailed across the Pacific using currents and stars to guide his way nearly 2000 years ago, according to Māori oral history. Then came the colonizers. Captain Cook arrived in 1789, shooting Māori people on the spot. In 1840, the British tricked the Māori people into signing the treaty of Waitangi. The principles were unclear and many Māori chiefs signed being uncertain, others refused, and many didn’t have the chance to sign. Once signed by a few, the British claimed the agreement applied even to the chiefs who didn’t sign it. By signing, Māori cede the sovereignty of New Zealand to Britain; Māori give the Crown an exclusive right to buy lands they wish to sell, and, in return, are guaranteed full rights of ownership of their lands, forests, fisheries and other possessions; and Māori are given the rights and privileges of British subjects.
New Plymouth
The New Zealand Wars broke out between 1845 and 1872 over land disputes and eventually a misunderstanding that Māori were joining forces and refusing to acknowledge the Crown. 18,000 British army troops supported by artillery, cavalry and local militia, battled about 4,000 Māori warriors. Talk about an unfair advantage. The Māori held their ground for a while, but no one could win a battle that type of power imbalance. 1,800 Māori lives and 800 European lives were lost.
Giant Sand Dunes
Protests began in the 1960’s in an effort to regain the land and culture europeans stripped from them. In 1975 Dame Whina Cooper led Māori from all over the country on a walk from Te Hāpua to the nation’s capital, Wellington, which is the entirety of the North Island, over ongoing land alienation.
The Waitangi Tribunal was established in 1975, designed to address perceived breaches of the Treaty of Waitangi, which provided a forum for the expression of Māori protest and anger over the impact of Euruopean colonization. It greatly helped return to some assets to tribes.
Mt. Ngurahoe
The Māori people have fought long and hard for influence in government, the right to their stolen land, and the resources to keep their culture alive. There’s still a long way to go, and the community still suffers from the affects of oppression.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Know Before You Go
Entry Requirements:
USA citizens need to fill out an NZeTA application a few days prior to leaving. This allows you to spend up to 90 days in New Zealand, and the airport staff will need to enter the NZeTA number and expiration date into their system at check-in.
Learn from my mistakes and do NOT do this last minute. My partner’s was approved in a matter of minutes, but mine took 3 days. They say it can take longer too. Save yourself an anxiety attack and do it ahead of time. Go through the app for a better user experience (and a potentially faster approval period).
They also require you to have a return flight. They didn’t ask us for proof, but it could happen.
Three Sisters
Wall Outlets:
New Zealand uses a Type 1 plug (same as Australia and other Pacific Islands). Snag one before you go!
Currency/Credit Cards:
The currency is the New Zealand Dollar, but most established places accept credit cards, also referred to as EFTPOS. There are surcharges for credit card transactions. Pro tip: Insert your chip into the machine to yield a smaller surcharge than tapping it. Don’t ask me why!
Mt. Taranaki
SIM Cards:
I highly recommend purchasing a SIM while you’re traveling–there are a ton of decent options (both e-SIM and SIM cards) depending on the length of your stay. The most popular companies are:
Since I was traveling for 2.5 months, I went with Spark’s 90-day plan. I paid a one-time fee for unlimited data, calling, and texting with a New Zealand phone number.
Pro tip: Set up a WhatsApp account with your current phone number before leaving so you can still text friends and relatives and login to your online accounts when you need to be texted a two-factor authentication code.
35mm film. Three Sisters.
Film Photographer?
Bring all your film with you, especially if you’re a Portra lover like me! Film is very expensive in New Zealand and pretty hard to find. Ultramax is pretty common, but Portra is nearly impossible to find. Photo Warehouse and Splendid Photo do have a small selection of film (mostly Ultramax), but Portra 400 was nowhere to be found. because they partner with a US company to get it, but man, is it expensive! Avoid the headache and hole in your pocket and bring your own (but don’t forget to hand-check it!).
I also recommend waiting until you’re back home to develop your film with your trusted developer. Don’t make my mistake.
35mm Film.
Car Rentals:
You’ll need some sort of your own transportation to make the most of your trip. Trust me. Having that flexibility (especially if you’re into photography and want to catch a few sunrises or sunsets), a car or van is key. And many of the most beautiful views and stops aren’t a destination, but rather just roadside bangers.
We booked with Discount Car Rentals Queenstown a month ahead of time and found that was a good time to find deals! EZ Rentals, and Go Rentals are two other great New Zealand car rental companies. You can search for the best deals on TripAdvisor here! Prices skyrocketed anywhere once we were a month out from our trip, so I’d recommend reserving as soon as possible.
Van Rentals:
Van-lifeing it is a BIG thing in New Zealand and is easily the best way to see as much of this beautiful country as possible. New Zealand is extremely camper friendly, and even has a bunch of advertised free camping sites as long as your vehicle is self-contained, which is a certification used to show that a campervan can contain water waste for up to three days. They just want to make sure you’re not hurting the environment is all!
I went with Big Little Campers, but here are a few more I saw throughout my New Zealand adventure:
Helpful apps to find free and paid camping:
What to Pack for New Zealand: Summer-Fall
Raincoat. I wore my REI XeroDry raincoat.
Puffy or warm mid-layer. I love my Stio puffy! While it’s warm in the sun, the shade feels about 10 degrees colder. I wore my puffy almost every day at some point!
Beanie or a warm hat. Especially if you’re hiking in the dark.
Baseball cap. The sun is no joke. Protect yourself. Which brings me to my next item.
Leggings. Glyders are my favorite!
Base layer long-sleeve shirt: I wore The North Face Summit Series Pro on the chillier days!
Jeans
Hiking sports bras/tops: My Girlfriend Collective white sports bra is my favorite thing to hike in!
Everyday tanks/tees for in towns.
Everyday long-sleeves for in towns.
Quality socks. Your boots are sometimes only as good as your socks. I’d recommend merino wool hiking socks.
Quality hiking boots or shoes. Preferably ones you’ve broken in already. Do your soles a favor and bring along good boots! I wore my Danners, per usual.
Blundstones. I found myself wearing these on chillier/rainy days when I didn’t want to wear my hiking boots.
Slip-on shoes. On warmer days (when I wasn’t hiking) I loved freeing the toes with my Birkenstocks.
Water bladder. I love the easy of drinking through a hose so I don’t have to stop on the trail to pull out a water botle. I love my Osprey!
Camera. I brought along my Sony a7r III, Sony 24-70 GM II lens, and my Tamron 70-300mm lens, as well asmy Canon 38m II point-and-shoot film camera and my Canon AE-1 film camera with a 24mm lens.
Headlamp. If you’re doing any sunrise or sunset sends, this’ll come in handy! I bring along my Black Diamond Spot 400.
Sunscreen. Self explanatory. I love my Kinfield!
Lightweight microfiber towel. If you’re van-lifeing it or staying at hostels, or even just going to be spending some time by the water, it’s nice to have a lightweight, packable, quick-drying towel. I love my Nomadix Ultralight towel!
Travel Backpack. I like to pack carry-on only, so I always have a backpacking backpack on my back, and my camera backpack on my front, which is what I use as a day pack on the trail! I had my Shimoda X30 camera backpack that fit everything nicely.
Waiheke Island
1: Waiheke Island
Fly into Auckland and soothe your jet lag with a slow start on the beautiful island of Waiheke. It’s just a short 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland and is packed with cute shops, cafes, restaurants, and quality wineries. Book a wine tour, relax at one of the island’s beaches, and re-energize for the epic New Zealand adventure that lies ahead!
Waiheke Island
The bus system here is great and affordable–just pick up an AT HOP card from Waiheke Island’s ferry terminal at the tourism desk before you leave!
Pro tip: Say thank you to your kind bus driver as you hop off. It’s customary!
Te Motu Winery
MY Favorite Wineries:
Te Motu: Easily my favorite vibe of any of the wineries we visited on Waiheke Island! Dine in a garden setting in the vineyards. I’d recommend reserving your spot ahead of time to ensure you get to enjoy this beaut of a place!
Stonyridge Vineyard: Cottage core vibes at its finest, Stonyridge has a vine-covered event space and outdoor seating in the vines! It’s beautiful here.
The Best Waiheke Island Beaches:
Fossil Bay Lodge Glamping Tent
Where to Stay on Waiheke Island:
Waiheke Backpackers Hostel: The views up here are INSANE! But if you take the bus, get ready for a steep walk up too many stairs. It was rough.
Fossil Bay Lodge: On Waiheke's Fossil Bay Lodge, enjoy serene nature views, cozy lodging, local cuisine, and warm hospitality. Perfect for relaxation and exploration of vineyards, beaches, and peaceful grounds.
35mm film. Bay of Islands.
2: Bay of Islands: Russell
Next up: the legendary Bay of Islands. Many of these islands are accessible only by boat. We only had one day here, so we decided to leisurely enjoy the adorable town of Russell, do a little shopping, a little cafe exploring, and end our day with a sunset walk for a sweet view over the Bay. It’s a one-street town, which makes it really easy to do in a day!
Pro tip: If you have a car and you’re following this itinerary driving north from Waiheke Island, I’d recommend taking the coastal route and stopping by Whangarei Falls and the Taupiri Bay Scenic Lookout. They’re both gems! This stretch is about a 6-hour drive, so buckle up, grab a latte, and queue up an audio book and enjoy the journey!
Tapeka Point Track
Things to do in Russell:
Have a bay-side beverage with homemade foccacia at The Gables.
Shop local art at the South Sea Art.
Snag a tasty latte at the Hell Hole (I promise you, it’s anything but hellish).
Drive up the Flagstaff Hill Historic Reserve for a panoramic view over Russell and the Bay.
Hike the Tapeka Point Track for sunset. This was easily my favorite Russell activity.
Where to Stay in Russell:
We parked our van and car camped at the Russell Top 10 Holiday Park and it was great! Plenty of amenities (including laundry, large bathroom facilities, a large kitchen with a few public refridgerators, plenty of cooktops, counterspace, and sinks, and just a short walk from town!
Giant Sand Dunes
3: Cape Rienga + Giant Sand Dunes
Make the long drive to the northernmost tip of New Zealand to see where the Pacific meets the Tasman Sea. There’s an adorable lighthouse and an epic viewing platform where you can watch the currents rip from far below.
Cape Rienga
Cape Rienga Lighthouse
There are a few trails if you want to check out the wild, sandy beach, or even walk all the way to the dunes on the far west end.
Giant Sand Dunes
Then, drive back down to the Giant Sand Dunes–it’s so crazy to see how those massive dunes jut right up to the Sea. My heart was so full. And my mouth full of sand, but it was worth every single little grain that I found days later, ha!
Ahipara
We decided to drive down to Ahipara to spend the night at the cutest Endless Summer Lodge–it was an old victorian-style house, and a beautiful one at that! Just steps from the ocean, you can rent a surfboard right there and paddle out to surf the break made famous by the 1960s movie The Endless Summer.
35mm film. Endless Summer Lodge.
This spot has one of the longest rides on the island, and is arguably one of the best breaks in the whole country. There’s a little something for everyone here, but I loved it for its soft, slow, easy waves.
Piha
4: Piha
Welcome to stop number 2 on the epic beaches and surf tour–the North Island has surf breaks for days, thanks to the country’s endless coastline (and North Island’s slightly warm-ish climate makes it a little more enjoyable than on the South Island).
Piha
In an effort to avoid the big city (Auckland), we decided to check out another surf spot just 40 minutes outside of Auckland: Piha. You’ll find surfers at its large, sandy beach at all hours of the day–for the land dwellers, there’s plenty of space to spread out. Walk to the south end to see a cool, natural lagoon and a wave-carved archway in the rock and pick up some Real Fruit Ice Cream at the stand on the northern end–we were addicted to the stuff. SO dang good. Try the banana. Trust me.
Overnight: Camping at the Piha Domain Motor Camp (just steps from the beach!)
Raglan
5: Raglan
Our last surf stop in the New Zealand North Island intinerary: Raglan. This surf town is tiny, cute, and full of travelers from all over the world hoping to paddle out to surf Raglan’s legendary, long and consistent breaks. It’s also known for its relaxed vibe. But this town offers more than just epic surf breaks; visitors can explore the vibrant arts scene, enjoy delicious eats at cozy cafes, and hike through stunning landscapes with lush greenery.
With its welcoming locals and breathtaking sunsets over the Tasman Sea, Raglan is the ultimate destination for those looking to unwind and embrace the laid-back Kiwi lifestyle. Don’t miss open mic night at The Yard.
Where to surf:
Ngarunui Beach
Manu Bay
Whale Bay
35mm film. Bridal Veil Falls.
Hikes near Raglan:
Bridal Veil Falls: This 180-foot waterfall is a short drive from Raglan, but well worth the effort. Lace up your hiking boots and set off on the 0.9-mile trail. A short walk through lush forest and fern trees leads you to the top of the falls. Take it in and then decide if you’d like to descend the 180’ to the base. I think it’s worth it!
Where to catch sunset:
Te Toto Gorge Lookout offers a breathtaking panoramic view of rugged cliffs, lush native bush, and the wild Tasman Sea. It’s the perfect spot to catch sunset, and a stunning drive to get there too!
Overnight: We loved this hostel. You get to stay in old train cars, and the view was absolutely insane!
35mm film. New Plymouth.
6: New Plymouth + Egmont National Park
With its laid-back vibe, stunning natural beauty, and endless array of outdoor activities, New Plymouth is a playground for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike. Picture-perfect Mount Taranaki looms majestically in the background, offering hiking trails and epic views, and below black sand beaches offer plenty of quality surf. This is also the beginning of New Zealand’s surf highway! But that’s not all, New Plymouth is also home to a vibrant arts scene, with funky galleries, street art, and the renowned Len Lye Centre showcasing the works of one of New Zealand's most innovative artists.
New Plymouth.
Located in New Zealand's North Island, Egmont National Park is a Nature lover's paradise. Home to the iconic Mount Taranaki, this vibrant park offers a mix of lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and rugged landscapes waiting to be explored. From leisurely walks through the enchanting Goblin Forest to challenging hikes up the majestic volcano, there's something here for every adventurer. Don't forget your camera to capture stunning vistas and unique flora and fauna along the way. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or simply seeking serenity in nature, Egmont National Park is a must-visit destination for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Mt. Taranaki.
Hikes in Egmont National Park:
Pouakai Tarns: Do not miss this hike! It’s 7.7 miles round trip on a trail that’s almost entirely boardwalk. The trail meanders through moss-covered forests, across streams, and eventually unveils breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. As you ascend, the tranquility of the tarns beckons, reflecting the snow-capped peaks and ever-changing skies. The journey demands endurance but rewards with a sense of peace and wonder that only nature's pristine beauty can provide. If you plan ahead, you can reserve a night in the mountain hut, just a short jaunt from the tarns!
35mm film. Mt. Taranki.
Best time to go: Sunrise, September through April
Wilkies Pools
Wilkies Pools: Hidden deep within the lush forest, Wilkies Pools await those who seek a refreshing adventure off the beaten path. These crystal-clear natural pools, nestled among ancient trees and vibrant flora, offer a tropical oasis for intrepid travelers to discover. Relaxing in the cool, turquoise waters is such an awesome way to cool off on a hot day! It’s only 1.6 miles round trip.
Best time to go: September through February (the pools dry up near the end of summer!).
Three Sisters
Three Sisters and Elephant Rock
Best time to go: Sunset and low tide.
Three Sisters is a natural rock formation on the coast of Taranaki in New Zealand. These iconic rock formations stand tall against the wild Tasman Sea, creating a scene straight out of a fantasy novel. There’s even one that looks like an elephant head! On a clear day, you may even get to sneak a peek at Mt. Taranaki in the distance.
Shot on 35mm film.
Three Sisters
To make the most of your visit, here's a pro tip: keep an eye on the tides! These beauties are best admired during low tide, when you can stroll along the beach and marvel at their towering presence up close. So, before you head out, check the tide times to plan your visit accordingly.
Overnight: We stayed at this tiny home in New Plymouth!
7. Wellington
Wellington, the vibrant capital of New Zealand, packs a punch of personality into its compact size. Known as the "coolest little capital in the world," it's a city where creativity thrives, coffee is practically a religion, and the wind sometimes decides to have a mind of its own (locals affectionately call it the "Windy Welly"). But don't let that deter you, because Wellington has so much to offer!
Dive into its bustling food scene, where you can indulge in everything from gourmet burgers to innovative vegan cuisine. We had the best Indian food at Jugnu’s! Explore the waterfront along the stunning Oriental Bay, where you can stroll, cycle, or simply soak up the sun with an ice cream in hand (YES, PLEASE).
For culture buffs, Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum, is an absolute must-visit, with its fascinating exhibitions showcasing New Zealand's history, art, and natural wonders. Whether you're catching a flick at the iconic Embassy Theatre, sampling craft beers at local breweries, or getting lost in the eclectic streets of Cuba Quarter (this street is poppin’ day and night!), Wellington is a city that's sure to steal your heart faster than you can say "Kia ora!"
Wellington is also where you catch the Interislander Ferry to South Island.
Overnight: We stayed at this Airbnb with an epic view just outside of the city!
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
8: Mt. Ngurahoe and the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Embark on an epic journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. It’s a MUST!!! Seriously. This iconic trek in New Zealand will take you through ancient forests, lunar-like volcanic terrain, and breathtaking vistas that will leave you in awe.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
As you traverse the rugged terrain, you'll encounter steaming vents, emerald lakes, and vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. Get ready to channel your inner adventurer as you conquer challenging terrains and witness the raw, untamed beauty of Tongariro National Park.
Mt. Ngurahoe
I had so much fun photographing Mt. Ngurahoe. I actually came back to this area three other times to capture its beauty from different areas of Tongariro National Park.
Mt. Ngurahoe
Here are some of my favorite photo spots:
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Overnight: Discovery Lodge
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
9: Rotorua
Some call Rotorua a bubbling cauldron of adventure–jokes, it’s just me–on New Zealand's North Island! Get ready to experience the Earth's fiery, untamed energy with a visit to this geothermal mecca. Rotorua is also where you’ll find some of the best Maori cultural experiences in the country. Here are my recommendations!
Wai O Tapu
Wai O Tapu
Wai O Tapu
My Favorite Geothermal Parks in Rotorua:
Waimangu Volcanic Valley: Explore Waimangu Volcanic Valley in New Zealand to see vibrant hot pools, tall silica terraces, and clear crater lakes shaped by volcanoes. Perfect for nature lovers and anyone looking for a special outdoor experience. $46 NZD
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland: Step into a realm of technicolor dreams where bubbling pools paint the landscape in vibrant hues. This is the most popular geothermal park, and for good reason. It really is nature’s kaleidoscope. $32.50 NZD
Te Pa Tu
Maori Experiences in Rotorua:
Te Puia: Dive into Māori culture and geothermal wonders at Te Puia. Witness the majestic Pōhutu geyser, explore the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, and indulge in the authentic flavors of a Māori feast.
Tamaki Māori Village: Travel back in time at Tamaki Māori Village for an immersive cultural journey. Experience a traditional powhiri ceremony, enjoy dynamic performances of Māori songs and dances, and savor a mouthwatering hangi dinner. This was the experience we decided to go with. We learned a ton and we felt like part of the family!
Whakarewarewa Living Māori Village: Explore the living Māori village of Whakarewarewa, where ancient customs thrive amidst bubbling geothermal pools. Engage with locals, learn about traditional practices, and gain insights into the spiritual connection between the Māori people and the land.
Overnight: Camp at Rotorua’s Blue Lake Top 10 Holiday Park. We loved it here!
Cathedral Cove
10: Coromandel Peninsula
Welcome to the Coromandel Peninsula, where the sun shines brighter, the beaches are whiter, and the vibes are lighter! Imagine endless stretches of golden sands, hugged by turquoise waters that practically beg you to dive right in. Yep, that's your typical day at the Coromandel beaches – where sunscreen is your best friend and flip-flops are practically mandatory footwear.
But wait, there's more than just sunbathing and sandcastle competitions (though those are totally legit pastimes here). The Coromandel Peninsula is also a haven for adventurers craving a bit of adrenaline rush. From epic hikes through lush rainforests to heart-pumping kayaking adventures along rugged coastlines, there's no shortage of ways to get your thrill on.
And let's not forget about the food scene – because a day of adventuring is best capped off with some seriously good eats. Whether you're indulging in freshly caught seafood straight from the ocean or treating yourself to a gourmet picnic with a view, your taste buds are in for a treat.
But perhaps the best thing about the Coromandel isn't just the stunning scenery or the endless activities – it's the laid-back, friendly vibe that makes you feel right at home from the moment you arrive.
You really can’t go wrong–all the little towns on this peninsula exude a laid-back, friendly vibe that makes you feel right at home from the moment you arrive.
My Favorite Coromandel Destinations:
Cathedral Cove. It might just be THE thing to do on the Coromandel. The trail is currently out of commission, so you’ll need to catch a water taxi down on Hahei Beach. They literally drive right up onto the sand, and leave every 30 minutes! Walk on down and get on the list early, a line will start to form since this is one of the most popular spots on the Peninsula. This is the only tour that actually drops you off on the beach (aside from kayaking tours). $80NZD return. Another tour that caught my eye is this zodiac tour that gets you up close and personal with some of the caves other bigger boats can’t!
35mm Film. Hot Water Beach.
Hot Water Beach. This is such a cool phenomenon! At low tide, you can rent a shovel from Hot Waves Cafe and dig yourself your own private little hot spring in the sand. How cool is that?
Puanui Beach. Puanui Beach on North Island, New Zealand, offers a serene coastal retreat with golden sands, turquoise waters, and stunning ocean views. Ideal for relaxation and nature connection. It has a cool peninsula on the north end that makes the views interesting!
Kauri Grove: Take a stroll through this enchanting forest featuring ancient kauri trees, some over 800 years old, and soak in the tranquility of nature.
Overnight: Airbnbs or freedom camping was the way to go over here! There are plenty to choose from. We ended up spending a good amount of time in Whangamata at this Airbnb.
Leave No Trace
Always remember to leave no trace–pack out what you pack in, leave what you find, prepare for every adventure, and respect the outdoors and each other every step of the way. Learn more about how to leave no trace here.
And if you do decide to venture out, drop a comment below or shoot me an email to tell me how it went!
Happy adventuring!
