5-Day North Island Adventure Highlights

Day 1: Arrive in Auckland

Arrive at Auckland International Airport, pick up your vehicle at the Auckland branch. After picking up your vehicle, take some time to explore Auckland this afternoon and choose your own adventure! We recommend the following:

• Auckland Museum: Set in the Auckland Domain, this museum offers a powerful introduction to New Zealand’s natural history, Māori culture, and military history.
• Visit the Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city (SkyCity Auckland).
• Auckland Art Gallery: A beautiful blend of historic and contemporary architecture, this gallery showcases national and international works across four levels.
• All Blacks Experience: An interactive, high-energy journey into New Zealand’s rugby legacy – perfect for sports lovers, located at the SkyCity Precinct.
• Wētā Workshop Unleashed: Dive behind the scenes of blockbuster film-making with this immersive creative experience from the makers of The Lord of the Rings and Avatar. Located at the SkyCity Precinct.

After exploring Auckland, take an evening Stroll and enjoy some dinner. Wander through Viaduct Harbour or Commercial Bay, both buzzing with waterfront energy. Enjoy dinner at one of the many vibrant restaurants or bars to toast the start of your trip.

Where to stay: Ambury Campground

Day 2: Auckland to Coromandel

It’s time to leave Auckland and drive to Coromandel (2.5 hours). Enjoy scenic coastal views along the Pacific Coast Highway.On arrival in the Coromandel, you can have a Hot Water Beach Experience and dig your own hot pool in the sand at low tide.

We recommend taking a visit at Cathedral Cove and walking through native bush to reach the iconic rock archway and beach, or paddle by kayak with Cathedral Cove Kayaks, or, take a boat tour through the marine reserve with Hahei Explorer o Mercury Bay Discoveries.

Where to stay: Coromandel Shelly Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park

Day 3: Coromandel to Rotorua

Today, you are going to head to Rotorua which is a 3 hour drive. Make a stop at Paeroa for a L&P, which is an iconic Kiwi drink and enjoy a pie whilst there. Feel free to check out the giant L&P bottle, this is a #NZmustsee.

On your drive, you must visit Te Puia and discover geothermal wonders and Māori craftsmanship, including the famous Pohutu Geyser.

If you are feeling like some downtime, enjoy some much needed relaxation at Polynesian Spa, or Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa. Polynesian Spa’s Deluxe Lake Spa experience features soaking in mineral-rich pools overlooking Lake Rotorua. Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa’s two hour Restorative Journey experiences features a five-stage multi-sensory experience, inspired by Māori wellness traditions.

After you have enjoyed your day out, its time to head to camp.

Where to stay: Rotorua Blue Lake TOP 10 Holiday Park

Day 4: Rotorua Exploration

Today it’s time to explore Rotorua, you can start the day by ziplining with Rotorua Canopy Tours. Glide through an ancient virgin rainforest forest with incredible conservation insights. This is the World’s #1 Nature experience for good reason! We also recommended visiting Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. Here you can explore colourful geothermal features, including the Champagne Pool.

After all that fun, it’s time to eat. We suggest having dinner on Eat Streat and sample local and international cuisine in this lively dining hub. After dinner, explore the majestic Redwood Forest on an elevated walkway lit by soft, glowing lanterns suspended among the towering trees. A magical, immersive evening experience.

Where to stay: Rotorua Blue Lake TOP 10 Holiday Park

Day 5: Return to Auckland

It is time to drive back to Auckland and return your camper. On the way, choose your perfect final North Island experience:

• Nature option: Stop at the Blue Spring (Te Waihou Walkway) in Putaruru. This easy and picturesque walk follows one of the clearest freshwater springs in the world, surrounded by native flora.
• Movie magic option: Detour to Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata for a guided tour of the iconic film location from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Wander through the Shire, explore hobbit holes, and enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn.

Final meal in Auckland: Celebrate your adventure with dinner at one of Auckland’s celebrated restaurants—perhaps in the Viaduct, Commercial Bay, or Ponsonby.