10-Day North Island, New Zealand Itinerary from Auckland

Looking for the perfect 10-day North Island itinerary? You’re in the right place.

The North Island is home to amazing beaches, wineries, geothermal wonders, and volcanic mountains. But trying to fit everything into a 10-day trip can feel overwhelming.

I’m here to help. I live in New Zealand and have condensed years of NZ travel experience into this road trip route, so you can make the most of your visit without the stress of planning it all yourself. 

Whether you’re exploring by car or campervan, here’s an ideal itinerary to help you see some of the North Island’s highlights in 10 days!

A heads-up: this blog is reader-supported, and this post may contain affiliate links. If you make a booking through one of my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping me continue to write, take photos, and share my favourite places in New Zealand!

10-Day North Island Itinerary Map

Where to Hire a Car or Campervan for your 10-Day North Island Itinerary

🚗 Car hire: I recommend using Discover Cars to easily compare prices and vehicle models from all of the top car rental companies.

I’m also a big fan of Apex Rentals. Their prices are often the best out there and I’ve only ever had great customer service from them.

🚐 Campervan Hire: I use Motorhome Republic to compare prices on campervan rentals in New Zealand.

10-Day North Island Itinerary Day-by-Day

Days 1 & 2: Auckland & Waiheke Island

Start your 10-day North Island itinerary in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city and the first point of entry for most international visitors.

You’re likely going to be tired after a long flight, so we’ll keep the next two days easy.

Instead of picking up your rental car or campervan now, wait until Day 3. 

You won’t need a car in Auckland, and it’s easy to take an Uber or Super Shuttle from the Auckland Airport into the city. It’s good to let someone else do the driving while you recharge a bit.

On your first day in Auckland, I recommend exploring the city, mostly on foot—walking is a great way to work off jetlag, after all, and it’s also the best way to get to know Auckland! 

Then on Day 2, head to Waiheke Island for a fantastic day trip from Auckland.

Things to do in Auckland

• Walk along the Viaduct Harbour to get a glimpse of Auckland’s sailing culture. There are some seriously fancy yachts in the harbour that are fun to see! If you’d like to keep walking, continue on to Wynyard Quarter and the Westhaven Path.
  
  
• Take the ferry to Devonport, a seaside suburb with cute cafes and shops, and nice beaches. For epic views over the harbour and city, hike up to North Head Historic Reserve and/or Mount Victoria.
  
  
• Or hike up Mount Eden (Maungawhau), a volcanic cone with some of the best views of the city. From the city centre, it’s a short Uber ride to the base of Mount Eden, and the hike itself takes about 45 minutes return. 

• See the Sky Tower, an iconic part of the Auckland cityscape. If you want to experience some of the most incredible views in the city, a trip up the Sky Tower is a popular option.

• The High Street and Britomart precincts are good places to find boutique shops, cute cafes and international eateries. 
  
  
• Here are some of my favourite spots for food and drinks in Auckland:
  
  Daily Bread, Amano, and MIBO are all excellent bakeries for croissants and other pastries.
  
  For a casual (but nice) meal, head to Federal Delicatessen, Mezze Bar, or Tanuki’s Cave.
  
  If you’re after a special dinner, Hello Beasty or Amano are good choices. Or, hop in an Uber to get to K-Road and go to Gemmayze Street for incredible Lebanese food.
  
  For drinks with a view, I like Dr. Rudi’s Rooftop Bar or Queen’s Rooftop Bar.

Things to do on Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is known for its wineries, beaches, and laid-back vibe. It takes just a 45-minute ferry ride to get from Auckland to Waiheke.

The ferry ride itself is spectacular: you’ll glide across the sparkling Hauraki Gulf whilst taking in views of Auckland City and its surrounding landscape.

Once you get to Waiheke Island, you’ll have multiple options for how to spend the day. Here are some suggestions for you!

• Go wine tasting! Waiheke is known as the island of wine, and sampling some of the local drops is a sure way to get into vacation mode. I love Stonyridge, Batch, and Mudbrick vineyards in particular. 

• Visit Waiheke’s gorgeous beaches—Oneroa Beach, Onetangi Beach, & Palm Beach are all lovely.

• Explore the charming village of Oneroa, and make sure to get a gelato at Island Gelato while there!

• Sample some Waiheke Island craft beers at Alibi Brewing Company or the Heke.

• Lace up your boots and go for a hike along Waiheke’s scenic walking trails.

🚌 Tip: the easiest way to get around Waiheke Island is to book this hop-on, hop-off bus option, which includes your ferry ticket!

Where to Stay in Auckland

🛏 Mid-range: M Social 

The M Social is my top hotel choice in Auckland. The location is absolutely perfect for exploring Auckland, and the rooms are faultless. I recommend splurging a bit on a room with a view so you can watch the ferries go in and out of the harbour. 

🛏 Mid-range: Avani Auckland Metropolis

This hotel has apartment-style rooms, complete with your own laundry facilities and kitchenettes. If you book a harbour view room, you’ll also get epic views over the city and sea. The property’s location is excellent; it’s right in the city centre and just a short walk to great restaurants and the ferry terminal.

Note: I haven’t suggested any camping spots in Auckland, because I think it’s best to stay in a hotel or other accommodation in Auckland for this itinerary. If you’re hiring a campervan, pick it up on Day 3 and start camping on the North Island from then on!

Days 3 & 4: Coromandel Peninsula (Hahei)

🚙 Driving time from Auckland to Hahei: 2 hours 30 minutes (Directions)

Today, it’s time to hit the road!

Get an early start to the day and fuel up with a quick breakfast—my choice would be a pastry (usually a ham & cheese croissant) and flat white from Daily Bread. 

After breakfast, pick up your rental car or campervan. Depending on where you’ve hired your vehicle from, you may need to hop in an Uber to get to their depot.

After getting your vehicle sorted, make sure you have your Google Maps directions all plugged in and ready to go—and now it’s time for your road trip!

Your destination today is Hahei, a cute beach town on the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula, where you’ll stay for the next two nights in coastal paradise. 

Where to Stop on the Drive from Auckland to Hahei

• Thames: You don’t need to go out of your way to visit Thames, but I’m mentioning it here if you need to pick up groceries. Thames is the last chance to pop into a well-stocked supermarket before reaching Hahei (I always go to the PAK’nSAVE here).

• Tairua: Visit the Tairua surf beach to check the waves, and stretch your legs by walking up to the summit of Mount Paku. This 30-minute walk climbs up to the summit of the volcanic peak Mount Paku and offers gorgeous views over the Tairua Harbour and surrounding beaches. 

Things to do in and around Hahei

• See Cathedral Cove, the most famous beach in the Coromandel. You can visit Cathedral Cove by walking there along the Cathedral Cove Track, or taking a boat tour or kayak tour.
  
  
• Dig a hot pool in the sand at Hot Water Beach. To access the hot water, you’ll need to visit the beach within 2 hours on either side of low tide. Hire a spade (shovel) from Hottie’s Cafe or the Hot Water Beach Top 10 Holiday Park.

• Walk up to the Te Pare Point Reserve, a historic fortified Māori settlement. At the summit, you’ll be met with sweeping ocean views stretching over the Cathedral Cove marine reserve.

• Hang out at Hahei Beach. Beach walks and swims here are glorious! Afterwards, grab food and drinks at Pour House (I love their spiced cider).

• Shop for local goodies at Cove, a beautiful boutique store in Hahei.
  
  
• Another favourite Coromandel beach of mine is Lonely Bay, which is just a 15-minute drive from Hahei.

• Consider a day trip to New Chums Beach, a pristine hike-in beach with white sand and crystal-clear water, and stop for lunch at Luke’s Kitchen on the way there.

Where to Stay in Hahei

🛏 Mid-range: Tatahi Lodge 

This laid-back lodge has great vibes and beautiful grounds – the lush gardens here are just lovely. Choose from a 2-person studio or 2-bedroom units for a larger group. The property is right in town and it’s just a 5-minute walk from here to Hahei Beach.

🛏 Mid-range: The Church Accommodation Hahei

The unique Church Hotel was built around a reconstructed early-1900s church and has private cottages set amidst native bush. You’ll have options here, including 2-person cabins with or without kitchenettes, or a 3-bedroom holiday house. There’s an excellent restaurant on the property, too, and you’ll be within walking distance of Hahei Beach.

⛺️ Camping: Tasman Holiday Parks – Hahei Beach

One of the best campgrounds in the Coromandel, the Hahei Beach Resort is located in an epic beachfront location and has great facilities (including hot tubs for hire!). 

Further reading: where to stay in the Coromandel Peninsula

Days 5 & 6: Rotorua (via Hobbiton)

🚙 Driving time from Hahei to Rotorua via Hobbiton: 3 hours 15 minutes | Directions

Today, you’ll be heading inland to one of New Zealand’s most unique destinations: Rotorua.

Rotorua is known for its Māori culture and geothermal activity, including hot springs, geysers, and mud pools. 

It’s also a major tourism hub for the North Island, with so many activities on offer you could honestly spend a whole week here and not get bored. 

Here’s where to stop on the drive today, plus what to do once you get to Rotorua.

Stops on the Drive from Hahei to Rotorua

• Hobbiton: Go on a walking tour of the famous Hobbiton movie set from the Lord of the Rings films. It looks just like it does in the movies! The setting is gorgeous, too, amidst sheep-covered pastures and rolling green hills, and the tour ends with a beverage at the charming Green Dragon Inn.

🌟 Tip: make sure to book your Hobbiton tickets well in advance, because they often sell out.

• Tirau: Stop in Tirau for a lunch break—I recommend the Baker for a meat (or veggie) pie and sweet treat!

• Putāruru Blue Springs: Take a short walk from the Leslie Road Carpark to see the Putāruru Blue Springs, which have incredibly clear, blue water and look like something out of a fairytale. For a longer hike, you could also walk there via the Te Waihou Walkway.

Things to Do in Rotorua

There is honestly so much to do in Rotorua, and you won’t be able to do it all on a short visit.  But that’s okay—here are some ideas, and you can pick and choose what appeals to you most!

• Walk through the Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest, or book a treetop walk.
  
  
• Hike up the Maunga Kākaramea-Crater Lake Walk.

• Stroll around Kuirau Park, which is one of the best free attractions in Rotorua and will give you a taste of the area’s geothermal activity.
  
  
• Visit a geothermal park—choose from Te Puia, Waimangu Volcanic Valley, or Wai-o-Tapu. 
  
  
• Soak in one of the many free hot springs near Rotorua. 
  
  
• Experience burbling geothermal mud at the free-to-see Mud Pool near Wai-o-Tapu.

• Soak in the soothing hot springs of the Polynesian Spa, or splurge on a luxurious spa experience at Wai Ariki.
  
  
• Have dinner out at one of Rotorua’s excellent restaurants—I recommend Atticus Finch or the Fainting Goat for sharing plates & cocktails, or Sabroso for some of the best Mexican food (and margaritas!) you’ll find in NZ.
  

Where to Stay in Rotorua

🛏 Mid-range: Aura Accommodation

Aura Accommodation is my go-to motel in Rotorua. The location is within walking distance of town, the staff are super friendly, and there are onsite hot pools to enjoy!

🛏 Mid-range: Kings on Peace Apartments

These modern apartments are located in a quiet, residential part of Rotorua and have everything you need for a comfortable stay, including private decks, a spa pool, laundry facilities, BBQs, and fully-equipped kitchens.

⛺️ Camping: Blue Lake Top 10 Holiday Park

The Blue Lake Top 10 Holiday Park is located a bit out of town, but the lakefront setting is so peaceful and pretty that it’s worth it! This is by far my favourite campground in Rotorua. Make sure to ask at the front desk about the glow worm walk nearby!

Days 7 & 8: Tongariro National Park

🚙 Driving time from Rotorua to Tongariro National Park: 2 hours 15 minutes (Directions)

Today, you’re heading to the mountains! 

Your destination will be Tongariro National Park, a World Heritage site and the oldest national park in New Zealand. 

Along the way, you’ll travel through geothermal wonders and will visit beautiful Lake Taupō. 

Stops on the Drive from Rotorua to Tongariro National Park

• View the stunning blue water of Huka Falls.

• Stop in Taupō for a lunch break and lakeside stroll. You could also go for a soak in the free Otumuheke Stream Hot Pools, or book the fantastic Wairakei Terraces hot pools.
  
  Replete Cafe is the best spot for lunch in Taupō. Sit down in the cafe or get something from their well-stocked cabinet for takeaway.

Things to do in Tongariro National Park

• Trek the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the North Island’s best day hikes. You’ll need to book a shuttle to go to and from the crossing, which is a serious hike that takes between 6-8 hours and a good level of fitness.

• Or tackle one of the smaller hikes in Tongariro National Park—Taranaki Falls is a favourite of mine. Tama Lakes is a great alternative to the alpine crossing (and you can combine it with a visit to Taranaki Falls).

• Walk to Tawhai Falls to see one of Tongariro’s best waterfalls and a Lord of the Rings filming site—it featured as Gollum’s Pool and is a gorgeous spot, even if you’re not a LOTR fan!

🥾 Planning to hike the Tongariro Crossing? I like this shuttle option from Ketetahi, as you’ll end up back at your own vehicle instead of having to wait for a return shuttle.

Where to Stay near Tongariro National Park

🛏 Mid-Range: Plateau Lodge

The Plateau Lodge is a good choice for accommodation in Waimarino. You’ll have access to a shared kitchen when you stay here, making it easy to prepare meals. Their King Studio Pod is my favourite option—it has an outdoor bath, which is a massive treat after hiking.

🛌 Mid-Range: Creel Lodge

Creel Lodge is a very pleasant place to stay in Turangi, a small town located near the northern edge of Tongariro National Park.

Surrounded by leafy, birdsong-filled gardens, with walking access to the peaceful Tongariro River Trail, this is my go-to accommodation choice in the area. (Tip: Angler’s Table is right next door and they have incredible pastries!).

⛺️ Camping: Mangahuia DOC Campsite or the Whakapapa Holiday Park

Both of these campsites are in beautiful, beech tree-fringed settings—if you want a hot shower after a day of hiking, though, then go with the holiday park! Definitely book either in advance, as these are two of the most popular camping grounds in Tongariro National Park.

Further reading: where to stay near Tongariro National Park

Day 9: Raglan (via Waitomo)

🚙 Driving time from Tongariro National Park to Raglan: 3.5 hours (Directions)

After some time in the mountains, make your way back to the coast. 

Today you’ll journey to Raglan, a relaxed West Coast surf town with gorgeous black sand beaches and a creative, bohemian atmosphere.

My partner is a surfer so he and I have spent quite a lot of time in Raglan over the years.

However, even if you don’t surf, it’s still a wonderful town to spend some time in (I’m not a surfer but love visiting Raglan nonetheless!).

Along the way, you’ll get to stop at another highlight for many visitors to the North Island: the Waitomo glow worm caves!

Here’s how to spend the day.

Where to Stop on the Drive from Tongariro National Park to Raglan

• Waitomo Glow Worm Caves: Cruise along an underground river with sparkling glow worms lighting the way. This magical experience is popular for good reason, so I do recommend that you book your tickets in advance.

Things to do in Raglan

• Visit Bridalveil Falls, one of the North Island’s best waterfalls. Bridalveil Falls is located a 15-minute drive from Raglan, so you may wish to visit it on the drive into town instead.

• Go surfing or simply watch the surfers at Manu Bay. If you’re keen for a surf lesson, contact Raglan Surf School.

• Enjoy a long beach stroll at Ngarunui Beach, a beautiful black sand beach.

• Pop into the boutique shops in Raglan. I love Tony Sly for pottery, and ULO for vintage and local art prints.

• Have dinner at the amazing ULO’s Kitchen, or head to the Raglan Wharf for fish ‘n chips by the sea at Raglan Fish.

• Relax on a sunset harbour cruise, or just watch a sunset from the beach for the final night on your 10-day North Island itinerary.

Where to Stay in Raglan

🛏 Mid-range motel: Raglan Sunset Motel

The Raglan Sunset Motel offers great-value rooms in a convenient town centre location. This is my go-to motel when I visit Raglan.

🛏 Mid-range apartments: Bow Street Studios

For something a bit more boutique in feel, check out the Bow Street Studios. They offer waterfront apartments and a historic cottage, all perfectly located right in town so you can walk to Raglan’s shops, cafes, and restaurants. 

⛺️ Camping: Raglan Holiday Park

The Raglan Holiday Park is the best place to go camping in Raglan. This campground is located by the beach and within walking distance of town, making it so convenient to explore Raglan at your leisure!

Day 10: Return to Auckland

🚙 Driving time: 1 hour 45 minutes (or more with traffic) (Directions)

It’s time to make your way back to Auckland.

Head back to the Auckland Airport to return your hire car or campervan and complete your 10-Day North Island itinerary.

Before hitting the road, though, grab breakfast and coffee in Raglan—I recommend the Shack.

Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport. 

Without traffic, the drive from Raglan to the Auckland Airport usually takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

If you’re travelling during peak commuter hours (between 7 am to 9 am or 4 pm to 6 pm), give yourself even more time in case there’s traffic.

Best Time of Year for this 10-Day North Island Road Trip

This trip is best completed between October through April, which coincides with spring through autumn in New Zealand.

While you can still do this trip in winter, I’d omit Tongariro National Park and swap it with an extra night or two in Rotorua and/or a night in Taupō, unless you plan to go skiing at Mt Ruapehu.

More Itinerary Options

10-Day North Island Itinerary from Auckland to Wellington

If you’d prefer a one-way road trip from Auckland to Wellington, simply swap Day 9 (Raglan) for Wellington, heading south from Tongariro National Park instead of north back to Auckland.

From Tongariro National Park, it’s about a 4-hour drive to Wellington. There are so many great things to do in Wellington!

Then to continue the adventure, you could take the ferry from Wellington to Picton and continue on a road trip from Picton to Queenstown. Or see my itinerary for a full driving route from Auckland to Queenstown.

More North Island Itinerary Ideas

If you have more time for the North Island, consider adding a visit to either Napier—known for its wineries and art deco architecture—or New Plymouth, where you’ll find black sand beaches and more mountain scenery.

Have less than 10 days? Then check out my 7-day North Island itinerary. It includes a lot of the stops in this guide, but omits Tongariro National Park & Raglan.

And if you have 2 weeks for your road trip, check out my 14-day New Zealand North Island itinerary!

Looking for a South Island itinerary?

My 10-day South Island itinerary from Christchurch or 10-day South Island itinerary from Queenstown might be just what you’re after.

Thanks for Reading my 10-Day North Island Itinerary!

I truly hope this has helped you plan your trip.

As always, please leave a comment if you have any questions or feedback for me. I really love hearing from you!