new zealand road trip auckland to queenstown

Ultimate Auckland to Queenstown Road Trip (14 Day Itinerary)

The winding Devils Staircase road between Queenstown and Milford Sound, which skirts along Lake Wakatipu.

Summary of post: See the highlights of New Zealand on this 14-day Auckland to Queenstown road trip itinerary, designed for either car or campervan travel!

The drive from Auckland to Queenstown is one of the most popular road trip routes in New Zealand.

Along this road trip, you’ll experience some of NZ’s best highlights, including world-class hikes, geothermal activity, towering mountains, and pristine lakes.

However, as someone who lives in Queenstown (and used to live in Auckland), I need to tell you that most of the itineraries out there have you pack in way too much in a short timeframe.

To be honest, I’d typically recommend that you spend your time in New Zealand on just one island if you have 14 days (or less) for your trip.

That being said, I also get why you’d want to see both the North Island and the South Island if this is the trip of a lifetime and you may not get a chance to return to New Zealand.

So, if you really want to road trip across both islands within 2 weeks, then this itinerary will help you do that in the most efficient way possible.

This is a fast-paced itinerary, aimed to help you maximise your limited time in New Zealand by seeing the top sights, hiking incredible trails, and enjoying the best local food and drinks. Get ready for one epic whirlwind of a trip.

Keep reading for the ultimate driving itinerary from Auckland to Queenstown, whether you’re travelling in a car or campervan!

* Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links to trusted partners. If you make a purchase through an affiliate link, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I really appreciate your support!

Table of Contents

Auckland to Queenstown Road Trip Map

Where to Hire a Car or Campervan for Your Road Trip

A green JUCY campervan parked in front of Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown.

🚙 Car Hire : I use rentalcars.com to easily compare car rentals in NZ. Their comparison tool helps you get the best deal possible without having to open up 10+ tabs and spend hours researching on your own. Also check out Snap Rentals —they often have the best prices! 🚐 Campervan Hire : Jucy campervans are perfect for this road trip, with depots in both Auckland & Queenstown and a wide range of fun, funky vans. I also recommend using Motorhome Republic to compare campervan prices and reviews for all of New Zealand’s top campervan companies.

Ultimate Auckland to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: auckland.

Stay 1 night in Auckland

A sweeping view over Auckland City and the Hauraki Gulf from the Mount Eden summit walk, one of the best short hikes on the North Island.

Most visitors to New Zealand aren’t here for the cities, but Auckland is a great place to spend a day while recovering from jetlag.

Instead of picking up your car or campervan today, wait until Day 2 of this trip. You won’t need a car with one day in Auckland, and it’ll save you the hassle of finding accommodation with parking.

I recommend spending today exploring Auckland on foot.

Things to do in Auckland

A view of the Auckland cityscape from the Viaduct Harbour, with sailboats docked in the harbour and the Sky Tower in the background.

Start the day with a wander around the Britomart precinct and High Street (which is much nicer than its neighbour, Queen Street).
Have breakfast and coffee at a cafe (I’m partial to Daily Bread!), and pop into the cute boutique shops. Booklovers won’t want to miss Unity Books, and Shut the Front Door has great gifts.
Next, hop in an Uber to get to the base of Mount Eden (Mangawhau). It’s about a 20-minute hike up to the summit, where you’ll get sweeping views over the city.
After hiking up and down Mount Eden, head to Ponsonby Road, where you’ll find great shopping, eateries, and leafy side streets lined with gorgeous villas.
Grab dinner on Ponsonby Road, or head down artsy Karangahape Road (K’ Road) to eat at either Gemmayze Street or Coco’s Cantina.
In the evening, a stroll along the waterfront Viaduct Harbour will give you glimpses of Auckland’s sailing culture, and there are lots of great places to stop for a post-dinner drink.

Then it’ll be time to sleep so you can get an early start tomorrow!

Where to stay in Auckland

A hotel room at the M Social Hotel in Auckland, with minimalist modern decor and a view of the Auckland Harbour from the window.

→ Budget-friendly : LyLo → Top Choice : M Social Hotel (the views and waterfront location are just the best) → Best rooftop pool & spa : The Cordis (seriously, the complimentary sauna and steam room are heaven after a long flight!)

Note : this is the only day on the itinerary where I haven’t included a campsite option, as I recommend waiting until Day 2 to pick up your campervan . While there are a lot of great campsites near Auckland, there aren’t any I’d recommend within the city centre itself.

Days 2 & 3: Rotorua (via Hobbiton)

Driving distance from Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton: 236 km (146 miles) / 3 hours
S tay 2 nights in Rotorua with a full day to explore

A straight, wide dirt trail piercing through towering redwood trees at the Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest in Rotorua.

Grab breakfast at an Auckland cafe this morning, then take an Uber to your car or campervan rental depot.

After picking up your car or campervan, it’s time to start your road trip!

Today, you’ll make your way to Rotorua, New Zealand’s hub of geothermal activity and Māori culture.

Stops on the drive from Auckland to Rotorua

The Bag End hobbit house at the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata, one of the best places to visit on a North Island itinerary. The hobbit house has a round green door and a grass-covered roof, and the front yard of the house has a garden and a large orange pumpkin sitting on a wooden wheelbarrow.

Hobbiton : Lord of the Rings fans should stop in Matamata to visit Hobbiton , where you can tour the movie set from the films. Just make sure to book tickets in advance, as they do sell out.
Tirau : this wee town is hard to miss—simply look for the corrugated metal buildings! This is a good place for a lunch break. Try the Baker for a top-notch pie or sandwich and coffee.
Putāruru Blue Springs : Hike alongside a crystal-clear river to its source at the Putāruru Blue Springs , where 70 percent of NZ’s bottled water comes from ( note: Blue Springs is closed until November 2024 , at the time of writing this ).
Over the Moon Dairy : If you like cheese, you should stop here to pick up some road trip goodies. Their handcrafted cheeses are so good.

Things to do in Rotorua

A foot soaking pool at Kuirau Park, one of the best free places to visit in Rotorua.

You’ll be spoilt for choice with activities in Rotorua. Its geothermal surroundings make it totally unique and well worth visiting the area.

Kuirau Park : For a free activity in Rotorua , take a stroll through Kuirau Park to see geothermal action.
Whakarewarewa Redwoods : walking through these native Californian redwoods is free unless you do a treetops walk. If you visit the redwoods just before dark, the nightlights treetop walk is quite special.
Adventure activities : for adrenaline-seeking souls, there are options for ziplining canopy tours, whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and kayaking to glow worms or hot pools.
Te Puia : this is a good choice for a geothermal park close to town. It’s home to the Pōhutu Geyser, which erupts over 15 times every day. (You’ll also have the opportunity to visit a geothermal park on your drive out of Rotorua on Day 4).
Hot springs : A trip to Rotorua wouldn’t be complete without a soak in a hot pool. The natural mineral pools at the Polynesian Spa are a real treat, or for the ultimate splurge, head to the Wai Ariki spa.
Where to eat : There is an excellent food scene in Rotorua. Atticus Finch has delicious sharing plates, or go to Sabroso for some of the best Mexican food in New Zealand. For the best breakfast sandwiches, go to Ciabatta Cafe.

Where to stay in Rotorua

A view of Blue Lake between two trees, with a green mountain in the background.

→ Best Camping : Tasman Holiday Park Rotorua (1km from the town centre, with onsite mineral pools!) OR the Blue Lake Top 10 Holiday Park (located a 10-minute drive from town, but in a peaceful and beautiful spot—one of my top campsites on the North Island ). → Top Choice Motel : Aura Accommodation (the staff are so friendly, and the onsite hot pools are awesome) → Serviced Apartments : Kings on Peace Apartments

Day 4: Tongariro National Park

Driving distance from Rotorua to Ohakune via Taupo: 216 km (134 miles) / 2 hours 50 minutes
Stay 1 night in Tongariro National Park

A golden-hour view of Mount Ngauruhoe from the Taranaki Falls Track in Tongariro National Park, with purple heather flowers in the foregound.

After breakfast in Rotorua, start your drive towards Tongariro National Park via Taupō.

The road between Rotorua and Taupō is only 80 km, but it’s absolutely packed with epic geothermal sights. Taupō makes a good stop for a lunch break before heading south towards Tongariro National Park.

Stops on the drive from Rotorua to Tongariro National Park

Jac from Weekend Path soaking in Hot n Cold Pool, one of the best free hot springs between Rotorua and Taupo on the North Island.

Wai-o-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland : see one of New Zealand’s most impressive geothermal attractions. Make sure to be there by 9:45 am to see the Lady Knox geyser erupt at 10:15 am.
Mud pool : near Wai-o-Tapu, you’ll find one of Rotorua’s best free attractions: Mud Pool , a pit of hot bubbling mud that is quite entertaining to watch for a bit.
Hot springs : There are also lots of free hot pools between Rotorua and Taupo , the most famous being Kerosene Creek. My favourite is “hot ‘n cold pool.” However, please keep your valuables with you if you choose to go for a soak, as car break-ins are known to happen at the hot pools in this area.
Huka Falls : Just before you get to Taupō, stop at Huka Falls. It’s only a 5-minute walk from the carpark to the lookout area for the falls, which are a super blue colour when the sun is out.
Taupō : Once you reach Taupō, it’ll be time for a lunch break! Have lunch at Replete Cafe and stroll along the lovely lakefront path for a leg stretch.

Things to do in Tongariro National Park

Taranaki Falls in Tongariro National Park framed by blurred purple heather flowers in the foreground.

In this itinerary, you’ll really only have a late afternoon/evening in Tongariro National Park.

Make the most of it by going for a short hike !

Taranaki Falls Walk : this 2-hour return walk is suitable for most levels of hikers. You’ll get mountain views, beech forest and tussock landscapes, and a close-up view of a beautiful waterfall. It’s one of my favourite short hikes on the North Island.
Tawhai Falls : This is a short (10 minutes one-way) walk to a beautiful waterfall that served as a filming location in the Lord of the Rings movies (it was Gollum’s pool).

Note : the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is the most famous hike in Tongariro National Park, but I haven’t included it in this itinerary because it requires you to be lucky with weather, and it’s also a serious hike I wouldn’t just recommend to everyone. That being said, it’s an epic hike and if you are a keen hiker, you could adjust this itinerary to include it (take a night off Rotorua and add another night to Tongariro NP).

Where to stay in Tongariro National Park

A made-up bed with white linens at the Powderhorn Chateau hotel in Ohakune, with a rustic wooden headboard, wooden walls, and two wooden side tables.

The largest town in Tongariro National Park is Ohakune, and I recommend staying there for a night unless you’re camping.

→ Camping : Mangahuia DOC Campsite → Budget stay (also a camping option): Ohakune Top 10 Holiday Park → Best Accommodation : Powderhorn Chateau (make sure to soak in the “lagoon!”)

Tip : if you alter this itinerary to fit in the Tongariro Crossing, camp or stay at the Discovery Lodge. They provide the earliest shuttle to the crossing, allowing you to beat the crowds.

Day 5: Wellington

Driving distance from Ohakune to Wellington: 288 km (179 miles) / 3.5 hours
Stay 1 night in Wellington

A golden hour view over Wellington city and harbour from the top of Mount Victoria.

Stops on the drive from Tongariro National Park to Wellington

There aren’t many stops I’d recommend on today’s drive—try to get to Wellington in good time so you have the afternoon to explore the city.

Mooma is a good cafe for a coffee and cake break, or stop at Viv’s Kitchen for one of their famous cream horns.
Waikanae Beach is another nice stop for a leg stretch and treat at the excellent Olde Beach Bakery.

Things to do in Wellington

Sailboats moored in the Wellington Harbour in front of blue boat sheds in Oriental Bay, with apartment buildings, hotels, and Mount Victoria in the background.

Wellington is New Zealand’s compact, creative capital city, situated on a picturesque harbour and surrounded by bush-clad hills.

By the time you reach Wellington today, it’ll likely be the afternoon. I recommend that you park your car or campervan wherever you plan to stay for the night, then explore the city by foot.

Experience Wellington’s cafe scene : Grab some lunch and coffee at one of Wellington’s fantastic cafes to bolster your afternoon. Prefab, Fidel’s Cafe, and Beach Babylon are a few of my favourites.
Te Papa Museum : even if you’re not normally a museum person, make sure to visit the amazing (and free) Te Papa Museum. Don’t miss the natural history section and the poignant Gallipoli exhibit.
Oriental Bay Parade : After Te Papa, walk along the Oriental Bay Parade, past the colourful and photogenic boat sheds, to the start of the Mount Victoria lookout walk.
Mount Victoria Lookout : Hike up to the Mount Vic lookout —it’ll take about 30-45 minutes to get to the top—for an incredible view over the city. I like starting this walk from Grass Street and then connecting to the Southern Walkway (pink signs) to the Lookout Walkway (purple signs).
Wellington breweries : After hiking back down from the Mount Vic summit, it’s time to hit up a Wellington brewery. I love Fortune Favours, Parrotdog, Heyday, and Fork & Tap—take your pick!
Dinner in Wellington : Have dinner at Little Penang, where you’ll find some of the best Malaysian food in the country. Or get a delicious burger at Burger Liquor.
To end the night , walk off dinner with a stroll down Cuba Street and get an ice cream at Duck Island. For a relaxing evening activity, watch a movie at the charming Lighthouse Cinema.

Tip : have more time to spend in Wellington? If you have another day here, take the Cable Car to the Botanic Gardens, visit Zealandia, or book a tour of Wētā Workshop.

Where to stay in Wellington

The entrance to the Ohtel boutique hotel in Wellington, with plastic orange chairs at a wooden bar in the front of the building, and signage with orange accents.

→ Camping : self-contained campervans can camp at the Evans Bay Marina freedom campsite, but make sure you arrive early to secure a spot. Also see my guide to the best campsites in the Wellington Region . If you’re in a non-self-contained campervan, I actually recommend booking a hostel or hotel for your night in Wellington, as there aren’t any proper campgrounds within the city centre. → Budget-friendly : The Marion Hostel → Best views : Copthorne Hotel → Boutique stay s: Ohtel or the Intrepid Hotel

Day 6: Kaikōura

Ferry from Wellington to Picton: 3.5 hours
Driving distance from Picton to Kaikōura: 156 km (97 miles) / 2 hours
Stay 1 night in Kaikōura

Today, you’ll board the vehicle ferry and travel across the Cook Straight to the South Island, where you’ll land in Picton to begin the next leg of your road trip.

I recommend booking an early morning ferry trip so you have time to enjoy Kaikōura in the afternoon and evening. Interislander & Bluebridge are the two main ferry providers.

The Cook Straight ferry ride takes about 3.5 hours and showcases some seriously stunning scenery in the Marlborough Sounds.

After disembarking from the Picton ferry terminal, it’ll then be a 2-hour drive to Kaikōura, which is best known for its abundance of marine life including seals, dolphins, and whales.

Stops on the Drive from Picton to Kaikōura

Seals basking on sun-bleached rocks along the ocean at Ohau Point near Kaikoura, one of the best places to see seals in New Zealand.

Picton Village Bakery : pick up a sandwich and sweet treat before hitting the road.
Kekerengu Store : If you need a mid-drive pick-me-up, stop here for a coffee.
Ohau Point : View the seal colony here before reaching Kaikōura. It’s one of the best places to see New Zealand fur seals in droves.

Things to do in Kaikōura

Jac from Weekend Path hiking down stairs at the Kaikoura Coastal Walkway.

Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway : Hike along this trail for gorgeous views and the chance to see NZ fur seals.
Sample the local food : Kaikōura is known for its abundant kai moana (seafood), so be sure to try some! Have dinner at the Pier Hotel or go to Cooper’s Catch for takeaway fish & chips to have at the beach. If you don’t like seafood, go to Slam Club for a locally-sourced meal and craft beer.
Go on a whale-watching boat trip or kayak to see seals and other marine life. However, most tours leave in the morning or early afternoon, so I’d wait until Day 7 to do one of these activities.

Where to stay in Kaikōura

The entrance to the Sudima Hotel in Kaikoura.

→ Camping : Kaikōura Top 10 Holiday Park → Top Choice Hotel : Sudima Hotel → Best Apartments : Kaikōura Waterfront Apartments

Day 7: Christchurch

Driving distance from Kaikōura to Christchurch: 180 km (112 miles) / 2.5 hours
Stay 1 night in Christchurch

Pastel blue, yellow, and green shopfronts along New Regent Street in Christchurch, with green signage for Story restaurant and pink signage for a cockatail bar called "gin gin."

If you’re keen on taking a whale-watching tour in Kaikōura, this morning would be the time to do it!

Kaikoura is the best place in NZ to see whales, and a morning ocean cruise will be an amazing way to start the day.

After your whale-watching tour, make your way to Christchurch, the South Island’s largest city.

Christchurch has been rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 2011 (and there’s still a lot of construction in the works). The city centre is modern, walkable, and full of creative energy.

Stops on the drive from Kaikōura to Christchurch

The stretch of road south of Kaikōura is one of the most scenic coastal drives in the country, so take your time and enjoy the views.

For lunch, you could stop at a winery in the Waipara Valley, located just an hour north of Christchurch. Waipara Springs does beautiful lunch platters.

Things to do in Christchurch

A green Christchurch tram, filled with passengers, crossing the road in front of the Christchurch Art Gallery.

Spend your afternoon in Christchurch by walking or taking the tram around the city centre, which is flat and easily walkable.

Highlights in the city centre include the beautiful (and free) Botanic Gardens, Avon River, Arts Centre, Christchurch Art Gallery, and colourful shopfronts along New Regent Street. While you can easily walk to these highlights, the hop-on, hop-off tram is a fun way to see the city, too. It stops at all of the top spots. You can also book a tram & gondola combo, which includes a trip up the Christchurch Gondola to see panoramic views over Christchurch and its surrounds. Or you could instead hike up the steep but scenic Bridle Path to access the same views from the top for free (take the number 8 bus from the city centre to the base of the gondola to start your hike).
Dinner in Christchurch : After exploring the city, have dinner and a drink at the Riverside Market, which has heaps of dining options and is a must-visit when in Christchurch. Or head to Little High Eatery, an upscale food court with a wide variety of choices and fun, casual vibe.
For the perfect post-dinner treat , grab an ice cream at Rollickin Gelato or sip on a nightcap at the cosy Last Word bar.

Where to Stay in Christchurch

A sunny bedroom at the West Fitzroy Apartments in Christchurch, with a Queen bed made up in white sheets with a grey accent pillow and blanket, and a wooden bedframe and side table.

→ Camping : Tasman Holiday Park (this is located out of the city centre, but you can camp here and then take an Uber or bus into the city) → Budget-friendly : Breakfree on Cashel (their rooms are tiny and some have no windows 😬, but it’s in a good location right in the city centre—and you can’t beat the price. Street parking only, though, so take all belongings with you to your room). → Top choice accommodation : West Fitzroy Apartments (I don’t stay anywhere else in Christchurch now! They have parking, kitchenettes, and laundry facilities in each room).

Day 8: Mount Cook National Park

Driving distance from Christchurch to Mount Cook Village: 330 km (205 miles) / 4 hours 10 minutes
Stay 1 night in Mount Cook National Park

Fuel up with some breakfast at one of Christchurch’s cafes (I’m a huge fan of Grizzly Bakery) and then hit the road—you’re leaving city life and heading back into the wild today!

Tip : If you need to pick up any road trip snacks or other groceries, the supermarkets in Christchurch will have the best selection you’ll find over the next stretch of your trip. I do recommend stocking up, as there are no supermarkets in Mount Cook National Park and dining options are limited.

Related read: the Ultimate Christchurch to Queenstown road trip itinerary

Stops on the drive from Christchurch to Mount Cook National Park

Purple and pink lupins growing along the shores of Lake Tekapo, with softly-shaded mountains in the backdrop.

Need a coffee break ? Triangle Cafe in Ashburton is an excellent choice.
Geraldine : Visit the Barker’s Foodstore to pick up some NZ-made jams & chutneys. The Geradline Cheese Company is also well worth a visit.
Pies at Fairlie Bakery: Make sure you’ve saved some room for more food, because the Fairlie Bakery is an absolute must-do for a savoury pie. Their pork belly and applesauce pie is, in my opinion, the best pie in the country 🙂
Tekapo : this town is home to Lake Tekapo, a stunning turquoise-blue lake that’s so pretty it feels unreal. Stop here for a bathroom break, leg stretch, and lunch. Walk along the lakefront and visit the famous Church of the Good Shepherd. Have lunch at Kohan, a Japanese restaurant with amazing bentos featuring local alpine salmon. In late spring and early summer, Lake Tekapo is a hotspot for lupin-spotting on the South Island . Between the end of November to mid-December, you’ll see abundant patches of lupins all along the lakefront.
Lake Pukaki : After Lake Tekapo, you’ll drive for about 30 minutes before reaching Lake Pukaki, another stunning turquoise lake. Pull into the Lake Pukaki Viewpoint for epic views over the Lake, and on a clear day you’ll also see Aoraki / Mount Cook in the distance.
Other noteworthy stops between Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook National Park include the Mount Cook Alpine Salmon Shop, Mount Cook Lavender Farm (summer only), and Peter’s Lookout .

After enjoying all of this incredible scenery, you’ll reach your destination: Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park!

Things to do in Mount Cook National Park

A zig-zagging boardwalk surrounded by meadows with Mount Cook in the background on the Hooker Valley hike in Mount Cook National Park, one of the best day walks on the South Island.

Hiking, hiking and more hiking—that’s how to spend your time in Mount Cook National Park!

That being said, you’ll probably only have time for one hike this afternoon. You should make that the Hooker Valley Track , a 3-hour return hike that is quite possibly the best day hike on the South Island .

After hiking, have some dinner and then head outside to stargaze for a bit—on a clear night, the stargazing is incredible!

Where to stay in Mount Cook National Park

A view looking up at the grandiose building of the Hermitage Hotel in Mount Cook National Park, with a towering 6 stories filled with the windows of hotel rooms.

→ Camping : White Horse Hill DOC Campground (this is truly one of the most scenic campsites on the South Island !). Also see my guide to the best campsites near Mount Cook . → Budget-friendly : Haka House → Best Mote l: Aoraki Court Motel → Splurge-worthy views : The Hermitage ❗️ Just a heads up : You need to book far ahead for accommodation in Mount Cook National Park, as it’s extremely limited. I’d get your Mount Cook accommodation locked in asap to avoid disappointment.

Day 9: Wānaka

Driving distance from Mount Cook Village to Wānaka: 206 km (128 miles) / 2.5 hour
Stay 1 night in Wānaka

Lake Wanaka in winter, with snow-capped mountains in the backdrop and an empty pontoon floating on the lake.

Before leaving Mount Cook National Park today, try to squeeze in one more hike!

I recommend the Kea Point Track or Tasman Glacier View Track for short but scenic hiking options.

Then it’s time to make your way to Wānaka, a gorgeous lakeside town filled with cute cafes, local boutique shops, and plenty of nearby hikes to choose from.

Stops on the drive from Mount Cook National Park to Wānaka

Mountains covered in golden meadows along Lindis Pass.

Twizel : The first stop today should be for brunch! Make your way to Twizel and have a coffee and brekkie at Mint Folk & Co.
Omarama Clay Cliffs : these craggy rock formations are a worthy detour along today’s drive if you have an extra hour to spare. There’s a $5 entry fee per car, so bring cash with you.
Lindis Pass : From Twizel, you’ll drive past some stunning high country scenery before heading up Lindis Pass, a winding mountain pass surrounded by golden tussock fields. Stop at the Lindis Pass summit lookout for a gorgeous view and photo op.

From the Lindis Pass summit, you’ll have one more hour of driving before reaching Wānaka.

Things to do in Wānaka

Views over Lake Wanaka and the town of Wanaka, surrounded by mountains, from the summit of the Mount Iron Track.

You could easily spend a week (or a lifetime!) in Wānaka and not get bored. With just one afternoon, though, here’s what I’d do.

Mount Iron : Hike up the Mount Iron Track to get excellent views over Lake Wānaka and the town.
Wānaka Lavender Farm : In summer, visit this gorgeous lavender farm and meander through rows and rows of lavender and stunning flower-filled gardens. There are cute farm animals onsite, plus a lovely lavender shop selling beauty products, teas, and ice cream.
Wānaka lakefront walk : Wander along the lakefront path from Wānaka’s main beach to the famous Wānaka tree , which is overhyped (to be honest) but somewhat of a must-see. I like walking along the path for a while past the famous tree —it’s a cruisy, lovely trail with awesome scenery.
Craft beer : After all of that walking, it’s time for a beer! Head to B.effect brewery for a craft beer and snack.
Dinner in Wānaka : For a casual alfresco meal or takeway, go to the Brownston Street food truck pod (Burrito Craft and Pizza Pizza are excellent). Red Star does great burgers. And for something a bit more special, Francesca’s Italian is my top choice.
Cinema Paradiso : After dinner, see a movie at the iconic Cinema Paradiso, and make sure to get a warm chocolate chip cookie at intermission.

Have more time to spend in Wānaka? Add another day here for hiking, and tackle the Rob Roy Glacier, Roy’s Peak, Isthmus Peak, or Rocky Mountain tracks.

Where to Stay in Wānaka

Looking out over an inviting pool from the deck of a room at the Wanaka Lakeview Apartments, with a view of Lake Wanaka in the background.

→ Camping : Wānaka Top 10 Holiday Park → Top Choice Accommodation : Lakeside Apartments → Best-Value Motel : Clearbrook Motel Wānaka

Days 10 & 11: Te Anau & Milford Sound

Driving distance from Wānaka to Te Anau: 227 km (141 miles) / 3 hour s
Stay 2 nights in Te Anau with a day trip to Milford Sound

You’ll be heading from one lakeside town to another today, and the scenery along the way will be absolutely spectacular.

After breakfast at a cafe in Wanaka (I love Scroggin or Curbside Bagels), make your way towards Te Anau, the “Gateway to Milford Sound.”

I recommend spending two nights in Te Anau.

On your first day in Te Anau, spend the afternoon on a day hike or simply enjoy the cute town.

Then on your second day in Te Anau, day trip from Te Anau to Milford Sound.

Stops on the drive from Wānaka to Te Anau – Day 10

Buckingham Street in Arrowtown with shops and cars on both sides of the street. There are hills around the street covered in autumn foliage.

Cardrona : Snap a photo of the famous Cardrona Pub, and have a coffee in their beautiful gardens.
Crown Range Road : This twisty, steep road is the highest main road in New Zealand. It’s super scenic, but please take care when travelling along this road, particularly in the winter months. Stop at the carpark at the summit for some incredible views over Arrowtown, Queenstown, and the Remarkables Mountain Range.
Arrowtown : This picturesque historic gold mining town is a worthy detour on today’s drive. Walk along the Arrow River Trail and wander along Buckingham Street, where you’ll find cute boutiques and cafes. Check out the Royalburn Farm shop for local produce and gifts. Have lunch at Provisions Cafe or a coffee at Wolf Coffee Roasters before hitting the road again.
Garston : by this point, you may be in need of another quick break from the car. There is a good public bathroom in Garston, plus a great coffee cart (the Coffee Bomb) and a wonderful honey shop where you can pick up manuka honey or the local specialty: wild thyme honey.

Note : you’ll drive right through Queenstown today, but I haven’t included any stops in Queenstown on this leg of the trip, because you’ll be returning here after Te Anau and Milford Sound!

Things to do in Te Anau

A golden-hour view at sunset over Lake Te Anau and the Marakura Wharf, with snow-dusted mountains in the backdrop.

Hiking : Do a day walk on the Kepler Track, one of New Zealand’s famous Great Walks. I love the trail sections from Rainbow Reach to Shallow Bay or from the Control Gates to Brod Bay —both are filled with beech forest and lush ferns.
Must-see movie : See the 45-minute Ata Whenua – Shadowland film at Fiordland Cinema while enjoying a local beer or wine.
Where to eat : Have dinner at either Redcliff Cafe or Ditto. For breakfast in Te Anau, go to Sandfly Cafe. A pie from Miles Better Pies is never a bad idea, either.
Photo-op : Visit the Marakura Yacht Club jetty at sunset to snap a gorgeous photo of Lake Te Anau.
More activities : the Te Anau glow worm caves are a popular paid activity. For more things to do, check out the bird sanctuary to see takahē and other native birds, or play disc golf in Ivon Wilson Park (byo discs or buy from Outside Sports).

Things to do between Te Anau & Milford Sound – Day 11

Driving distance from Te Anau to Milford Sound: 118 km (73 miles) / 2 hours (one way)

A section of the road on the Te Anau to Milford Sound drive with a snowy mountain in the backdrop.

Spend Day 11 of your itinerary by taking a day trip from Te Anau to Milford Sound .

The drive today is arguably the best scenic drive in New Zealand, so take your time and plan for lots of stops.

I recommend packing a picnic lunch, drinking water, and snacks with you because there aren’t many amenities in Milford Sound. Also make sure to fuel up your vehicle with petrol in Te Anau before your drive.

Eglinton Valley : this is a quick stop for gorgeous views over a tussock-covered valley with mountains in the backdrop.
Mirror Lakes : take a 5-minute walk along a boardwalk to see the small Mirror Lakes, which reflect the surrounding mountains on a clear, calm day.
Homer Tunnel : you’ll likely have to stop here to wait for oncoming traffic (the tunnel is one-way and regulated by traffic lights). While you wait, take in the scenery from your vehicle and keep your eyes peeled for kea, NZ’s cheeky alpine parrot!
Milford Foreshore Walk : this is a gorgeous and flat, easy walk along the Milford Sound Foreshore offering some amazing views over the sound. Look for the Insta-famous swing while you’re there!
Milford Sound cruise or kayak trip : take a relaxing cruise along Milford Sound and soak in the epic scenery including mountains, waterfalls, and marine life. Or for something more active, book a kayak trip with Rosco’s kayaks.
Key Summit Hike : on the return drive from Milford Sound back to Te Anau, tackle the Key Summit Hike . On a clear day, the views from the summit are some of the best in Fiordland.

Parking Tip : the main carpark at Milford Sound is expensive, charging $10 per hour to park. For free parking, park at Deepwater Basin and then walk for 20-30 minutes to reach the cruise terminal (this is what I always do).

🛳 Book your Milford Sound cruise in advance!

Make sure to book your Milford Sound cruise well in advance if visiting during the summer months. I love the Pure Milford cruise , and they offer a 24-hour cancellation policy for direct bookings—so there’s nothing to lose by booking ahead!

Where to Stay in Te Anau

A made-up bed in a motel room at the Te Anau Tasman Holiday Park, with two folded grey bath towels topped with 2 grey washcloths at the foot of the bed, white bedding, wooden side tables on each side of the bed, and a diamond-shaped decorative wall hanging with a plant above the bed.

→ Camping in Te Anau : either the Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park or Tasman Holiday Park Te Anau (they are both great). → Top Choice Motels : Lakeside Motel & Apartments OR a “deluxe” or “superior” studio room or apartment at the Tasman Holiday Park (believe me…I’ve stayed in several lacklustre, overpriced places in Te Anau and these are the best I’ve found!).

Days 12 & 13: Queenstown & Glenorchy

Driving distance from Te Anau to Queenstown: 171 km (106 miles) / 2 hours 10 minutes
Stay 2 nights in Queenstown with a day trip to Glenorchy

Views over Lake Wakatipu and the Queenstown Gardens from the top of the Skyline Gondola.

Now it’s time for the last destination on your road trip: Queenstown!

While it’s known as the “Adventure Capital of the World,” there’s a lot more to Queenstown than adrenaline-rushing activities.

This beautiful town is perched upon the shores of Lake Wakatipu and encircled by towering mountains. It’s home to incredible hiking & cycling trails, a fantastic dining scene, and some seriously wonderful craft breweries and wineries.

In short, Queenstown is pretty spectacular. This is where I live, so I’ll share some local intel with you!

Stops on the drive from Te Anau to Queenstown

You’ll already have driven this stretch of road on your drive from Wānaka to Te Anau, so I recommend just getting to Queenstown as early as you can.

Devil’s Staircase Lookout Point : One pitstop that’s worth making today is a quick photo-op at the lookout on the Devil’s Staircase road along Lake Wakatipu. It’ll be on the left side of the road today, which is easier to access than on the drive down when it’s on the opposite side.
Supermarkets : Another stop you may want to make is at one of the supermarkets in Frankton, a suburb of Queenstown. If you’re planning to cook at your accommodation or campground, or if you simply want to grab some snacks and drinks, Frankton has the best supermarket selection in Queenstown (Pak n Save is my go-to).

Things to do in Queenstown – Day 12

The historic red and white TSS Earnslaw steamship, parked up at Walter Peak on Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown.

There is so much to do in Queenstown that it’s hard to narrow it down to a short description.

Popular activities include riding the Skyline Gondola; taking a cruise on the TSS Earnslaw ; and zipping along the water on a high-speed jet boat .

However, my favourite things to do in Queenstown are a little bit different. If you love being outdoors like I do, then spend the rest of the day walking or cycling!

Queenstown Hill Walk : For a short (but steep) hike, head up Queenstown Hill for stunning views over Queenstown. This 4.8km (3 mile) trail takes around 2 hours return.
Queenstown Gardens : Walk through the Queenstown Gardens and along Lake Wakatipu to reach the Frankton Track, where you can enjoy a flat lakeside walk. There is also a great disc golf course here (hire discs from the ice skating rink or Small Planet Sports).
Or go biking! Hire a bike and cycle the Frankton Track to the sunny Frankton Arm. On your return ride, pop into Altitude Brewery for a local craft beer. Around the Basin is a good place for bike rentals.
Dinner in Queenstown : After your afternoon in Queenstown, have dinner somewhere delicious. I have so many favourite places, but a few top spots include Tanoshi for Japanese share plates; the Cow for pizza and pasta; Ramen Ramen for…ramen; and Margos for Mexican food.
After-dinner treats : For post-dinner drinks at a cocktail bar, try Little Blackwood, Ferg Bar, Perky’s Floating Bar, or Little Mez. Or get an ice cream from Patagonia Chocolates or Ferg Gelato to enjoy by the lakefront.

Things to do between Queenstown and Glenorchy – Day 13

Driving distance from Queenstown to Glenorchy: 45 km (28 miles) / 45 minutes (one way)

The road from Queenstown to Glenorchy, winding along the shores of Lake Wakatipu with mountains in the backdrop.

On your final day in Queenstown, I actually think you should leave it—just for a day trip, though!

Today, take a short road trip to Glenorchy, which lies a 45-minute drive away from Queenstown.

The drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy is one of the most spectacular drives in the world. The road skirts along Lake Wakatipu, with snow-capped mountains framing the backdrop—it’s the type of scenery you’ll dream about long after your trip.

You have a few options for how to spend the day, but either way, hiking should be on the cards!

Breakfast in Queenstown : Before leaving for Glenorchy, have breakfast at one of Queenstown’s excellent cafes. Bespoke or Vudu are great for a sit-down breakfast, or get takeaway pastries and coffee from Fergbaker if you want something quick. Fergbaker is also a great place to grab a sandwich to take on the road with you.
Moke Lake Track : Take a detour to peaceful Moke Lake and walk the Moke Lake Loop Track, a peaceful 2-hour walk that circles the lake.
Bob’s Cove : Walk for 15 minutes through native beech forest to reach Bob’s Cove, one of Queenstown’s best beaches. For epic views over Lake Wakatipu, hike up to Picnic Point before turning back to where you started. On a warm summer day, you’ll be tempted to swim here, too (it’ll be icy cold but epic!).
Bennett’s Bluff lookout : Stop here for a quick walk (5 minutes return) to a great lookout over Lake Wakatipu with Mount Aspiring National Park in the distance.
Mrs Woolly’s General Store : This cute shop and cafe is a must-visit when in Glenorchy. Peruse their awesome selection of locally-made goods, and pick up a treat from the cabinet.
Frank’s Corner : This lovely little boutique shop has a great assortment of NZ-made goods. Their merino wool socks are the perfect souvenir! (If you don’t make it to their Glenorchy shop, though, they also have a location in Queenstown).
Glenorchy Red Boat Shed : The iconic Glenorchy landmark makes for a great photo-op.
Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway : Stroll along this peaceful, flat walking trail and look for mountain reflections in the lagoon.

When you return to Queenstown from Glenorchy, celebrate your successful NZ trip with a pint at a craft beer bar (Beechtree, Smith’s, or Atlas) and a burger from Fergburger, Devil Burger, or World Bar.

Where to Stay in Queenstown

A side view of the Holiday Inn Express Hotel in Queenstown, with a geometric design to the exterior, painted in shades of white and grey.

→ Camping : either the Driftaway (nicest spot, but 10 minutes from town) or Creeksyde Holiday Park (quirkier but right in the heart of Queenstown). Also see my guide to the best campsites in Queenstown . → Budget-friendly : Adventure Hostel Queenstown → Best-value for location : Holiday Inn Express Queenstown (free breakfast! a sauna!) → Boutique stay : The Sherwood

Day 14: Depart

A view from a window of an Air New Zealand plane leaving Queenstown, with an airplane wing, snow-capped mountains, and a house-filled suburb in the view.

Check out of your accommodation or campground and head to the airport, which is conveniently located just 7.5 km from the Queenstown town centre.

While it doesn’t usually take very long to reach the airport, do give yourself extra time to account for traffic delays and to return your car or campervan.

You’ll usually need to fill your rental vehicle up with petrol before returning it; the Z Petrol Station is a handy place to do this when you leave the town centre, although do be prepared for sticker shock when it comes to Queenstown petrol prices.

Best time of year for a road trip from Auckland to Queenstown

Views from the Key Summit Track on the drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound

The best months for this road trip are October through April , which aligns with spring, summer, and autumn in Queenstown. Travelling between these months will give you the most daylight hours and less chance of snow on the roads and hiking trails.

Peak travel season in New Zealand runs from late December through February, so expect higher prices and more crowds during this time period. If you travel during these peak months, make sure you book everything well in advance.

If you’d prefer fewer crowds and better prices, visit in mid-late spring (October and November) or early-mid autumn (March and April). The weather in NZ tends to be more settled in autumn vs spring, but that isn’t always the case.

Other seasonal things to consider:

-Want to see the lupin bloom on the South Island? Visit in late November/early December.

-Want to go swimming in NZ’s lakes and rivers? Visit in summer.

-Want to see the autumn colours in Arrowtown? Visit in mid-late April.

Alternate Auckland to Queenstown itineraries

A view over Hahei Beach and Hahei town from the Te Pare Pa Reserve walking track.

If you prefer coastal scenery, consider driving down the South Island’s West Coast instead of down the middle of the island. Check out my Picton to Queenstown road trip for a good route to take!

Have more than 14 days? Then add another night to Auckland (visit Waiheke Island), Tongariro National Park or Wānaka. Or include the Coromandel Peninsula in your itinerary—the Coromandel is packed with incredible beaches and campsites .

Want to do less driving? Then another option is to shorten your driving time by flying from the North Island to the South Island. From Rotorua, you could fly to Christchurch, pick up another hire car, and start your South Island road trip from there. (This only really works with a hire car, not a campervan, as there are no campervan depots in Rotorua). Alternatively, you could follow my 7-day North Island itinerary and then fly from Auckland to the South Island to complete a 7-day South Island road trip, for a total of 14 days in NZ.

Thanks for reading!

Jac and Ty from Weekend Path in front of a hobbit house at Hobbiton, one of the best stops on a road trip from Auckland to Queenstown.

I hope this itinerary has helped you plan a trip to remember.

As always, please leave a comment or send me an email if you have any questions about this guide. I’m always happy to try and help with your NZ trip plans.

Road Trip from Queenstown to Auckland

For anyone wanting to explore New Zealand from top to bottom, the journey from Queenstown to Auckland will be the scenic trip of a lifetime. Covering both the North and South Islands, you can get an all-encompassing taste of the Land of the Long White Cloud.

The 1,720 km road trip from Queenstown to Auckland will take 25 hours to drive. Highlights include Queenstown, Lake Hayes, Wanaka, Lake Hawea, Franz Josef Glacier, Tongariro National Park, Christchurch, Napier, Coromandel, and unforgettable Auckland.

You'll experience the best of New Zealand with its volcanic mountains, dramatic coastlines, lush green forests and turquoise lakes. Auckland is a maelstrom of urban landscapes and the great outdoors where you can enjoy beaches and nightlife all in one city. Read on to start planning this incredible road trip of a lifetime.

How far is Auckland from Queenstown, and how long will the road trip take?

The Glacier Route will take you through some of the most incredible scenery on the South Island. You'll travel 1,720 km and around 25 hours to reach your destination.

On the Iconic Coromandel Route, you'll see the incredible eastern coasts of the South and North Islands. You'll travel a distance of 1,940 km in 29 hours if you were to drive nonstop.

No matter which route you choose, you'll be able to explore New Zealand's postcard-worthy terrain. Read on to learn more about the two routes so you can start planning this epic journey. We recommend six to eight days to enjoy this epic road trip.

Best road trip route from Queenstown to Auckland

There are two incredible routes to take from Auckland to Queenstown. Each depends on what you want to see and do and also the amount of time you have, so the best road trip will depend on your choices.

The Glacier Route takes you through the Southern Alps in South Island. Here you'll visit the prominent glaciers of New Zealand, none more famous than the Franz Josef Glacier.

Franz Josef and Fox Glacier View from a Helicopter

Throughout the journey, you'll encounter national parks with waterfalls and fulfilling hikes. Crossing on a car ferry from Picton to Wellington, you'll enter North Island, where the direct route takes you through more outdoor adventures including volcanic mountains.

Longer than the more direct Glacier Route, The Iconic Coromandel Route takes you through the central South Islands with its turquoise lakes. After driving through Lindis Pass, you'll meet the tallest summit in New Zealand, Mount Cook.

It's a detour, but the iconic Coromandel is your last stop before Auckland, where you can enjoy pristine beaches and forested mountains.

How to drive from Queenstown to Auckland

The map above shows our suggestions for the best road trip routes between Queenstown and Auckland. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of both routes, where to stay on either, and the best things to do on the way.

The Glacier Route

Take the beautiful State Highway 6 up through the mountains and lakes near the town of Wanaka. Continue on the winding highway until you reach the mighty South Pacific Ocean and the town of Haast.

From here you'll continue along the coast, witnessing waterfalls and some of the most dramatic scenery on the planet. Take Highway 67 into Westport for a stop in one of the South Island's most charming towns.

Tourists enjoying ferry boat crossing. Picton to Wellington. Cook Strait crossing, New Zealand

Get back on Highway 6 and drive further until you reach Kawatiri. Take State Highway 63 and drive north along the Wairau River.

Once you reach Renwick head north into the town of Picton to catch the Interislander Ferry. You'll cross the striking Cook Strait and arrive in the city of Wellington, on the North Island.

Drive along State Highway 1, through Tararua Forest Park. Continue on through the small agricultural towns of the North Island into Turangi. Hop on State Highway and drive until you reach State Highway 1. Continue north through Hamilton and into your destination of Auckland.

The Iconic Coromandel Route

From Queenstown, take State Highway 8 through the countryside of the South Island. Drive east and hop on State Highway 1. You will drive through Lindis Pass, Twizel and the beautiful scenery of Pukaki and Tekapo Lakes.

Past Mount Hutt, drive north until you reach the strikingly beautiful and vibrant city of Christchurch. Continue north on State Highway 1 until you reach Picton.

Get on the Interislander Ferry and cross the Cook Strait into Wellington. From here continue northeast pas Takapau.

Drive through the incredible communities of Napier, Taupo, Rotorua, and Tauranga. From here drive north towards your destination and make a side trip to the beautiful city of Coromandel before doubling back and driving into Auckland.

Best places to stop between Queenstown and Auckland

There are plenty of incredible stops along the way from Queenstown to Auckland. We've chosen our favourites to help you choose what's right for you.

Explore “Middle Earth” in Hamilton

Along the Glacier Route, just 1 hour and 20 minutes from Auckland, is the stunning town of Hamilton. Sitting on the banks of the Waikato River, the city features vibrant street art, gardens, and the famous Hobbiton movie set.

The first highlight to visit is Hamilton Gardens, the city's most popular attraction. Stroll through the distinct garden spaces inspired by places like the Indian Char Bagh Garden, the Japanese Garden of Contemplation, and the English Flower Garden.

Afterwards, enjoy the cosmopolitan vibes of central Hamilton. Whether you want to sip a drink in the microbreweries and cafes, enjoy retail therapy at the boutique shops and malls, or treat yourself to a delicious meal at an award-winning restaurant.

Indian Char Bagh Garden in Hamilton Gardens Hamilton, New Zealand.

Just a 45-minute drive away, the Hobbiton Movie Set tour is an enchanting experience. Walk through the Shire as featured in The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings movies. You can even enjoy a hobbit-style meal.

Once you've had your fill of checking out the city, we recommend staying at the Novotel Tainui Hamilton . The hotel is located in central Hamilton, on the Waikato River. You can easily walk outside to enjoy river walks or head out to the Waikato Museum, just 7 minutes away on foot.

Located downtown you will be within easy reach of many eateries and bars, but you don't have to venture far if you choose not to. The upscale hotel has a stylish lobby bar, hot breakfast buffet, and a riverside restaurant on-site for you to enjoy without even leaving the premises.

Enjoy the Garden City of Christchurch

On the Iconic Coromandel Route is the mesmerising city of Christchurch. About one-third of the way, the city makes for an ideal stop after visiting Mount Hutt. Vibrant Christchurch is famous for its gardens, earning itself the nickname Garden City.

Check out the famous Christchurch Botanic Gardens, which earned the city its nickname. This incredible park was started from a single English oak planted in 1863. Nowadays, it spans 21 hectares with plants and conservatories all conveniently located downtown.

The Christchurch Gondola takes you up Mount Cavendish for a panoramic view of not only the city but the snow-capped Southern Alps. At the top, there are hiking trails and the Red Rock Cafe.

Lyttelton harbor from the Cavendish mountain, Christchurch, South island of New Zealand

Another must-see sight is the Canterbury Museum. Housed in an 1870 stone building, the Canterbury Museum has both human and nature exhibitions. About a 15 minute walk from the museum, you will find the New Regent Street Precinct. The pedestrianised shopping street dates back to the 1930s and is often thought of as “New Zealand's prettiest street”.

While exploring Christchurch, we recommend staying at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch . Located on Hereford Street, it's in central Christchurch, just a minute's walk from the Canterbury Museum and nine minutes from the Botanic Gardens.

This luxury boutique hotel has individual contemporary rooms and premium gym facilities, including treadmills. What's more is the incredibly spacious layout and close proximity to some of the best restaurants and bars in the city.

Where to stay when you reach Auckland

Once you reach your destination, we recommend staying at the beautiful SO/ Auckland . The hotel has an Indoor adult-only swimming pool open all year round and valet parking that will help you get situated stress-free after your long drive.

It's a luxurious avant-garde hotel with plenty of amenities like massage treatments and comfortable places to relax.

The hotel's Harbour Society restaurant serves incredible Asian cuisine. Javalab Cafe serves French patisserie and coffee, perfect for breakfast or a lovely snack.

The hotel features two bars including the HI-SO rooftop bar. Here, you can enjoy the evening in style before hitting the town.

Things to see on a road trip from Queenstown to Auckland

With so much natural scenery on the way, you'll be mesmerised the entire way. We've included our favourite stops along the way to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.

Lake Hawea - Enjoy outdoor activities with imposing mountains as your backdrop. Boat, kayak and kite surf on the lake or walk and find a spot to lounge on the beach.
Mount Aspiring National Park - Many hikers claim this national park has the best hikes in South New Zealand. Thunder Creek Falls and the Blue Pools are standout nature spots.
Haast - You'll find picturesque remote beaches in and around Haast. But a short trip down the Haast River leads you to Roaring Billy Falls.
Lake Matheson - A glacial lake, Lake Matheson offers dramatic views of Mount Cook and Tasman. Popular because it's only small, so a hike around the entire lake is only 2.6km.
Franz Josef Glacier - Considered the iconic glacier of New Zealand. Best experienced by taking a guided tour that'll lead you to once-in-a-lifetime glacial scenes.
Hokitika - A small but trendy and artistic town. Take the Gorge Walk on a loop trail taking you over a suspension bridge. Before the days out, watch the sunset on Hokitika Beach at Sunset Point Road.
Punakaiki - Experience the Pancake Rocks. The eroded limestone formations project sea water through upright blowholes.
Charleston - A small charming town, but there's more below the surface. At Charleston, you can go on a cave tour and see glow worms illuminating the dark.
Westport - Westport is home to exhilarating white water rafting. If you're enjoying the views of the west coast, the Great Coast Road is a scenic drive achievable from Westport.
Tongariro National Park - Hike your way to the Taranaki Falls or walk the Tongariro Alpine Crossing to the red crater. For the volcanic Tongariro Crossing, you can have a guided tour to make sure you're prepared and safe.
Pureora Forest Park - With towering trees and a crystalline river, the forest offers a perfect spot for a picnic. Bike the Timber Trail that'll lead you to the long suspension bridge.

Panoramic vibrant photos of Lake Hawea and mountains, South Island, New Zealand

Lindis Pass - This route takes you through Lindis Pass. The scenic road between two valleys that, throughout the year, will have snow on the peaks. Stop at the car park to take in the views.
Omarama - Soak up the mountainous views in the most relaxing of ways. Hot Tubs Omarama has a collection of outdoor hot tubs available for 90-minute sessions.
Twizel - At the base of Mount Cook, Twizel is well-placed to enjoy mountain climbing, biking and hiking.
Lake Pukaki - Stop at the viewpoint on the southern banks. Photograph the deep blue waters and if the weather is kind, you can even see Mount Cook across the lake.
Lake Tekapo - Contrast the alpine temperatures by soaking in hot waters. The Tekapo Springs Hot Pools are fed by an underground source for peak relaxation.
Mount Hutt - From early June to October, take to the slopes at Mount Hutt. It's widely considered the best ski resort in New Zealand.
Napier - Stroll the streets of Napier amongst the 1930s architecture. Pop into the information centre for a map and take a self-guided tour.
Taupo - Lake Taupo is a similar size to Singapore. Water-skiing is popular but make sure you see the natural wonders of Orakei Korako and Huka Falls.
Rotorua - Famous for its geothermal happenings, the Pohutu Geyser is a star attraction. Watch it erupt daily.
Tauranga - Tauranga is a harbour city and a hub for galleries, restaurants and shopping. But don't miss out on a chance to see dolphins.
Coromandel - Walk the Coromandel Coast. With vast stretches of beaches, you can find a remote spot all for yourself.

Yachts under sail and silhouette of setting sun on Tauranga harbor, New Zealand

Both Routes

Lake Hayes - With its reflective properties, Lake Hayes is an opportunity to take postcard-like photos. A quiet spot to relax and have a leisurely stroll.
Wanaka - A buzzing alpine town, Wanaka, is a hot spot for thrill seekers. There's skydiving and jet boating. In winter it's a lively place for skiing and snowboarding.
Picton Ferry - On both routes, you'll have to take the Picton to Wellington Ferry. While a necessary journey, the car ferry travels over calm waters through lush forests.
Wellington - As the capital of New Zealand, this compact city has a lot to offer. From sculpture walks to movie experiences to elite museums.

Wellington Cable Car, the landmark of New Zealand.

Best time to go on a road trip from Queenstown to Auckland

Auckland is a colourful city that can be visited year-round. For travellers visiting from abroad, remember Auckland's summer is between late December and late February, but the warm weather extends to March.

January and February tend to be when Auckland is hottest, but temperatures aren't over the top averaging around 20 degrees Celsius. January to April is the high season so hotels can be more expensive but things ease off come February and March.

Winter is from late June to late September. July is the coldest month with an average temperature of 11 degrees. July is also the month with the highest amount of rainfall. Although it snows on the eastern South Island, Auckland rarely experiences snow so you can enjoy the surrounding area.

Driving along the west coast of the South Island comes with its warnings. In winter, heavy rain and blizzards can make driving conditions difficult. There are hills and winding roads so even in good conditions, it'll take longer than what the GPS might suggest and requires careful attentive driving.

When travelling to Lindis Pass in South Island on the Iconic Coromandel Route, you'll need snow chains if there's snow on the ground. You shouldn't attempt it otherwise. Although open all year round, in winter months, take your time, as even if snow isn't visible the roads could be icy.

September is a good time to visit. The cool weather makes it good for enjoying the extensive walks Auckland has to offer. Averaging at 13 degrees Celsius, the weather is comfortable.

Auckland Arts Festival takes place in March. If you visit in January, you can attend the Gardens Music Festival, which attracts a lot of tourism. These are larger festivals to note as they raise hotel prices.

However, throughout the year there are smaller festivals in Auckland. From the Gin Festival in early February to the Vegan Food Festival in April, it's a bustling city.

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Already have an account? Log in

21 Day Auckland to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary

If you want to see New Zealand, and see it properly, you should plan a road trip exploring both the North Island and the South Island. Each island is vastly diverse from the other, but the thing they do have in common, is they are both perfect destinations for campervan travel. But with so many great landscapes to see, mountains to climb, and places to camp, it can be a little hard to choose where to prioritise, especially if you are short on time.

We have put together this 21-day Auckland to Queenstown road trip itinerary, highlighting our favourite must-see destinations along the way.

Auckland to Queenstown Distance

This route spans a distance of 1,757 km and will take roughly 25 hours to cover. What makes this journey unique is the inclusion of a ferry ride, which adds an extra element of adventure to the experience. As you cross over the blue waters and see the picturesque views around it, you’ll appreciate the chance to stretch your legs and take in the beautiful scenery of the north and south islands. Whether you’re a business traveller or a tourist, this route is definitely worth taking if you have the time and want to explore the best of what New Zealand has to offer.

1640km trip distance

21 day roadtrip

Campervan recommended

Day 1-2: Auckland

Starting in the North Island, pick up your campervan in Auckland and get ready for adventure! We recommend spending a full 1 or 2 days in Auckland, as there’s a lot to see and do here in New Zealand’s most populated city. Sprawling over volcanic hills and around twin harbours, Auckland is home to an exciting mix of natural wonders and urban activities. There’s plenty of amazing food and wine to enjoy, as well as kayaking and hiking experiences right within the city.

Sightseeing #1: Sky Tower

At a staggering 328 metres tall, this imposing structure is not only the tallest in New Zealand but also one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. From the top, visitors can take in the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area, stretching out for up to 80 kilometres in every direction. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for a daring SkyJump or simply wanting to sip a cocktail at the stunning Sky Cafe, the Sky Tower is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Auckland.

Sightseeing #2: Auckland Zoo

Discover the wonders of Auckland Zoo, an internationally acclaimed destination boasting an impressive array of native and exotic species nestled within 17 hectares of verdant parkland. As a leader in wildlife research, conservation, and cutting-edge zoo design, Auckland Zoo has earned numerous national and international accolades. Conveniently located just minutes from central Auckland, you can immerse yourself in this captivating sanctuary daily (excluding Christmas Day) from 9:30 am. Don’t miss your chance to experience the unparalleled beauty and remarkable diversity that awaits you at New Zealand’s largest zoological garden – Auckland Zoo.

Day 3: Auckland to Hobbiton

In little Hobbit town, Matamata New Zealand

Heading two hours south, make your way to Hobbiton. A trip in New Zealand’s North Island wouldn’t be complete without visiting the world-famous film set of the Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. Visit Hobbiton for a day of frolicking around the set by taking a guided tour. It’s the perfect place for that iconic Instagram shot sitting at the front of the Hobbit house, and the rolling green hills surrounding it are spectacular, too!

Sightseeing #1: Hobbiton Village

Nestled in lush green hills and dotted with hobbit holes and gardens, Hobbiton Village is a place where you can step back in time and feel as though you’ve been transported to a fantasy land. The attention to detail in the design and architecture is second to none, and it’s hard not to be swept away by the small-town charm of this magical place.

Day 4-5: Hobbiton to Rotorua

On your next leg of the journey, drive 1 hour southeast to Rotorua – the region most famous for its bubbling mud pools, explosive geysers, natural hot springs, and rich Maori culture. Don’t skip this destination while on the North Island – it’s a unique highlight of New Zealand and has one of the world’s most active geothermal fields. Top experiences we recommend include; a soak in the thermal Polynesian Spa, witness Pohutu Geyser, and check out Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland.

Sightseeing #1: Te Puia

As the home of the prestigious New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, Te Puia offers an extraordinary opportunity to witness the preservation and celebration of traditional Māori craftsmanship. Additionally, with its state-of-the-art Kiwi Conservation Centre, you’ll find yourself closer than ever before to the nation’s cherished native bird – the elusive Kiwi. Don’t miss this unparalleled chance to experience the captivating blend of culture, artistry, and wildlife that awaits you at Te Puia.

Sightseeing #2: Whakarewarewa

Immerse yourself in over 700 years of Māori history as you gain valuable insights into the traditional lifestyles and customs of the Tuhourangi and Ngati Wahiao people. Marvel at the geothermal wonders that surround you, from steaming hot pools to mesmerizing bubbling mud, all set amidst a stunning natural landscape. As you explore this captivating village, learn about its deep connection to the famed Pink and White Terraces, tragically lost during the eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886. A visit to the Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with awe-inspiring beauty and a profound understanding of an ancient culture.

Day 6-8: Rotorua to Taupo

Geyser at Wairakei Terraces in New Zealand

Heading further into the heart of the North Island, make your way to the incredible Taupo region. At the centre of the region is the sparkling Lake Taupo, and surrounding it are the snow-blanketed mountain regions and ancient forests. Here, you can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities, as well as those to get your heart racing, such as rafting, jetboating, and bungy jumping. It’s no wonder Taupo is known as the Queenstown of the North Island!

Sightseeing #1: Huka Falls

Get ready to be blown away by the jaw-dropping Huka Falls, one of New Zealand’s most famous and incredible sights. Just imagine water rushing through a massive 100-meter-wide and four-meter-deep riverbed before squeezing into a slim 15-meter-wide section that’s 10 meters deep. The real showstopper is the 11-meter-high cliff, causing a staggering 35ft drop in the falls. With an ever-changing flow rate, you’ll never see the same view twice. If you’re looking for amazing sightseeing adventures in Taupō, Huka Falls should definitely be on your list.

Sightseeing #2: Wairakei Terraces and Thermal Health Spa

Picture yourself unwinding at the Wairakei Terraces and Thermal Health Spa in Taupō, a spot treasured by Māori for centuries for its natural healing powers. Soak in the mineral-rich thermal waters, surrounded by the stunning silica terraces, and connect with ancient holistic traditions. Known as ‘taking the waters,’ this soothing practice has been attracting people worldwide since way back when offering lasting benefits and ultimate relaxation. Make sure to treat yourself to this extraordinary oasis of calm during your time in Taupō.

Day 9: Taupo to Tongariro Alpine Crossing

If you’re a hiking enthusiast, there’s no doubt you already have a Tongariro Alpine Crossing day hike on your to-do list while in New Zealand. Located just past the south end of Lake Taupo, Tongariro National Park is New Zealand’s oldest national park and is a dual World Heritage Site. The views on this challenging hike are nothing short of incredible, but it’s not for the feint hearted. To prepare yourself for this hike, we recommend you allow 7-8 hours for completion and make sure you are checking on weather conditions before heading off.

Sightseeing #1: Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting New Zealand. As the country’s oldest national park, Tongariro has a rich cultural history that is interwoven with its breathtaking natural beauty. There’s no doubt you’ll feel awestruck as you explore the park’s stunning landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of Mount Ngauruhoe to the emerald lakes that dot the trail. The park has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is no surprise given its unique cultural and natural heritage.

Sightseeing #2: Whakapapa

Nestled in the heart of Tongariro National Park, Whakapapa Village is a must-see destination for all nature enthusiasts. Home to the iconic Mt Ruapehu, the village boasts endless adventure opportunities all year round. Whether you’re planning on hitting the slopes during winter or hiking the alpine tracks in summer, the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre has got you covered. But Whakapapa Village isn’t just for thrill-seekers! Take a scenic ride on the Sky Waka gondola and experience breathtaking views of the Central Plateau from a whole new perspective.

Day 10: Tongariro Alpine Crossing to Wellington

Wellington Cable Car, North Island New Zealand

Head 4 hours south and finish your North Island leg of the journey in New Zealand’s waterfront capital city, Wellington. This vibrant and creative little city is known for its great food, wine, craft beer, and creative culture. Delve into the cities many museums, art galleries, and ride the cable car up the hill to Kelburn for amazing views over the city.

From here, you will need to drive your campervan onto a ferry to cross over to the South Island. There are 2 ferry companies that operate the Wellington to Picton route, and the duration of sailing is about 3.5 hours.

Sightseeing #1: Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

When you visit Wellington, make sure to explore the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. This fascinating museum, whose name in Māori means “Our Container of Treasured Things and People from Mother Earth,” attracts countless tourists with its impressive cultural exhibits. Established in 1992 as a merger between The National Art Gallery and The National Museum, it now welcomes over 1.5 million visitors annually, making it the 17th most-visited art destination in New Zealand. Te Papa proudly embraces a bicultural philosophy throughout its displays, ensuring that the stories behind the showcased items are vividly brought to life with purpose and emphasis.

Sightseeing #2: Wellington Cable Car

Don’t miss the chance to experience the iconic Wellington Cable Car during your stay. This unique attraction has been enchanting visitors since 1902. As an engineering marvel of its time, the cable car takes just five minutes to whisk you up and over the hillside terraced houses of Kelburn, offering breathtaking views of the city below. Along the way, you’ll pass through three tunnels and bridges, taking in stunning panoramas of Wellington’s rolling hills and waterfront areas. Be sure to add this must-do journey to your itinerary for a complete overview of what makes Wellington so special.

Day 11-12: Wellington to Kaikoura

Dolphins jumping our of water in Kaikoura

Once off the ferry, head down the South Island’s stunning east coast until you make it to Kaikoura. It would have been a long day of travel, so rest up the night at a campground and get ready for your South Island adventures! Kaikoura is a base for wildlife experiences of all kinds – particularly whales, dolphins, and fur seals. We recommend a Kaikoura Kayak experience – in which you’re almost guaranteed to encounter dusky dolphins diving and playing in the waters surrounding.

Sightseeing Stop #1: Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

This scenic track takes about three hours to complete, but if you’re short on time, you can explore its various sections, each offering a unique experience. As you stroll along the walkway, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of New Zealand’s South Island’s east coast, with snow-capped mountains adding to the beauty during winter months. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife, such as whales, dolphins, seals, birds, and even crayfish! Don’t forget to check out the informational panels that detail the area’s rich history and biodiversity.

Sightseeing #2: Ohau Point Seal Colony

Make sure to visit the Ohau Point Seal Colony while in Kaikoura for a truly unique experience. Witness the captivating sight of New Zealand fur seals as they rest and play on the rocks, creating a mesmerizing scene you’ll remember forever. Admire their beauty and watch their impressive swimming skills as they alternate between sunbathing and taking dips in the ocean. This extraordinary encounter with nature will leave a lasting impression long after your journey has ended.

Day 13: Kaikoura to Christchurch

A further 180km south of Kaikoura, stop in at Christchurch, the largest city of the South Island. This vibrant city was largely decimated in the earthquakes that shook it a decade ago, but it has creatively rebuilt and recovered the city in a beautiful way. A destination rich with museums, culture, and beautiful gardens, it’s worth checking out along your journey.

Sightseeing #1: Christchurch Botanic Gardens

You seriously need to experience the Christchurch Botanic Gardens – it’s like walking into a lush, green oasis that’s been the heart of the Garden City for over 150 years! Just imagine: wandering through 21 hectares of stunning landscaped gardens, surrounded by towering trees and vast lawns, all nestled along the peaceful Avon River. And oh, the rose garden – it’s a sensory delight filled with vibrant colours and delightful fragrances. But that’s not all; you can also discover the New Zealand garden, which showcases gorgeous native plants, and the incredible conservatory complex, home to everything from funky cacti and exotic orchids to fascinating carnivorous plants.

Sightseeing #2: Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Looking for an authentic New Zealand wildlife experience? Then visit Willowbank Wildlife Reserve in Christchurch. Here, you’ll encounter the country’s “Big 5” – the kiwi, kaka, tuatara, kea, and takahe. And with Willowbank’s “Kiwi Guarantee,” you can see these elusive birds up close in New Zealand’s largest Kiwi viewing area. But the reserve offers more than just kiwis – you can wander the grounds, feed the animals, or even hang out with lemurs or capybaras during an Encounter experience.

Day 14: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

About three hours south-west of Christchurch in the Southern Alps, you will reach Lake Tekapo. Picturesque by day and dazzling by nice, Lake Tekapo offers one of New Zealand’s brightest, turquoise coloured lakes, and best locations for stargazing. If you are visiting in spring, you can also feast your eyes on the blooming purple lupin fields, which contrast beautifully by the blue skies and shimmering lake.

Sightseeing #1: Lake Tekapo

Imagine yourself surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps in New Zealand’s stunning Mackenzie Region – that’s where you’ll find the breathtaking Lake Tekapo. With a wealth of activities to enjoy, like kayaking, boating, and trekking along picturesque trails, there’s no shortage of adventure. And if that’s not enough, you can also explore the nearby hot springs, giving you an unforgettable taste of New Zealand’s mesmerizing landscape.

Sightseeing #2: Dark Sky Project

If you’re a fan of stargazing, you won’t want to miss the Dark Sky Project (previously known as Earth & Sky). This unique astro-tourism experience offers exclusive views of the southern skies through powerful optical telescopes. Thanks to their dedication to maintaining minimal light pollution, which is often compromised in more populated areas, you’ll have the rare opportunity to uncover a hidden world beyond the darkness that would otherwise go unnoticed. So, get ready to be amazed by the celestial wonders above!

Day 15-16: Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook

Campervan on road with Mount Cook in background

Maybe we’re biased, but we think Mount Cook is one of the most photogenic landscapes in the entire world! When you witness the turquoise blue water of Lake Pukaki and the stunning mountain backdrop, you won’t find it hard to see why. The further down Mount Cook road you travel, the better the perspective you get of the sheer size and beauty of this incredible mountain range. When you reach Mount Cook, there are several amazing hikes and walks to enjoy. We recommend Hooker Valley track for one that’s beautifully scenic and not too difficult.

Sightseeing #1: Mount Cook National Park

Get ready for awe-inspiring alpine scenery at the incredible Mount Cook National Park, which boasts some of the best views in New Zealand alongside Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier. With its majestic peaks, glaciers, and pristine snow fields, not to mention fantastic stargazing opportunities, this park is truly a sight to behold. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer eager to conquer one of the 23 peaks over 3,000 meters high or someone simply looking to trek to stunning viewpoints and explore glaciers, there’s something for everyone.

Sightseeing #2: Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Center

Celebrate the life and achievements of the legendary Sir Edmund Hillary at the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Center. Here, you can delve into his humanitarian work, ambassadorship, and place among history’s greatest explorers. Immerse yourself in the region’s captivating history and beauty through interactive 3D Mount Cook Magic movies (available in Chinese and Japanese), digital dome Planetarium documentaries, and a museum that highlights the pioneering spirit that defines this extraordinary area.

Day 17-18: Mount Cook to Wanaka

A further 2 hours south, make the town that is equally as charming as it is breathtaking your next stop. No one visits Wanaka and doesn’t fall in love with it – whether for its gorgeous natural beauty of mountains, lakes, and forests, its exceptional food and wine, or its excellent outdoor activities. Wake up before the sunrises and take on the famous Roys Peak track for that Insta-famous view over the surrounding mountains.

Sightseeing #1: Lake Wanaka

Get ready to be blown away by the absolutely stunning Lake Wanaka! This massive body of water stretches 45 kilometres long and covers 193 square kilometres, all surrounded by jaw-dropping mountains. There’s so much to do here – you can use a jetboat, sail, or kayak while exploring the many bays and coves like Glendhu, Dublin, and Roys. Don’t forget to check out the islands, such as Stevenson’s Island, Mou Tapu`, and Mou Waho. Plus, with two major rivers – Matukituki and Makarora Rivers – feeding the lake, the scenery is just incredible.

Sightseeing #2: Wanaka Lavender Farm

You’ve got to visit the Wanaka Lavender Farm. It’s this tranquil oasis right in the heart of town where you can stroll through beautiful lavender fields and displays. And if you’re into history, you’ll love exploring the historic farm buildings and learning about New Zealand’s rich farming past. For all the animal lovers out there, get ready to meet some adorable goats, chickens, and sheep. And don’t leave without trying some honey tastings and herbal teas, and grabbing some lavender products – they make perfect gifts or treats for yourself!

Day 19-21: Wanaka to Queenstown

Though when you reach Queenstown it means the journey has come to an end, we’d say you’ve left the best to last! Queenstown is a dream destination that people flock from all over the world to visit, and it’s not hard to see why many will come for a short visit and stay an extended period. It’s the adventure capital of the world, so if you like the idea of endless adrenaline-inducing activities, Queenstown will be your happy place! There’s also a great amount of fantastic food, wine, and nightlife to enjoy here, and not to mention the stunning scenery that surrounds the town.

Sightseeing #1: Queenstown Gardens

When it comes to sightseeing in Queenstown, the Queenstown Gardens are definitely worth a visit. Just a quick stroll from the town centre, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking views overlooking the stunning Lake Whakatipu. It’s the perfect place to take a leisurely walk and soak up the natural beauty, or lay out a picnic blanket and enjoy some al fresco dining while taking in the sights. The Queenstown Gardens may be a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, but they are also an essential part of Queenstown’s charm and allure.

Sightseeing #2: Coronet Peak

You’ve got to check out Coronet Peak when you’re in Queenstown during ski season, which runs from June to October. Not only does this mountain offer amazing ski terrain for all skill levels, but even if you’re not skiing, the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. It’s no wonder this place is a favourite playground for snow sports lovers and outdoor adventurers alike. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s something for everyone on this incredible mountain.

Happy Exploring!

Person jumping next to campervan with view of New Zealand lake and mountains

Ready to kick-off your adventure? Our Auckland branch is only a few minutes drive from the airport, making it easy to simply pick-up & return your campervan. So check out our deals and offers on campervan hire in Auckland .

For other amazing road trip ideas on the New Zealand North Island please visit our North Island Road Trip .

Our Travel Guides

Guide to the best doc campsites in nz, guide to the south island, guide to the north island, beginners guide to travelling around nz, freedom camping: a complete guide, guide to winter travel in nz, best road trips in new zealand, find your nearest travellers autobarn location, road trips & travel tips.

3-Day Christchurch to Picton Road Trip

7-Day Auckland to Coromandel Road Trip

New Zealand’s Top Instagramable Road Trip Destinations

Best Instagram Road Trip Destinations

6 amazing places you’ve never heard of in New Zealand

6 amazing places in New Zealand

15-Day Christchurch to Dunedin Road Trip

Christchurch to Marlborough Road Trip

Auckland to Taupo Drive

Auckland to Hawkes Bay Road Trip

10 Day Christchurch to Queenstown to Christchurch Road Trip Itinerary

Christchurch to Christchurch Road Trip

Guide to the South Island: Top Tips, Road Trips and Destinations

Top 5 Wine Regions

Auckland to Wellington Road Trip

Our campervans.

Chubby Camper

Seats 2 • sleeps 2.

Kuga Campervan

Seats 2-3 • sleeps 2-3.

Self Contained (up to 6th Dec 2024)

Hi-5 Campervan

Seats 2-5 • sleeps 2-5.

Self Contained

Hi-Top Campervan

Station Wagon

Tent Optional

Chairs Optional

Ice Box Opt.

Gas Cooker Opt.

Ext. Table Opt.

Sign up for special deals and awesome road trip itineraries!

Data collection policy.

new zealand road trip auckland to queenstown

Destination:

Auckland to Queenstown 11 Day Highlights

From the vibrant city of Auckland, you’ll travel south to the spectacular mountains and thrilling adventures of Queenstown. Along the way, you’ll travel through the heartland of New Zealand, including the cultural mecca of Rotorua and quirky Wellington City in the North Island. While in the South Island you have opportunities for wildlife encounters in Kaikoura and plenty of time to explore the spectacular scenery of Queenstown.

North & South Island Self Drive

This suggested tour costs from NZD$3,279 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Queenstown

11 days/10 nights

Hotel 3 star

Rental car included

Viewed 65 times in the last 7 days

Tour Inclusions

At a glance - Auckland to Queenstown 11 Day Highlights

Day 1 : Arrive into Auckland City, transfer to hotel and rest of the day at leisure Accommodation: Auckland City Hotel

Day 2 : Drive south through the rich fertile farmland of the Waikato and maybe stop at Hobbiton Village on your way to Rotorua Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua Hotel Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 220 kms / 136 miles : 2.6 hours

Day 3 : Your day in Rotorua could be spent discovering Maori culture or thrilling adventure rides Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua Hotel

Day 4 : Today is filled with fantastic scenery including Lake Taupo, the Desert Road and the Kapiti Coastline as you approach Wellington Accommodation: Naumi Hotel Wellington Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 441 kms / 273 miles : 5.3 hours

Day 5 : Today you'll cross the Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry. Approaching Picton you'll cruise through the spectacular Marlborough Sounds Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Marlborough Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 25 kms / 16 miles : 0.3 hours

Day 6 : Drive to the seaside town of Kaikoura today Accommodation: Sudima Hotel Kaikoura Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 110 kms / 68 miles : 1.3 hours

Day 7 : Continue south through Canterbury countryside to Christchurch Accommodation: Heritage Christchurch Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 178 kms / 111 miles : 2.5 hours

Day 8 : Today you'll enjoy a scenic drive through Canterbury and the MacKenzie Country Accommodation: Hermitage Hotel Room Mount Cook View Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 350 kms / 217 miles : 4.1 hours

Day 9 : Follow the dry lands to Lindis Pass which leads into Central Otago, then through the Kawarau Gorge to Queenstown Accommodation: Ramada Hotel & Suites Queenstown Central Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 257 kms / 159 miles : 3.0 hours

Day 10 : The day is yours to discover all the scenic spots and fun activities on offer in Queenstown Accommodation: Ramada Hotel & Suites Queenstown Central

Day 11 : Depart Queenstown today Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 8 kms / 5 miles : 0.2 hours

Auckland to Queenstown 11 Day Highlights - Day 1

You will be met at the Auckland airport by the driver and transferred to your Auckland accommodation.

Auckland, New Zealand's self-proclaimed "City of Sails" is the country's largest metro area. Resting between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, this urban paradise has something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, rainforests, and an abundance of beaches, Auckland is a playground for both the city savvy and those with an eye for adventure. Explore the central museums and galleries on foot, or get out onto the water to experience the best views of the city.

Enjoy the City of Sails from the water on a relaxed harbour sailing yacht. This cruise offers a uniquely local experience experiencing the harbour und...

Enjoy the City of Sails from the water on a relaxed harbour sailing yacht. This cruise offers a uniquely local experience experiencing the harbour under sail with a small vessel with an intimate and engaging atmosphere. View the stunning city sights while sailing on the inner Waitemata Harbour. Sail where the wind takes us while enjoying Auckland's city highlights; including sailing under the Harbour Bridge and other well-known landmarks along the harbour's edge. The crew's local knowledge will give you the best harbour sailing experience Auckland has to offer. Become the crew and help participate with the sailing experience take the helm while you carve through the water, or if you prefer just sit back and relax above deck.

Explore worlds of horror, sci-fi and fantasy in the making. An exciting, realistic, and authentic experience, with three fully developed and original ...

Explore worlds of horror, sci-fi and fantasy in the making. An exciting, realistic, and authentic experience, with three fully developed and original film concepts: A nail-biting horror Fauna, a fantasy epic Age of the Ever-Clan, and the mind-bending sci-fi Origins. A 90-minute guided experience through fully themed environments, including immersive horror, fantasy, and sci-fi story worlds. Be immersed by a specially-created unique sweeping cinematic soundtrack, animatronic creatures, physical and digital interactives, hyper-realistic sculpted giants and characters, a horror house experience, and much more.

See what it takes to make, shape and be an All Black. Experience first-hand the excitement and emotion of game day. Discover the stories behind some o...

See what it takes to make, shape and be an All Black. Experience first-hand the excitement and emotion of game day. Discover the stories behind some of world rugby’s most famous players, moments and matches. This guided experience introduces you to the game of rugby before being lead through state-of-the-art displays combining sound, images, interactive technology and hands-on activities. Discover New Zealand’s deep passion for our national sport, experience the full force of the All Blacks haka, tackle interactive zones where you can try out your kicking, catching, line-out and accuracy skills against legendary All Blacks.

Your accommodation: Auckland City Hotel

This tour can be priced with any of the rental cars available in our fantastic range, from economy hatchbacks to prestige saloons and SUVs.

The drive south from Auckland takes you past the Bombay Hills and into the rolling farmland and rich dairy pastures of the Waikato. The Bombay Hills mark the outer boundary of greater Auckland area and it's here you turn inland to central Waikato. You’ll soon go through the town of Matamata where you can visit the fully intact Hobbiton film set used in the shooting of the Lord of The Rings and Hobbit trilogies. Continuing on, you’ll pass several small farming communities before telltale signs of steam and other geothermal activity signal your arrival into Rotorua.

Become immersed in the The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films when you visit the actual Hobbiton movie set. Located just outside of Matamata in the he...

Become immersed in the The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films when you visit the actual Hobbiton movie set. Located just outside of Matamata in the heart of the lush Waikato farming region, your tour will begin with a drive through a picturesque sheep farm. You'll then be taken through Hobbit Holes, the Green Dragon Inn, the Mill and the Party Tree while your guide shares behind-the-scenes tales and insight into the making of the films. Spend time wandering through Bagshot Row before being led inside a Hobbit Hole to view the detailed interiors, designed to provide an authentic glimpse into the dwelling of a Hobbit.

Your accommodation: Distinction Rotorua Hotel

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 220 kms / 136 miles : 2.6 hours

Auckland to Queenstown 11 Day Highlights - Day 3

Peppered with natural hot springs, boiling mud pools and steaming geysers, Rotorua sits within one of the worlds most active volcanic regions. Geothermal landmarks aside, this city of sulphur has a rich indigenous history. Home to several prominent Maori tribes, a visit to one of the Maori Villages should be high on your agenda, as should an excursion to the Polynesian Spa for an invigorating soak in its natural mineral hot springs. Spike your adrenaline at Velocity Valley Adventure Park on stomach-dropping attractions such as static skydiving, or a giant swing reaching 130 km per hour. Alternatively, head up the Rotorua Gondola for soaring lake views, and ride the luge at night for an extra thrill. Fans of Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit should drive to nearby Matamata and experience the actual movie set ‘Hobbiton’. Make the most of your time in Rotorua with an excursion through the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland , one of the area’s most colourful volcanic attractions.

The National Kiwi Hatchery Tour is a special opportunity to gain insight into and view this highly regarded conservation centre. Developed with the vi...

The National Kiwi Hatchery Tour is a special opportunity to gain insight into and view this highly regarded conservation centre. Developed with the visitor experience in mind, the hatchery boasts special viewing opportunities and is hosted by kiwi expert guides who ensure guests leave fully informed and all questions answered. Learn all about New Zealand’s intriguing national icon and the efforts of the kiwi husbandry team, see and discover what it takes to hatch and rare chicks, and if you’re lucky see baby chicks in person!

Embark on a three hour adventure through native New Zealand forest. Journey through the beautiful forest canopy via an incredible network of trails, t...

Embark on a three hour adventure through native New Zealand forest. Journey through the beautiful forest canopy via an incredible network of trails, tree platforms, Ziplines and swing bridges. See breathtaking views of the woodland valleys and hills as you fly through tight openings in the trees. In between the thrill of the ziplines and suspended tree bridges, your guides will share their passion and knowledge for the forest and the conservation challenges to preserve it.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information see here .

New Zealand’s Most Awarded Cultural Attraction, presenting Te Pā Tū. Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within...

New Zealand’s Most Awarded Cultural Attraction, presenting Te Pā Tū. Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within the forest Pā (village) blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and a forest-formed amphitheatre. Te Pā Tū shares Māori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting. These events change with each season of the maramataka, the Māori lunar calendar.

Auckland to Queenstown 11 Day Highlights - Day 4

The drive from Rotorua to Wellington takes you via the township of Taupo home to New Zealand’s largest lake. Following the lakeshore South you’ll pass Turani and then ascend the central plateau onto the high country Rangipo Desert. Skirting the edge of Tongariro National Park , you’ll reach the military town of Waiouru before descending through rich farmland and the rural towns of Taihape And Mangaweka. Follow the coast through Paraparaumu, Paekakariki and Plimmerton to arrive at your destination, Wellington .

Taking a night tour of Zealandia wildlife eco-sanctuary is an unforgettable experience and one that comes highly recommended. A conservation success a...

Taking a night tour of Zealandia wildlife eco-sanctuary is an unforgettable experience and one that comes highly recommended. A conservation success and safe haven for some of New Zealand's rarest native animals, Zealandia is home to many remarkable species of birds, reptiles and insects living wild within a beautiful 225 hectare (one square mile) valley, just 10 minutes from the central city. Your tour begins with an interactive exhibition before you walk through the gates of Zealandia predator-exclusion fence into the sanctuary. Your guide will then lead you on a torch-light walk through the native New Zealand bush. Possible sights include Kiwi foraging on the forest floor, tuatara hunting for food, glowworms shining, tiny Maud Island frogs in their enclosure, pateke (brown teal) ducks feeding at night and kaka (parrots) coming in to roost. Zealandia is one of the best places to see kiwi in the wild. Over 100 of these nocturnal birds live freely in their natural environment inside the safety of the sanctuary valley, so your chances of seeing one are high!

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a spectacular showcase of New Zealand’s most colourful and unique geothermal elements sculpted by thousands of ...

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a spectacular showcase of New Zealand’s most colourful and unique geothermal elements sculpted by thousands of years of volcanic activity. You are introduced to a uniquely different natural landscape – the key to what you see lies below the surface – one of the most extensive geothermal systems in New Zealand, extending over 18-sq. km. Enjoy viewing unique volcanic features as you walk at your own pace along well-defined tracks. Relax in the first-class Visitor Centre, home to the Gift Shop and Café facilities. Visit the Mud Pool, the largest in New Zealand, it was originally the site of a large mud volcano which was destroyed through erosion in the 1920s. See the history and beauty of the Lady Knox Geyser at 10:15 am every day. Lady Knox Geyser provides a unique opportunity to see an eruption to heights of 10 to 20 metres.

Your accommodation: Naumi Hotel Wellington

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 441 kms / 273 miles : 5.3 hours

Auckland to Queenstown 11 Day Highlights - Day 5

The 92 km journey between Wellington and Picton takes around 3 hours and has been described as 'one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world'. Leaving Wellington Harbour you pass many interesting points such as Pencarrow Head on top of which is New Zealand's oldest lighthouse (1859). Red Rocks is home to a seal colony and Oterangi Bay is the site which recorded the country's highest ever wind speed of 268 kph (167 mph). From the Cook Strait spectacular views of the Kaikoura Ranges on the South Island can be enjoyed and dolphins and many sea birds are often seen. Around one hour of the cruise takes you through the Marlborough Sounds and this region of bush covered mountains, small islands, crystal clear waters and secluded bays offer remarkable photographic opportunities. The final leg of your cruise travels through Queen Charlotte Sound before coming to an end in the picturesque town of Picton.

Only short 30 minute drive, you’ll follow the valley south to arrive in Blenheim, located in the heart of Marlborough - New Zealand’s largest wine producing region. Go through acres of leafy green vines and marvel at the magnificent ‘dry hills’ of Marlborough in the distance.

An afternoon among the vines! Be immersed in the Marlborough wine country with the Sounds Connection half day wine tour. You'll be collected from your...

An afternoon among the vines! Be immersed in the Marlborough wine country with the Sounds Connection half day wine tour. You'll be collected from your accommodation and taken through three or four hand-picked wineries to taste the award-winning produce this region is known for. You'll also hear about the history of winemaking in Marlborough as well as learning the unique processes each winery goes through. A lunch stop is not included in this tour so we do advise you have something to eat prior to this activity.

Your accommodation: Scenic Hotel Marlborough

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 25 kms / 16 miles : 0.3 hours

Auckland to Queenstown 11 Day Highlights - Day 6

Cross the 'dry hills' of Marlborough and head towards one of the most spectacular coastlines of the South Island, the Kaikoura Coast. The road hugs the shore for around 50 kilometres and offers many chances to view native wildlife. To the east is the South Pacific Ocean and to the west the towering Kaikoura Ranges. Kaikoura Township is a bustling little place with many cafes, restaurants and shops, but the main reason for visiting here is the wildlife and it's one of the only places in New Zealand you can see whales year round.

Be Collected from your accommodation for a 3-hour Kaikoura adventure. Enjoy a scenic journey in an air-conditioned van to the staging point, Kaikoura'...

Be Collected from your accommodation for a 3-hour Kaikoura adventure. Enjoy a scenic journey in an air-conditioned van to the staging point, Kaikoura's beachfront airfield, you will be transferred into a comfortable 4WD where you will experience an iconic braided river crossing on the Kahutara river. Be greeted with gorgeous scenic views as you are surrounded by the green valleys of Rakanui station, passing livestock, and rolling farmlands. As you reach the base of the Zipline, you will be treated to a scenic lookout where you can see for miles the stunning hills and working station, the sweeping arc of the peninsula, and the snowcapped mountains. Here you will take on a thrilling adventure as you ride the 5 ziplines where you will get to zip along 2km of line, with the chance to ride alongside your mate on the twin lines. During the adventure, your experienced guide will tell you fun facts about the area and the history of Kaikoura. After riding the ziplines, you will get a chance to walk through the native forest, in winter there is the chance to get stuck in and plant a tree as part of the conservation program - Eco Zip is committed to planting a tree for every Zipline participant.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity before travel. For more information please see here

Your accommodation: Sudima Hotel Kaikoura

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 110 kms / 68 miles : 1.3 hours

Auckland to Queenstown 11 Day Highlights - Day 7

Experience New Zealand's only marine based whale watching company. Whale Watch Kaikoura offer a once-in-a-lifetime, up close encounter with the giant ...

Experience New Zealand's only marine based whale watching company. Whale Watch Kaikoura offer a once-in-a-lifetime, up close encounter with the giant Sperm Whale. You are also likely to encounter New Zealand fur seals, dusky dolphins and albatross. Depending on the season you may also see pilot, blue and southern right whales as well as migrating humpbacks. Often orcas can be spotted here and the world's smallest dolphin, the Hectors, occasionally make an appearance. Cruise in style on modern catamarans, specifically designed for whale watching, featuring large passenger cabins and outside viewing decks. Passenger numbers for each tour are kept below the vessel carrying capacity to ensure your tour experience remains a personal one.

Today you travel down the coast before heading inland through the North Canterbury wine region - the Waipara Valley . As you drive through this area you’ll be greeted by one of New Zealand's most notorious animals, the sheep. If you’ve time on your hands we recommend taking a detour to Hanmer Springs for relaxing dip in its thermal pools. Arriving into Christchurch you'll see a new and improved city, steadily rising from the ruins of the 2011 earthquake.

In the Heathcote Valley, just fifteen minutes from the heart of Christchurch City, ride the Christchurch Gondola for nearly a kilometer to the collaps...

In the Heathcote Valley, just fifteen minutes from the heart of Christchurch City, ride the Christchurch Gondola for nearly a kilometer to the collapsed rim of an extinct volcano, which exploded six million years ago. Take in the spectacular panoramic views of the central city, Lyttelton Harbour, Banks Peninsula, Canterbury Plains, and the distant peaks of the Southern Alps. Wander the summit complex, enjoy a coffee or lunch in the cafe, and choose one of many nature walks to explore or visit the Christchurch Discovery Rice, a dramatic reconstruction of the history of the Port Hills and Christchurch.

The International Antarctic Centre aims to recreate the atmosphere and environment of Antarctica, providing visitors with an interactive, fun and educ...

The International Antarctic Centre aims to recreate the atmosphere and environment of Antarctica, providing visitors with an interactive, fun and educational experience. Feel the full Four Seasons of Antarctica, where you'll experience a custom-built snow and ice experience, then warm up in the Scott Base interior exhibit, a replica Antarctic field camp or other informative displays in the gallery. You'll also learn about life in modern day Antarctica, view real little blue penguins and experience a thrilling ride in a Hagglund all terrain vehicle.

Your accommodation: Heritage Christchurch

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 178 kms / 111 miles : 2.5 hours

Auckland to Queenstown 11 Day Highlights - Day 8

Today you'll drive through the heart of the South Island, crossing the vast Canterbury plains . Catch your breath in Geraldine before continuing through Fairlie . Ascending Burkes pass you'll come to the picturesque lakeside town of Tekapo . Follow the road and take in the view of Aoraki Mt Cook (New Zealand's tallest mountain) from the shores of Lake Pukaki , known for its glacier fed turquoise blue colour. Continue along the lake to your final destination Mt Cook Village. Please note: There are no food shops at Mt Cook, and dinner options are limited to one restaurant. If you wish to self-cater, you must stock up before arriving in Mt Cook, or make dinner reservations in advance.

Experience 500 year old icebergs up-close on the Mt Cook terminal lake. The Glacier Explorers tour is the only one of its kind in New Zealand and one ...

Experience 500 year old icebergs up-close on the Mt Cook terminal lake. The Glacier Explorers tour is the only one of its kind in New Zealand and one of only three in the world! Very few glaciers terminate into lakes and even fewer of them are accessible. See towering ice cliffs and floating icebergs from the safety of a specially designed boat. These boats provide a safe way to view unseen and inaccessible areas of New Zealand's largest glacier The Tasman.

Mt Cook is far from the city lights and therefore has some of the darkest skies in New Zealand, perfect for viewing the night sky! Their fully trained...

Mt Cook is far from the city lights and therefore has some of the darkest skies in New Zealand, perfect for viewing the night sky! Their fully trained guides are delighted to show you the beautiful southern night sky using the naked eye, state of the art astronomy telescopes and binoculars at the outdoor viewing platform. If the weather is not favourable then there will be an indoor alternative featuring New Zealand’s first full dome digital Planetarium, a high-definition video images on a suspended 9m wide x 4.5m high full dome. Unleash your imagination as you discover the night sky including the Southern Cross, seasonal ecliptic objects, planets, star clusters, moons, distant galaxies and even our very own galaxy, the spectacular Milky Way!

Your accommodation: Hermitage Hotel Room Mount Cook View

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 350 kms / 217 miles : 4.1 hours

Auckland to Queenstown 11 Day Highlights - Day 9

Leaving the alpine region of Aoraki Mt Cook , you'll travel through the lakeside town of Twizel, then a little further to Omarama the gliding capital of New Zealand. Continue on over the Lindis Pass , one of New Zealand's highest roads with a summit of 971 metres. Arrive in the quaint village of Tarras , then continue on a short way to the historic Bendigo Reserve, one of Otago's original gold mining settlements. Follow the road to Cromwell, and keep going through the sheer cliffs of the Kawarau Gorge towards Gibbston , one of New Zealand's premier wine growing regions. See the historic Kawarau Bridge where you can bungy jump or relax and watch others take the plunge. Approaching Queenstown, the Remarkables mountain range comes into view as you arrive into the adventure capital of New Zealand.

In the heart of Queenstown, located 450 metres above town in the Ben Lomond Scenic Reserve is the Skyline Complex. A gondola ride to the summit makes ...

In the heart of Queenstown, located 450 metres above town in the Ben Lomond Scenic Reserve is the Skyline Complex. A gondola ride to the summit makes for awe-inspiring views of the city surround. Arrive at the complex and wander the outside viewing decks for a picture perfect outlook. Then onto the Luge! The 800 metre luge track offers an exhilarating journey through banked corners, tunnels and dippers.

Your accommodation: Ramada Hotel & Suites Queenstown Central

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 257 kms / 159 miles : 3.0 hours

Auckland to Queenstown 11 Day Highlights - Day 10

Although celebrated as New Zealand's ‘adventure capital’ Queenstown offers far more than a fast-paced action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic and scenic wonders. Head down the Gibbston Valley wine trail to sample some of the region’s best Pinot or catch a ride on the 100 year old Steamship - the TSS Earnslaw - to Walter Peak Station for dinner and a farm tour. Browse the waterfront cafes and have lunch at Michelin star chef Josh Emett's ‘Rata.’ Check out nearby historic Arrowtown and enhance your experience with a four wheel drive trip to Macetown. Take a leisurely lakeside stroll or ride the gondola for breathtaking views. Drive through Lord Of The Rings country - or for the really fanatic, jump aboard one of many dedicated LOTR tours. If you do really want the adrenaline rush Queenstown is known for, take your pick from the Shotover Jet , Bungy , Canyon Swing , Zipline , Luge or Heli-ski . Finally, if you're lucky enough to visit in winter (July-September) there are four ski resorts close by. You can head up to Coronet Peak and the Remarkables close to Queenstown, or head to Wanaka for Cardrona and Treble Cone .

Shotover Jet is the only company permitted to operate in the Shotover River Canyons. It's a thrilling ride! Skim past rocky outcrops at close range in...

Shotover Jet is the only company permitted to operate in the Shotover River Canyons. It's a thrilling ride! Skim past rocky outcrops at close range in your Shotover Jet 'Big Red', as you twist and turn through the narrow canyons at breathtaking speeds. And a major highlight - hold tight for the world-famous Shotover Jet full 360-degree spins!

Queenstown is where bungy jumping was pioneered by AJ Hackett and the first commercial jump started in 1988 at the Kawarau Bridge (on the main road in...

Queenstown is where bungy jumping was pioneered by AJ Hackett and the first commercial jump started in 1988 at the Kawarau Bridge (on the main road into Queenstown from the east). If a bungy jump is on your 'to do' list them Queenstown is the place and the Kawarau Bridge is a 43 metre jump from an historic bridge with an optional 'dip' in the Kawarau River.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information see here.

Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience, a delicious gourmet BBQ buffet meal and a farm demonstration in a stunning lakeside setting. Take in the stunn...

Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience, a delicious gourmet BBQ buffet meal and a farm demonstration in a stunning lakeside setting. Take in the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and its surroundings as you cruise across the lake to the historic Walter Peak high country farm aboard the TSS Earnslaw Steamship. Enjoy the ambience of the heart of the stately homestead while your Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant chef prepares a gourmet BBQ dinner. Your seasonal menu includes an extensive selection of local New Zealand produce, including succulent meats and a selection of delicious vegetables and salads. Complete your meal with your choice of delicious desserts, New Zealand cheeses, tea and coffee. After dinner, watch the farm dogs in action with a sheep-herding demonstration and say hello to the other farm animals. Finally, cruise home under the southern stars and enjoy the fresh night air as the lights of Queenstown draw ever closer.

Auckland to Queenstown 11 Day Highlights - Day 11

Explore more of Queenstown before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 8 kms / 5 miles : 0.2 hours

Get an Instant Quote or Book this Tour

Day 1 - Harbour Sailing Cruise with Explore NZD$0

Day 1 - Wētā Workshop Unleashed NZD$0

Day 1 - All Blacks Experience NZD$0

Day 2 - Hobbiton Movie Set Tour NZD$0

Day 3 - National Kiwi Hatchery Tour NZD$0

Day 3 - Original Ziplining Experience with Rotorua Canopy Tours NZD$0

Day 3 - Te Pā Tū Evening Maori Cultural Experience - Dinner Included NZD$0

Day 4 - Zealandia By Night Wildlife Sanctuary Tour NZD$0

Day 4 - Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland NZD$0

Day 5 - Half Day Marlborough Wine Tour NZD$0

Day 6 - EcoZip Adventures Kaikoura NZD$0

Day 7 - Ocean's Cabin with Whale Watch Kaikoura NZD$0

Day 7 - Christchurch Gondola NZD$0

Day 7 - International Antarctic Centre NZD$0

Day 8 - Glacier Explorers NZD$0

Day 8 - Big Sky Stargazing NZD$0

Day 9 - Gondola and 3 Luge Rides with Skyline Queenstown NZD$0

Day 10 - Shotover Canyon Jet Boat Ride NZD$0

Day 10 - Kawarau Bridge Bungy Jump with AJ Hackett NZD$0

Day 10 - TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dining NZD$0

Enter phone number to get a call from a travel planning expert within in 24 hours

Enter email address to receive your instant quote

Your quote for this tour:

Total cost for all guests on this tour package is:.

NOTE: Quotes are subject to availability of specific accommodation and other inclusions. Our NZ touring experts will be in touch with you regarding this. Costs quoted in currencies other than New Zealand dollars (NZ$) are based on todays exchange rate and is subject to change.Terms and Conditions apply

Remember - we can create this itinerary with any style of accommodation or customise to suit your interests and timeframe. Just contact us here.

See our privacy policy here

Some similar tours to this one

Splendid north to south, auckland to christchurch splendour.

Campervans Auckland campervans Christchurch campervans Wellington campervans Queenstown campervans
Motorhomes Auckland motorhomes Christchurch motorhomes Wellington motorhomes Queenstown motorhomes
About Us

Auckland to Queenstown: An Epic Road Trip Journey

Homepage Blog Travel Information

Posted Jul 03, 2023 in Travel Information

Embarking on a road trip from Auckland to Queenstown is one of the most exhilarating ways to discover the diverse beauty of New Zealand. This adventure will take you through vibrant cities, quaint towns, breathtaking landscapes, and iconic attractions.

With your own set of wheels, you'll enjoy the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Whether you're a solo explorer or travelling with family or friends, our comprehensive Auckland to Queenstown self-drive itinerary will help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

Getting Started in Auckland

Highlights of Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, is the perfect starting point for your road trip . Known as the 'City of Sails', Auckland combines urban charm with stunning natural beauty. Visit the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic city views, explore the stunning Auckland Domain, and take a ferry ride to the idyllic Waiheke Island.

Preparing Your Vehicle

Before setting off on your drive from Auckland to Queenstown, it's crucial to ensure your vehicle is road-ready . Check your campervan thoroughly, making sure that the tyres, lights, oil levels, and brakes are all in good condition. If you're hiring a campervan in Auckland , Campervan New Zealand offers fully equipped vehicles that will make your road trip comfortable and hassle-free.

Setting Off: Auckland to Wellington

Route highlights.

As you commence your drive from Auckland, the stunning Coromandel Peninsula is a must-see detour. Visit the world-renowned Hot Water Beach, and dig your natural hot spa in the sand.

Next, head to the g eothermal city of Rotorua, an essential stop on your Auckland to Queenstown drive. Experience Maori culture at Te Puia, and take in the surreal landscapes of Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland .

Overnight Stops

There are many scenic campsites and holiday parks en route where you can relax and recharge . In Rotorua, consider staying at the Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park for a unique experience. Along the shores of Lake Taupo, Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort offers excellent facilities and stunning views.

South Island Adventure: Wellington to Christchurch

Crossing the cook strait.

From Wellington, your journey continues onto the South Island via a ferry ride across the Cook Strait . This journey is an experience in itself, with stunning coastal views and the potential to spot wildlife.

Exploring Christchurch

Christchurch, often known as the 'Garden City', greets you with its beautiful parks and an eclectic mix of old and new architecture . Visit the tranquil Botanic Gardens, explore the Canterbury Museum, or take a punt down the Avon River.

The Southern Alps: Christchurch to Queenstown

Driving through the Mountains

Leaving Christchurch behind, your Auckland to Queenstown itinerary now takes you through the majestic Southern Alps. As you journey through the Canterbury Plains, prepare for the captivating landscape of Lake Tekapo . The Church of the Good Shepherd and the lakeside Tekapo Springs are must-visit spots.

Further along the route, you'll encounter the towering Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak. Explore the trails of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park or soak up the mountain views from the comfort of Mount Cook Village.

Must-See Spots

Before reaching Queenstown, don't miss the chance to explore Wanaka , a gem nestled in the Southern Alps. Visit Puzzling World, take a stroll around Lake Wanaka, or hike up Mount Iron for panoramic views.

Arriving in Queenstown

Queenstown Highlights

Finally, you've made it to Queenstown , the adventure capital of New Zealand. Get your adrenaline pumping with bungee jumping, jet boating, or skydiving . For something more laid-back, take a scenic gondola ride to Bob's Peak, enjoy a wine tour in the Gibbston Valley, or simply explore the vibrant downtown area.

Relax and Reflect: The Road Trip Experience

After the long but thrilling drive from Auckland to Queenstown, it's time to relax and reflect on your epic road trip. Look back on the incredible sights, experiences, and the sheer diversity of the landscapes you've traversed, from the urban charm of Auckland to the mountainous allure of Queenstown.

Tips for Your Road Trip

Safety Measures

Safety should always be your priority during a road trip. Be aware of New Zealand's road rules, especially those that might differ from your home country . Don't rush - remember, the joy of a road trip lies in the journey itself. Be cautious on hilly and winding roads, particularly in the South Island. Rest regularly to avoid driver fatigue.

Essential Road Trip Items

Remember to pack key road trip items, such as a first-aid kit, a road map (in case of unreliable GPS), plenty of water, and snacks. A cooler can be useful for keeping food items fresh. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery on your Auckland to Queenstown drive.

Wrapping Up Your Road Trip Adventure

The drive from Auckland to Queenstown offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the best of New Zealand's landscapes, culture, and iconic destinations. We hope this comprehensive guide helps you plan an unforgettable journey. Remember, the road less travelled often has the best stories to tell.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how long does it take to drive from auckland to queenstown.

While it's possible to complete the drive in about 24 hours without stops , we recommend taking at least a week to fully enjoy the journey and make the most of your Auckland to Queenstown road trip. This allows ample time to explore major cities, landmarks, and enjoy the scenic beauty along the way.

2. Is it safe to drive from Auckland to Queenstown in a campervan?

Yes, it is safe to drive in a campervan, provided that you take regular breaks to avoid driver fatigu e. Also, ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and always respect the road rules. Winter driving in the South Island can be challenging due to snow and ice, so be well-prepared and check weather forecasts regularly.

3. Where should I stop on my Auckland to Queenstown self-drive trip?

There are numerous interesting and beautiful places to stop along the way. Key highlights include the Coromandel Peninsula, Rotorua, Wellington, Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Mount Cook, and Wanaka , among others. Plan your itinerary to include these and other spots that pique your interest.

4. What is the best time of year to do the Auckland to Queenstown drive?

The best time for your road trip really depends on your preferences. Summer (December to February) provides long, sunny days ideal for beach stops and outdoor activities . Autumn (March to May) offers stunning fall colours, particularly in Wanaka and Queenstown. Winter (June to August) is perfect if you enjoy snow sports. Spring (September to November) is a wonderful time to see blooming flowers and lambs in the fields.

5. What should I pack for a road trip in New Zealand?

Packing depends on the time of year and your planned activities. Essentials include suitable clothing for the season, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, a first-aid kit, and a road map. For your campervan, consider items such as a cooler, cooking equipment, and bedding.

Got more questions? Feel free to reach out to us at Campervan New Zealand - we're here to help you plan the perfect New Zealand road trip!

The Interislander Ferry - A Must For Travellers In New Zealand

Exploring The Great Outdoors: Your Ultimate Guide To Camping In Queenstown

Al Fresco Dining In Queenstown: Outdoor Dining

Embracing Winter In Auckland: A Guide To Enjoying The City's Cooler Months

The 19th Hole: More Than Just A Golfing Term

Let’s go on an adventure!

Unbeatable prices. Premium customer service.

Learn more about Campervan New Zealand

In west Iceland, there’s a bridge called Kolgrafavegur. It has the shape of a sword, a reminder of their viking history.

Auckland to Queenstown 14 Day Self Drive Tour

Experience a journey the length of New Zealand. Along the way stop in Rotorua, quirky Wellington, Kaikoura, and Christchurch. Enjoy the scenery you will pass and fill your days with iconic adventure activities.

North & South Island Self Drive

This suggested tour costs from NZD$3,928 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Queenstown

14 days/13 nights

Hotel 3 star

Rental car included

Viewed 160 times in the last 7 days

This North & South Island Self Drive tour idea includes:

Day 1 : Arrive into Auckland City. If time allows, a harbour cruise is a great introduction to the sights Accommodation: Sudima Auckland City

Day 2 : Explore Auckland and its surrounding suburbs Accommodation: Sudima Auckland City

Day 3 : Drive south through the lush Waikato farmland, then detour to Hobbiton if you choose, on your way to Rotorua Accommodation: Sudima Lake Rotorua Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 220 kms / 136 miles : 2.6 hours

Day 4 : Spend a full day in Rotorua discovering the local Maori Culture and fascinating geothermal attractions Accommodation: Sudima Lake Rotorua

Day 5 : Travel to Wellington with plenty of stops for spectacular scenery - including Lake Taupo, the Desert Road and the Kapiti Coastline Accommodation: Hotel Ibis Wellington Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 441 kms / 273 miles : 5.3 hours

Day 6 : Experience the charms of Wellington City, including quirky cafes, museums and renowned film locations Accommodation: Hotel Ibis Wellington

Day 7 : Take the Interislander Ferry across the cook strait Accommodation: Carnmore Chateau Marlborough Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 25 kms / 16 miles : 0.3 hours

Day 8 : Drive to the seaside town of Kaikoura Accommodation: Sudima Hotel Kaikoura Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 110 kms / 68 miles : 1.3 hours

Day 9 : Continue south through the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Cotswold Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 178 kms / 111 miles : 2.5 hours

Day 10 : Explore the re-emerging city of Christchurch then venture further afield to charming Akaroa Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Cotswold

Day 11 : Today you'll enjoy a scenic drive through Canterbury and the MacKenzie Country Accommodation: Hermitage Hotel Room Mount Cook View Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 350 kms / 217 miles : 4.1 hours

Day 12 : Today travel over the Lindis Pass then continue on through the Kawarau Gorge to Queenstown Accommodation: Ramada Hotel & Suites Queenstown Central Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 257 kms / 159 miles : 3.0 hours

Day 13 : A full day to discover the scenic delights of beautiful Queenstown Accommodation: Ramada Hotel & Suites Queenstown Central

Day 14 : Depart Queenstown today Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 8 kms / 5 miles : 0.2 hours

Auckland to Queenstown 14 Day Self Drive Tour - Day 1

You will be met at the Auckland airport by the driver and transferred to your Auckland accommodation.

Auckland , New Zealand's self-proclaimed "City of Sails" is the country's largest metro area. Resting between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, this urban paradise has something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, rainforests and an abundance of beaches, Auckland is a playground for both the city savvy and those with an eye for adventure. Explore the central museums and galleries on foot, or take a drive through one of over 28 regional National Parks to see deserted beaches, waterfalls and native forest.

Your accommodation: Sudima Auckland City

Auckland to Queenstown 14 Day Self Drive Tour - Day 2

Today you’ll take to the road for your New Zealand Self Drive holiday, so take a look through the great selection of late model vehicles available and take your pick.

Surrounding a natural harbour, New Zealand's largest metro area offers the best of both worlds. Sandy beaches, native bush and lush rainforests meld with a lively urban culture. Grab a coffee downtown and watch the sailboats glide from the Viaduct or head harbourside and take the helm of an America's Cup Yacht . Catch the Quickcat to nearby Waiheke Island for a gourmet food and wine experience. Clear the cobwebs with a little exercise and hike the summit of Mt Eden, Auckland's highest volcano. Pack a picnic and choose one of 800 regional national parks to explore. If relaxing is more your style, find a good book and head out to a deserted beach. Try Orewa located an hour north of the city or stay a little closer and head to Cheltenham Beach in Devonport. Make time to ascend the Sky Tower or The Harbour Bridge and spike your adrenaline by bungy jumping off either (or both!). Finish on a high with dinner at one of the many trendy eateries to be found on Ponsonby Road.

A short 25-minute cruise through the Waitemata Harbour to the Hauraki Gulf delivers you to Rangitoto Island. Rangitoto Island is the largest and youngest of the many volcanoes that make up the Auckland volcanic field. It erupted around 600 years ago, but is extinct now and safe to explore. During your cruise to and from the island enjoy fantastic views of Rangitoto Island and Auckland the 'City of Sails'. On reaching the island you can walk to the summit (1 hour direct) for great views of the Hauraki Gulf and over Waitemata Harbour looking back towards Auckland. There are a number of walking trails to explore this volcanic island, further information can be found at the Department of Conservation website.

This unique on-water sailing and dining experience is not to be missed while you're in Auckland. Enjoy smooth sailing on the Waitemata Harbour - then watch this photogenic city come alive with twinkling lights. Enjoy your meal as you sail around the beautiful Auckland Harbour taking in the view as the sun slowly sets. You'll be treated to canapes and a drink as you set off towards Westhaven Marina. Choose between dining in the downstairs cabin or on deck to take in the iconic sights of the Auckland Harbour. To finish the evening off, savour your dessert course as you leisurely sail back to Auckland's vibrant Viaduct Harbour.

Auckland to Queenstown 14 Day Self Drive Tour - Day 3

Your accommodation: Sudima Lake Rotorua

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 220 kms / 136 miles : 2.6 hours

Auckland to Queenstown 14 Day Self Drive Tour - Day 4

Set on a 350-acre working sheep and cattle farm with 1200 sheep and 120 beef cattle, the Agrodome gives its visitors a hands-on, live farming experience. The Farm Show stars a cast of talented animals – not just sheep! The remarkable farm dogs will amaze you, as they demonstrate their ability to respond to commands and keep those sheep (and ducks!) in line. Then pop across to the herding area to watch a free live dog trial after the show! Explore the farm and learn the history of New Zealand agriculture on custom designed farm trailers. Along the way, there are fascinating things to learn and a few laughs too! You’ll get to hand-feed and take photos with all sorts of friendly animals, including Romney sheep, cattle, deer, llamas, ostrich, pigs and alpacas. Explore the fruit orchard and olive grove and have the chance to taste natural kiwifruit juice and delicious sweet honey that comes from the farm.

Auckland to Queenstown 14 Day Self Drive Tour - Day 5

Your accommodation: Hotel Ibis Wellington

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 441 kms / 273 miles : 5.3 hours

Auckland to Queenstown 14 Day Self Drive Tour - Day 6

Wellington home to New Zealand’s centre of government has a largely cosmopolitan feel. Often referred to as ‘mini Melbourne', this (self-described) windy city is a melting pot of art, culture, food, and fashion. Quirky laneway bars, underground art shows, and hipster eateries make up its inner-city vibe, while a host of sandy beaches outside the urban bustle bring a cheerful holiday feel. Head to Te Papa Museum for a history lesson and a ticket to one of its many international exhibitions or jump aboard the Wellington Cable Car at Lambton Quay - the only running funicular railway in the country. For those with an eye for boutique, fashion wander through Cuba St to sample some of the city's best vintage stores. Break for coffee at a hipster cafe and be sure to snap a pic outside the ‘Beehive,’ New Zealand’s parliamentary debate chamber. Go behind the scenes at Weta Workshop Experience , the Oscar Award Winning design studio behind Lord Of The Rings, The Hobbit, and Avatar. If you're a foodie at heart, a two-hour round trip to Martinborough is a must-do. Take your time as you wind through spectacular wine country, and be sure to stop in at Martinborough Wines or Ata Rangi Martinborough. For an educational day out, learn about New Zealand's native species at Zealandia, the world's first fully-fenced eco-sanctuary and home to over 40 types of endangered and native birds.

With some of the best Lord of the Rings tours Wellington has to offer, you will not be disappointed on this tour. You'll visit local filming locations, view a short documentary showing the filmmaking exploits of Peter Jackson and his remarkable team and be guided through the sights and sounds of the Weta Workshop in Miramar. This is followed by a fascinating 'Window into the workshop' exhibition, showing film props and weaponry, with the artists themselves describing how the artefacts were created.

Enjoy a 7 hour private guided tour where you savour the best tastes Wellington has to offer. From Coffee, Chocolate, Peanut butter, a Craft beer brewery, Gin Distillery, lunch, and a scenic drive to Mt Victoria, Eastern and Southern Bays.

The Wellington Botanic Gardens are home to over 26 hectares of exceptional views, unique landscape, exotic forests, native bush, and specialist gardens. One of the oldest botanic gardens in New Zealand, this central city garden was established in 1868. The conifer species were planted as part of a programme to import plant species and assess their economic potential to the new colony. The very large specimens of Pinus radiata that dominate the landscape were grown from the first seed of that species to be imported from California. A feature of the gardens are major seasonal floral displays, spectacular in spring, with a massed display of 30,000 tulips. In summer, the Lady Norwood Rose garden provides a colourful spectacle with 106 formal beds each containing a different cultivar. Adjacent is a large Begonia House displaying tropical and temperate plants and a tropical conservatory with a seasonal display of orchids. Victoria amazonica, the giant water lily can be found here. There are several key attractions in the garden that visitors can experience such as glow worms in the Main Garden, public art throughout the garden, children's play area, Botanic Garden Cafe located in the Lady Norwood Rose Garden and the Carter Observatory. The information centre is located in the spectacular Tree House and nearby there is a rock garden, an extensive fern collection and a camellia walk. There are extensive, well-maintained, walking paths throughout the garden.

New Zealand’s national museum tells the great stories of New Zealand’s past, present and future. Over 20 galleries house imaginative exhibitions and interactive experiences that explore New Zealand’s unique natural environment, the triumphs and tragedies of colonial history, and the warmth and vitality of the Maori people.

Auckland to Queenstown 14 Day Self Drive Tour - Day 7

Your accommodation: Carnmore Chateau Marlborough

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 25 kms / 16 miles : 0.3 hours

Auckland to Queenstown 14 Day Self Drive Tour - Day 8

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity before travel. For more information please see here

Your accommodation: Sudima Hotel Kaikoura

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 110 kms / 68 miles : 1.3 hours

Auckland to Queenstown 14 Day Self Drive Tour - Day 9

Your accommodation: Scenic Hotel Cotswold

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 178 kms / 111 miles : 2.5 hours

Auckland to Queenstown 14 Day Self Drive Tour - Day 10

Following the 2011 earthquake that razed its centre and much of the outlying suburbs, Christchurch is well into a billion-dollar makeover. In the middle of the Canterbury Plains, bordering the pacific ocean, New Zealand’s newest city is an ideal gateway to exploring the middle of the South. Go punting on the Avon River, take a historic tram ride, catch the gondola to the rim of an extinct volcano or do all three! See the world's only Cardboard Cathedral and for nature enthusiasts - wander the renowned Christchurch Botanic Gardens, or head to Oxford Terrace in the city to find a great spot to eat or drink. Drive an hour in any direction to ski, mountain bike, wine taste, whale-watch, bungy jump or play golf. Take the winding Port Hills road to the French settlement of Akaroa and tour the vines in Waipara for an authentic New Zealand wine-tasting experience.

Experience three of Christchurch's iconic attractions in one day: the Christchurch Tram, Christchurch Gondola, and Punting on the Avon River. The historic tram is a delightful way to explore the evolving inner city, taking in the various sights with the hop-on hop-off pass and learning about the city from the live commentary. You'll also enjoy a bird's eye view of Christchurch and the Canterbury region including the distant peaks of the Southern Alps when you ride the gondola cableway to the top of the Port Hills in Heathcote Valley. Punting on the Avon River takes you through the city's green belt: a relaxing way to explore what is affectionately known as the 'Garden City'.

Auckland to Queenstown 14 Day Self Drive Tour - Day 11

Your accommodation: Hermitage Hotel Room Mount Cook View

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 350 kms / 217 miles : 4.1 hours

Auckland to Queenstown 14 Day Self Drive Tour - Day 12

Today you'll leave Mt Cook National park and travel to Queenstown. Go through the lakeside town of Twizel and then pass through the gliding capital of New Zealand Omarama , before ascending the Lindis Pass . Follow the road to Cromwell, located at the at the head of the Kawarau Gorge. Continue on towards the Gibbston Valley , one of New Zealand's premier wine growing regions. See the historic Kawarau Bridge where you can bungy jump, or relax and watch others take the plunge. Approaching Queenstown , the Remarkables mountain range comes into view as you arrive into the adventure capital of New Zealand.

Your accommodation: Ramada Hotel & Suites Queenstown Central

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 257 kms / 159 miles : 3.0 hours

Auckland to Queenstown 14 Day Self Drive Tour - Day 13

Although celebrated as New Zealand's ‘adventure capital’ Queenstown offers far more than a fast-paced action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic and scenic wonders. Head down the Gibbston Valley wine trail to sample some of the region’s best Pinot or catch a ride on the 100 year old Steamship the TSS Earnslaw , to Walter Peak Station for dinner and a farm tour. Browse the waterfront cafes and have lunch at Michelin star chef Josh Emett's ‘Rata.’ Check out nearby historic Arrowtown and enhance your experience with a four wheel drive trip to Macetown. Take a leisurely lakeside stroll or ride the gondola for breathtaking views. Drive through Lord Of The Rings country or for the really fanatic, jump aboard one of many dedicated LOTR tours. If you do really want the adrenaline rush Queenstown is known for, take your pick from the Shotover Jet , Bungy , Canyon Swing , Zipline , Luge or Heli-ski . Finally, if you're lucky enough to visit in winter (July-September) there are four ski resorts close by. You can head up to Coronet Peak and the Remarkables close to Queenstown, or head to Wanaka for Cardrona and Treble Cone .

Take a ride on ‘Big Red’ through the spectacular canyon walls of the upper Shotover River. Shotover Jet Boat is the only company allowed to operate in this remarkable location and their skilled drivers will take you on a wet and wild ride you’ll never forget.

Experience a tasting journey through three of Central Otago’s incredibly scenic and varying wine sub-regions; Gibbston, Bannockburn and Cromwell. Visit three boutique vineyards, tasting their unique cool climate wines and discover why the Central Otago region has become world-renowned in its own right. Indulge at a fourth vineyard restaurant for a platter-style lunch, savouring the finest and freshest produce, accompanied with a wine flight. There will also be an opportunity to retrace history when you stroll through the charming historical settlement of Old Cromwell.

Auckland to Queenstown 14 Day Self Drive Tour - Day 14

Explore more of Queenstown before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg : 8 kms / 5 miles : 0.2 hours

Fields marked * are mandatory

Day 1 - Harbour Sailing Cruise with Explore NZD$0

Day 2 - Fullers Ferry Rangitoto Island NZD$0

Day 2 - Harbour Sailing Dinner Cruise with Explore NZD$0

Day 3 - Hobbiton Movie Set Tour NZD$0

Day 4 - Agrodome Farm Show and Farm Tour Combo NZD$0

Day 4 - Te Pā Tū Evening Maori Cultural Experience - Dinner Included NZD$0

Day 5 - National Kiwi Hatchery Tour NZD$0

Day 6 - Lord Of The Rings Half Day Tour with Capital Personalised Tour NZD$0

Day 6 - Zealandia By Night Wildlife Sanctuary Tour NZD$0

Day 6 - Taste of Wellington Foodie Delights Private Tour with Kaewa Tour NZD$0

Day 7 - Half Day Marlborough Wine Tour NZD$0

Day 8 - EcoZip Adventures Kaikoura NZD$0

Day 9 - Ocean's Cabin with Whale Watch Kaikoura NZD$0

Day 10 - Christchurch Gondola NZD$0

Day 10 - Christchurch Triple Pass - Tram, Punting and Gondola NZD$0

Day 11 - Glacier Explorers NZD$0

Day 11 - Big Sky Stargazing NZD$0

Day 12 - TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dining NZD$0

Day 13 - Shotover Canyon Jet Boat Ride NZD$0

Day 13 - Appellation Boutique Wine Tour NZD$0

Enter phone number to get a call from a travel planning expert within in 24 hours

Enter email address to receive your instant quote

NOTE: Quotes are subject to the availability of specific accommodations and other inclusions. Our NZ touring experts will contact you if any changes are needed. Costs quoted in currencies other than New Zealand dollars (NZ$) are based on today's exchange rate and are subject to change. Terms and Conditions apply. If you have chosen to hire a Budget rental car, you may incur a one-way fee if a portion of your hire is under 7 days. Your sales consultant can confirm this on booking.

Remember: we can create this itinerary with any accommodation style or customise it to suit your interests and timeframe.

See our terms and conditions and privacy policy here.

14 days, from Auckland to Christchurch

Sample some wine in Napiers many vineyards

14 days, from Auckland to Queenstown

Get Inspired

Popular Routes

The Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip: From Auckland to Queenstown

The New Zealand road trip from Auckland to Queenstown is a dream drive for campervan travellers. Stretching over 1500 km from the City of Sails’ sparkling harbours to the southern snow-capped ranges, this camper cruise offers one unforgettable experience after another.

There’s no better way to enjoy the Auckland to Queenstown drive than with a maui motorhome hire . Relax in the comfort, privacy, and convenience of travelling with all your must-haves on board. Cook your favourite meals in your own kitchen and take a nap whenever you need to in your own comfy bed!

Kick off your ultimate 11-day travel itinerary by exploring the cityscapes of Auckland before heading south through the heartland of Aotearoa. Take in views of spectacular landscapes, explore fascinating heritage sites, and discover some of New Zealand’s best natural wonders. Ready to hit the road? Let’s get started!

Auckland to Queenstown

Best Time of the Year

Any time of year

Sky Tower

Abel Tasman

Franz Josef Glacier

The Journey

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Day 1 Auckland

It’s the very first day of your ultimate Auckland to Queenstown road trip. Kick off your holiday by picking up your pre-booked Maui campervan from our Auckland branch on Manu Tapu Drive. It’s right next to Auckland International Airport – so easy if you’re flying in.

Spend day one exploring the sights and sounds of New Zealand’s biggest city. For the best vantage point, head into the CBD and up to the top of the Sky Tower . Take in 360-degree views of the city below, and if you’re feeling brave, you can try the Skyjump or Skywalk.

Keen to learn more about the history and heritage of New Zealand? Be sure to visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum – regarded as one of the best in the Southern Hemisphere. Learn the story of Aotearoa and its long and fascinating Māori heritage and culture. Find out more about why Auckland is known as the ‘City of Sails’ at the Auckland Maritime Museum on the viaduct. Afterwards, experience the sparkling harbour for yourself on board the short 45-minute ferry ride to Waiheke Island . Wander the boutique shops and art galleries. Go diving, snorkelling, or ziplining. Or for a truly relaxing afternoon, check out one of the many great Waiheke wineries .

Tonight, enjoy a beachside stay at the beautiful Takapuna Beach Holiday Park .

Day 2 Auckland to Rotorua

Distance 230km - driving time 3 hours.

Now that you’ve seen some of the Auckland highlights, it’s time to leave the big smoke and head south. Rotorua is known as New Zealand’s geothermal wonderland. You’ll find geysers, bubbling mud pools, and thermal springs, along with plenty of cultural experiences. Our pick of the bunch includes a visit to Te Puia . Here, you can see a cultural show, enjoy a traditional Māori hangi (a meal cooked underground), and watch traditional carvers. You’ll also have the opportunity to see Pōhutu – the largest geyser in the Southern Hemisphere – as it erupts.

To appreciate the vast beauty of this part of New Zealand, book yourself into a scenic flight . Treat yourself to a little luxury by arriving in a floatplane at a secluded thermal hot pool. For a special occasion, book a romantic lakeside champagne picnic with a special someone.

Enjoy a relaxing night’s stay at All Seasons Holiday Park Rotorua .

Day 3 Rotorua to Taupō

Distance 80km - driving time 1 hour.

Today, you’ll be travelling from the bubbling mud pools of Rotorua to the volcanic waters of Lake Taupō. This central North Island spot is a dream destination for campervan travellers. And one of the unmissable highlights is the mesmerising Huka Falls . Witness the sheer power and beauty as nearly a quarter of a million litres of water per second thunders over the 11-metre falls. If you’re keen on a closer look, try a jet boat ride or river cruise. If you prefer a more relaxed approach, take the easy one-hour walk alongside the river.

Looking for an ‘off-the-beaten-track’ experience like no other? You’ll find it at Orakei Korako Geothermal Park & Cave where you can see the most active geysers of any geothermal park in New Zealand.

Park up your campervan and relax for the night Taupo TOP 10 Holiday Park .

Image: Jake Ward - Tourism New Zealand

Day 4 Taupō to Wellington

Distance 373km - driving time 5 hours.

It’s day four, and your last day in the North Island. Today you’ll be driving to the nation’s capital, Wellington. For those keen to learn more about New Zealand’s parliamentary process, book into a guided tour of the Parliament Buildings , including the iconic ‘Beehive’.

Wellington is also a great place to see some of New Zealand’s precious native wildlife. Located just minutes from the central city, Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne is the world’s first fully fenced, predator-proof ecosanctuary. This special spot is a haven for over 40 rare species of wildlife. For a special experience, book a night tour where you’ll have the chance to see unique species such as wētā, glow worms, and tuatara. If you’re lucky, you may even see some of the 150 little spotted kiwi that call Zealandia home.

Enjoy the convenience of a city stay by parking up at the Cuba Street Motorhome Park .

Day 5 Wellington to Nelson

Distance 239km - driving time 6 hours.

You’ve reached the halfway point of your road trip as you cross from the North Island to the South. Today, you get the chance to put your feet up and take in some seriously good scenery as you cruise across Cook Strait and through the Marlborough Sounds. Drive your campervan on board the Interislander Ferry , head up to the viewing deck, and enjoy!

You’ll disembark in the picturesque village of Picton. From here, it’s a two-hour drive to New Zealand’s sunniest town, Nelson. If you’re a fan of classic cars, you’ll want to add a visit to the Nelson Classic Car Museum to your travel itinerary. Check out more than 150 immaculately presented classics from over 100 years of motoring.

To see the great sights and tastes of the Nelson region, hire a bike and head out on the Tasman Great Taste Trail . The trail spans 200 km but can be done in smaller sections. Enjoy a feast for the eyes as well as the tummy as you pass through amazing scenery dotted with cafes, fruit stalls, craft breweries, and wineries.

Park up at the conveniently located Nelson City TOP 10 Holiday Park .

Day 6 Nelson to Abel Tasman National Park

Distance 60km - driving time 1 hour 10 minutes.

Sitting right at the top of the South Island, Abel Tasman National Park is truly a coastal paradise. Renowned for its golden beaches and world-famous walking track, the park spans more than 22,000 hectares of natural beauty. And it’s up to you how you explore it. Take a few days extra and take the Abel Tasman Coast Track. Glide through the crystal clear waters on a kayaking tour or relax onboard a scenic cruise .

Tonight, enjoy the fresh sea air at Abel Tasman Marahau Beach Camp .

Day 7 Abel Tasman National Park to Punakaiki

Distance 283km - driving time 4.

It’s time to head west today where you’ll be parking up at Punakaiki – home to the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes . These fascinating rock structures are formed from layers of limestone and look like giant stacks of pancakes. At high tide, take the walk to the blowholes to see huge spouts of sea spray bursting into the air. Punakaiki is also a great base for exploring Paparoa National Park . One of the lovely short walks here is the 30-minute Truman Track. Enjoy the peace and quiet as you walk through unspoiled subtropical forest and emerge to spectacular coastal views.

Park up next to the beach in the beautiful native bush surroundings of Punakaiki Beach Camp .

Day 8 Punakaiki to Franz Josef Glacier

Distance 217km - driving time 3.

Ready for a wander down the West Coast? Today you’ll be taking the drive to the Franz Josef Glacier area, home to some of the most spectacular scenery in New Zealand. Along the way, be sure to stop in the coastal township of Hokitika . Made famous as the backdrop in Eleanor Catton’s The Luminaries, Hokitika has its roots in the gold mining industry. Explore the history of the area by taking the Hokitika Heritage Trail .

Once you arrive in Franz Josef, you’ll want to get up close to the glacier that draws visitors from all over the world. There are plenty of guided tours to choose from including helicopter and hiking tours. After being out on the ice, warm up with a soak at the Waiho Hot Tubs . Enjoy your own private tubs, nestled in a lush rainforest setting.

Park up for the night at Franz Josef Campervan Park .

Day 9 Franz Josef Glacier to Wānaka

Distance 284km - driving time 4 hours.

It’s another day of spectacular sights as your South Island road trip takes you to the resort town of Wānaka. Along the way, visit scenic Lake Matheson . Surrounded by native bush, the lake is famous for its mirror views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.

Once you arrive in Wānaka, consider taking one of the great walks on offer. This scenic wonderland has over 750 km of tracks and trails to explore. So there’s one to suit all abilities. A good short walk option is the Waterfall Creek Track . The 2.5 km track starts at the western end of Roys Bay and winds along Lake Wānaka’s western shores. You’ll be treated to superb views, including the famous ‘Wānaka Tree’, before reaching Waterfall Creek. After your walk, head to Big Fig for great coffee and good food on the lakefront.

Enjoy a comfy night in your campervan at the Wanaka Lakeview Holiday Park .

Day 10 Wānaka to Queenstown

Distance 70km - driving time 1.5 hours.

It’s the penultimate day of your ultimate New Zealand road trip! You’ll be heading to Queenstown today. Relax and take your time over the short 1.5-hour journey. The best route is along SH6 which will take you through Cromwell . This South Island township is renowned for its fabulous fruits. If you’re passing through in summer, treat yourself to some of Cromwell’s delicious cherries.

Once you reach Queenstown, head down to the lakefront for a spot of lunch while you take in the tranquil view. Spend the afternoon perusing the great shops , exploring the walking tracks , or indulging in a wine or craft beer experience .

For your last night’s stay, park up your campervan at Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park .

Day 11 Queenstown

It’s the final day of your Auckland to Queenstown road trip, so be sure to make the most of it! You may like to plan a day trip to the tiny township of Arrowtown . Just 20 minutes’ drive, there’s loads to see and do in this charming gold rush village. Explore the boutique shops, pan for gold, or just take in the stunning scenery. Another great day trip is the 45-minute drive to Glenorchy . This little slice of paradise sits at the end of one of the most spectacular scenic drives in New Zealand. While you’re there, explore the settlement of Paradise where you can see some of the landscapes that featured in Lord of the Rings.

The last item on your travel itinerary is to return your camper to maui’s Queenstown branch.

Ready to explore New Zealand?

Inspired to book your Auckland to Queenstown road trip and experience some of these incredible destinations for yourself? Make it happen and book your maui campervan today.

Follow our great road trip itinerary planner or create your own. With branches in Auckland, Queenstown, and Christchurch you can pick up your campervan at one branch and drop it off at another.

Motorhome Hire New Zealand

International Numbers

NZ - Free Toll 0800 688 558 Call
NZ - Local (+64 9) 255 3910 Call
Australia 00 61 800 827 821 Call
UK 00 800 200 80 801 Call
Germany 00 800 200 80 801 Call
Netherlands 00 800 200 80 801 Call
France 00 800 200 80 801 Call
Canada 011 800 200 80 801 Call
USA (from landline only) 011 800 200 80 801 Call
View our contact page

South Island Self Drive
North Island Self Drive
Both Islands Self Drive
Lord of the Rings Self Drive
Motorhome Rental Packages
Self Drive Walking Holidays
Terms and Conditions
Ski and Snow Tours
Adventure Tours
Hiking Tours
Kayaking and Canoeing
Rafting Tours
Cave Adventures
Fishing Charters
Horse Trekking Tours
Surfing Holidays
Great Walks
North Island Guided Walks
South Island Guided Walks
Kiwi Style Hiking
Independent Walks
Grades and Fitness
Bay of Islands
Coromandel Peninsula
Christchurch
Fox Glacier
Franz Josef
Hanmer Springs
Holiday Parks/Powered Motorhome Sites
Auckland International Airport
Hamilton Airport
Napier Airport
New Plymouth Airport
Palmerston North Airport
Tauranga Airport
Wellington Airport
Blenheim Airport
Christchurch Airport
Invercargill Airport
Nelson Airport
Picton Ferry Terminal
Escorted Coach and Rail Tours
Independent Coach Tours
Private Tours
Train and Rail Journeys
Cruise Ship Excursions
Discovery Cruises
Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruises
Milford Sound Overnight Cruises
Hauraki Gulf Overnight Cruise
North Island
South Island
Lord of the Rings/Hobbit Day Tours
Adventure Day Tours
Food and Wine
Maori Culture Day Tours
Photography Tours
Cycling Holidays
Hiking Holidays
Horse Riding Holidays
Self Drive Holidays
Snow and Ski Holidays
Motorhome Rental
Airport Shuttles
New Zealand Train Journeys
Auckland New Zealand
Bay of Plenty
The Coromandel
Tongariro National Park
Waitomo Caves
Fiordland National Park
Franz Josef Glacier
Marlborough
Mt Cook - Aoraki
Stewart Island
Or maybe you'd like to:
View Sitemap
Contact Go NZ
Pricing & Additional Info

Self Drive Holidays 11 Day Queenstown to Auckland Highlights Self Drive

Explore iconic attractions and visit Queenstown, Mt. Cook, Rotorua, and many more

Travel Time ~19 hrs

Distance 1,547 kms

Start Queenstown

Finish Auckland

11 Day Queenstown to Auckland Highlights Self Drive

This 11 Day Queenstown to Auckland Highlights Self Drive tour takes you to the iconic attractions of New Zealand from the “Adventure Capital” of Queenstown all the way north to Auckland where the tour ends. A visit to Mt. Cook National Park is included, as well as to the coastal town of Kaikoura and the renowned Marlborough wine region. Heading to North Island you cross Cook Strait, arriving at the harbour city and capital, Wellington. Along the way, you'll experience the unique Maori culture and thermal attractions in Rotorua, rounding it off in the "City of Sails," Auckland.

Itineraries

All itineraries can be amended or combined with other itineraries. Please advise amendments when requesting a quote.

Additional Information

Cost per person.

* PLEASE NOTE

Price is based on two adults sharing a rental car and accommodation (twin/double-share).

Prices are estimates only, and are subject to availability and exchange rates when booking, seasonal or holiday price surcharges (such as Christmas/New Year and Easter); as well as special events that may be on. Please forward a request and we will be happy to forward a quote.

Deposit: 25% of the package cost or NZ$250 per person (whichever is the greater) at time of booking
Full Payment: 75 Days before travel
Airfares (if applicable): Paid in full at the time of booking

Cancellation Charges

Cancellation Fees up to 100% can apply after booking. Extra deposits or full payment may be requested to cover these charges prior to booking

10 nights accommodation

2 nights Queenstown
1 night Mt Cook
1 night Christchurch
1 night Kaikoura
1 night Blenheim
1 night Wellington
2 nights Rotorua
1 night Auckland

Rental Car Hire

Rental car insurance included: Fully inclusive with variable excess/deductible.
Rental car inclusions: Unlimited kms,airport/ferry terminal fees, additional drivers.

Private airport transfers

Interislander ferry crossing

Travel insurance.

If you are going overseas, then travel insurance is a necessity.

Accommodation

There is a choice of accommodation available on all packages, which depending on locations, includes motels, 3 star hotels, 4 star hotels, boutique lodges & hotels and luxury lodges and hotels. We are happy to quote on alternate accommodation requests.

The 92 km journey between Picton and Wellington or vice versa takes around 3 hours and has been described as 'one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world'. Around one hour of the cruise takes you through the Marlborough Sounds. This region of bush covered mountains, small islands, crystal clear waters and secluded bays is a true photographic opportunity. From the Cook Strait spectacular views of the Kaikoura Ranges on the South Island can be enjoyed and dolphins and many sea birds are often seen. Wellington Harbour sees you pass many interesting points such as Pencarrow Head on top of which is New Zealand's oldest lighthouse (1859). Red Rocks is home to a seal colony and Oterangi Bay is the site which recorded the countries highest ever wind speed of 268 kph (167 mph).

Book this self drive tour below

Book now, pay later no credit card required.

Fields marked with * are required

Please add the ages of the children and infants travelling with you. Ages would be at time of travel. Add ages for children (2-17 years) and infants (1 - 24 months) separated by a comma. Eg. 5, 7, 10

Your Details

Additional extras, accommodation & transport, other passengers.

Please list the full name(s) of each passenger travelling with you.

General Information

Please specify if you wish to include any tour options or extra days & if you have any special requirements. e.g dietary, physical, medical; and (if available) advise arrival and departure flight details in New Zealand.

Send Booking Enquiry

You might also be interested in these:

Read more about 11 Day Central South Island Self Drive

Read more about 11 Day Queenstown Natural Wonders Self Drive

Read more about 11 Day Wellington to Queenstown Explorer Self Drive

Read more about 11 Day Auckland to Wellington Food and Wine Trail Self Drive

Website by Bam Creative

Start Your Holiday

Self-Drive Holidays

Adventure Holidays

Book Accommodation

Book Car Rental

Book Campervan Hire

Coach, Train & Rail Touring

Cruise Holidays

Family Holidays

About Blog Explore NZ

Search Tours

Life in Queenstown
Queenstown's Vision
Moving to Queenstown
Queenstown innovation
Hospitality Industry
Technology Industry
Film Industry
Tourism Industry
Business Support & Resources
Innovation in Queenstown
Educational Tours
Language Schools | Study English
Tertiary Education
Queenstown Airport Travel Information
Maps & Visitor Guide
Autumn in Queenstown Winter in Queenstown Spring in Queenstown Summer in Queenstown Weather & Forecast
Arrowtown, New Zealand Gibbston, New Zealand Glenorchy, New Zealand Kingston, New Zealand Fiordland, New Zealand Wanaka, New Zealand Central Otago, New Zealand
Itineraries
What to Pack
Travel Tips
Regenerative Travel
Travel Packages & Combos
Visitor Services Transport Services Wellness & Beauty Event Services Business & Professional Services
Accessible Activities Accessible Accommodation Accessible Eateries
Air Adventures Bungy, Swing & Zip Land Adventures Water Adventures Indoor Thrills
Culture & Heritage
Submit an Event
Fishing & Hunting Mountaineering & Climbing Nature & Wildlife Skiing & Snowboarding Walking & Hiking Water Sports
Scenic Cruises Scenic Flights Scenic Tours Scenic Attractions Movie Location Tours
Skiing & Snowboarding
Walking & Hiking
Spa & Massage Yoga Hot Pools Gyms & Pilates Hair, Makeup & Beauty Physiotherapy
Wineries & Breweries
Backpackers & Hostels
Bed & Breakfasts
Holiday Parks & Camping Grounds
Holiday Rentals
Hotels & Resorts
Lodges & Retreats
Serviced Apartments
Cafés & Bakeries
Dessert & Ice Cream Shops
Pubs, Bars & Clubs
Restaurants
Takeaways & Fast Food
Wineries & Cellar Doors
Brewery & Craft Beer Tours
Queenstown Airport
Travel Information
Autumn in Queenstown
Winter in Queenstown
Spring in Queenstown
Summer in Queenstown
Weather & Forecast
See & Do in Arrowtown
Stay in Arrowtown
Eat & Drink in Arrowtown
Shopping in Arrowtown
Gibbston, New Zealand
Things to Do in Glenorchy
Stay in Glenorchy
Eat & Drink in Glenorchy
Stay in Kingston
See & Do in Kingston
See & Do in Fiordland
Wanaka, New Zealand
Central Otago, New Zealand
Information Centres
Coach & Bus Services
Rental Cars
Taxis & Shuttles
Limousines & Luxury Transport
Campervans & Motorhomes
Wellness & Beauty
AV & Equipment Hire
Event Management
Team Building
Bands & Entertainment
Accountants & Law Firms
Employment Agencies
Creative Services
Real Estate
Print Services
Local Services
Accessible Activities
Accessible Accommodation
Accessible Eateries
Air Adventures
Bungy, Swing & Zip
Land Adventures
Jet Boating
Indoor Thrills
Fishing & Hunting
Mountaineering & Climbing
Nature & Wildlife
Guided Walks & Hikes
Hiking Equipment Hire
Track Transport
Short Walks in Queenstown
Day Walks & Hikes in Queenstown
Water Sports
Scenic Cruises
Airplane Flights
Helicopter Flights
Hot Air Ballooning
Off Road Tours
City & Region Tours
Quad Biking & Buggy Tours
Horse Riding
Motorcycle Tours
Scenic Attractions
Movie Location Tours
Spa & Massage
Gyms & Pilates
Hair, Makeup & Beauty
Physiotherapy

Kayaking on Lake Whakatipu

The ultimate winter road trip guide to queenstown.

There is so much to explore on and off the ski field in Queenstown no matter how many times you've visited, no two trips need ever be the same. We've rounded up our favourite road trip locations in the region to bring you the ultimate winter road trip guide.

Queenstown to Arrowtown

Arrowtown is a 20-minute drive from Queenstown’s CBD, accessed either via a scenic drive through farmland and Arthur’s Point or via State Highway 6 and Lake Hayes.

Once in Arrowtown, you may be surprised at how much there is to do in the historic town. Take a stroll along the Arrow River or head up Tobin’s Track for views over Arrowtown. Or, take a step back in time at the Chinese Village, a cluster of old stone miner’s cottages dating back to the 1880's. Free to walk through, the old village gives you a glimpse into what mining life in Arrowtown would have been like.

After exploring Arrowtown's surrounds, head into the cosy town centre and check out the boutique shopping and galleries along Arrowtown's main streets or refuel at one of the cafes and restaurants. For a laid-back evening, grab some dinner and check out a movie at Dorothy Brown's cinema or enjoy a casual drink at one of Arrowtown's bars.

Hiking Tobin's Track in Winter, Arrowtown

Queenstown to Glenorchy

The 45-minute drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy is an absolute must-do in New Zealand. The road winds its way along the lakeside with incredible views over Lake Wakatipu, Cecil Peak and Walter Peak. Take your time on the drive and be sure to stop along the way, there are plenty of viewpoints to stop at as well as a few short hikes, like the Bob's Cove loop track, to explore along the way.

When you arrive in Glenorchy, you'll understand why it has been used as a filming location for blockbuster films and TV shows. Make sure you head down to the lakefront and check out the iconic red shed and Glenorchy wharf, and take a walk along the Glenorchy lagoon boardwalk . Grab a spot of lunch in Glenorchy or continue on to Paradise or Kinloch, a further 20 minutes down the road. Take care when driving to Glenorchy in winter as the roads can be dangerous in frosty or icy weather.

Queenstown to Jack’s Point

Jack’s Point is located at the base of The Remarkables mountain range, a 20-minute drive away from Queenstown’s CBD, with stunning views of snowy peaks in the distance.

Once in Jack’s Point head down to Homestead Bay, a beautiful long beach which is perfect for an easy lakeside stroll in winter. If you're after a walk that will get your blood pumping try the Jack’s Point Loop Track which can also be accessed on the drive to Homestead Bay. The track starts with a steep uphill climb, but you will be rewarded with stunning lake views and an easy descent once you reach the top.

Queenstown to Moke Lake

Moke Lake is a small lake located a 25-minute drive from downtown Queenstown. Surrounded by mountains and farmland, you'll feel like the only person for miles once you reach the lake.

Pack a picnic with some local treats and prepare to spend the day as there's plenty to do once you get out to Moke Lake. If you're a keen angler, purchase a day licence and try your hand at capturing a trout from the lake, or stretch your legs on the Moke Lake Loop Track .

Be sure to bring your camera with you, Moke Lake is great for mirror photography on a still day.

Queenstown to Gibbston

Gibbston is located a 30-minute drive from Queenstown’s CBD and is known as the 'Valley of the Vines' due to the award-winning pinot noir produced in the area. Gibbston is the perfect place to visit for an afternoon of wine tasting , e-biking, a cosy long lunch by the fire, or simply to enjoy a bottle of the latest vintage.

There are numerous award-winning vineyards throughout the valley, with everything from intimate one-room tasting rooms to all-encompassing premises with on-site accommodation and restaurants. Local wine tour companies have a fantastic selection of tours to suit all tastes and timetables and are more than happy to create bespoke tours based on your group's preferences.

Queenstown, NZ

NZ 09 974 1598 Email us

Manage booking Check-in Sign In Sign In Check-in Manage booking

Trip Planner

Change your itinerary, choose trip duration, want to change the duration of your journey, change trip duration, queenstown to auckland in 8 days, driving tour.

So, you’ve arrived in the adventure capital of the world with only 8 days to get yourself up to Auckland on the North Island. Arriving in Queenstown with only one day to explore can be quite daunting as there’s so much to do whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or you’re looking for a relaxing first day but fear not – we have pulled together our top three things to do for adventure and relaxation (we know, you can thank us when you drop the car off!) Anyway, enough of this – let’s GO! If you’re still in the planning stage of your trip, make sure you check out the great deals on car rental in Queenstown or our hire cars in Auckland – we’re not one of New Zealand’s favourite rental car companies for no reason!

Route map with key locations
Recommended vehicle for this trip
Queenstown and Around
Milford Sound
Queenstown to Christchurch
Christchurch to Picton
Wellington to Taupo
Taupo to Auckland

Book a vehicle for this trip

We recommend:.

Ford Everest Titanium

Get a Quote

Trip Itinerary

1 queenstown and around.

Queenstown is such a great place to start any New Zealand adventure but with so much to do and so little time to do it all, we’ve pulled together a list of our personal favourites:

Adrenaline fuelled adventure

For those who have headed to Queenstown for adrenaline-fuelled adventure, these are our highlights of things to do in a day: 1) AJ Hackett Nevis Bungy – Australasia’s highest bungy at 134m, this is not for the faint-hearted – 8.5 seconds of freefall will have you screaming like a lunatic!

2) Skipper Canyon Jet – reaching speeds of up to 85mph this ride up the tight Shotover Canyon is sure to get your pulse racing. The 360-degree spins will get you closer to the wall than you feel comfortable with! Skippers Canyon Jet is also a GO Play partner. Bonus!

3) Coronet Peak ski resort (in season) – fantastic resort for pros and beginners alike, Coronet Peak is a GO Rentals favourite in the winter where lots of fun can be had on and off the slopes

Something a bit more…relaxing

We know that jumping off mountains and flipping jet boats is not everyone’s cup of tea but there’s more to Queenstown than adrenaline-fuelled adventure. Here are our top three things for the more laid back traveller: 1) Ben Lomond – a 4-hour walk giving you some awesome views of Queenstown, the lake and surrounding mountains

2) Skyline gondola – take the gondola up Bob’s Peak and enjoy some award-winning cuisine and some amazing views. If you want to get down a bit quicker, the luge is a lot of fun!

At the end of a busy day, Queenstown is a great place to unwind with a huge range of bars to suit everyone. Depending on the time of year, you’ll either be welcomed into a roaring fire or sit out enjoying the sun setting over Lake Wakatipu.

2 Milford Sound (303kms – 4 hours 25 mins)

Described by Rudyard Kipling as the eighth wonder of the world, Milford Sound is THE MUST DO for anyone visiting the South Island. A great chance to give the GO Rentals hire car one final run out, the 4+ hour drive from Queenstown is well worth the early start to check out the magnificence of this most spectacular fjord carved out by glaciers during the ice age (that’s a long time ago by the way!).

Hop out of your GO Rentals hire car and straight onto a boat as this is a must once you get down there. With a number of companies offering day or night cruises, you’ll not be short of options for exploring the water when you arrive. Find yourself ‘oooing’ and ‘ahhhing’ at the spectacular waterfalls, some of which are over 1000 metres high so be sure to pack the camera but also make sure you pack your wet weather gear as inevitably it rains down at Milford Sound. Some say this makes the waterfalls even more spectacular but we’re not too sure about that one!

Use your GO Play card here

Milford sound kayak day tour.

Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory

Due to its unique underwater environment, Milford Sound is home to species of black coral usually found at depths of 500m or more, including magnificent 300-year-old ‘trees’ and the best way to check these old timers out is at the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory.

The Discovery Centre will send you on a journey back through the history, geology and wildlife of the Sound where you will also learn about the culture and heritage of this awe-inspiring place from local guides.

If you don’t fancy the drive down to Milford (it can be a very long day), GO Play partner Real Journeys offer a bus and fiord cruise trip which will take you from Queenstown to Milford and includes a boat cruise. Oh yeah, they will also give you a 10% discount. Awesome.

Make sure you allow enough time for the journey to and from Milford Sound – there are a lot of bus tours leaving from Queenstown so take your time and drive safely.

Queenstown Complete Guide

3 Queenstown to Christchurch (483km – 6 hours 37 mins)

After a busy day of adventure and action in and around Queenstown, it’s time to hit the road and head north to Christchurch. There is plenty to see and do along the way making this journey a day out in itself.

Mt John Observatory/Lake Tekapo (256km – 3 hours 26 mins from Queenstown)

Lake Tekapo is also famous for its unique turquoise colour, as well as its beautiful starry nights – a perfect spot for you romantics out there as Lake Tekapo has been the scene of many a wooing! If you can park here for the night, you will not regret it. Mt John, just above the Tekapo township, is considered one of the most accessible observatories in the world, home to 6 telescopes, including New Zealand’s biggest telescope, which can observe 50 million stars each clear night (yes, you read that right).

Lake Tekapo and Mt John are located about a 3.5-hour drive north of Queenstown.

Akaroa (280km – 4 hours 10 mins from Lake Tekapo)

Located 75km from Christchurch and known by locals as the ‘Riviera of Canterbury’, Akaroa is a great stop off as you head towards the big city. This village is located on the Banks Peninsula within a harbour of the same name and is considered “the most French town” in New Zealand, as it was the only French settlement in the country. Spend some time exploring the small town and then head to the harbour for the best fish and chips meal of your life (at least that’s Akaroa’s claim so you be the judge and let us know). Black Cat Cruise offers the chance to swim with the very rare Hector dolphins which are only found in these waters and with a GO Play discount of 10%, you’d be a fool not to!

Mount Cook Ski Planes Helicopter Scenic Flights

Lyttelton (78.8km – 1 hour 29 mins from akaroa).

Heading into Christchurch, a stop off at Lyttelton is well worth the detour and it’s a great place to grab some dinner if you’re arriving late. Hit by the earthquakes, Lyttelton has now rebuilt and is a thriving village with lots of bars and cafes – leaving Lyttelton and heading to Christchurch, there’s a great road which offers you some fantastic views looking down to the city and the harbour as well as down to the Southern Alps – a great way to end this road trip.

It’s a short 12.4km into Christchurch CBD from here which will take you around 20 mins.

4 Christchurch to Picton (337 km – 4 hours 19 mins)

Day 4 of your road trip starts in the largest city on the South Island – the Garden City . Spend the morning exploring this beautiful city – some of the GO Rentals team highlights are below.

Christchurch Complete Guide

The garden city

Christchurch was named number 2 on the New York Times’ top 52 places to visit in 2014 and there are plenty of reasons for that. Following the earthquakes of 2010-11, the city has now emerged as a vibrant city with plenty to see and do. Known as the Garden City, Christchurch has an abundance of parks and gardens including the gorgeous botanical gardens. Add into this mix the tranquil Avon River and you can see why people rave so much about the city.

Eat | Drink | Shop

Image of Christchurch post-earthquake with the redevelopment that has taken place

Check out the several Gap Filler projects that volunteers have created to temporarily “activate” sites left empty by the earthquakes – you’ll be able to see some unique and really creative work that is proof of Christchurch’s charm and resilience.

There is a big day of driving ahead of you to make the ferry across to the North Island so make sure you leave plenty of time as there is plenty to see and do on the way. There is a late ferry that leaves at 10.30pm so you can really make the most of your day. Don’t forget to book your ferry in advance – something we can help with if you like.

Kaikoura – Swim with the dolphins (181 km – 2 hours 21 mins)

A great first stop off on the way is Kaikoura which is a whale watcher’s delight. Not only that, this is a great opportunity for you to take a dip and swim with the dolphins at the right time of the year – this must be on a few wish lists so let’s get it ticked off!

Cellar View Café and Restaurant

Kaikoura is one of New Zealand’s best locations for seeing marine life including whales and dolphins. It is also the home to the Cellar View Cafe and Restaurant. This place serves up some pretty amazing dishes matched only by the stunning views out to the pacific. It’s easy to let an afternoon drift by, enjoying the delicious food and admiring the endless view. Nice.

Swimming with dolphins

GO Play partner Encounter Kaikoura offers a brilliant opportunity to get in the water in the south Pacific and swim with these amazing animals with tours operating three times a day.

It’s not just dolphins that pass through the waters around Kaikoura though and if you time things right, there is also the chance to see various species of whale as well as seals and birds.

Marlborough Complete Guide

Wine tasting and much more (129km – 1 hour 47mins)

If wine is not your thing, there are also lots of microbreweries in the region so this is the perfect place to stock up for the road trip ahead.

From Blenheim, it’s a short 28kms to the ferry terminal at Picton which should take you around half an hour.

5 Wellington

It might be small but New Zealand’s cool capital is jam-packed with things to do and places to see .

Wellington Complete Guide

Park your car and head for a walk around the waterfront where you’ll find the fascinating Museum of Wellington City and Sea in the old Harbour Board Bond Store, complete with its opulent 1920s board room and a complete teak cabin from an 1879 steamship. It’s not far from New Zealand’s national museum, Te Papa Tongarewa – a futuristic multi-storeyed complex that forms one of the largest new museums in the world, with numerous interactive displays.

For the best panoramic views of the city and Port Nicholson all the way across to the Hutt Valley, head up to the lookout on Mt Victoria. The historic cannon on the summit was installed in 1877 and was fired each day as a time signal for many years. If you look down below, in the suburbs, you will spot the New Zealand Cricket Museum, located in the Old Grandstand at the Basin Reserve, not far from the Colonial Cottage Museum on the site of one of the original 1840 New Zealand Company Town acres.

Coffee culture

Grab a coffee (Wellington claims to have the best coffee in New Zealand) and visit the cool one-of-a-kind stores along Manners Mall and Cuba Street. When you’re on that street, notice the cool Bucket Fountain that doesn’t actually work the way it’s supposed to (take a close look at it and you’ll see the water doesn’t actually obey the easy bucket system and sometimes misses the buckets altogether).

Treaty of Waitangi

A visit to Archives New Zealand on 10 Mulgrave Street allows you to see the Treaty of Waitangi (the document that is considered the foundation of the country). You can also take a tour of the Beehive, the country’s parliament if you’re feeling politically inclined before taking a stroll along the waterfront, decorated with interesting sculptures and populated by numerous bars (including some decent craft beer spots).

Weta workshop

If you have some free time, we suggest a visit to the Weta Workshop, nestled away in the Miramar suburb. Weta is known worldwide for its weird and wonderful creations for film, including creatures, makeup and digital special effects for movies such as The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Avatar and The Chronicles of Narnia among others.

You can take the 45-minute guided tour through the workshop, which provides unique behind-the-scenes glimpses into the work of this award-winning company.

An interesting activity if you have a got a half hour to spare is a little sadistic but we do love to see it. Head over to the airport in Wellington (we suggest you park on Wexford Road, on the northeastern side of the airport) and on a typical windy Wellington day, you’ll have the chance to see what you escaped from by choosing to drive from Queenstown to Auckland rather than catching flights. Planes taking off and landing in Wellington often sway a little more than they should – a little scary for passengers on the plane, a bit of fun for you safely watching from the comfort of your rental car on rock-solid ground.

6 Wellington to Taupo (370km – 5 hours 5 mins)

Stonehenge aotearoa (84.2km – 1 hour 14 mins from wellington).

Heading north out of Wellington, we’re going to take a slightly longer route towards Palmerston North, with a pit stop in Carterton.

Stonehenge Aotearoa

Whanganui (193km – 2 hours 41 mins)

From Carterton, we have just a short of 3 hours to drive before we hit our next destination, Whanganui.

There’s plenty to see in Whanganui so you’ll have to be a bit selective. We suggest a look at the centre of town. These are famous because they were the location where Peter Snell ran the famous sub-four-minute mile in January 1962 (that’s crazy fast). If you’re feeling particularly fit, you can try attempting your fastest mile time here too, right where Snell did it in front of 13,000 people.

Afterwards, take some time to wander around the Whanganui Regional Museum, on Watt Street, which displays the impressive work of Gottfried Lindauer, one of the most famous colonial artists in the country. The museum also includes one of the most important collections of Moa bones, including some complete skeletons of the extinct giant bird.

Hop back in your GO Rentals car for the last trip of the day up to Taupo which should take you around 3.5 hours.

7 Taupo to Auckland – (279km 3 hours 18 mins)

Having arrived pretty late in Taupo the previous day, a new dawn awaits with plenty of options in this town situated on the shore of New Zealand’s largest lake.

Lake Taupo itself is pretty impressive and, not far from the township, along the Desert Road, you’ll get to see Mount Ruapehu (Mount Doom for you Lord of the Rings fans) and its neighbouring (and equally impressive) volcanoes.

The Desert Road itself is worth the drive as the scenery is not something you’ll find anywhere else (alpine deserts such as this one are a rare sight anywhere else in the world) so take your time to soak in the views.

Although this is a guide to off-the-beaten-track adventures it would seem wrong if we failed to mention the amazing skydiving to be had over Lake Taupo. The views are simply stunning as you plummet from 13,000 feet heading towards the lake. A further bonus is that Taupo Tandem Skydiving is a GO Play partner and will kindly offer you a 5% discount for the pleasure of throwing yourself out of a perfectly good aeroplane!

Canoe and Kayak Kayaking Taupo

Taupo to rotorua (81.3km – 1 hour 8 mins).

After a hectic morning spent in Taupo, it’s time to hit the road and head north to Auckland. There is a quick stop off on the way in Rotorua where you can easily spend a couple of hours, taking in the delights of the geothermal wonderland. With only a couple of hours to spare, these are our top tips:

Wai-O-Tapu – probably the best place to check out the geothermal rumblings including the world famous champagne pools and the Lady Know Geyser. And…Wai-O-Tapu is a GO Play partner so you get all this geothermal fun with a 10% discount. Result.

Te Puia – a great place to learn about Maori culture including a performance at the Marae. You also have a chance to check out the rare Kiwi bird at the live enclosure – one not to be missed.

Rotorua Complete Guide

We didn’t like to mention it before but what’s going on with that smell?? A geothermal wonderland it might be but it comes at a price. After a couple of hours, here the smell of sulphur may well have overwhelmed you so it’s time to hit the road to your final destination on this 8-day adventure – Auckland.

Pokeno Ice Cream (179km – 2 hours 10 mins from Rotorua)

After this little stop off, you only have another 52kms to Auckland which should see you there in just over half an hour.

Having arrived pretty late the night before, wake up to the sights and sounds of NZ’s largest city, home to 1.3 million people and known as the City of Sails. After a nice stroll in downtown Auckland , checking out the Viaduct area and maybe grabbing a bite to eat it’s time for one last trip out in your lovely little hire car. A perfect place to end this trip is to head out west through the suburbs and out to the Waitakere Ranges. With heaps of tracks through the lush forest, there is plenty to keep you busy here. If walking is not your thing, keep driving through the forest and end up at one of the superb west coast beaches like Piha or Muriwai. The surf’s good out there and the black volcanic sand makes for an interesting day at the beach.

If you’re looking for something a bit closer to home but still fancy a drive out, head on out to Devonport or even up to one of the North Shore’s laid back locations like Browns Bay where you can grab a coffee and watch the world go by.

10 top destinations within 3 hours’ drive of Auckland
13 Things to do in Auckland at Night – Only The Best!
13 Awesome Things To Do On Waiheke
Top 14 Things To Do In Auckland On a Rainy Day

We use cookies and other technologies to understand and improve your browsing experience. By using our site, you agree to us collecting this information and to our Privacy Charter .

Retail stores
Fuel prices
Help & support

The ultimate guide to Auckland New Zealand

September 11, 2024

Vibrant, diverse and innovative, Auckland (Tāmaki Makaurau) offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Use this ultimate guide to the best things to do in Auckland to plan your perfect stay in New Zealand.

From cultural attractions that leave a lasting impression to outdoor activities that wow, expect to leave with a newfound appreciation for Aotearoa New Zealand’s most populous city.

With daily flights from Melbourne to Auckland that only take around 3.5 hours, Auckland is a great destination for Victorians, whether travelling for a quick city break or as part of a longer holiday.

RACV Members have access to exclusive benefits on everything from tours , cruises , and fun-filled attractions and experiences in Auckland and across New Zealand. More: The best places and things to do in New Zealand

Your guide to Auckland's best places to visit

Auckland’s vibrant neighbourhoods.

Auckland feels more like a collection of diverse neighbourhoods than a built-up city, leaving ample choice for exploration. The city is also located on New Zealand's narrowest neck of land. If you're keen, there's the 16km Coast to Coast walk between the Waitematā and Manukau harbours, which takes you through suburbs, parks and up extinct volcanos for superb views of the city. You'll need the app, otherwise you might get lost.

For gorgeous boutiques, trendy cafés, and lively bars, Ponsonby - close to the city centre - delivers. If you prefer a more sophisticated vibe, you’ll love exploring Parnell’s main strip of shops and eateries. For a darling café culture at a seaside destination, Takapuna and Devonport on the North Shore will appeal. The latter has spectacular Auckland skyline views, too. For nature lovers, stop in Titirangi before exploring West Auckland.

While the distinct personalities and attractions of many Auckland suburbs appeal, most visitors base themselves in the CBD, near the scenic waterfront area. Staying central gives you easy train and bus access to most of the sprawling city. Plus, trendy Britomart - where exceptional culinary fare is the norm, not the exception – is right on your doorstep.

If you’re looking to enjoy a self-drive adventure, parking can be both challenging to find (and costly) in the city centre. Choose a hotel with parking included or stay in a surrounding neighbourhood.

woman and man walking through outdoor market with groceries

Britomart is a trendy place for foodies. Image: Tourism NZ

Best cultural activities and things to do in Auckland

Uncovering New Zealand’s rich history is an ideal way to start your stay in the City of Sails. The Auckland War Memorial Museum allows a deep dive into Aotearoa's natural and military history and Māori heritage. Cultural performances are on twice daily. The museum is in the lush 75ha Auckland Domain, formed around the cone of an extinct volcano. Pack a picnic and include a visit to the historic Wintergarden.

In the heart of the city, the Auckland Arts Gallery (Toi o Tāmaki) connects you to New Zealand’s artistic heritage. It’s the country’s largest gallery, housing a 15,000-piece collection of national and international works.

For theatre lovers, the Civic Theatre is a beautifully restored 1920s building. Performances across the year include opera, musicals, comedy, and ballet.

A lesser-visited gem, the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT) offers a glimpse into New Zealand’s transport history and technological advancements via interactive displays. MOTAT is close to the award-winning Auckland Zoo and picturesque Western Springs Park. Combine all three for a fun-filled family day out.

The Auckland Arts Gallery is well worth a visit. Image: Tourism NZ

Best nature activities in Auckland

With volcanic islands, lush national parks, and both east and west coast beaches within easy reach, nature enthusiasts have much to rave about during their Auckland stay.

For an enriching day out, head 40 minutes to the Waitakere Ranges and West Coast beaches . Pristine rainforests, gushing waterfalls, and a coastline renowned for its wild surf, the Waitakere Ranges immerse you in Auckland’s best natural wonders.

Choose to take one of the park’s well-organised trails like the Mercer Bay Loop trail, Anawhata and Whites Beach Loop or the Kitekite Track, which leads to a stunning multi-tiered waterfall.

After a hike, visit one of the west coast’s wild beaches, where long stretches of black volcanic sand and the exhilarating thrashing waves (always swim between the flags here) feel far removed from central Auckland. Piha Beach is the most famous, however, Karekare and Bethells are as appealing. Bethells has vast black-sand dunes nearby.

A short ferry ride from Auckland’s waterfront, Rangitoto Island is a dormant volcano offering panoramic views over Auckland city and the Hauraki Gulf. Alternatively, Tiritiri Matangi Island is an ideal spot for those interested in wildlife conservation. Take a guided tour to learn about the island’s rare and endangered bird species.

For a spot of nature while in the city, explore 64ha of beautiful gardens and native forest at the Auckland Botanic Gardens in Manurewa.

Piha Beach has black volcanic sand. Image: Tourism NZ

Auckland’s best food & wine experiences

Dining in Auckland can be as sophisticated or relaxed as you choose. The Viaduct Harbour and Britomart offer top-notch dining experiences, including Oyster & Chop, Soul Bar & Bistro, and Parasol & Swing. For a fabulous caffeine kickstart, Britomart’s Shaky Isles hits the spot.

For exceptional meals with a view, book a table at Peter Gordon’s Sugar Club, on the 53rd floor of the iconic Sky Tower. For casual CBD eats, Mexico, Satya, and the award-winning Albert Street Food Court will make your tastebuds sing.

Ponsonby is famous for its eateries, with contemporary flavours and innovative menus the norm. Wander Ponsonby Road to find a restaurant that suits your vibe or choose from the tasty vendors at trendy Ponsonby Central. You’ll want to book ahead for Ponsonby favourites like Sidart, Thirty-One, and Prego, an Italian institution in Ponsonby for more than 30 years.

Hobbiton makes for a great day trip from Auckland. Image: Sara Orme

Best day trips from Auckland

Auckland’s prime location on the North Island means there is much to discover with a picturesque drive that's one to two hours' drive from the city centre.

An hour north of Auckland, the sleepy village of Matakana charms with its Saturday farmers’ market, artisanal food producers, and boutique wineries. The sculptures, six art galleries, restaurant, and vineyard across Sculptureum are highly recommended.

If you’re a Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fan, you’ll love a day trip to Matamata to visit Hobbiton . It’s enthralling to wander the Shire, see the Hobbit Holes, and snap a photo in front of Bilbo’s house.

Waiheke Island is worthy of its hype as an island paradise. Only 35 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland, Waiheke feels distinctly more tropical (in summer) and laidback than its big city neighbour across the Hauraki Gulf. Known as the ‘Island of Wine’, the 30 boutique vineyards across Waiheke appeal to many day trippers. Stop by the well-known Mudbrick and Stonyridge Vineyards, or for high tea with a twist visit Batch Winery.

Other Waiheke Island activities include hiking, watersports, ziplining , and relaxing on the gorgeous beaches. Waiheke Island is also an idyllic spot for wellness experiences .

Looking for travel insurance for New Zealand?

The information provided is general advice only. Before making any decisions please consider your own circumstances and the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations . For copies, visit racv.com.au. Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) Ltd AR 001243563 is an authorised representative of the issuer and receives commission for each policy sold or renewed. RACV Travel Insurance issued by Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd ABN 80 000 438 291 AFSL 246 548. Terms & conditions apply, refer to the PDS.

The best places to visit in New Zealand

Aotearoa (New Zealand) is a destination synonymous with spectacular landscapes, a vibrant culture, creative culinary scene, and adventure activities galore. Discover the best things to do in New Zealand in this handy guide.

Read article

The ultimate guide to Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s star attractions, with scenery so stand-out that every street you pass, every hilltop you climb, every attraction you visit. These are the best things to do and see in Queenstown.

people boating in waitomo caves, looking at glow worms

Fun for the family: NZ’s best North Island attractions

Whether you and your family enjoy exploring natural wonders, playful immersive experiences or heart-racing adventures, there’s an activity on the North Island to match.

This site will not function correctly without JavaScript enabled. Please enable JavaScript in your browser.

10 Best Things to Do in Auckland, New Zealand

Are you looking for the best things to do in Auckland? Look no further!

Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, serves as the gateway to this stunning country, as Auckland Airport is the only international airport in NZ.

In Auckland, you can enjoy a wide range of activities, including thrilling adventures like skywalks and bungee jumps, a serene hike up an inactive volcano, and exploring the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Auckland, as well as embarking on unforgettable day trips to Hobbiton or nearby islands. Auckland offers it all.

Best Things to Do in Auckland

1. experience the sky tower .

The Auckland Sky Tower is an iconic landmark in the city’s skyline. With a height of 328 meters, it’s not just the tallest building in Auckland, it’s the second tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere. According to TripAdvisor, the Sky Tower is also the number one attraction in Auckland.

This architectural marvel is more than just a tower, it’s a hub of excitement and entertainment. It houses an observation deck, a revolving restaurant and bar, a gift shop and a thrilling SkySlide, SkyWalk and SkyJump experience.

The observation deck on the top of the Sky Tower is located at 220 meters. It provides a bird’s eye view of the city’s landmarks, while the revolving restaurant, Orbit 360°, offers a unique dining experience with a rotating view.

For adrenaline junkies, the SkyJump, SkyWalk and SkySlide present heart-stopping experiences far above the city. The minimum age for those adventurous activities is 10 years old. There are also minimum weight restrictions depending on the wind conditions, so make sure to check those before heading to the Sky Tower with your kids.

2. Do a Day Trip to Hobbiton

Hobbiton isn’t directly in Auckland, but strolling through the Shire is such a unique experience in the North Island of New Zealand that it shouldn’t be missed. It’s an absolute must-visit for fans of ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ trilogies.

As you wander around the idyllic Shire, you’ll get to explore the original Hobbit Holes and Bag End, where Frodo and Bilbo’s adventures began. Then, you can enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn, where hobbits would go for drinks in the movies.

Visiting Hobbiton is a remarkable opportunity to step into a piece of cinematic history and immerse yourself in J.R.R. Tolkein’s Middle-Earth, brought to life on screen by Peter Jackson.

Getting to Hobbiton from Auckland is easy. You can either drive there on your own or opt for a guided tour. There are excellent day tours from Auckland to Hobbiton . The advantage of taking a tour is that you can combine your visit with exploring the famous glowworm caves, or a relaxing stop in some hot springs, without having the hassle of driving yourself.

3. Hike Up Mount Eden

Another must-do activity while in Auckland is hiking up Mount Eden. Mount Eden, called Maungawhau in the Māori language, is an inactive volcano near Auckland city center. The crater is called Te Upu Kai a Mataaho (‘the bowl of Mataaho’) and is of spiritual and cultural significance to the Māori people.

It’s a short walk from the base of Mount Eden to the top, around 20 minutes. At the top there’s a boardwalk surrounding the crater and a viewing platform. The summit is the highest natural point in Auckland, and from the viewing point you get the best views of the city.

4. Stroll Down Ponsonby Road

Ponsonby Road is a vibrant street famed for its eclectic mix of boutiques, art galleries, and local eateries. It’s the perfect place for some shopping away from the city center.

The great thing about Ponsonby Road is that there are more small, local shops compared to the city center. You can find a range of high-end fashion stores, vintage shops, and local designers showcasing their work.

After shopping, you can enjoy a meal or coffee at one of the many cafes, bistros, or gourmet restaurants that line the street.

5. Visit The Auckland War Memorial Museum

The Auckland War Memorial Museum, also called Auckland Museum, is another must-visit. It’s one of the most important museums in New Zealand. But it’s not just a war museum, it’s also a museum of New Zealand’s history and a shrine to those who sacrificed their lives in the World Wars.

The museum offers a deep dive into New Zealand’s history, both natural and cultural. It houses an impressive collection of Maori and Pacific Islander artifacts, including a full-size meeting house.

The museum’s top floor is dedicated to remembering New Zealand’s involvement in major global conflicts.

You can even book a ticket for a special Māori Cultural Performance inside the museum. It’s the best way to experience the traditional music, dance, and weaponry of the Māori. After seeing the thrilling haka dance, you get to meet the performers for a deeper cultural experience.

6. Relax At Albert Park

Albert Park is a delightful slice of tranquility in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Auckland. This Victorian-era park is known for its beautifully manicured gardens, impressive trees, and beautiful Victorian fountain.

As you stroll along the park’s paths, you’ll encounter a diverse range of plants, a radiant flower clock, and several historic statues.

Whether you want to go for a walk or you’re looking for a great place for a picnic in nature, Albert Park is your best bet.

The park is very popular amongst locals for its serene environment, especially amongst students of the nearby University of Auckland.

7. Explore Downtown Auckland

Downtown Auckland is often referred to as the “heart of the city”. It’s a vibrant and bustling area that perfectly captures the essence of Auckland’s urban lifestyle.

This area is filled with a wide array of attractions and activities that cater to different tastes and preferences. From the beautiful waterfront to the high-end shopping district of Queen Street, there’s something for everyone.

Art enthusiasts can visit the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki , home to one of the most extensive collections of national and international art in New Zealand.

For history enthusiasts, the historic Ferry Building showcases the city’s rich architectural heritage. Even if you’re not a big architecture fan, the building makes for a great photo spot.

Whether you’re exploring the quaint alleys, going on a shopping spree, or simply admiring the modern and historic architecture, Downtown Auckland offers a unique blend of experiences.

8. Stroll Along The Waterfront

The Auckland Waterfront offers a great mix of stunning harbor views, delicious dining, and a vibrant arts and culture scene. This scenic area is a fantastic place to take a leisurely stroll, soak in the scenic views of the Waitematā Harbour, and watch the boats glide by.

The Viaduct Harbour, located within the waterfront, is brimming with upscale restaurants and bustling bars, making it a popular spot for both daytime and evening entertainment. Right next to the Viaduct Harbour you can find the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the perfect place to learn about the country’s seafaring history.

The Wynyard Quarter used to be very industrial, but it got transformed to a modern urban landscape marked by innovative architecture and public spaces. The highlight of Wynyard Quarter is the Silo Park, known for its converted cement silo that now serves as an event venue. In the summer months you can catch a movie at the open-air cinema in the Silo Park, a great way to spend an evening in Auckland.

With its outdoor markets, live performances, and a host of festivals throughout the year, the Auckland Waterfront is a lively area that truly reflects the city’s maritime heritage and dynamic atmosphere.

9. Visit The Auckland Harbour Bridge

The iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge isn’t just a significant landmark, but also an integral part of the city’s identity. Towering majestically over the Waitematā Harbour, the bridge connects central Auckland with the North Shore, offering stunning panoramic views of the city and the gulf.

It’s also home to the Auckland Bridge Climb, an exhilarating experience that allows you to ascend the bridge’s arch for a thrilling, bird’s-eye view of the city.

For adrenaline junkies, the Auckland Bridge Bungy offers an unforgettable bungee jump from the bridge.

Whether you’re admiring it from afar, driving across it, or taking part in one of these unique experiences, the Auckland Harbour Bridge should be on every Auckland itinerary.

10. Do A Waiheke Island Day Trip

Just a short ferry ride from Downtown Auckland, Waiheke Island provides a refreshing escape from the city. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, olive groves, and vineyards.

Waiheke Island is also referred to as the “Island of Wine” due to its numerous award-winning wineries that offer wine tastings and spectacular views over the Hauraki Gulf.

Visitors can explore the island by foot, bike, or on a guided tour, discovering the charming local art scene, exquisite cuisine, and scenic walking trails.

The best way to end a trip to Waiheke Island is to enjoy an amazing sunset over the water. It’s easy to understand why a Waiheke Island Day Trip is considered one of the most unforgettable things to do in Auckland.

Guest Author: Tina Riegelnegg from Veganderlust.

New Zealand North Island Itinerary with 10 Essential Stops

10 Top Things to do in Newcastle

Get Travel Insuranc e

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flight s

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner ! My second favorite site to find flights is Momondo , another great site for finding cheap flights.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO .

Rent Clothes

Rent clothes for your trip with Travel Style Expert for only $50 a month! The first 30 days are free!

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Get Your Guide and Viator . If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar . They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If I am going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean I use Apple Vacations .

Rent a Car or Take a Lyft

More often than not Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit ! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Discover Cars .

The post 10 Best Things to Do in Auckland, New Zealand appeared first on Mommy Travels .

Are you looking for the best things to do in Auckland? Look no further! Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, serves as the gateway to this stunning country, as Auckland Airport is the only international airport in NZ. In Auckland, you […]

New Zealand in a campervan: tips from a seasoned expert

Sep 14, 2024 • 8 min read

Read on for everything you need to know to make your campervan trip in NZ a reality. Getty Images

Campervanning has always been a popular way to get around New Zealand , especially for travelers on a budget. This is in part thanks to the popularity of “freedom camping” (a system that allows parking overnight in designated areas at no cost across the country).

Having traveled the considerable length of Aotearoa (New Zealand’s Māori language name) in my own van, I have spent many nights in free camping spots. Some are right by the ocean; others high in the mountains. Even staying in urban free camping sites feels like an adventure, and it leaves you more money to spend on getting to new places in New Zealand.

It’s relatively easy to rent a van from a range of providers and get a taste of this lifestyle on a shorter trip. However, soaring fuel and rental costs, along with changes to freedom camping laws in 2023 , mean it’s no longer the budget-friendly mode of transportation it once was.

With this in mind: here’s how to plan a campervan trip in New Zealand.

Comparing the costs: campervan vs. car rental

Trying out van life in New Zealand used to be about freedom and a low cost way of travel. More recently, it has morphed into a lifestyle that comes with a price tag. If you’re traveling in peak summer season from late December to late February, the costs of campervan hire can run from NZ$200 a day for a budget camper to more than NZ$500 a day for a motor home style (RV) vehicle.

There are other costs that can come with campervan hire, too. Diesel vehicles are cheaper to fill up (from around NZ$1.75/liter) but you’ll need to pay Road User Charges (RUCs). These charges are based on a government fee passed on by rental companies, typically between NZ$0.07 to 0.09 per kilometer.

With a petrol vehicle you avoid these charges but you can expect to pay a lot at the pump when you fill up – powering a campervan over New Zealand’s hilly landscapes takes more gas than a smaller, more nimble car, and at the time of publication, petrol cost upwards of NZ$2.53/liter. Use the Gaspy app to find the best prices on fuel.

Compare this to a rental car, which can cost just NZ$80 a day in peak season and comes with the option of sleeping in a real bed every night. In fact, it can work out to be almost as cost-effective to rent a car and stay in hotels. (The exception may be in larger cities like Wellington or Auckland , where hotel rooms in central areas come at a premium and parking costs around NZ$50 per night.)

However, there are some ways that campervans come out on top. Porting your own kitchen around means you can make more of your own meals and save on the cost of eating out. Car travel means sacrificing flexibility as you’ll need book accommodation in advance. And with a campervan, the trip is the experience.

Once you’ve parked up in one of New Zealand’s many stunning locations with easy access to hikes, swimming, sunsets, and views, there’s really no need to do anything else.

What about buying a campervan?

If you’re planning to stay for a few months or longer, you might be able to buy a used van for less than NZ$8000. Campervans change hands regularly between travelers. But, don't forget to factor in the additional costs of insurance (around NZ$120 a month), registration (roughly NZ$10 a month for a petrol vehicle) and maintenance costs, which can be in the thousands of dollars for vehicles that have typically seen high mileage and many years on the road.

Woman relaxes in lakeside campsite, beside tent, bike in New Zealand

Can you park a campervan anywhere in New Zealand?

Campervan travel used to be a go-to budget option thanks to freedom camping, which is what it sounds like: parking for free in designated campsites. That’s now changing. From December 2024, only motor home rental vehicles with plumbed toilets will be classed as self-contained. To legally freedom camp this is now the expected minimum standard.

Some areas still offer freedom camping for vehicles deemed not fully self-contained, but these are few and far between – and typically in more remote areas.

Most smaller campervans don’t meet the requirements as they typically only have portable camping toilets on-board. The result? You’ll need a larger (read: more expensive) motor home if you want the flexibility of freedom camping in most places. Infringement fees have also increased from NZ$200 to NZ$400 if you’re caught camping in breach of the laws.

If you do plan on freedom camping, keep your expectations in check. Often, freedom camping spots are little more than parking lots where you’re allowed to park overnight and need to vacate by 9am the next morning. I have spent the night in a parking lot next to the railway tracks in Dunedin , and in empty fields with no view, or facilities to speak of.

Some freedom camping spots can be stunning though. One of my favorites is the Te Kopahou Visitor Center carpark in Wellington . It’s only a 15-minute drive from the center of the city, but right on the edge of the wild and windswept coast. Another is the Castle Point carpark in the Wairarapa region, next to a remote lagoon and a rocky outcrop with a lighthouse atop it. The more popular freedom camp spots can fill up early, so you need to plan to arrive earlier in the afternoon – there’s no way to reserve your spot.

Honesty box at a campsite for travellers to pay their campsite fee in NZ

How to find affordable camping in New Zealand

The easiest way to find campgrounds is by using a camping app like Rankers or Campermate . These free apps guide you to both free and paid campgrounds, and also show where you can find dump stations for your wastewater.

Campgrounds range in price from free to as much as NZ$60 per person a night for more deluxe, powered sites. Most campgrounds don’t need to be booked in advance, unless it’s late December to early January. This is when a large number of locals are on their summer holidays. Even then you should find a space in less popular campgrounds, usually away from the beach or lakes.

The Department of Conservation (DOC) has a nationwide network of campgrounds, some of which are free of charge. Many others cost between NZ$10 and NZ$15 a night for a standard campsite (for either a campervan or a tent), which usually offer a water supply and a long drop toilet (outhouse). Many DOC campgrounds are bookable online, which also saves you having to juggle cash at the campground itself.

For more facilities, like a hot shower and laundry, check out New Zealand’s holiday parks. Offering everything from hot showers, laundry to playgrounds and pools, these well-equipped campgrounds offer consistently good facilities, often in prime locations. Popular holiday parks chains include Tasman Holiday Parks and Top 10 Holiday Parks , with the latter offering a membership option, which can get you discounts on stays.

Another option for low cost camping in a certified self-contained campervan or motor home is Okay2stay . The membership-based program (you can join for NZ$50) offers more than 100 locations around the country where you can park for free, if you support the hosts by buying their wine, produce, or other artisanal goods. Hosts include boutique vineyards, craft breweries, orchards, and dairy farms, so it’s a great way to get to know local growers and producers – and keep your kitchen well-stocked.

How much time do I need for a campervan trip around New Zealand?

Driving around New Zealand takes a lot longer than you think. It’s a country roughly the size of Italy with a population of just over five million, which means everything is very spread out, especially on the South Island. Roads are often narrow and winding, and you’ll probably want to factor in time to stop to look at the scenery.

Larger motor homes are also restricted to 90 kms per hour, even when the speed limit is 100km – but you’ll struggle to even get to that speed in this hilly terrain.

The minimum amount of time for a campervan trip in New Zealand would be around one to two weeks, and you would want to focus on one island. Many campervan rental companies offer pick up and drop offs in Auckland or Christchurch , with a handful also servicing Queenstown or other smaller towns. This makes Auckland and Christchurch the main start and end points by default.

If you have three weeks or more, you could start from Auckland and head south, covering both islands. Just remember that if you plan on traveling between the islands, book your ferry ticket in advance, as spots can sell out over the busy season. Also check if your rental vehicle can be moved between islands.

Campervan under a starry night in Lake Taupo, North Island, New Zealand

One final cost: the environmental impact of campervan travel

In a lot of areas, campervans can put pressure on the environment. Although most van travelers do it for the love of nature, the lack of proper facilities in freedom camping areas can result in waste being left behind, which is what triggered 2023 and 2024’s legislative changes related to freedom camping.

Consider traveling to lesser visited areas of the country, like Taranaki on the west coast of the North Island, or around the East Cape and Gisborne, to avoid putting too much pressure on one place. Lesser traveled regions have the added benefit of being more welcoming to campervans and much less crowded campgrounds.

Wherever you go, be conscious of the environment and leave no trace. Respect the locals by pulling over if you’re holding up traffic behind you (you’ll find plenty of laybys or roadside pull-outs to do so). And if you camp for free, show some love to the local area by stopping by the cafes, shops, and other small businesses nearby.

Most importantly, embrace the adventure. Traveling in a campervan is a license to embrace the unexpected, so keep your itinerary loose and your mind open.

Explore related stories

Scenic road in the Canadian Rockies during a vibrant sunny summer sunrise. White RV Driving on route. Taken in Icefields Parkway, Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada., License Type: media_digital, Download Time: 2024-08-21T21:06:05.000Z, User: bfreeman_lonelyplanet, Editorial: false, purchase_order: 65050, job: Online Editorial, client: Best places to RV , other: Bailey Freeman

Aug 23, 2024 • 7 min read

There’s nothing like hitting the road in an RV or camper van – these are the best destinations around the world for an RV road trip.

Yellow aspen trees with lakes and mountains in the background in Colorado

Sep 12, 2024 • 7 min read

Sep 12, 2024 • 6 min read

Be prepared for a challenging climb to reach Kaaterskill Falls

Sep 14, 2024 • 9 min read

Sep 14, 2024 • 4 min read

MIAMI GARDENS, FL - FEBRUARY 04: Prince performs during the "Pepsi Halftime Show" at Super Bowl XLI between the Indianapolis Colts and the Chicago Bears on February 4, 2007 at Dolphin Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Sep 13, 2024 • 5 min read

Sep 13, 2024 • 8 min read

, , , .

COMMENTS

Best Auckland to Queenstown Road Trip: 10-Day Itinerary
Day 9 - Lake Tekapo to Wanaka: 201 km (124 miles) Day 10 - Wanaka to Queenstown: 67 km (41 miles) The distance between Auckland and Queenstown is 1,552 km (964 miles). It's one of the longest road trips in New Zealand you can do and will take you around ten days to complete.
Ultimate Auckland to Queenstown Road Trip (14 Day Itinerary)
🚐 Campervan Hire: Jucy campervans are perfect for this road trip, with depots in both Auckland & Queenstown and a wide range of fun, funky vans. I also recommend using Motorhome Republic to compare campervan prices and reviews for all of New Zealand's top campervan companies. Ultimate Auckland to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary Day 1: Auckland
Road Trip from Auckland to Queenstown
Every turn on the epic journey from Auckland to Queenstown offers a new surprise, from the glowing Waitomo Caves to the miniature world of Hobbiton. The 2,000-km road trip from Auckland to Queenstown takes 29 hours to drive. You'll pass through Waitomo Caves, Pureora Forest Park, Wellington, Fox Glacier and Wanaka on the East Coast, or head ...
Auckland to Queenstown highlights Itinerary
Includes two domestic flights & one ferry journey across Cook Strait. Geothermal wonders, vibrant cities, soaring mountains and majestic fiords are just some of the highlights of this two-week journey from Auckland to Queenstown. Enjoy world-class food and wine, adventure and culture surrounded by landscapes that promise to take your breath away.
Road Trip from Queenstown to Auckland
The 1,720 km road trip from Queenstown to Auckland will take 25 hours to drive. Highlights include Queenstown, Lake Hayes, Wanaka, Lake Hawea, Franz Josef Glacier, Tongariro National Park, Christchurch, Napier, Coromandel, and unforgettable Auckland. You'll experience the best of New Zealand with its volcanic mountains, dramatic coastlines ...
Epic New Zealand Road Trip: Auckland to Queenstown
For lunch, go to Wynward Quarter, a former industrial hub built for the World Cup, and taste steamed mussels and fresh oysters at Auckland Fish Market.Then, hop on a 50-year-old restored tram and ride to one of the country's oldest neighborhoods, Parnell, to discover its galleries and cafés.Order a long black—a favorite coffee order in New Zealand made by pouring a double shot of espresso ...
Auckland to Queenstown 11 Day Highlights
Quick Itinerary Details. North & South Island Self Drive. This suggested tour costs from USD$3,279 per person (twin share, low season) Starts in Auckland, finishes in Queenstown. 11 days/10 nights. Hotel 4 star. Rental car included. Viewed 133 times in the last 7 days.
21 Day Auckland to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary
Day 14: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo. Travel time: 2 hours 45 minutes. About three hours south-west of Christchurch in the Southern Alps, you will reach Lake Tekapo. Picturesque by day and dazzling by nice, Lake Tekapo offers one of New Zealand's brightest, turquoise coloured lakes, and best locations for stargazing.
11 Day Self Drive Tour
Quick Itinerary Details. North & South Island Self Drive. This suggested tour costs from USD$2,168 per person (twin share, low season) Starts in Auckland, finishes in Queenstown. 11 days/10 nights. Hotel 3 star. Rental car included. Viewed 62 times in the last 7 days.
Auckland to Queenstown
5 seats. Large Bags. 4. Small Bags. 6. Transmission. Auto trans. It's going to be a speedy trip from Auckland to Queenstown in 8 days. Check out our Explore New Zealand itinerary for the best things to do on the way.
Road Trip: Auckland to Queenstown 14 Day Itinerary
The Crown Range is the highest main road in New Zealand. At the summit, the road reached an altitude of 1121m. ... Overall, a road trip from Auckland to Queenstown is the best way to experience the best of natural beauty and cultural attractions on both the North and South Islands. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a foodie ...
Auckland to Queenstown: An Epic Road Trip Journey
Embarking on a road trip from Auckland to Queenstown is one of the most exhilarating ways to discover the diverse beauty of New Zealand. This adventure will take you through vibrant cities, quaint towns, breathtaking landscapes, and iconic attractions. With your own set of wheels, you'll enjoy the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Auckland to Queenstown 14 Day Self Drive Tour
Welcome to Auckland. Auckland, New Zealand's self-proclaimed "City of Sails" is the country's largest metro area.Resting between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, this urban paradise has something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, rainforests and an abundance of beaches, Auckland is a playground for both the city savvy and those with an eye for adventure.
14 Day Auckland to Queenstown Self Drive Tour
Overview. Journey south from the contagious energy of Auckland to the awe-inspiring mountains and adrenaline-fed activities of the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown on a 14 Day Auckland to Queenstown Self Drive Tour. Admire the unfolding scenery as you pass through the heart of New Zealand, stopping along the way to experience the ...
The Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip: From Auckland to Queenstown
The New Zealand road trip from Auckland to Queenstown is a dream drive for campervan travellers. Stretching over 1500 km from the City of Sails' sparkling harbours to the southern snow-capped ranges, this camper cruise offers one unforgettable experience after another. There's no better way to enjoy the Auckland to Queenstown drive than ...
Auckland to Queenstown
Alternatively, you can take a vehicle from Auckland to Queenstown via Wellington and Picton in around 20h 42m. Airlines. Air New Zealand. Jetstar. Train operators. Auckland Transport - AT Metro. Ferry operators. Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferries.
10 Different New Zealand Road Trip Itineraries with Maps & Attractions
A 1-Week South Island Itinerary: 6-8 Days. Queenstown to Christchurch. Start: Queenstown or Christchurch. Duration: Fast-paced=6 days, relaxed=8 days+. Distance: 608km (378mi)/ 8 hours of driving total. The Queenstown to Christchurch 1-week South Island itinerary is the shortest road trip itinerary on this list.
11 Day Queenstown to Auckland Highlights Self Drive
Overview. This 11 Day Queenstown to Auckland Highlights Self Drive tour takes you to the iconic attractions of New Zealand from the "Adventure Capital" of Queenstown all the way north to Auckland where the tour ends. A visit to Mt. Cook National Park is included, as well as to the coastal town of Kaikoura and the renowned Marlborough wine ...
40 Best Stops Between Queenstown and Auckland
How long is the drive from Queenstown to Auckland? The direct drive from Queenstown to Auckland is 965 mi (1,552 km), and should have a drive time of 1 day 1 hr in normal traffic.. If you're going on a road trip from Queenstown to Auckland, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Wellington, Rotorua, Christchurch, Taupo, Wanaka, Tauranga, Hamilton ...
Queenstown, New Zealand
1 h 30 min | 112 km via SH6. 1 h 50 min | by Intercity. The alpine resort of Queenstown is a destination for luxury, stunning scenery and almost any kind of adventure, including bungy, jet boating, horse trekking and rafting. Take time to experience all this beautiful place has to offer with a wine tour, skydive or a round of golf at one of the ...
The Ultimate Winter Road Trip Guide to Queenstown
Queenstown to Glenorchy. The 45-minute drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy is an absolute must-do in New Zealand. The road winds its way along the lakeside with incredible views over Lake Wakatipu, Cecil Peak and Walter Peak. Take your time on the drive and be sure to stop along the way, there are plenty of viewpoints to stop at as well as a few ...
Queenstown to Auckland
Check out our Explore New Zealand 8 day itinerary from Queenstown to Auckland is going to take you to some of the best spots in NZ. ... Day 4 of your road trip starts in the largest city on the ... complete with its opulent 1920s board room and a complete teak cabin from an 1879 steamship. It's not far from New Zealand's national museum, Te ...
10 Important New Zealand Travel Tips to Know Before You Go
The ten New Zealand travel tips you NEED to read before you plan your trip - how much time to spend, driving peculiarities, saving money + more.
Guide of what things to see and do in Auckland New Zealand
Wander Ponsonby Road to find a restaurant that suits your vibe or choose from the tasty vendors at trendy Ponsonby Central. ... Image: Sara Orme. Best day trips from Auckland. Auckland's prime location on the North Island means there is much to discover with a picturesque drive that's one to two hours ... Queenstown is one of New Zealand's ...
'Revolutionary' Kiwi invention offers transport that glides above road
Whoosh is a new elevated transport option that is being developed in New Zealand. Photo / Supplied. A Kiwi company aims to revolutionise how we travel by offering transport that glides above ...
10 Best Things to Do in Auckland, New Zealand
Best Things to Do in Auckland 1. Experience The Sky Tower . The Auckland Sky Tower is an iconic landmark in the city's skyline. With a height of 328 meters, it's not just the tallest building ...
Best Road Trip Destinations in New Zealand
550 Likes, TikTok video from escape.video (@escape.video): "Embark on a scenic road trip through Queenstown and Central Otago in New Zealand. Discover top driving routes, must-see attractions, and essential tips for your journey. #Queenstown #CentralOtago #Roadtrip #NewZealand".
Hundreds of snow-goers left trapped on ski field following road closures
Snow has been falling in Queenstown. Photo / Dhariwal Harpreet. Hundreds of skiers and boarders were left trapped at the top of the Remarkables skifield following forced road closures due to ...
New Zealand in a campervan: tips from a seasoned expert
The minimum amount of time for a campervan trip in New Zealand would be around one to two weeks, and you would want to focus on one island. Many campervan rental companies offer pick up and drop offs in Auckland or Christchurch, with a handful also servicing Queenstown or other smaller towns. This makes Auckland and Christchurch the main start ...
Snow in south causes power outages, road and school closures
All Travel; News; New Zealand Northland Auckland Wellington Canterbury Otago / Queenstown ... One person travelling through the wider Queenstown region said driving at times has been "difficult ...