See Beauty of New Zealand on These 9 Scenic Road Trips
Are you an adventurer seeking to discover the hidden gems of New Zealand? Look no further than a road trip through this stunning country. New Zealand boasts some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery, from the snow-capped Southern Alps to the stunning beaches of the North Island. With so much to explore, planning your route can be overwhelming.
Fortunately, we’ve put together 10 different New Zealand road trip itineraries that will take you through some of the country’s most remarkable landscapes and attractions.
Table of Contents
1. Auckland to Cape Reinga
- Distance: 1,150 km
- Duration: 7 days
Begin your journey in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. From there, head north to the Bay of Islands, where you can explore over 140 islands, including the famous Hole in the Rock. Continue your journey to Cape Reinga, the northernmost tip of New Zealand, where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean meet. Along the way, be sure to stop at the stunning Ninety Mile Beach and experience the thrill of sandboarding.
2. Christchurch to Queenstown
- Distance: 480 km
- Duration: 5 days
If you’re looking for a scenic route through New Zealand’s South Island, this road trip from Christchurch to Queenstown is perfect. Take in the stunning views of the Southern Alps, the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, and the majestic Mount Cook. Once you arrive in Queenstown, take part in some adventure activities, such as bungee jumping, jet boating, and hiking.
3. Wellington to Hawke’s Bay
- Distance: 320 km
- Duration: 4 days
For a shorter road trip, consider driving from Wellington to Hawke’s Bay. Enjoy the capital city’s vibrant culture before heading to the wine region of Hawke’s Bay, where you can take in the stunning landscapes while sipping on some of New Zealand’s best wines.
4. Dunedin to Milford Sound
- Distance: 540 km
- Duration: 6 days
The drive from Dunedin to Milford Sound is one of the most picturesque in New Zealand. Along the way, stop at the stunning Catlins Forest Park and explore the coastal towns of Invercargill and Bluff. Once you reach Milford Sound, take a scenic cruise through the fiord and take in the majestic views of the surrounding mountains.
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4. Wellington to Auckland
- Distance: 660 km
- Duration: 7 days
Travel from New Zealand’s capital city to its largest city with this road trip itinerary. Take in the stunning views of the North Island’s west coast, visit the famous Waitomo Caves, and relax on the pristine beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula. Once you reach Auckland, take in the city’s vibrant culture and nightlife.
5. Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier
- Distance: 350 km
- Duration: 4 days
This road trip through the South Island takes you through some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery. Starting in Queenstown, take a scenic drive to Wanaka and experience the stunning views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. From there, head to the West Coast and visit the Franz Josef Glacier, where you can take a guided tour or go heli-hiking on the glacier itself.
6. Auckland to Wellington
- Distance: 650 km
- Duration: 7 days
Explore New Zealand’s North Island with this road trip from Auckland to Wellington. Visit the stunning beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula, take in the natural beauty of Lake Taupo, and experience the thrill of hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of New Zealand’s most famous hikes. Finish your journey in the capital city of Wellington, where you can take in the city’s vibrant arts scene.
7. Napier to Gisborne
- Distance: 280 km
- Duration: 3 days
Discover the stunning beauty of New Zealand’s Hawke’s Bay region with this road trip from Napier to Gisborne. Along the way, stop at the stunning Te Mata Peak, where you can take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Visit the wineries of the Gimblett Gravels wine region, and finish your journey in Gisborne, where you can relax on the stunning beaches of the East Coast.
8.Nelson to Kaikoura
- Distance: 400 km
- Duration: 5 days
Take in the stunning scenery of New Zealand’s South Island with this road trip from Nelson to Kaikoura. Visit the stunning Abel Tasman National Park, where you can hike, kayak, or take a scenic cruise through the park’s pristine waters. Visit the whale-watching town of Kaikoura, where you can see humpback whales, orcas, and dolphins in their natural habitat.
9. Queenstown to the West Coast
- Distance: 600 km
- Duration: 6 days
Explore the stunning landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island with this road trip from Queenstown to the West Coast. Take in the stunning views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps, visit the stunning Franz Josef Glacier, and explore the beautiful Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. Finish your journey in the vibrant city of Christchurch, where you can take in the city’s rich history and culture.
In conclusion, New Zealand is a country that offers something for every kind of traveler. From its stunning landscapes to its vibrant culture, there is no shortage of things to see and do. These 10 different road trip itineraries offer a chance to explore some of the country’s most remarkable landscapes and attractions, making for an unforgettable adventure. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
