Auckland to Rotorua road trip: complete guide

The best part about an Auckland to Rotorua road trip is that you can cover it in just one day! There’s not much driving involved at all, so even if you have only a short amount of time on your hands, it’s the perfect trip.

Of course, there’s plenty of stops you can make along the way to really make the most of this incredible road trip. We have found 7 must-see places for you to check out, so you can truly explore what the incredible North Island has to offer.

Best road trip around Auckland to Rotorua: 7 places you can’t miss

Total distance: about 409km | Recommended days: from 3 to 5 days | Best time to do the route: between December and February | See route in Google Maps

1. Auckland

The starting point for your road trip to Rotorua, Auckland is based around two harbours with so much to see and do. It’s well worth considering tacking on a day at the beginning or the end of your trip for some exploration. You won’t regret it!

Start off by discovering a little history at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, before heading over to check out the current exhibits at the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki. If you’re ready to test out your adventurous side, then pop Skydive Auckland on your to-do list. You have the opportunity to jump off the iconic Sky Tower. Not up for that? Then simply tour it from below!

There are also plenty of nature walks for you to take around the area. Try the Coast to Coast trail, which is 16km long and goes from Manukau Harbour, taking you along Mt Eden and Cornwall Park, allowing you to check out some of the best sites along the way.

2. Waiuku

This rural town isn’t far at all from Auckland and is well worth a stop on your way to Rotorua. Just a couple of hours is enough to explore, but if you have the luxury of time, it can’t hurt to spend a night.

Known as a vintage town, you’ll want to start your sightseeing in the town centre. Simply pick up a heritage map from the information centre there and head to all the amazing highlights, such as the Waiuku Town Halls, the church, National Bank and so much more. Some date back to the mid-1800s!

You’ll also find the Waiuku Museum there, with a great selection of both Maori and European artefacts for you to explore. If you have relaxation on your mind, then it’s time to head out of town and check out Karioitahi Beach. The black sand is worth setting your eyes on, and you can choose from horse riding, 4x4 driving, or simply take a stroll.

You can spend a whole day alone in Waiuku Forest, where you can walk or ride and discover some amazing natural sights along the way.

3. Hamilton

Hamilton is well-known for its beautiful gardens and its lively nightlife. It’s definitely a place you want to spend at least one night to get to know a little better. Start off at the stunning Hamilton Gardens, which is a collection of themed gardens for you to meander through, each one more spectacular than the last.

You won’t want to miss Hamilton Zoo, which features an incredible walk-through aviary for you to experience. You can also book an encounter with an exotic animal, so make sure you plan your activities ahead of time.

During the day, soak up a little culture at the Hamilton Art Gallery and the Ansett Transport Museum. At night, head to Hamilton’s central precinct, which is packed with cafes, restaurants, bars and many more places for you to both eat and drink the night away.

4. Waitomo Caves

The Waitomo Caves region is the perfect place to get outdoors and explore. Of course, the one thing you don’t want to miss is the glowworms! The easiest way to see them is on a walking or boat tour.

If you’re in need of something a little more relaxing on your Auckland to Rotorua road trip, head to the Kawhia Hot Springs. You’ll need to jump in the car for this one, but if you have a little time on your hands, it’s an experience that’s well worth the travel.

If you’re wanting to get outdoors, then head on the Timber Trail, which is just a 20-minute drive away. It takes you through some incredible forests and on some amazing bridges.

5. Matamata

Have you heard of Matamata before? If you have, you no doubt know that it’s right next to where the Hobbiton Movie Set was created for Peter Jackson’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ and ‘Hobbit’ series. As you might expect, it’s a huge tourist drawcard. But there is also plenty more for you to see and do during your stay.

One of the first places you should check out is Wairere Falls, which takes you along moo-covered rocks and trees before you reach the highest waterfall on the North Island. It’s quite the sight to see standing at 153m tall! If your walking legs are still going strong, then head to the Matamata Heritage trail, which is a 5.3km stretch taking you through the town’s parks, gardens and historical sights. It’s the perfect way to soak up some of the main attractions.

Finally, it’s worthwhile checking out the art scene in the area at the Wallace Gallery. It’s home to a very impressive collection of contemporary New Zealand artists and will leave you feeling very inspired.

6. Tirau

This small town in New Zealand literally translates to “place of many cabbage trees” in Maori. It really is a unique place to visit. The first thing you will notice is the largest corrugated iron sheep and sheepdog in the world. The Big Sheep is home to a wool gallery. Right beside it, the big sheepdog is now home to the Tirau Information Centre.

You can even visit a castle in the area. Tirau is home to one of the largest doll, toy and train collections in the country. There are also plenty of shops for you to take yourself through (and tempt yourself with). There’s a Shell & Jade factory that kids will love, the Christmas Heirloom Company shop, stocked full of...Christmas decorations. Plus, Ma and Pa’s Second Hand Collectibles, and plenty of other homewares shops.

1. Rotorua

End your road trip in the one and only Rotorua. The town is known for both geothermal activity and Maori culture. The best place to start is at one of the many bubbling mud pools where you can sit back, relax and enjoy a little beauty regime in the process. When you’re done, head over to check out the Pohutu Geyser, which erupts many times a day. While you’re here, head to see students at work at the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute.

If you’re after an up-close and personal experience of the geothermal activity, then head to Waimangu Volcanic Valley, where you can take yourself on a tour along crater walkways and much more.

If you’re on the hunt for adventure you have plenty to choose from. Zipline your way through the forest, head off on a rafting adventure, head to the Redwoods Treewalk at night or mountain bike your way through Whakarewarewa Forest.

Organise your Auckland to Rotorua road trip with Camplify

After you sort out motorhome hire in Auckland, it’s time to head off on your Auckland to Rotorua road trip. The best part about this trip is that you can do it in your own time. There’s not too much driving involved, so you choose how long it takes you to get around all the amazing sites. Stop off for a night, stop in for the day, stay for a week. The choice is yours! Jump in your campervan and head off today.

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