In less than a week you can have a sampling of New Zealand's North Island attractions by traveling through some of the island's most traveled areas. Adjust the suggested tour to fit the time you have,
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: Five days
Here's How:
- Arrive in Auckland and explore the city's attractions.
- The following day, leave Auckland on the Northern Motorway and proceed to the Bay of Islands.
- Visit Paihia, centre of the Bay of Islands, and the Waitangi historical site.
- From the Bay of Islands, drive south on the third day to Rotorua, bypassing the Auckland city centre and leaving the city on the Southern Motorway.
- At Rotorua, go to a hangi, attend a performance of Maori singing and dancing, view the thermal geysers.
- Check with your hotel and enjoy the nightlife or soak in the thermal springs.
- On the fourth day, drive south to Taupo. Tour the Prawn Park if desired.
- Proceed west to Waitomo and visit the Waitomo Caves.
- Stay the night at Waitomo or head back to Auckland.
- Enjoy the sights between Waitomo and Auckland.
- Have free time in Auckland to do what you will.
- Complete five days in the North Island before flying out of Auckland.
Tips:
- Have a map and chart out your route.
- Rent a car so you can visit particular places at will.
- Do not forget to experience Maori life and culture, particularly at Rotorua.
