Auckland To Rotorua Round Trip

From the country’s biggest city to one of the smallest towns, this first half of your Auckland round trip roadie covers a range of New Zealand’s best spots. You’ll begin in the City of Sails, take a short detour to one of the country’s favourite beaches, stop by a surreal glowworm cave, then take a quick break in a town that has made itself famous through its corrugated iron sculptures. Take a couple of days to make this long-way-round drive from Auckland to Rotorua.
 
Auckland
 
Auckland is the most populated city in New Zealand, and one of the world’s most liveable cities. Even those who have lived there for a long time might not have seen all the nearby sights, so a motorhome rental in Auckland can be the ideal way to get out and get to know more about this incredible region. Aside from the usual central city sights such as the waterfront and Britomart area, Auckland offers some top attractions that you’ll need a vehicle to get to. For example, the Auckland Zoo is a fun place to visit to see examples of wildlife from around New Zealand and the world - including the famous kiwi. You can also head east of the city to the Howick Historical Village to see what life was like in the early colonial days of the 1800s and watch as actors portray everyday experiences from that period.
 
When you’re ready to hit the road, take the highway south out of the city, stop in Pokeno for its famous ice cream and then turn right after the Huntly Power Station to head toward the coast.
 
Raglan
 
It would hardly be a New Zealand road trip without some time at the beach, and Raglan is your chance. This famous beach is well-known for its surfing, and its laid-back, small-town vibes add to that beachy atmosphere. You can spend the day relaxing on the sand, or stroll along the waterfront drinking coffees and eating ice creams from the beachfront shops. You can also consider learning to surf here, or go on a kayaking tour or try kitesurfing. Manu Bay is the most popular section of the coast for surfers, while other beaches are known for smaller waves that are better suited for bodysurfing and swimming, so you’ll have no problem finding a beach that suits your style.
 
After the beach, make your way back inland and south down Highway 39 to a very important - and somewhat magical - cave system.
 
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
 
The Waitomo Glowworm Caves are easily one of the most magical experiences you’ll find anywhere in New Zealand. The glowworm species arachnocampa luminosa is native to the country, and when you visit this cave system, you’ll see thousands upon thousands of them lighting up the ceilings like a galaxy you can reach out and touch (but don’t!). And you won’t just walk under these magnificent creatures - you’ll float serenely below them on a dreamlike underground river. The caves are a purely unmissable adventure for Kiwis and visitors alike; be sure to book your tour ahead of time so you don’t miss out.
 
Next, take the scenic route northeast to cruise through Cambridge, make a quick stop at the beautiful Lake Karapiro, then continue down to the small town of Tirau.
 
Tirau
 
On a map, Tirau certainly looks like a tiny town that you’d never think to stop in on a road trip, but once you arrive, you’ll see why stopping to look around is a must. It carries the intriguing nickname of the ‘Corrugated Iron Capital of the World’ (corrugated iron being a hardy building material used throughout New Zealand), as it turns this highly functional material into immense works of art. The biggest stars of the show are the giant building-sized sheep and sheepdog, but you’ll also find a praying mantis, a pukeko, and a cow pushing a shopping trolley. Of course, the town also offers a number of cafes and shops, so it’s a good spot for a walk around to stretch your legs in the middle of your drive to Rotorua.
 
From here, it’s just 45 minutes to Rotorua.

While the second half of this trip is all about turning around and heading back to Auckland, you’ve still got a phenomenal few spots to visit yet. Rotorua has a bit of everything to offer so you’ll need at least a full day here, then you can stop by Hobbiton, and two world-class but completely different gardens. If you can, give yourself another couple of days to complete this leg and cruise back into Auckland feeling both refreshed and excited for your next campervan road trip.
 
Rotorua
 
Rotorua is truly a feather in New Zealand’s cap. It’s the country’s most active and astounding geothermal area, and while the eggy sulphur odour can take a little getting used to, the hot springs and bubbling mud pools are well worth making an effort. Some hot pools and geysers are far too hot for bathing but make for excellent sightseeing, while others seep from the ground at just the right temperature for a blissful day of relaxation at one of the many local spas. The city is also a hub for Maori culture, so if you’re new to New Zealand, it’s here where you can experience a marae visit for an introduction to the indigenous peoples. And for adventure seekers, there’s everything from mountain biking and hiking to river rafting and luge rides to keep your adrenaline pumping.
 
Next, turn your wheels back towards Auckland by heading northwest up State Highway 5.
 
Hobbiton
 
Hobbiton is one New Zealand attraction that almost needs no introduction. This life-sized movie set is where you can spend time in the town of Hobbiton, made famous by The Lord of the Rings movies filmed in New Zealand. Take a tour to see inside the hobbit homes, stop off in the Green Dragon Inn for a refreshing drink at the end of your tour, and consider visiting during the evening to indulge in an epic feast worthy of hobbits (who are renowned for loving a good meal or eleven). There is also a cafe on site, and if you happen to be in the area around September 22nd, be sure to stop by to celebrate the International Hobbit Day Event.
 
Continue northwest along State Highway 1 for a quick visit to Hamilton.
 
Hamilton Gardens
 
Hamilton is a fun city in its own right, but when you’re on limited time, the pick of the attractions is the Hamilton Gardens. It’s one of the most popular sights in the region, but it’s not your typical botanical garden. Instead, it’s a story of gardens - a collection of themed areas that will take you on a stroll through gardens of the world, from the likes of the Italian Renaissance style to that of a Sun Dynasty Chinese Scholar and more. The attraction recreates styles from all over the world, making for a unique and gorgeous stop on your road trip. The gardens are open daily from 7.30am and entry is free, but be sure to consider taking the guided tour for a little more information along the way.
 
Instead of taking State Highway 1 straight back to Auckland, veer off onto the 26 for one final detour.
 
Lavender Backyard Garden
 
Don’t be fooled by the name; the Lavender Backyard Garden is almost nothing like the one you just visited in Hamilton. This time, you’ll be able to pick the goods! It is one of New Zealand’s top pick-your-own gardens, where you can frolic amongst the blueberries and lavender bushes and take home what you pick. It’s free entry, although you will pay for what you take, and you can also relax at the cafe to enjoy lavender and blueberry snacks and drinks. Note that this attraction is only open during the warmer months when these treats are in season (from November through to the end of March usually), so double check on their website before you go to make sure they are open.
 
Once you’ve stocked up on blueberry snacks for the road, drive just 90 minutes back to Auckland with the smell of fresh lavender to take you the rest of the way (and keep in mind, you’ll have a second opportunity to pick up ice cream in Pokeno).
 
This motorhome itinerary is so full of treasures that you could easily go around a second time and still love it all just as much. It’s a taste of New Zealand that you can experience in just a few days, and a trip you’ll be talking about for the rest of your life. Of course, it will only leave you wanting more, so browse these other itineraries to prepare for your next getaway.