New Zealand Road Trip: 16 Places from Auckland to Tongariro

Explore 16 iconic destinations across New Zealand's North and South Islands, spanning 5,754.8 km. This route connects natural landmarks like Milford Sound, Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers, and Tongariro National Park with vibrant cities including Auckland, Rotorua, and Napier, showcasing the country's diverse landscapes from coastal beaches to volcanic zones.

Mode
Places
Start
Coromandel Peninsula
End
Kaikoura
Stops
16
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. Coromandel Peninsula — North-eastern peninsula famous for white and golden sand beaches
  2. Hot Water Beach — Visitors can dig their own hot pool from thermal springs under the sands
  3. Glacier Country — Alpine region featuring dramatic mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and extensive glacial systems carved through the Southern Alps over millennia.
  4. Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers — Two massive South Island glaciers descending from the Southern Alps, accessible via scenic hiking trails and helicopter tours through rainforest valleys.
  5. Bay of Islands — One of the most popular holiday destinations in New Zealand
  6. Auckland Harbor Bridge — Iconic bridge offering amazing views of the city
  7. Auckland Museum — Features exhibits of Maori and Pacific Island artifacts
  8. Tongariro National Park — First national park of New Zealand, known for surprises and extremes
  9. Taranaki Falls — Stunning falls accessible via three-hour hike from the Visitor Center
  10. Fiordland National Park — One of the most scenic spots in New Zealand, located in the south-western corner of South Island
  11. Milford Sound — The biggest attraction in Fiordland, a true fjord created by a glacier
  12. Thames — Small picturesque city with rich history of gold mining
  13. Rotorua — Lies on the shores of Lake Rotorua, renowned for hot springs and geysers in the Volcanic Zone
  14. Napier — Charming coastal town with a romantic atmosphere
  15. Auckland — Largest and most populated city in New Zealand, known as the City of Sails
  16. Kaikoura — Picture-perfect coastal town situated north of Christchurch on South Island

Video on this route

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