07 Day North Island Scenic Package

This 7 day New Zealand self drive holiday package offers a comprehensive overview of the North Island. Travel from Auckland to Wellington, exploring highlights such as Rotorua and the Coromandel Peninsula along the way.

With accommodation, top-rated activities, and a rental car included, this package is perfect for hassle-free travel.

Read on for more details on the 7 Day North Island Scenic Package.

7 Day North Island Scenic Package | New Zealand Self Drive Holiday

Day 1 Arrive Auckland

Arrive in Auckland – the “City of Sails” is New Zealand’s largest city and is bordered by two stunning harbours. Collect your rental car from the airport then make your way to your accommodation.

Relax in Auckland today. Your options include visiting the Sky Tower, the Auckland Zoo, or Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World; venturing to one of Auckland’s stunning beaches or West Auckland wineries, or doing a spot of shopping.

Stay 2 nights in Auckland City.

Day 2 Auckland

Discover Auckland and its surrounds with a dinner cruise aboard an impressive purpose-built yacht, which will take you on an amazing cruise around the sheltered waters of Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour while you enjoy lunch. Spend the rest of the day shopping and taking in the sights of Auckland City.

Day 3 Coromandel Peninsula

Driving time Auckland to Coromandel Peninsula 191 km / 119 miles, 3 hours

Renowned worldwide as a spectacular holiday destination, with warm white-sand beaches, misty rainforests and wilderness aplenty, the Coromandel is the ideal place to relax and unwind. Dig your own hot pool at Hot Water Beach or sea kayak the coastline, exploring beaches, caves and the world-famous Cathedral Cove!

Stay 1 night in Whitianga, Coromandel Peninsula.

Day 4 Rotorua

Driving time Coromandel Peninsula to Rotorua 231 km / 143 miles, 3.5 hours

Rotorua is distinguished by Maori culture and geothermal activity!

The Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park is Rotorua’s most active geothermal area featuring a walkway lined with unique geothermal wonders and interactive opportunities. Experience the geothermal features with a self-guided map to show you around or join a guided tour of the reserve to learn more about the history, features and uniqueness of the geothermal area.

See bubbling mud pools, steaming craters, mineral pools, learn about New Zealand’s history and culture, and even try Maori weaving and wood carving! After this, the geothermal waters of the Hell’s Gate Sulphur Spa will rejuvenate and refresh you, as you relax and take in the surreal surroundings of the wondrous geothermal landscape.

In the evening, enjoy Te Puia Maori Cultural Experience including a Hangi Dinner. Hear stories and learn how Maori traditions live on today. Experience an authentic Maori welcome. Watch a challenge by the Maori warriors, a karanga (call) from the Maori women welcoming you onto the marae, and a whaikorero (welcome speech). Relax and enjoy the beautiful waiata (songs), the world renowned haka (challenge), and the elegant poi dance. Learn Maori customs including Maori musical instruments, haka and poi. The dining experience is a culinary opportunity like no other. After dinner you will be invited to board the motorised waka (people mover) for a journey Through the Valley Under Lights. Be awed by the magical evening sights of Te Puia’s geothermal valley.

Stay 1 night in Rotorua.

Day 5 Taupo

Driving time Rotorua to Taupo 82 km / 51 miles, 1 hour

Enjoy a short drive south to Taupo, rich in natural beauty and filled with attractions such as the Huka Falls, Taupo Bungy and boat cruises. Enjoy a Taste of Taupo Scenic Floatplane Flight with highlights that include flying over the Craters of the Moon.

Stay 1 night in Taupo.

Day 6 Napier

Driving time Taupo to Napier 142 km / 88 miles, 2 hours

Head to the East Coast and discover Napier, the Art Deco capital of New Zealand set within the country’s oldest and second largest wine growing region, Hawke’s Bay. If nature is of interest, add on the Safari Overland to Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony – the world’s largest, most accessible Gannet nesting place. Or add on a superb guided wine tour to visit the regions top wineries for tastings and to learn the history and wine making process.

Stay 1 night in Napier.

Day 7 Wellington

Driving time Napier to Wellington 324 km / 201 miles, 4.5 hours

Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city, has so much to offer. Set on the edge of a stunning harbour, surrounded by rolling hills, it’s a city rich in culture waiting to be explored.

From shopping and picturesque walks to concerts, live theatre, exhibitions, festivals, Te Papa Tongarewa: the Museum of New Zealand and more – Wellington has something for everyone.

Stay 1 night in Wellington.

Day 8 Depart Wellington

Drop off your rental car at Wellington Airport and depart Wellington.

Plan a New Zealand Self Drive Holiday

This North Island itinerary is fully customisable. In other words, you can change the inclusions, schedule, or accommodation level to suit your preferences. As you begin planning, your travel consultant will work with you to ensure this itinerary matches exactly what you are looking for.

Not what you were looking for? We offer a wide range of 7 Day North Island Holiday Packages. Contact New Zealand Travel Organiser today to begin planning your self-drive tour.