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North Island 14-Day Itinerary - New Zealand
- Plango New Zealand
- Mar 15
- 10 min read
Bookmark this page link or print to PDF to plan your trip later or read on the plane!
As a local, I can tell you that New Zealand's North Island is truly amazing, brimming with diverse landscapes, fascinating cultural experiences, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re chasing stunning beaches, exploring lush forests, soaking in geothermal wonders, or getting amongst the energy of our vibrant cities, there’s something for everyone everywhere you look.
If you’re planning a trip, this North Island 14-day itinerary in New Zealand is the perfect way to make the most of your time and see the best of what our island has to offer. For even more insights, you can check out our AI Travel Assist tool to dive deeper into each destination, and our activity tool will help you find the top tours and attractions to make your visit even more special!
Day 1: Land in Auckland - The City of Sails!
Begin your journey in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, known as the "City of Sails." Explore the bustling waterfront, visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum, and take in panoramic views from the Sky Tower. Auckland's diverse culinary scene offers a perfect introduction to Kiwi cuisine.
TIPS
Book your flight into Auckland, explore the city then make the most of the tours that depart from Auckland to popular destinations such as the Hobbiton movie set, Waitomo Caves, Rotorua and the Coromandel.
Buy an Auckland Transport (AT HOP Card) and explore the city by bus or jump on a ferry for a day trip to Devonport or Waiheke Island.
Book a Fullers ferry across our beautiful harbour to hike the volcanic Rangitoto Island.
For local history and culture, the War Memorial Museum , Auckland Art Gallery and famous All Blacks Experience are 'must-do' activities.
Auckland has some incredible dining spots, but if you are not going to Sky Walk the tower, at least try Orbit 360° Dining with sensational food and rotating views of the city and harbour.
Visit our Auckland page for transport, accommodation, local information ,activities and more!
Read our blogs for more itinerary ideas:
Day 2: Bay of Islands
Travel north to the Bay of Islands, a region renowned for its stunning beaches and historical significance. Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds to learn about New Zealand's founding document, and enjoy water activities like sailing, game fishing or dolphin watching.
A while back I got to meet the original Major Tom and experienced game fishing with a group of friends. NOTHING prepares you for this epic experience; the Marlin, Short-billed Swordfish, huge Snapper and that frightful moment a Mako shark landed on our boat! The Bay of Islands is like an untouched world; the clear deep blue water, colours of the fish scales, the sea life - even the shells look like jewels. Over the years we have taken the kids back here and it never disappoints! So one of my tips would be to book a Major Tom fishing experience. Here are some others!
TIPS
You can save the driving hassle by booking the Bay of Islands Small Group Tour and Cruise from Auckland 2-Day experience. Along the way you will visit the Kauri Museum, the ancient Waipoua Forest and presence of Tane Mahuta, the Lord of the Forest. The Waiting Treaty Grounds and on Day 2; venture out on a Bay of Island Cruise to the Hole in the Rock and Otehei Bay. Sounds awesome right? You just need to book your accommodation for one night so we have hand-picked some accommodation options for you.
If you are self-driving and stay in Paihia, you can enjoy waterfront dining at Zane Grey's restaurant.
Take a ferry from Paihia to historic Russell which blends history and beauty with waterfront views, golden beaches, and colonial charm. Fullers offer a Rusell Mini Tour with morning and afternoon daily booking options. Visit Christ Church; New Zealand's oldest church where you can see musket holes on the side of the church wall from early settler wars. Climb Flagstaff Hill for panoramic views, or stay at The Duke of Marlborough Hotel, New Zealand’s oldest licensed pub. Stroll quaint streets, explore galleries, and take a boat tour to spot dolphins in this peaceful coastal paradise.
Go snorkelling! For an unforgettable snorkelling experience in the Bay of Islands, head to Deep Water Cove, a marine reserve teeming with incredible sea life. Along the way, keep an eye out for dolphins, penguins, and seals as you cruise through the islands—nature puts on a show before you even hit the water!
Visit our Bay of Islands page for transport, accommodation, local information, tips and more!
Read our blogs for more itinerary ideas:
Days 3 & 4: Far North
Venture further north to Cape Reinga, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. Experience the unique cultural significance of this area to the Māori people and enjoy the breathtaking coastal views.
At Ninety Mile Beach, the waves aren’t the only thing you’ll be surfing—welcome to the wild world of sand dune surfing! Grab a board, hike up the towering Te Paki dunes, and prepare for the ultimate downhill rush. It’s like snowboarding, but warmer, sandier, and with a much higher chance of face-planting. Whether you glide down gracefully or tumble like a rolling meat pie, one thing’s for sure—you’ll be finding sand in unexpected places for days!
Day 5: Waiheke Island
Return south to Auckland and take a ferry to Waiheke Island, celebrated for its vineyards, olive groves, and art studios. Spend the day wine tasting and relaxing on the island's beautiful beaches.
TIPS
The best time to visit is in the warmer months between November to April - but a 'must-do' HAS to be the Waiheke Island Jazz and Blues Festival in April.
Waiheke Island: Auckland’s Idyllic Escape blog covers beaches, restaurants, all the vineyards and events - worth a read!
Visit our Waiheke Island page for transport, accommodation, local information, tips and more!
Days 6 & 7: Coromandel Peninsula
Drive to the Coromandel Peninsula, known for its secluded beaches and hiking trails. Visit Cathedral Cove, famous for its picturesque rock archway, and dig your own spa at Hot Water Beach during low tide. TIPS
Book the Cathedral Cove and Coromandel Small Group Day Tour from Auckland because for the price you get to avoid. the traffic, enjoy the sights along the way and experience the Cathedral Cove, Coromandel Peninsula, Hot Water Beach and native bush walks with a knowledge expert and local guide. Too easy!
The Coromandel is a hiker’s paradise, offering stunning coastal views, lush forests, and rewarding climbs. The Pinnacles Track is a must-do, taking you through ancient kauri logging trails to breathtaking summit views.
For a shorter coastal adventure, the Cathedral Cove Walk leads to the famous rock arch and turquoise waters.
The Karangahake Gorge Loop combines history and nature, with scenic river trails winding through old mining tunnels. New Chums Beach Walk rewards adventurers with a secluded, postcard-perfect beach, while the Wentworth Falls Track offers a peaceful forest hike ending at a beautiful two-tiered waterfall.
Visit our Coromandel page for transport, accommodation, local information, tips and more!
Read our blog for more itinerary ideas: The Coromandel: Beaches, Adventures & Family Fun
Days 8, 9 & 10: Rotorua & Waitomo
Head to Rotorua, the adventure capital of the North Island - and the hub of geothermal activity and Māori culture! Challenge your friends to a race in an inflatable ZORB ball, view more from the treetops with the Redwoods Tree Walks or Ōkere Ziplines, explore geysers, hot springs, and mud pools at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. Pamper yourself with a Hell's Gate mud bath and spa, then finish the day with a traditional Māori hangi feast and cultural performance in the evening.
& ACTIVITIES
Journey to Waitomo to explore its famous glowworm caves. Take a guided boat tour through the illuminated caverns and, for the more adventurous, consider black water rafting.
TIPS
The reason we love to promote our local tour operators is because they started their journey travelling to these amazing places and have put together affordable, convenient options for you to see and experience the best and most popular destinations in one package - here are some hassle-free tours!
Visit our Rotorua and Waitomo pages for transport, activities, accommodation, local information, tips and more!
Read our blogs for more itinerary ideas:
Day 11: Tongariro National Park & Lake Taupō
Visit Tongariro National Park, New Zealand's oldest national park with the legendary Tongariro Alpine Crossing experience considered one of the world's best one-day hikes. Alternatively, relax by Lake Taupo, the country's largest lake, and enjoy water-based activities.
TIPS
Book a guide for the best hiking experience!
The Tongariro Northern Circuit is one of New Zealand's famous Great Walks - make sure you know what to pack and how to prepare for your adventure!
If you are not into hiking, try the Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings Boat Cruise and experience the breathtaking historical rock carvings with a scenic and comfortable tour through the stunning bays of Lake Taupō.
Visit our Taupō & National Park page for transport, activities, accommodation, local information, tips and more!
Read our blog for more itinerary ideas:
Day 12 & 13: Hawke's Bay & The Wairarapa
Travel to Hawke's Bay, a region known for its wineries and Art Deco architecture in Napier. Cycle through vineyards on the Hawke's Bay Trails and indulge in local wine and cuisine. The National Aquarium of New Zealand, located on Marine Parade, is another must-visit, housing native marine life, penguins, and tropical fish.
Explore the Wairarapa region, visiting charming towns like Martinborough, renowned for its boutique wineries. Enjoy wine tastings and discover local artisans' work.
TIPS
Visit the Art Deco Festival -this takes place in February and includes vintage cocktail evenings, world-class jazz performances, dining experiences, vintage car displays and architecture.
Take a stroll along Napier’s Marine Parade - a beautiful, palm-lined promenade stretching along the waterfront, offering endless views of the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, you’ll find the iconic Pania of the Reef statue, floral gardens, a splash pad for families, and playgrounds.
Visit our Napier & Hawke's Bay page for transport, activities, accommodation, local information, tips and more!
Read our blogs for more itinerary ideas:
Day 14: Wellington - Then Fly Home!
Conclude your journey in Wellington, our Nation's capital and one of my favourite cities to visit due to the friendly people, diversity and the arts!
Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is a vibrant city known for its stunning harbour, rich cultural scene, and picturesque landscapes. Often referred to as the "Windy City," Wellington sits at the Southern tip of the North Island, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Cook Strait. Historically, Wellington was established in the 1830s and became the capital of New Zealand in 1865. It has since developed into a hub for arts, film, and politics.
Visit Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand's national museum, and experience the country's heritage and natural history. For film enthusiasts, Wellington is home to the Weta Workshop, where the magic of The Lord of the Rings was brought to life. The city also offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking up Mount Victoria for panoramic views to taking a cable car ride to the Botanic Gardens.
Wellington offers something for everyone looking to experience the best of New Zealand's culture and natural beauty—making it a fantastic way to end your North Island 14-Day Tour. With Wellington Airport offering flights to major destinations, it's the perfect gateway to your next adventure, whether you're continuing your journey within New Zealand or heading abroad.
TIPS
Explore the vibrant culinary scene. Take a ride on the historic Wellington Cable Car for panoramic city views.
Pack warm clothes! Wellington on a sunny day is stunning but the weather can change bringing gusty, cold winds.
Walk around Oriental Bay and the Waterfront for fantastic views of the harbour and great eateries.
WOW (World of WearableArt) is a world-renowned wearable art experience, where an annual design competition culminates in a spectacular show showcasing innovative and extraordinary fashion creations. Check your travel dates and book your tickets in advance!
Visit our Wellington page for transport, activities, accommodation, local information, tips and more!
Read our blogs for more itinerary ideas:
Travel Considerations
What is the best way to travel around the North Island of New Zealand?
Renting a car provides the most flexibility to explore the North Island at your own pace.
Tours are curated to bring you the best of our popular destinations run by local experts and are a convenient, hassle-free way to get the most out of your trip.
While public transport is available between major cities, many attractions are in remote areas best accessed by car.
We recommend a mixing it up and have designed this itinerary so you have the best experience.
How many days do you need on the North Island of New Zealand?
A two-week itinerary allows you to experience the North Island's highlights without feeling rushed. However, shorter trips can focus on specific regions of interest such as Mt Cook or Milford Sound - view more itineraries >
How long would it take to drive around the North Island of New Zealand?
Driving the length of the North Island from Auckland to Wellington via the main highways takes approximately 8-10 hours without stops. However, to fully appreciate the diverse landscapes and attractions, a more extended, leisurely drive is recommended.
What is the best time of year to visit NZ North Island?
The North Island is a year-round destination.
Summer (December to February) offers warm weather ideal for beaches and outdoor activities.
Autumn (March to May) provides milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a pleasant time to visit.
Winter (June to August) is cooler but still suitable for many activities.
Spring (September to November) brings blooming landscapes and warming temperatures.
Need help planning your trip? Use our AI Assist Travel Tool!
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