The Perfect 6 Week New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary (2023)

As somebody who absolutely loves road trips and has made many throughout the years, I can truly say New Zealand is one of the best countries in the world to make a road trip!

Planning your 6 week New Zealand road trip itinerary can be quite daunting. New Zealand is an incredible country with numerous things to see and do.

Choosing a realistic New Zealand self-drive itinerary can be a challenge, but don't despair, this post will help you to make the absolute most of your road trip in New Zealand.

6 week New Zealand road trip itinerary

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New Zealand 6 week itinerary and travel guide

To help you plan your NZ itinerary, I wrote this detailed post about the 6-week New Zealand trip I made around the North and South Island of New Zealand.

For each day I list our New Zealand backpacking itinerary, campsites, and New Zealand highlights, you can find them on the map below as well.

Even if you have less time available to explore Kiwi Country, I hope this self-drive New Zealand itinerary will inspire you, and help you plan your trip to New Zealand.

You can customize this New Zealand travel itinerary, make it shorter, or travel just the North or South Island.

My advice?

Don't try to squeeze in too much, the last thing you want is to feel rushed! Because one of the best things about New Zealand is being able to stay a little bit longer at that perfect secluded spot you found…

Anyway, I digress, let's dive into the nitty-gritty details of my 6 weeks in New Zealand campervan itinerary!

Plan your New Zealand trip like a pro with these tools:
? Rent a campervan for your NZ road trip (or a car via Rentalcars.com).
? Arrange your NZ working holiday with Global Work & Travel.
? Stay connected with a New Zealand SIM card.
? Plan your journey with the New Zealand Lonely Planet.
?️ Find the best hotel deals on Booking.com or Agoda.
? Join the best tours in New Zealand via Get Your Guide or Viator.
?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing.

How to plan the perfect New Zealand 6 week itinerary

New Zealand travel budget

Aotearoa (the Maori name for New Zealand, meaning land of the long white cloud) can be an expensive destination but it is definitely possible to travel to New Zealand on a budget.

Check out a detailed breakdown of our New Zealand travel budget and read how to save money on your NZ road trip.

The best way to travel around New Zealand

I traveled together with my husband; we started our trip in Christchurch and ended it in Auckland. We rented a campervan, which enables us to explore New Zealand and all its glorious landscapes at our own pace.

Be sure to check out my New Zealand campervan travel tips to make the most of your NZ campervan holiday.

Click here to book a campervan for your New Zealand road trip

The best time to travel New Zealand

New Zealand is beautiful any time of the year, however, when you want to go camping it's best to travel between October and April.

We traveled around New Zealand in January and February, which is the New Zealand summer. While temperatures are the highest during this period, so are the crowds and thus prices.

Even though we never had any issues finding a camp spot and it was in no way busy anywhere, I would probably travel either in late Spring (October/November) or early Fall (March/April) if I were to visit New Zealand again.

Keep in mind the climate of the North Island differs from the South Island. Plus it can be cold at night, even in summer.

We woke up one morning to discover fresh snow on The Remarkables so make sure you are well prepared and pack properly (bring layers!).

Where to camp in New Zealand

Camping in New Zealand is great and there are lots of options (free and paid) available. The most important thing to do before you park your campervan for the night: check if it’s allowed!

Because lots of tourists travel to New Zealand and, unfortunately, not everybody behaves as they should the government has put strict camping regulations in place. If you don't obey these regulations you risk a 200 NZD fine.

Check all the New Zealand campsites we stayed at in this post.

New Zealand itinerary: our 6 week road trip

Click here for the interactive map

Road trip New Zealand itinerary

• Week 1: Canterbury and East-Otago
• Week 2: the Catlins, Fjordlands and West-Otago
• Week 3: the West Coast, Canterbury, and Marlborough
• Week 4: Tasman and Wellington
• Week 5: Hawke's Bay, Taupo, and Rotorua
• Week 6: the Coromandel Peninsula, Auckland, and the Northland

Week 1: Canterbury and East-Otago

Day 1: Explore Christchurch

Itinerary: Christchurch International Airport – Christchurch city center – Jailhouse Accommodation

How to get to Christchurch city center from the airport?

There are regular buses (every 30 minutes, 7 days a week) from Christchurch Airport to downtown. More information, timetables, and fares can be found here.

Alternatively, save yourself money and hassle with Christchurch's best-value airport transfer service to and from the city's CBD (in a luxury minibus with no more than 11 passengers). Click here to book.

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Christchurch Botanic Gardens is a beautiful park with huge trees and a nice rose garden.

Christchurch city center

Take your time exploring the city center. This part of Christchurch suffered a lot of damage during the earthquake of 2011.

However, it has been rebuilt in a very creative way and is a lovely place to spend an afternoon.

Hot tip?: experience Christchurch by land and water with this combo ticket deal to the hop-on hop-off vintage tram, a punt along the River Avon in a flat-bottom boat, and a ride on the Christchurch Gondola cable car. Check availability here.

Where to stay in Christchurch (on a budget)

Jailhouse Accommodation: how often do you get to spend a night in a former prison? Don't worry, you have your own key to get out whenever you want…

We really enjoyed our stay at this unique Christchurch accommodation (we booked a private cell, aka a double room with a shared bathroom).

The hostel is ready tidy and clean, both the rooms as well as the common areas such as the kitchen and bathrooms.

Also, the staff is very friendly and let us use the common room and store our luggage before the check-in time (we arrived very early in the morning due to our flight schedule).

Check the latest prices on Agoda or Booking.

Day 2: the Banks Peninsula

Itinerary: Jailhouse Accommodation – Rental Car Village – Akaroa – Arundel Bridge Reserve

Scenic drive over Summit Road

This is a beautiful winding road offering great views of the bay.

Akaroa

Akaroa is a cute historic village that was founded by French settlers in 1840. You'll find beautiful colonial houses, colorful gardens, and splendid views.

? Didn't pick up your car yet? Discover Akaroa and Banks Peninsula on a wonderful day trip from Christchurch. Explore breathtaking scenery from the coastline to farmlands and meet the wild penguins at Flea Bay.

Day 3: Peel Forest and Lake Tekapo

Itinerary: Arundel Bridge Reserve – Peel Forest – Lake Tekapo – Camping Lake McGregor

Hiking in Peel Forest

There are lots of tracks to choose from in this lovely Scenic Reserve. Here are the hikes we did:

• Big Tree Walk: this trail leads to a huge Totara tree (8,4 meters wide).
• Acland Falls track: leading to a 14-meter tall waterfall.
• Kahikatea walk: an easy boardwalk trail leading through the swamp forest.

Lake Tekapo

The drive to the lake (coming from Geraldine) is already stunning because of the snowy Southern Alps in the background.

But turquoise Lake Tekapo itself is just out of this world…

The beautiful color is something that you cannot catch in a photo and the surroundings are breathtaking. I loved this place, it was one of my favorite places of our entire trip.

Church of the Good Shepherd

This is probably the most beautifully situated church in the world. If you don’t believe in God, the view from this picturesque church might just persuade you.

⏳ If you're short on time, consider joining this small-group Lake Tekapo day tour from Christchurch. Visit the Church of Good Shepherd, and enjoy a scenic walk to see the Tasman Glacier.

Stargazing at Lake McGregor

The area around Lake Tekapo is part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve. Because there is virtually no light pollution you'll be able to gaze upon the stars like never before.

Day 4: Lake Pukaki and Mount Cook

Itinerary: Camping Lake McGregor – Mount John Observatory – Lake Pukaki Lookout – Mount Cook – Twizel – Campsite next to SH8, south of Twizel

Hike the Mt John Track (via lakeshore)

This three-hour walk offers fantastic views over Lake Tekapo. There is a nice cafe at the top of Mt. John if you want to grab a cup of coffee or a quick bite.

Lake Pukaki and scenic road to Mount Cook

Admire the views over Lake Pukaki with Mount Cook, the tallest mountain in New Zealand, in the background.

Continue your journey by driving the famous road to Mount Cook, a stunning 55 km drive starting at Twizel.

Hike the Tasman Glacier track

If you've also done the Mt. John Track in the morning, this steep track can be a bit challenging. That being said, it will be worth the effort.

Along the way you'll see pictures showing the size of the glacier throughout the years, it’s depressing to see how fast the glacier is shrinking…

Day 5: Elephant Rocks and Oamaru

Itinerary: Campsite next to SH8 south of Twizel – Elephant Rocks – Oamaru – All Day Bay recreation reserve

Elephant Rocks

The Elephant Rocks are huge limestone rock formations that can be found in a large patch of (private) farmland. These unique rocks were also used as a filming location for the first Chronicles of Narnia movie.

Access to the Elephant Rocks is free, but be mindful of the fact that you're on private land.

Oamaru

Situated between Timaru and Dunedin, is Oamaru, the largest town in North Otago. Also known as Steampunk HQ, Oamaru is a nice village to spend a couple of hours.

Admire the steampunk art, the historic buildings (many of them dating back to 1860-1880) and the colony of little blue penguins.

Day 6: Moeraki Boulders and Dunedin

Itinerary: All Day Bay recreation reserve – Moeraki Boulders Beach – Dunedin – Mosgiel Motor Camp

Moeraki Boulders

Be sure to stop by the Moeraki Boulders when driving from Oamaru to Dunedin. Despite the less-than-ideal weather, we felt it was a worthwhile stop.

Some of these boulders are up to 3 meters in diameter! If your itinerary allows, plan to visit the Moeraki Boulders during low tide (check the tides here).

Dunedin

Dunedin is the student city of New Zealand and is also known as ‘The Edinburgh of the South’. I visited Edinburgh and personally feel that might be pushing it, but it is a nice city nonetheless!

I highly recommend visiting the Toitu Otago Settlers museum to learn more about the history of this part of New Zealand.

If you like beer, join this tour (with tasting) around the oldest operational Brewery in New Zealand.

Day 7: the Southern Scenic Route, Sandfly Bay, and Nugget Point

Itinerary: Mosgiel Motor Camp – Sandfly Bay – Nugget Point – DOC Purakaunui Bay

Southern Scenic Route part 1

The Southern Scenic Route between Dunedin and Queenstown is one of the most beautiful drives in the world.

Approximately 610 kilometers of natural and cultural attractions are laid out one after the other. From (short) hiking trails, plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities, gorgeous waterfalls, beautiful caves, and more, this is a part of New Zealand you shouldn't miss.

Get a ‘Southern Scenic Route Guide’’ and ‘Guide to the Catlins’ at an i-Site in the region, these leaflets contain information about all the highlights along the route (there are a lot!).

Alternatively, check the official Southern Scenic Route website for more details.

Hike to Sandfly Bay

There's a nice walk that starts at the end of Seal Point Road and goes down to the beach where lots of seals are chilling out.

Fun fact: Sandfly Bay isn't named after those pesky insects who can make your NZ road trip a living hell, but after the fine sand blown into the air by the fierce winds (which forms the impressive dunes found here).

Nugget Point

Nugget Point is a land tongue with a cute lighthouse perched at the top. Here you've got a stunning view over the rough ‘nuggets’ rising from the sea. You'll feel as if you're at the end of the world…

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife

When visiting Sandfly Bay and Nugget Point and while driving along the Southern Scenic Route, we saw seals, baby fur seals, a sea lion, two yellow-eyed penguins, and a dolphin!

Week 2: the Catlins, Fjordlands and West-Otago

Day 8: attractions along the Southern Scenic Route

Itinerary: DOC Purakaunui Bay – Jack's blowhole – Surat Bay – Purakaunui Falls – Cathedral Cave – DOC Papatowai

Southern Scenic Route part 2

Hike to Jack's Blowhole

You'll spend another day driving the Southern Scenic route that's winding its way through the dense forest while offering stunning ocean views every other corner.

Take your time, stop often, and enjoy New Zealand at its best!

Jack's Blowhole is a 55-meter-deep hole situated 200 meters inland from the sea. Seawater flows to the hole through an underground tunnel and pounds against the sides with deep thundering sounds.

The 3-km trail to the blowhole is nice and easy, with gorgeous views along the way.

Surat Bay

This is one of the many short hikes in New Zealand and a very enjoyable one.

Sea lions can often be seen relaxing on this beach but we ‘only' say a seal. If you do spot a sea lion, keep your distance and admire these magnificent creatures.

Purakaunui Falls

This is one of the most photographed waterfalls in New Zealand and rightly so, it's a beauty! The trail leading to the falls is short and easy

Cathedral Cave

These impressive caves are located on Maori land and can only be visited during low tide. The admission fee is $10 per adult and $2 per child.

You can mind more information as well as a tide table on this website.

Day 9: more highlights along the Southern Scenic Route

Itinerary: DOC Papatowai – McLean Falls – Curio Bay – Slope Point – Invercargill – Colac Bay

Hike to McLean Falls

An easy 2.1 km trail (out and back) leads to 22-meter-tall McLean Falls, which ended up being one of my favorite waterfalls in New Zealand.

Curio Bay

In Curio Bay, you can find a Petrified Forest consisting of ancient fossilized trees. Plus, Hector dolphins often frequent this bay, so if you're very lucky you may spot a pod!

Slope Point

Slope Point is the Southernmost post of New Zealand (not counting Steward Island) and makes for a nice photo opportunity.

Mind you, it's generally very windy so hold on to your belongings.

Day 10: Venture into the Fjordlands…

Itinerary: Colac Bay – Te Anau – Mirror Lakes – Milford Sound – DOC the Divide

Scenic drive on Milford Sound Road

The road from Te Anau to the Milford Sound is absolutely breathtaking…

There are many stops along the way such as:

• The Mirror Lakes
• The Key Summit trail
• Lake Marion track,
• Early Settlers Museum at Gunns Camp
• The Hollyford Valley Lookout
• The Chasm
• Much more, so be sure to take your time!

Day 11: the Milford Sound

Itinerary: DOC The Divide – Milford Sound – The Chasm – Campsite near Lumsden

Cruise in the Milford Sound

The Milford Sound is one of the absolute highlights of New Zealand and should be included in any NZ trip.

Milford Sound is about 15 kilometers long and one of the best ways to explore the Sound is by taking a cruise.

Learn about the fjord’s history, geology, and wildlife from your skipper, savor a delicious picnic lunch and immerse yourself in a mysterious undersea world at the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory. Check availability here.

If you don't have your own wheels, don't despair!

You can opt for this great Milford Sound tour from Te Anau, including transportation in a comfortable minibus, a knowledgeable guide, and of course the sightseeing cruise in the Milford Sound.

Note: on average, it rains 182 days per year in the Milford Sound so there's a good chance you'll experience a downpour during your time there (we sure did).

On the upside, more rain means more spectacular waterfalls so embrace the weather no matter what.

For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, consider booking a wilderness cruise in the Doubtful Sound.

Day 12: Queenstown and Moke Lake

Itinerary: Campsite near Lumsden – Queenstown – DOC Moke Lake

Drive over the Devil's Staircase

This is a very scenic, albeit challenging road with lots of twists and turns (hence the name). Drive carefully and enjoy the marvelous views.

Moke Lake is one of the best hikes on the South Island and one of my favorite trails in New Zealand.

The surroundings are stunning as usual (New Zealand is pretty much gorgeous all around) and we did not come across anyone else during this hike.

Day 13: Arrowtown

Itinerary: DOC Moke Lake – Arrowtown – Luggate Cricket Club

Chinese settlement in Arrowtown

Arrowtown is a historic gold mining town where the Chinese workers (who came to New Zealand to work in the mines) created a little settlement with tiny houses made of wood.

It's an interesting place to visit in New Zealand, especially if you want to learn more about the lives of Chinese immigrants.

Instead of driving here yourself, you can also book a self-guided bike tour. Board a shuttle in Queenstown and enjoy a scenic 25-minute drive to Arrowtown.

Here you hop on your (electric) bike and make your way back to Queenstown in approximately 4-hours. Check availability here.

Crown Range Road scenic drive

From Arrowtown, take the very scenic Crown Range Road to Wanaka. This turning and twisting road leads to a 1076-meter high pass and crosses the Cardona river 11 times!

A fun fact I read in the New Zealand Lonely Planet: the Crown Range Road is the highest sealed road in New Zealand!

Day 14: Wanaka

Itinerary: Luggate Cricket Club – Wanaka – DOC Lake Paringa

Explore Wanaka

Wanaka is a laidback town situated on the shores of Lake Wanaka. While it's not nearly as busy as Queenstown, there are plenty of things to do in Wanaka and I highly recommend spending some time here.

• Beer tasting and tour Wanaka Beerworks: Wanaka Beerworks is a small local brewery that makes craft beers. You can tour the brewery and sample some of the beers.
• Lake Wanaka bike tour: take a shuttle to Lake Hawea and enjoy an amazing (self-guided) 30km scenic bike ride back to Lake Wanaka. Check availability here.
• Lake Wanaka to the West Coast via the Haast Pass: an amazing and scenic drive through the astonishing landscapes of New Zealand.

Week 3: the West Coast, Canterbury, and Marlborough

Day 15: the Fox Glacier and Lake Matheson

Itinerary: DOC Lake Paringa – Fox Glacier – Lake Matheson – DOC Otto/Mc Donald

Hike to the Fox Glacier

Fox Glacier Te Moeka o Tūawe Valley Walk is a very worthwhile 2.6km (return) trail. It took us about 20 minutes to reach the spectacular glacier.

? For a more in-depth experience, you can join this scenic Fox Glacier walking tour with local guides to learn more about the glacier, geothermal activity, and the local flora and fauna. Check availability here.

Hike around Lake Matheson

Lake Matheson is one of the most beautiful lakes in New Zealand. On a clear day, you can see a perfect reflection of the mighty Mount Cook in the lake.

That being said, Lake Matheson is worth a visit regardless of the weather!

Day 16: the Franz Josef Glacier and Hokitika

Itinerary: DOC Otto/Mc Donald – Franz Josef Glacier – Hokitika – DOC Lake Mahinãpua

Hike to Franz Josef Glacier

The 4km trail leads to the base of the Franz Josef Glacier and is the closest you can get without an organized (helicopter) tour.

While you can't get as close to the Franz Josef Glacier as to the Fox Glacier, the views are still pretty amazing.

Sunset point

Sunset Point on Hokitika Beach is only a 5-minute walk from Hokitika town and a great place to catch the sunset (but I guess the name makes that pretty obvious;-).

Glowworm dell

The Glowworm Dell near Hokitika is one of the places in New Zealand where you can see glowworms. But unlike the famous Waitomo Caves, you can visit the Hokitika Glowworm Dell for free!

These tiny bioluminescent insects light up a dark and mossy dell, which is truly a magical experience. It's like watching thousands of little stars coming alive one by one…

You can find more information here.

Day 17: the Great Coast Road

Itinerary: DOC Lake Mahinãpua – Hokitika Gorge – Pancake Rocks – Jack's Gasthof

Hokitika Gorge

Just when you feel as if there can't be another spectacular sight in stunning New Zealand, you'll arrive at Hokitika Gorge.

And she's a beauty… The glacier flour gives the water a vivid blue color that contrasts starkly with the bright white rocks. Very very pretty.

Great Coast Road scenic drive

The Great Coast Road between Greymouth and Westport is one of the most, if not the most, spectacular drives in New Zealand.

In fact, the Great Coast Road has been named one of the ‘Top 10 Coastal Drives in the World‘ according to Lonely Planet.

Take your time along this coastal drive, as every bay is more beautiful than the last one.

Punakaiki Pancake Rocks

While there is no such thing as the ‘best places to visit in New Zealand' (there are simply too many), the Pancake Rocks are definitely a must-visit spot.

These layered rocks resemble stacks of pancakes (hence the name;-) and were sculpted by relentless winds and the pounding ocean over thousands of years.

There's a short 1km loop trail leading along the Pancake Rocks, blowholes, and surge pools. While you don't need a lot of time to explore this place, you may end up staying (a lot) longer than planned…

Day 18: from the West Coast back to Canterbury

Itinerary: Jack's Gasthof – Westport – Carters beach – Alpine Holiday Park Hanmar Springs

Westport

Westport is a friendly little town worth a stroll. Pay a visit to the Coaltown Museum, do some souvenir shopping or grab a coffee.

Close to Westport is the Buller Gorge Swingbridge, which is the longest swingbridge in New Zealand (110 meters).

Carters beach

While it's often a bit cold for a swim, Carters Beach is a nice place to spend a couple of hours.

Day 19: Hanmer Springs thermal pools and spa

Itinerary: Alpine Holiday Park Hanmer Springs – Hanmer Springs thermal pools and spa – DOC Puhi Puhi Valley Kaikoura

Hanmer Springs thermal pools and spa

In this Thermal Spa, there are various pools with different minerals and temperatures. It's the perfect way to spend a (very relaxed) day. Read more information here.

Day 20: explore Kaikoura

Itinerary: DOC Puhi Puhi Valley Kaikoura – Kaikoura – Donovan House B&B

Whale watching tour

Kaikoura is one of the best places in New Zealand for whale watching. Check out this excellent whale-watching cruise to experience an up-close encounter with the world’s largest-toothed predator, the giant sperm whale.

Be sure to bring your camera and binoculars, and keep an eye out for other wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and birds. Check availability here.

Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

The Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway is a nice three-hour hike with beautiful views over the bay.

That being said, the first hour is not that interesting. I suggest starting at the parking lot at Point Kean viewpoint instead of in the town itself.

Day 21: the Queen Charlotte Drive

Itinerary: Donovan House B&B – Picton – Maitai Valley Motor Camp

Visit Picton and the Picton Village Bakery

Explore Picton and be sure to pick up some delicious baked goodies at the famous and cute Picton Village Bakery…

Scenic Queen Charlotte Drive

The Queen Charlotte Drive is yet another gorgeous scenic drive. This beautiful 35-km-long road between Picton and Havelock is full of twists and turns and offers splendid bay views around pretty much every corner.

Week 4: Tasman and Wellington

Day 22: explore Nelson

Itinerary: Maitai Valley Motor Camp – Nelson – Kina Beach camp

Explore Nelson city center

Nelson is known for its arts scene and the many crafts stores and art galleries spread around the town. It's a relaxed city with a lively atmosphere.

Definitely take a stroll along South Street, New Zealand’s oldest (fully) preserved street with cobblestone paths, Victorian cottages, and white picket fences.

Visit the Nelson Farmers' Market

If you're in town on a Wednesday, be sure to visit Nelson Farmers' Market (8 am-1 pm) and sample some of the locally grown fresh fruits and seasonal products.

Day 23: visit Abel Tasman park

Itinerary: Kina Beach camp – Abel Tasman park – Uruwhena Bridge

Kayaking at the Abel Tasman park

Kayaking at Abel Tasman park was another New Zealand highlight for me! It was a lot of fun and the scenery of this National Park is stunning.

Note: the wind can be quite strong in the open sea and getting to an island a few hundred meters from the main beach can be challenging on windy days!

If you don't want to go kayaking, but do want to explore Abel Tasman National Park, consider booking this scenic cruise along the splendid coastline and secluded beaches and bays. Check availability.

Day 24: Farewell Spit and the Te Waikoropupū Springs

Itinerary: Uruwhena Bridge – Collingwood – Farewell Spit – Uruwhena Bridge

Hike around Farewell Spit

There are many trails at Farewell Spit, most of them leading over the beach and through the beautiful dunes. You can find trail information here.

Farewell Spit is a great place for birdwatching so be sure to bring binoculars and a camera.

Pupu Springs (or Te Waikoropupū Springs)

The Pupu Springs were an unexpected highlight and one of the most mesmerizing places I've ever seen.

14.000 liters of water per second bubbles from underground vents, which creates a unique underwater environment and crystal clear water.

Day 25: explore Picton

Itinerary: Uruwhena Bridge – Motueka – Waitohi domain Picton

Picton city center and around

Picton is a lovely little town that most travelers to New Zealand visit at least once during their trip.

The ferry between the North and South Island departs here, and Picton is also the gateway to the beautiful Marlborough Sounds.

? Spending a day in Picton? Enjoy this 1-hour cruise to the Historic Ship Cove before embarking on a 12 or 15-kilometer self-guided hike along the renowned Queen Charlotte Track. Check availability.

This was our last day on the South Island of New Zealand, we spent days 26-43 on the North Island. Check out this 2 week South Island itinerary if you've got a bit less time available.

Day 26: sail the Cook Strait

Itinerary: Waitohi domain Picton – Cook Strait – Camp Elson Poriru

Cook Strait

Crossing the Cook Strait is as much a necessity if you want to get to the Northern Island, as an activity in itself. The ferry sails through the Marlborough Sounds, which are very beautiful.

Unfortunately, the weather was not great during our boat trip and we stayed inside most of the journey.

Day 27 and 28: explore Wellington

Itinerary: Owhiro Bay, Te Kopahou reserve – Wellington – Owhiro Bay, Te Kopahou reserve

Wellington Cable Car and Botanic Gardens

Wellington's famous red cable car will take you up to the top of a 120-meter-high hill with spectacular views over the bay. I recommend walking back down to the city center via the lovely Botanic Gardens.

Click here to buy tickets for the cable car.

Old Saint Paul’s

This little church is completely made out of different types of typical New Zealand woods and was built in just 9 months!

Te Papa museum

Te Papa means ‘container of treasures’ which is the perfect name for this amazing museum. I spent a day and a half in this museum and still would have loved to learn more.

Read my Wellington itinerary here

Week 5: Hawke's Bay, Taupo, and Rotorua

Day 29: go LOTR crazy

Itinerary: Owhiro Bay, Te Kopahou reserve – Clifton Motor camp Te Awanga

Weta Cave

If you're a LOTR fan (or a movie fan in general), I highly recommend visiting the Weta Cave.

This is where they make all the costumes and design complete virtual worlds for LOTR, the Hobbit, Avatar, King Kong, and many other blockbusters.

We really enjoyed exploring the workshop and learning more about how those magical worlds are created… Book your Weta Cave workshop tour here.

Day 30: explore Napier and Hastings

Itinerary: Clifton Motor camp Te Awanga – Napier – Hastings – Glenfalls campsite

Walk around Napier city center

Napier is known as the Art Deco capital of the world and it has a beautiful city center.

The city core was rebuilt completely in Art Deco style after the original town center was destroyed by an earthquake in the 1930s.

Learn more about Napier's tragic history and discover the best of Napier's culture and food scene on this full-day tour.

Visit the Hasting evening market

Are you visiting on a Thursday? Definitely check out Hasting's weekly evening market and sample some of the delicious snacks (such as dumplings, pork belly, and tortilla chicken wraps).

Day 31: Taupo and the Huka Falls

Itinerary: Glenfalls campsite – Taupo – Huka Falls – Urchin campsite

Huka Falls

The Huka Falls are the most-visited natural attraction in New Zealand and rightly so, they're pretty impressive!

There is a lovely 3-km trail starting at the Spa Thermal Park that leads to the Huka Falls and you can even soak in a natural hot stream along the way.

That being said, you can also drive to the falls from Taupo if you're short on time. 

? If you're a thrill seeker, consider booking this Jet Boat experience and zoom past rock cliffs downriver to play in the white water of Huka Falls.

Day 32: hike the Tongariro Crossing

Itinerary: Urchin campsite – the Tongariro Crossing – Reid's Farm reserve

Tongariro Crossing

Hiking the Tongariro Crossing will be one of the highlights of your trip around New Zealand, the scenery is absolutely breathtaking.

Hiking the Tongariro Crossing takes a full day and because it's a one-way hike you'll need to arrange a shuttle service to get back to your car.

However, because there is very limited parking available, the easiest way to get to the Tongariro Crossing is with a return shuttle from Taupo.

Check availability here (and book ahead as shuttles sell out fast during peak season.

Mind you, this is not an easy hike, it involves a lot of steep sections and you should prepare well before setting out on this hike.

Wear sturdy hiking boots, bring a proper rain jacket, and plenty of water and food.

Day 33: take a rest

Itinerary: Reid's Farm reserve – Willowhaven Holiday Park

Relax and take it easy

You'll probably be pretty tired after hiking the Tongariro Crossing… Take a day to recover, stock up on groceries in Taupo, do some laundry but most importantly: take a rest and enjoy the views over Lake Taupo.

If you insist on doing something today, check out this scenic catamaran cruise on Lake Taupo and visit the renowned Maori rock carvings.

Day 34: visit Whakarewarewa thermal village in Rotorua

Itinerary: Willowhaven Holiday Park – Whakarewarewa – DOC Dickey Flat

Whakarewarewa thermal village

Whakarewarewa is a unique Maori village built around hot pools and geysers and is one of the highlights in Rotorua.

True, the smell of sulfur takes some getting used to, but Whakarewarewa is an incredible place to visit and you'll learn a lot during your visit.

All the tour guides are Maori women who live in Whakarewarewa. Our tour guide enthusiastically told us about village life and the use of the hot pools. These pools are used for cooking and bathing.

The mud of the pools is used for all sorts of creams because it's full of minerals, apparently, it does wonders for your skin.

An interesting story our guide told us: a couple of decades ago, the Maori Village Chief decided that half the village would be catholic and half the village would be protestant.

Two churches were build and from that day on 50% of the village went to the catholic church and 50% went to the protestant church.

Besides going to their respective churches, the Maori living in Whakarewarewa also worship their ancestors.

Worshipping ancestors is very important in the traditional Maori society and so they combine these religions.

Click here to book tickets for Whakarewarewa Village

Day 35: Goldmine Waihi

Itinerary: DOC Dickey Flat – Tairua Holiday park

Goldmine Waihi

The Waihi Goldmine is 600 meters deep and makes for a very impressive sight. It's such a huge mine that the trucks driving up and down the mine look like children's toys! Read more about the mine here.

Week 6: the Coromandel Peninsula, Auckland, and the Northland

Day 36: drive around the Coromandel Peninsula

Itinerary: Tairua Holiday park – Cathedral Cove – Coromandel Town – Carpark Hauraki District Council, Ngatea

Cathedral Cove

Despite the fact that the Cathedral Cove Walk is only 2.5km long, it's one of the best short walks on the North Island.

The trail leads along steep cliffs and stunning views to the famous Cathedral Cove, an impressive natural bridge.

The constant pounding of the ocean against the white rocks illustrates perfectly how this bridge was formed.

?️ Do you want to see Cathedral Cove from another vantage point as well? Book this boat tour and admire giant blowholes, huge sea caves, and the spectacular Cathedral Cove. Check availability.

Drive scenic Road 309

This famous gravel road crosses from the West side of the Coromandel Peninsula to the East side. Take your time driving this 21-kilometer-long road and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Day 37: Explore Auckland

Itinerary: Carpark Hauraki District Council, Ngatea – Auckland – i-site car park Whangarei

Auckland city center

Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand with almost 1.5 million residents. It's a nice city to spend a day with lots of interesting sights.

Here are some of the top things to do in Auckland:

• Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum
• Admire the views from Mount Eden
• Stroll along Queen Street 

We also did the Auckland city walk mentioned in the New Zealand Lonely Planet which was a fun and easy way to explore the city on foot.

? Got more time to spend in and around Auckland? Here are the best Auckland day trips:
• Kayak to Rangitoto Island with its stunning sandy beaches and unique olive grove landscapes. Check availability here.
• Set off on an adventure to see New Zealand's two most famous attractions in one day: the Hobbiton movie set and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Check availability here
• Join a wine tour to Waiheke Island with spectacular scenery and sample world-famous wines. Check availability here.

Day 38: Cruise the Bay of Islands

Itinerary: i-site car park Whangarei – Whangarei Falls – Paihia – Forest Pools campsite

Dolphins cruise in the Bay of Islands

Cruising the Bay of Islands was one of the highlights of our New Zealand 6-week itinerary. We had a wonderful day out on the water and saw pods of dolphins, blue penguins, and a flock of gannets.

Click here to book your Bay of Islands cruise.

Day 39: relax at the Karikari peninsula

Itinerary: Forest Pools campsite – Karikari peninsula – Utea Park

Relax on the beach on the Karikari Peninsula

Take a day to explore the Karikari Peninsula and relax on one of the beautiful beaches (such as Matai Bay, Rangiputa beach, and Tokerau Beach). Have a picnic, read a book and enjoy the good life…

Day 40: climb Mount Manaia

Itinerary: Utea park – Whangarei Heads – Waipu Hotel

Mount Manaia Track

This is a steep climb (325 meters elevation gain) via a gravel track and lots of stairs (1000+ steps) with very rewarding views from the top.

It's not a very long hike, just 4km, but because you'll be ascending quite a bit you'll need at least an hour to complete the Mount Manaia Track.

Day 41: hike the Mangawhai Clifftop Walk

Itinerary: Waipu Hotel – Mangawhai – Erin Pools

Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway

This 9-kilometer track is a brilliant hike with really diverse landscapes. From beautiful beaches to rolling hills, tropical forests to steep cliffs.

The Mangawhai Clifftop Trail is a worthy ending to your New Zealand hiking adventures. That being said, it's not a very difficult trail, a return trip takes around 2-3 hours.

Day 42: say goodbye to New Zealand…

Itinerary: Erin Pools – return campervan in Auckland – Ibis Budget hotel Auckland Airport

That's a wrap!

Oh no! It's time to return your campervan and say goodbye to New Zealand.

If you're anything like me, you've probably also got a hard time saying goodbye. And bidding farewell to the most beautiful country in the world will be even harder…

But don't despair, you can always come back to New Zealand for more travel adventures!

Where to stay: Ibis Budget hotel Auckland Airport

Because we had an early flight to the Philippines the next morning, we stayed at the Ibis Budget Hotel right next to Auckland Airport.

While it's not the most scenic location, you can walk from the hotel to the terminals which makes it a very convenient place to spend the night if you've got an early flight (or when you arrive in Auckland very late in the evening).

The hotel is nothing special, but it's comfortable and clean and I would definitely book again if I needed a place to stay near Auckland Airport.

Click here to book via Agoda or check availability on Booking

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NZ road trip itinerary: in conclusion

I hope you've enjoyed this 6 weeks in New Zealand itinerary. If you've got any questions, please leave a comment or contact me! 

Do you want to read more about traveling New Zealand? Also read these posts:

• Essential New Zealand driving tips
• Things to do on the South Island

This post was updated in January 2023.