New Zealand is a fantastic destination for self-drive tours, offering diverse routes, stunning scenery, and adventures off the beaten track. Consider the places you want to visit and the routes you want to take. Depending on your itinerary and the number of travellers who will be accompanying you, choose between a car and a motorhome. It is recommended that you book your car/motorhome as far in advance as you can, especially if you plan to visit in the peak season, extending from December to March.
Goway offers self-drive road trips in Ireland, suggesting day-by-day itineraries, which can be modified according to your requirements. We also arrange transportation and reserve your accommodation. Please remember that driving in Ireland is on the left-hand side of the road. Keeping left may feel a bit different at first but you'll get used to it in no time at all and enjoy driving on the scenic routes discussed below.
Central North Island
The Central North Island region of New Zealand is perfect for a road trip vacation. Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand, is on the volcanic plateau of central North Island. The region is home to the Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with outstanding volcanic features and majestic landscapes. Your self-drive exploration of Central North Island begins at Auckland, follows the Pacific Coast Highway, with stops at Rotorua, Napier, Gisborne, Tongariro National Park, Hawke's Bay, and the Bay of Plenty. Enjoy a memorable drive amid scenic backdrops of rolling hills, gorgeous harbours, and sandy beaches.
North Island Self Drive
Drive from Auckland to Wellington, stopping in Coromandel Peninsula and Rotorua, and visiting Lake Taupo and Napier along the way. Relax on sandy beaches, including the Hot Water Beach, where you can enjoy a rejuvenating spa right on the seashore. Marvel at the spectacular geothermal stalactites, stalagmites, and glow-worms of Waitomo Caves, and journey through Rotorua, a volcanic wonderland with bubbling mud pools and spouting geysers. Stop by beautiful Lake Taupo and continue your journey to Hawke's Bay Wine Country, along with the historic cities of Napier and Hastings. End your self-drive tour in Wellington, home to a wealth of museums and galleries.
South Island Self Drive
Drive full circle from Christchurch and back again, stopping at many of South Island's attractions, including the famous Pancake Rocks and Franz Josef, Milford Sound and Dunedin. At Queenstown, enjoy a ride on the famous Shotover jet boat, embark on a day trip to the world-famous Milford Sound, which is best seen on a cruise during which you may spot dolphins, seals, penguins, and the occasional whale.
The Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway is a beautiful route that takes you along the east coast of the North Island. Begin your road trip at Auckland to Napier, with stops at the Coromandel, Tauranga, Whakatane, and Gisborne. You'll have ample opportunities to explore the beaches, mountains, islands, and wildlife sanctuaries along the way. Conclude your trip in Hawke's Bay.
What do the experts say?
The food in New Zealand is incredible, and New Zealanders are rightly proud of their paddock to plate cuisine. Almost everything is sustainably grown and processed, from lamb and seafood to vegetables and fruit.
About 20 percent of New Zealand is made up of National Parks, Forests, and Nature Reserves. And they’re all free to enter!
The Māori cultural experiences and performances offered throughout the North and South Islands are well worth seeking out. If the opportunity presents itself, definitely take part in a hāngī
Looking for a great restaurant in New Zealand? Try The Bunker in Queenstown, Plato in Dunedin, Manu in Christchurch, and Oppies Fish & Chips in Rotorua
All Blacks rugby is huge in New Zealand. If you’re a sports fan, be sure to check out a home game. The All Blacks typically play their home test matches during the months of July, August, September and sometimes October
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