THE GREAT NORTHERN ROAD TRIP

Day 1

We start off today with a very informal welcome meeting in Auckland. A chance for everyone to say ‘Kia Ora’ (hello in Māori), for us to introduce ourselves, tell you a little bit more about the coming days, and answer any questions you may have. We’ll pack up our trailer, introduce you to the van and hit the road.

It’s not a long drive to our first adventure. As we cross the Harbour Bridge, the stunning skyline of Auckland fades into the background, replaced by the lush green landscapes that lead us to Matakana. The drive is dotted with charming rural scenery, and soon we’ll be surrounded by vineyards, markets, and the coastal beauty of the area. Matakana is a foodie and wine lover's nirvana – the perfect place for our first lunch-stop.

We then travel north alongside the Wairoa River and through Dargaville before arriving at our destination for the first night on the Kauri Coast.

After getting settled in here we will cook dinner for you and look forward to our evening adventure...

Tonight, as an optional (included) activity, we will take you into the Trounsen Forest to search for Kiwi once the sun has gone down. This is a very special experience - most New Zealanders have never seen a Kiwi in the wild. We will have a 50% chance of seeing one. Whilst walking amongst a forest of enormous Kauri trees we will need to be very quiet as we shine our red torch lights (provided) through the undergrowth in our search for these shy, nocturnal birds. The flightless Kiwi bird is a ‘taonga’ (treasure) to Māori, who have strong cultural, spiritual and historic associations with it. It is also an icon here in NZ, symbolising the uniqueness of New Zealand's wildlife and natural heritage.

Meals Included: Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Kauri Coast)

‍Day 2

We head north and meander our way through the Waipoua Kauri Forest, making a stop at majestic Tāne Mahuta, the ‘Lord of the Forest’ and New Zealand’s largest living Kauri tree. Keep looking up as you take the short walk through the forest, and you will soon see this magnificent tree towering over all of the others. At over 2000 years old, it is hard not to be in awe of Tāne Mahuta’s size, strength and ancient presence. Get somebody to take a photo of you with the tree behind — you’ll appear very small indeed.

We'll then head up to Arai Te Uru — the south head of the Hokianga Harbour. This headland offers spectacular views of the Tasman Sea and over to the giant sand dunes on the opposite side of the harbour entrance.

We travel through Omapere and Opononi, two small towns that were well known in the 1950’s for a friendly dolphin called ‘Opo’. She was a young Bottlenose dolphin that enjoyed playing and spending time with humans in the harbour here.

Then we make a stop to visit the Koutu Boulders. This short pleasant walk, at low tide leads to a group of large, natural, cylindrical natural rocks that make for a great photo opportunity.

Heading around the northern part of the Hokianga Harbour, we then travel over to the east coast where we base ourselves for 3 nights at the northern end of Doubtless Bay in a small settlement called Whatuwhiwhi.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Whatuwhiwhi)

Day 3 | Free Day

With our campsite only a stone’s throw from Perehipe Beach, you might just want to relax here today. With safe swimming and water sports such as kayaking and paddle boarding, it is truly a paradise to enjoy, relax and unwind in.

If you're feeling energetic, take a walk along this stretch of coastline — Tokerau Beach has 18km of uninterrupted sandy beach to discover. Also, only 2km from camp is the Carrington Estate World Class Golf Course and Karikari Estate Winery.

Weather permitting, we will explore some of the other bays, scenic reserves and lookouts situated around this peninsula, including the stunning and remote Maitai Bay, and Waikato Bay - a heart shaped bay with two beautiful beaches. We’ll be on the lookout for dolphins and orcas who often come close to shore and chase the stingrays along the beach — an awe-inspiring sight to see. Come along for the ride around the gorgeous Karikari Peninsula.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Whatuwhiwhi)

Day 4

No need to take down your tents this morning as we are off on a full day trip to Cape Reinga.

Today takes us all the way to the top of New Zealand — the northernmost point. It is a scenic drive to get there, but the main attraction is at the end of the road. After passing through green pastures, we are then greeted with large rolling sand dunes on both sides of the road.

Then as we get closer to the very top of New Zealand, we wind our way up steep hills and are rewarded with incredible views of the roiling ocean, where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean meet. Here at Cape Reinga, we have time for a stroll down to the iconic lighthouse and its outstanding views of the northern coastline. It is here that we can often see the two distinct colours of the waters as they come together.

Soon after starting our drive back to Whatuwhiwhi, we make a stop at the Te Paki sand dunes — a vast area of sand with native bush on one side and Ninety Mile Beach and the ocean on the other. They are quite incredible to see. You’ll have time to walk across the desert-like landscape or hire a sandboard and have a go at ‘boarding’ down the dunes!

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Whatuwhiwhi)

Day 5

We leave Whatuwhiwhi this morning and head around the headland to a picturesque beach settlement called Matauri Bay.

Here you can climb the hill to see the Rainbow Warrior Memorial and for stunning views across to the Cavalli Islands, or just relax on the beautiful beach.

We then head south to Kerikeri, home to New Zealand’s oldest buildings. Dating back to 1822, The Kerikeri Mission Station (Kemp House) stands adjacent to the old Stone Store which was built in 1832.

Situated in a beautiful orchard setting, we have time to look around, visit the museum* and store, and enjoy some lunch at the cafe on site. The afternoon will take us through Paihia, the gateway to the Bay of Islands, on our way to the charmingly historic town of Russell. *at your own cost

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

‍Accommodation: Camping (Russell)

Day 6 | Free Day

Spend today exploring Russell itself and/or take a boat trip out around the Bay of Islands.

The Bay of Islands comprises of 144 islands, so this is your chance to get out on the water and see them. Embark on a cruise, charter a yacht, hire a sea kayak or join one of the jet boat safaris that are on offer here.

These unique excursions will take you to islands with white sandy beaches, secluded coves, stunning marine life, not forgetting the famed “Hole in the Rock”.

Meals Included: Breakfast

‍Accommodation: Camping (Russell)

Day 7 | Free Day

Today, why not take the frequent foot ferry across to Paihia, have a mooch around the Bay of Islands main tourist town, and/or visit Waitangi.

Situated just a short walk from Paihia, Waitangi is one of New Zealand's most historic sites, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the British Crown and more than 500 Māori chiefs. At Waitangi, visitors are given an in—depth introduction to the early history of New Zealand and Māori culture.

You can visit the Treaty House itself, marvel at the fully carved Māori meeting house and traditional Waka (canoes), experience a live cultural performance and explore the two museums and beautiful grounds.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

‍Accommodation: Camping (Russell)

Day 8

Today we journey south through to Whangarei and on to the scenic Waipu region. Along the way, we pass through the pristine stretches of Waipu Beach and Langs Beach, pausing to enjoy a short walk that leads to the unique formations of the Waipu Pancake Rocks.

The day ends just over the hill at Mangawhai Heads, where golden sand, rolling surf, and dramatic coastal views create the perfect setting to relax and take in the beauty of Northland’s shoreline.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

‍Accommodation: Camping (Mangawhai Heads)

Day 9 | Free Day

Whether you choose to relax at the lagoon, walk to the ocean beach to see the impressive sand dunes, or book to go fishing, kayaking, or surfing, Mangawhai Heads is a beautiful spot in which to spend your day.

You might also wish to explore the excellent Mangawhai Coastal Cliff walk. This 2-3 hour round trip offers spectacular elevated ocean views up and down the coast, and out to the many offshore islands.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

‍Accommodation: Camping (Mangawhai Heads)

Day 10

Today, we travel South and pass through rolling farmland and pretty small towns, before entering the sprawling northern suburbs of New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland. Leaving the countryside views behind us, we drive over Auckland’s harbour bridge and enjoy panoramic views of the Waitemata Harbour and central skyline, before continuing on into the rich agricultural region of Waikato.

Heading west toward the coast, we make a short detour to see Bridal Veil Falls - a plunge waterfall that is 55m high. It is set in a beautiful bush clad bowl and can be viewed from three tiered viewing platforms. We stop here to enjoy the scenery, stretch our legs, and snap a few great photos before continuing on.

We finish the day in Raglan, a laid-back West Coast surfing mecca and holiday spot, where we will spend two nights.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

‍Accommodation: Camping (Raglan)

Day 11 | Free Day

Today is yours to enjoy in this beautiful coastal village. Relax on Ngarunui Beach, explore boutique shops, galleries, and cafes, or rent a bike, kayak, or surfboard. You might even catch local kids jumping off the bridge into the turquoise waters of the estuary at high tide.

Raglan is famous for its world-class surf, especially the long, consistent left-hand break at Manu Bay. Whether you're watching from the shore or taking a surf lesson yourself, it's a great spot to soak up the local vibe.

Meals Included: Breakfast

‍Accommodation: Camping (Raglan)

Day 12

Today we head to Hamilton, the largest city in the Waikato region and home to the impressive Hamilton Gardens. Set along the Waikato River, this 54-hectare park features beautifully designed themed gardens - from the peaceful Japanese Garden of Contemplation to the classic Italian Renaissance and colourful English Flower Garden. Each space offers a unique glimpse into garden styles from around the world.

After exploring the gardens and a bite to eat, we head south to the Otorohanga Kiwi House. This not-for-profit conservation centre is a great place to see New Zealand’s native wildlife up close, including the iconic Kiwi bird and the ancient Tuatara – a living dinosaur.

We finish the day in Waitomo, known for its vast cave systems and magical glow-worm displays.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

‍Accommodation: Camping (Waitomo)

Day 13 | Free Day

Waitomo is packed with adventure, all within walking distance from our campsite. Today, you can explore the famous glow-worm caves, try black water rafting, abseiling, caving, or zip lining, or enjoy scenic bushwalks. For a slower pace, visit the Discovery Centre & Museum to learn more about the region's natural and cultural history.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

‍Accommodation: Camping (Waitomo)

Day 14

We set off today for the thunderous Marakopa Falls, where we take a short bush walk to this wide waterfall with its impressive 35m drop - often referred to as the most beautiful in NZ.

Time permitting, we will also visit the Mangapohue Natural Bridge, a 17m high natural limestone arch that has formed from the remnants of an ancient cave system. Be wowed as you walk through the ‘fairytale like’ forest that leads up to this beautiful natural phenomena.

We then drive through the small settlement of Marakopa and take the incredibly scenic coastal route southbound. Along the way we pass by the translucent waters of the Tongapōrutu River and along one of the fastest eroding coastlines in the world. The relentless Tasman Sea continually sculpts and shapes the cliffs of the mainland creating numerous caves, tunnels and archways.

Every now and then you’ll be able to see right out to the horizon and on a clear day you might catch a sighting of Mount Taranaki as we near New Plymouth.

Tonight, camp is in the heart of New Plymouth.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

‍Accommodation: Camping (New Plymouth)

Day 15 | Free Day

New Plymouth is a vibrant and modern city, renowned for its sunny climate, art galleries, street art, picturesque parks and botanical gardens – all centrally located. It’s also famed for its Coastal Walkway which stretches 12.7km from the port to a small beach community in the north. Te Rewa Rewa Bridge can be found halfway along the walkway and has magnificent views of Mount Taranaki to the south. Great for walking on or hiring a bike and cycling along.

New Plymouth is blessed with many stunning beaches and provides a paradise for surfers, swimmers, kayakers and paddle boarders alike.

The Port of Taranaki is an interesting working harbour with a long history. There are places to eat and drink at the breakwater where you can watch the ships go by.

Meals Included: Breakfast

‍Accommodation: Camping (New Plymouth)

Day 16

Today we travel south toward Stratford, skirting the edge of Egmont National Park with views of the striking Mount Taranaki. From here, we join the iconic 148 km Forgotten World Highway—a scenic, off-the-beaten-track route through rolling farmland, dense native bush, and winding river valleys.

A highlight along the way is a stop at Whangamomona, a quirky one-street village that declared itself a republic in 1989. Every two years it hosts Republic Day, a lively festival featuring sheep races, gumboot throwing, hill climbs, and even a presidential election—past winners include a goat and a poodle! Drop into the historic hotel, check out the photo gallery, and don’t forget to get your passport stamped with the official "Republic of Whangamomona" seal.

We continue on through the remote and rugged King Country, then head east to Ohakune, our base for the next three nights.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

‍Accommodation: Camping (Ohakune)

Day 17 | Free Day

Today is the first of two free days in Ohakune, giving you the flexibility to tackle the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and still have time to enjoy other great activities in the region.

The Central Volcanic Plateau is home to three active volcanoes—Mt Ruapehu, Mt Ngauruhoe, and Mt Tongariro. Standing at 2,797 metres, Mt Ruapehu is the North Island’s highest peak and offers year-round opportunities for hiking, skiing, and scenic exploration.

Ohakune, located at the base of Mt Ruapehu, is the ideal base for outdoor adventures. It’s the gateway to the world-renowned Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a 19 km hike through dramatic volcanic landscapes with highlights like the Emerald Lakes, Red Crater, Blue Lake, and sweeping views across the island. Mt Ngauruhoe, known as ‘Mt Doom’ from The Lord of the Rings, rises sharply along the route.

For a more relaxed pace, there are plenty of shorter walks and scenic trails nearby. The area is also a hotspot for mountain biking, with local trails and bike hire readily available.

One must-do experience is the historic Old Coach Road. This 15 km trail, once used by stagecoaches to connect the Auckland-Wellington rail line, winds through native bush, past cobbled paths, under towering steel viaducts, and through old stone tunnels—perfect for both walkers and cyclists.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Camping (Ohakune)

Day 18 | Free Day

(optional free half day road trip to Whakapapa Village)

On your second free day, for those interested, we’ll take a scenic drive up the mountain road, past the historic Grand Chateau, and on to Whakapapa Village for breathtaking views. From here, you’ll have the opportunity to take the 6 km track to Taranaki Falls, one of the best short walks in the Tongariro National Park, offering stunning views of the falls and the surrounding volcanic landscape.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Ohakune)

Day 19

Today, we drive from Ohakune to Taupo via the Desert Road. The Desert Road is a striking, 50-kilometre stretch of State Highway 1 running through the heart of the North Island’s Volcanic Plateau. Despite its name, it’s not a true desert, but rather a rugged, windswept expanse of barren terrain, with expansive views of the iconic, snow-capped peaks of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Ngauruhoe, and Mt Tongariro.

We then drive along the picturesque shoreline of Lake Taupo before stopping for lunch in the town of the same name.

Afterward, we’ll take a short drive to the renowned Huka Falls. Huka Falls is one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural attractions, where over 220,000 litres of water cascade through a narrow gorge every second. The vibrant turquoise water creates a stunning spectacle, with walking trails offering multiple viewpoints for visitors to marvel at and photograph this powerful and mesmerising waterfall.

Tonight, we set up camp in Taupo.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Taupo)

Day 20 | Free Day

Taupo is nestled on the north-eastern shore of Lake Taupo, a stunning body of water formed by the eruption of the Taupo super volcano 1,800 years ago. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Central Plateau, the area is a true adventure playground.

At 622 square kilometres, Lake Taupo is New Zealand’s largest lake and offers a wealth of activities. Take to the skies with a floatplane flight over the Central Volcanic Plateau, or cruise the lake to view the Ngatoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings. Explore the scenic pathways by foot or bike, including the easy, picturesque ‘Lion’s Walk’. For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Taupo is a top trout fishing destination, or you can test your skills with the famous Hole in One golf challenge.

For those seeking thrills, skydive over the lake or try the AJ Hackett Bungy & Swing, located right by the campsite. Whatever your adventure, Taupo offers something for everyone.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Taupo)

Day 21

We set off this morning on a short, scenic drive north to Rotorua, with a stop at the famous Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland - named as "One of the 20 Most Surreal Places in the World" – along the way. Here, we’ll marvel at nature’s fiery geothermal creations, from the brightly-coloured Champagne Pool to the steamy geysers and many bubbling mud pools.

After exploring the park, we’ll continue on to Rotorua, where more geothermal marvels and a proud Maori heritage awaits. We settle down in Rotorua for three nights.

This evening, we treat you to a cultural evening at the Mitai Māori Village, where you will be given an authentic introduction to Māori culture, complete with a traditional Hāngī feast. (included) A Hāngī is a traditional New Zealand Māori method of cooking food using either natural steam or heated rocks buried in a pit oven.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Rotorua)

Day 22 | Free Day

Rotorua is packed with excitement and natural beauty, offering something for every type of traveller. For adrenaline seekers, there’s everything from guided volcano climbs and ziplining through the trees to zorbing down grassy hills. If you’re looking for a more laid-back day, you can unwind with a soothing massage at one of the town’s many spa and wellness centres, take a ride in the gondola up Mount Ngongotaha for beautiful views over the lake, or walk amongst the towering redwoods in Whakarewarewa Forest.

The vibrant town centre is a geothermal wonderland, where you can stroll past bubbling mud pools and natural hot springs in a number of thermal parks, explore the stunning Government Gardens, and wander along the pristine new lakefront walkway. After, head to Eat Streat—a bustling pedestrian street lined with cafes, restaurants, and local ice cream parlours perfect for a relaxing bite.

Rotorua is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with kilometres of trails around the lake, through forests, and along rivers, all waiting to be explored by foot or bike. Don’t miss the chance to dive into Rotorua’s rich Māori culture through performances, storytelling, and cultural experiences.

With so much to see and do, Rotorua offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and culture—making it a must-visit destination that never disappoints.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Camping (Rotorua)

Day 23 | Free Day

You have another day to explore Rotorua and all the incredible experiences it has to offer. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or culture, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Tonight after dark, you have the option to join us at the Whakarewarewa Forest where you can enjoy the magical light display amongst the enormous redwood trees. (The elevated tree walk – additional cost - can be booked at the ticket office on site.)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Rotorua)

Day 24

We have another scenic drive north today, from Rotorua to Coromandel Town. This journey takes us through lush farmland, rolling hills, and some of the most beautiful countryside in the North Island.

Along the way, we’ll stop at the famous Hobbiton movie set in Matamata. Here, we’ll step into the enchanting world of The Lord of the Rings, strolling through the iconic hobbit holes, lush gardens, and the charming Green Dragon Inn, where we can enjoy a refreshing drink. Even if you’re not a fan of the books or films, we are sure that you will still find this tour extremely endearing, interesting and very photogenic.

After this magical experience, we continue our drive up to the Coromandel Peninsula. The scenery morphs into rugged coastlines, golden beaches, and dramatic cliffs as we get closer to Coromandel Town, setting the stage for a relaxing and picturesque arrival into this charming, laid-back town, known for its rich mining history and pretty setting.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Coromandel Town)

Day 25 | Free Day

You have a free day to explore Coromandel Town, a unique little settlement with character, soul and ambience. As well as galleries and craft shops, the town has many restored Victorian buildings and a small mining museum. There are many bush and beach walks nearby too.

Weather permitting, we will seize the chance to take a further drive north and explore even more of this rugged peninsula. We may even be able to walk part of the Coromandel Coastal Walkway. One of New Zealand’s most isolated coastal walks with its beautiful scenery and remote location, it borders the northern Coromandel coastline between Stony and Fletcher Bays and follows an old bridle path formed by early pioneers.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Camping (Coromandel Town)

Day 26

After a relaxed morning, we bid farewell to Coromandel Town and make our way up and across the peninsula, zigzagging through scenic roads toward Hot Water Beach on the east coast.

Along the way, we’ll stop at Kūaotunu, famous for its 10-scoop ice cream, take in the beauty of Otama Beach, and stop to stretch our legs in the charming harbour town of Whitianga.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Hot Water Beach)

Day 27 | Free Day

Today, it’s time to explore the stunning east coast of Coromandel, famous for its pristine beaches, hidden bays, caves, and islands. One of the most scenic spots in New Zealand, Cathedral Cove features a dramatic limestone arch that separates two beautiful sandy beaches. We’ll drive over to Hahei and take a scenic walk to this iconic natural wonder.

From our base at Hot Water Beach, there’s a range of activities to choose from—whether it’s a boat tour, kayaking, diving, or snorkelling. Or, for something truly unique, grab a spade and dig your own hot pool right on the beach! Hot Water Beach lives up to its name—dig in the right spot and you’ll find a natural thermal pool to relax in, making it a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Hot Water Beach)

Day 28

We head a little further south today to the stunning Mount Paku peninsula. The 360° panoramic views at the top of the summit walk are not to be missed, looking down over Tairua Harbour, Pauanui Beach, the beautiful turquoise blue estuary waters, and out along the coast to the Alderman Islands.

We then head to the town of Waihi, New Zealand's 'Heart of Gold', with a gold mining history spanning three centuries and a local open pit mine that is still fully operational.

Further south, we enter the City of Tauranga where we drive past New Zealand's biggest port and one of its largest natural harbours before ending up in the popular seaside resort of Mount Maunganui. Its long sandy main beach stretches right up to the base of the ‘Mount’ which can be climbed to gain spectacular views across the city, harbour and coastline.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Mount Maunganui)

Day 29 | Free Day

Spend your day soaking in the laid-back vibe of Mount Maunganui. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the golden beach, watch surfers catching waves, and keep an eye out for ships sailing into the harbour. The vibrant seaside promenade is lined with fantastic cafes, juice bars, and coffee shops, perfect for indulging in a treat with a view. For those looking to get active, take a hike up the iconic Mount itself, where panoramic views of the bay and coastline await at the summit.

If you're in the mood for some urban exploring, hop on a bus to the city of Tauranga and enjoy a day of shopping, dining, and discovering local boutiques. Whether you're after relaxation or a little adventure, Mount Maunganui offers the best of both worlds.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Mount Maunganui)

Day 30

We have a short journey this morning to our next destination, Whakatane in the Bay of Plenty region. Along the way, we zigzag past golden beaches, lush farmland, and native bush, with glimpses of the sparkling Pacific Ocean along the way.

We’ll set up camp early this afternoon, and then the rest of the day is yours to explore this pretty harbour town.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Whakatane)

Day 31 | Free Day

Today is a free day to relax/explore at your leisure. Located in the heart of the Eastern Bay of Plenty, Whakatāne is one of New Zealand’s sunniest towns, making it the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the natural surroundings.

There is a particularly nice river walk that winds its way from our campsite in to town and on to the harbour and ocean beach, with coffee stops and cafes along the way to ‘rest’ in, if required.

If you're feeling adventurous, there's plenty to do. Whakatāne is a top fishing destination, known for landing more yellowfin tuna than anywhere else in the country. You can also join a boat tour to Moutohorā (Whale Island), a protected wildlife sanctuary home to rare native birdlife and geothermal hot springs.

For a truly unforgettable experience, take a scenic flight over Whakaari (White Island) and the volcanic peaks of the Taupō Volcanic Zone. The views from above offer a spectacular perspective on this unique and active landscape.

Whether you spend the day unwinding or exploring, Whakatāne offers something for everyone.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Camping (Whakatane)

Days 32 & 33

The next two days see us travelling State Highway 35, which circles right around New Zealand’s East Cape. The East Cape is the easternmost point of the New Zealand mainland and is the first place to see the sunrise in the world! The 334 km road trip around the coastline is stunning, comprising of endless white sandy beaches, remote villages where wild horses roam free, and a number of historical points of interest.

We stay the night at a beautifully secluded spot on the most remote part of the East Cape. Here, with weather permitting, we have the opportunity to zip open our tents at dawn and be the first people in the world to witness the sun rising up out of the ocean for the new day. What an experience!

Over our two days of travel around the Cape, we’ll pass through the tiny hamlet of Omaio, whose name literally means ‘peace, quiet & tranquillity’ in Māori, the iconic and picturesque Anglican Raukokore Church, Te Araroa where you can find New Zealand’s oldest and largest Pohutukawa tree, the old abandoned wharf, wool and meat work buildings of beautiful Tokumaru Bay, and Tolaga Bay with what is believed to be the longest (660m) and most spectacular wharf of its type in the Southern Hemisphere.  The wharf at Tolaga Bay stands where Captain Cook first met the leaders of the Te Aitanga a Hauiti tribe in 1769 and there are a number of other places along this historic section of coastline where Cook and his ship, the Endeavour, set anchor.

We complete our East Cape experience in our very special destination for two nights, deep in the hill country of Ngatapa.

Day 32

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (East Cape)

Day 33

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge - Shared Dorm (Eastwoodhill Arboretum)

Day 34 | Free Day

Today is yours to enjoy the natural beauty of Eastwoodhill Arboretum, New Zealand’s ‘National Arboretum’ and home to the country’s most diverse collection of trees and plants. Spanning 131 hectares of rolling Gisborne countryside, Eastwoodhill showcases over 4,000 varieties of trees, shrubs, and plants from around the world.

Wander at your own pace along the many woodland trails, find a quiet spot in the gardens to relax, and take in the serenity of this peaceful landscape - the colours and variety on display are truly spectacular.

It’s a perfect day to slow down, reconnect with nature, and explore one of New Zealand’s true hidden gems.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge - Shared Dorm (Eastwoodhill Arboretum)

Day 35

Today we journey south through the remote and beautiful landscapes of the East Coast. Along the way, weather permitting, we take a short but scenic detour to the Māhia Peninsula - an off-the-beaten-track gem known for its sweeping beaches, rugged coastline, and laid-back charm.

After some time to stretch your legs and soak up the coastal views, we continue on to Wairoa, a small riverside town with strong Māori heritage and a proud local community, where we grab a bite to eat.

From there, we travel inland to Napier, the vibrant heart of Hawke’s Bay and our base for Christmas Day.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Napier)

Day 36 | Free Day

Today is a free day to enjoy all that Napier and the Hawke’s Bay region has to offer—whether you choose to explore at your own pace or join us on an optional scenic road trip.

Hawke’s Bay is renowned as one of New Zealand’s top food and wine regions, home to award-winning vineyards, boutique producers, and a thriving culinary scene. It’s also celebrated as an international Art Deco capital, with beautifully preserved 1930s architecture that emerged after the devastating 1931 earthquake reshaped the city.

For those keen to see more of the region, we offer an optional drive along the picturesque Tuki Tuki Road loop, winding through rolling countryside and past renowned wineries. The highlight is a visit to Te Mata Peak, where—weather permitting—you’ll be treated to breathtaking 360° views across the patchwork of vineyards, all the way to the central North Island mountains on a clear day. Along the way, we’ll pass the historic Mission Estate, New Zealand’s oldest winery, established in 1851.

Whether you choose to indulge in local wine, explore Napier’s charming streets, or take in the sweeping vistas from Te Mata Peak, this day offers something for everyone.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Camping (Napier)

Day 37

Today we head south from Napier on a scenic road trip through the rural heart of the North Island, making our way toward the charming heritage town of Greytown.

Along the way, we take a memorable detour to visit one of New Zealand’s most quirky landmarks—the hill with the world’s longest place name: “Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu.”

This tongue-twister of a name, steeped in Māori legend, makes for a great photo stop and a fun cultural moment.

Continuing south into the picturesque Wairarapa region, we arrive in Greytown, known for its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, boutique shopping, and excellent cafes—a perfect spot to relax and soak in the small-town charm.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Greytown)

Day 38 | Free Day

(optional day trip to Castlepoint)

Today is a free day based in the charming town of Greytown. For wine lovers, the nearby village of Martinborough is just a short drive away and offers over 20 boutique wineries to explore. You can join a guided wine tour or opt for a self-guided cycle tour through the vineyards—yes, cycling and wine-tasting really do go hand-in-hand here!

If you're keen to explore the coastline, join us for an optional scenic road trip to Castlepoint, a remote picturesque beachside settlement on the Wairarapa coast. Castlepoint is famous for its striking lighthouse, rugged coastline, and Castle Rock, which rises 160 metres above sea level. With reef-fringed lagoons, sweeping sand dunes, and panoramic ocean views, it’s a spectacular spot for walking, photography, or simply enjoying the wild beauty of this coastal reserve.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Camping (Greytown)

Day 39

Remaining in the Wairarapa, we follow the rugged coastline south to the remote and windswept Cape Palliser—the southernmost point of the North Island. The journey takes us along a dramatic coastal road, with jagged mountains rising to our left and the wild, rolling sea to our right. Passing through a handful of small, isolated townships, we eventually reach the end of the road and the iconic 125-year-old Cape Palliser Lighthouse, perched high on a cliff. Climb the steps to the top for breathtaking views of the coastline and, on a clear day, even the South Island across Cook Strait.

From here, we loop back around the shores of Lake Wairarapa, pass through the historic town of Featherston, and make our way over the Remutaka Ranges. As we descend into Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital city, we settle in for a three-night stay at our centrally located hostel—perfectly positioned to explore everything the city has to offer.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hostel - shared dorm (Wellington)

Day 40

Depart hostel by 10am, Tour ends

Meals Included: None