Auckland to Wellington Self Drive

Auckland to Wellington Self Drive

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7 Days From

$944

Auckland to Wellington Self Drive

7 Days Starting in Auckland, New Zealand and ending in Wellington, New Zealand

Visiting: Auckland, Rotorua, Napier, Wellington

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

Easy

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $944

NB: Prices correct on 07-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "Auckland to Wellington Self Drive" tour, exploring the stunning landscapes and vibrant cities of New Zealand's North Island. Begin your adventure in Auckland, the "City of Sails," and drive through the picturesque countryside to Rotorua, renowned for its geothermal wonders and rich Maori culture. Visit the iconic Hobbiton movie set, marvel at the natural beauty of Lake Taupo, and immerse yourself in the art and wine scene of Napier with its famous Art Deco architecture. Conclude your trip in Wellington, the capital city, after a scenic drive through the lush farmlands and historic towns of the Manawatu and Wairarapa regions. Enjoy six nights of superior accommodation, daily breakfasts, and the freedom of unlimited mileage with your rental car.

Highlights

  • Drive through the picturesque countryside of the North Island

  • Experience the stunning Geothermal wonders of Rotorua

  • Explore Auckland's vibrant city life and stunning harbor views

  • Visit Hobbiton, the iconic movie set from "The Lord of the Rings"

  • Discover the art and wine scene in Napier, with its famous Art Deco architecture

  • Take in the natural beauty of Lake Taupo and the surrounding area

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Auckland (Arrival) (B/-/-)

Location: Auckland

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Welcome to New Zealand! Upon arrival at the Auckland International Airport, collect your rental car at the airport, and explore the city of Auckland, New Zealand's self-proclaimed \"City of Sails\", which also happens to be the country's largest metro area. Resting between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, this urban paradise has something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, rainforests and an abundance of beaches, Auckland is a playground for both the city savvy and those with an eye for adventure. Explore the central museums and galleries on foot, or take a drive through one of over 28 regional National Parks to see deserted beaches, waterfalls and native forest.




Overnight in Auckland

Day 2: Auckland - Waikato - Rotorua (B/-/-)

Location: Rotorua

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, start your journey by driving south from Auckland, which will take you past the Bombay Hills and into the rolling farmland and rich dairy pastures of the Waikato. The Bombay Hills mark the outer boundary of greater Auckland area and it's here you turn inland to central Waikato. Youll soon go through the town of Matamata where you can visit the fully intact Hobbiton film set used in the shooting of the Lord of The Rings and Hobbit trilogies. Continuing on, youll pass several small farming communities before telltale signs of steam and other geothermal activity signal your arrival into Rotorua.




Overnight in Rotorua

Day 3: Rotorua (B/-/-)

Location: Rotorua

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Peppered with natural hot springs, boiling mud pools and steaming geysers, Rotorua sits within one of the worlds most active volcanic regions. Geothermal landmarks aside, this city of sulphur has a rich indigenous history. After breakfast, drive towards one of the Maori Villages, as Rotorua is home to several prominent Maori Tribes. Dont forget to visit a Polynesian Spa for an invigorating soak in its natural mineral hot springs. Fans of Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit should drive to nearby Matamata and experience the actual movie set ‘Hobbiton.




Overnight in Rotorua

Day 4: Rotorua - Lake Taupo - Napier (B/-/-)

Location: Napier

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a sumptuous breakfast, check out of the hotel, and continue your drive will take you through the thermal region just south of Rotorua. Home to a plethora of unique geothermal attractions including boiling mud pits, natural hot springs and steaming geysers, this area is a must do before you move on to Napier. Notable attractions are Wai-O-Tapu, Waimangu and Craters of the Moon. Continue on to Taupo and marvel at the lake, a giant crater formed following a volcanic eruption in the year 180 CE. As you approach the city, be sure to stop at Huka Falls to view the spectacular sight of hundreds of cubic metres of water spilling every second down the narrow 11 metre drop. Leaving Taupo, follow the road as it climbs the rugged Ahimanawa Range before descending back down the Pacific Coast to art deco Napier.




Overnight in Napier

Day 5: Napier - Hawke’S Bay - Napier (B/-/-)

Location: Napier

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, explore Hawkes Bay, which is an attractive destination owing to its Mediterranean climate and Art Deco style.As the nation's first winemaking region, a visit to one of its 30 wineries is a must. A trip to Mission Estate touted as the birthplace of NZ wine can't be missed. Those into Gatsby will enjoy the chance to view prominent Art Deco landmarks. Spend some time learning about the history of the city's architecture including the Napier Municipal Theatre, one of the top ten Art Deco Buildings in the world.  




Overnight in Napier

Day 6: Napier - Masterton - Wellington (B/-/-)

Location: Wellington

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, start the last leg of the journey, by driving towards Wellington, through the rolling countryside of the Hawke's Bay leading you into some of New Zealands richest farmland, located around the Manawatu region. Passing along the Manawatu Gorge the Wairarapa welcomes you. Masterton is home to the golden shears sheep shearing competition while just further south Greytown boasts the largest concentration of historic wooden buildings in the country. Nearby Martinborough is home to dozens of boutique wineries. The route takes you over the Rimutaka Range and along the magnificent natural harbour that the capital city of Wellington sits upon.




Overnight in Wellington

Day 7: Wellington - (Departure) (B/-/-)

Location: Wellington

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, drop your rental car at the Wellington Airport service area. Proceed towards the terminal building of Wellington International Airport, to catch your flight back home.

What's Included

  • 06 nights accommodation on a twin sharing basis at superior hotels or similar

    Enjoy comfortable stays at superior hotels or similar accommodations for 6 nights.

  • Daily Breakfasts

    Start each day with a delicious breakfast included in your package.

  • Pick up at Auckland International Airport and drop off at Wellington International Airport

    Convenient airport transfers are included, with pick-up at Auckland International Airport and drop-off at Wellington International Airport.

  • Rental car type: Automatic transmission (Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid or similar) including:

    Drive a rental car with automatic transmission, such as a Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid or similar.

  • Unlimited mileage

    Enjoy unlimited mileage with your rental car, allowing you to explore without restrictions.

  • Theft Protection. Unwaivable charges may apply

    Theft protection is included for your rental car, though unwaivable charges may apply.

  • Collision Damage Waiver Reduction (CDW). Unwaivable charges may apply

    Collision Damage Waiver Reduction (CDW) is included for your rental car, though unwaivable charges may apply.

  • All applicable taxes

    All applicable taxes are included in the package.

What's Not Included

  • Items of a personal nature, tips and gratuities

    Personal expenses, tips, and gratuities are not included.

  • Gas, Tolls and parking fees

    Costs for gas, tolls, and parking fees are not included.

  • Visa fees, if applicable

    Visa fees, if applicable, are not included.

  • Any item not mentioned as included

    Any items not specifically mentioned as included are excluded from the package.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with a rental car featuring automatic transmission (Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid or similar), including unlimited mileage, theft protection, and collision damage waiver reduction.

Accommodation

Enjoy 6 nights of superior accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at carefully selected hotels, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of rental car is provided during the tour?

    The rental car provided is an automatic transmission vehicle, specifically a Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid or a similar model.

  • Are there any additional charges for the rental car?

    Yes, there may be unwaivable charges for Theft Protection and Collision Damage Waiver Reduction (CDW).

  • What is included in the accommodation during the tour?

    The tour includes 6 nights of accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at superior hotels or similar.

  • What meals are included in the tour package?

    Daily breakfasts are included in the tour package.

  • What are some of the key attractions in Rotorua?

    In Rotorua, you can visit natural hot springs, boiling mud pools, and steaming geysers. The city also has a rich indigenous history, and you can visit Maori Villages and the Polynesian Spa.

  • What can I expect to see in Napier?

    In Napier, you can explore the art and wine scene, visit its famous Art Deco architecture, and learn about the city's history. Notable landmarks include the Napier Municipal Theatre and Mission Estate, the birthplace of New Zealand wine.

  • What natural attractions can be seen near Lake Taupo?

    Near Lake Taupo, you can visit geothermal attractions like boiling mud pits, natural hot springs, and steaming geysers. Huka Falls is also a must-see, where hundreds of cubic meters of water spill every second down an 11-meter drop.

  • What is the final destination of the tour?

    The final destination of the tour is Wellington, where you will drop off your rental car at the Wellington Airport and catch your flight back home.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Terry Kratz (Google Reviewer)  

Thanks to Indus and Nicko...

13-Sep-2024

Thanks to Indus and Nicko Cruise for a great trip down the Danube. I had not been on a river cruise prior to this and found it a very relaxing way to travel and see some European highlights. The ship was superb. The staff served great meals, were friendly and accommodating. As far as the tours and city visits, they all gave us a reasonable amount of time and insight into the location we were visiting to come away with a sense that we had a good glimpse of the city and were able to spend some free time in the city as well. A special thanks to Dhruv our fearless leader from Indus who was a great organizer. Lastly - nice to meet all of you in our group. terry

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
Kim Eisnor (Google Reviewer)  

We had an absolutely amazing...

12-Sep-2024

We had an absolutely amazing experience on our first ever river boat cruise. The itinerary and ports were incredible, the ship was beautiful, the food was great (especially Mario’s Grill), the excursions were excellent and the staff was lovely. We had such a memorable trip with our group and made lots of memories that will last a lifetime.

DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

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Prices last published on 06-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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