Auckland to Wellington Self Drive
Auckland to Wellington Self Drive
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:
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
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
Itinerary
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
1 Select your preferred date
Friday - Thursday
Jan 24, 2025 - Jan 30, 2025Friday - Thursday
Jan 31, 2025 - Feb 06, 2025Friday - Thursday
Feb 07, 2025 - Feb 13, 2025Friday - Thursday
Feb 14, 2025 - Feb 20, 2025Friday - Thursday
Feb 21, 2025 - Feb 27, 2025Friday - Thursday
Feb 28, 2025 - Mar 06, 2025Friday - Thursday
Mar 07, 2025 - Mar 13, 2025Friday - Thursday
Mar 14, 2025 - Mar 20, 2025Friday - Thursday
Mar 21, 2025 - Mar 27, 2025Friday - Thursday
Mar 28, 2025 - Apr 03, 2025Friday - Thursday
Apr 04, 2025 - Apr 10, 2025Friday - Thursday
Apr 11, 2025 - Apr 17, 2025Friday - Thursday
Apr 18, 2025 - Apr 24, 2025Friday - Thursday
May 09, 2025 - May 15, 2025Friday - Thursday
May 16, 2025 - May 22, 2025Friday - Thursday
May 23, 2025 - May 29, 2025Friday - Thursday
May 30, 2025 - Jun 05, 2025Friday - Thursday
Jun 06, 2025 - Jun 12, 2025Friday - Thursday
Jun 13, 2025 - Jun 19, 2025Friday - Thursday
Jun 20, 2025 - Jun 26, 2025Friday - Thursday
Jun 27, 2025 - Jul 03, 2025Friday - Thursday
Jul 04, 2025 - Jul 10, 2025Friday - Thursday
Jul 11, 2025 - Jul 17, 2025Friday - Thursday
Jul 18, 2025 - Jul 24, 2025Friday - Thursday
Jul 25, 2025 - Jul 31, 2025Friday - Thursday
Aug 08, 2025 - Aug 14, 2025Friday - Thursday
Aug 15, 2025 - Aug 21, 2025Friday - Thursday
Aug 22, 2025 - Aug 28, 2025Friday - Thursday
Aug 29, 2025 - Sep 04, 2025Friday - Thursday
Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 11, 2025Friday - Thursday
Sep 12, 2025 - Sep 18, 2025Friday - Thursday
Sep 19, 2025 - Sep 25, 2025Friday - Thursday
Sep 26, 2025 - Oct 02, 2025Book 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.
Enquire for huge savings
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.