New Zealand:
The North Island
This is the second installment in my multi-part series on New Zealand. On this leg of the journey, we travel 546 miles over 10 hours and 35 minutes, exploring the wonders of the North Island. Our route takes us from Auckland to Rotorua, then onward to New Plymouth, and finally, to Wellington.
See a map of the route.
When planning your travels in New Zealand, you may be tempted to hire an RV, but I urge you to reconsider. These vehicles, often cumbersome and not well-maintained, are challenging to drive on New Zealand’s narrow, winding roads. Moreover, upon arriving at your destination, you’ll likely find yourself constantly parking, reconnecting, and then disconnecting just to make a quick trip to the store or a trailhead. A better option is to rent a standard car or four-wheel-drive vehicle. This gives you flexibility, allowing you to stay at RV parks in cozy cabins or take advantage of New Zealand’s plentiful, affordable accommodations. With a regular vehicle, driving becomes safer, easier, and more convenient—ensuring you reach your destinations faster and with less hassle.
Heading south from Auckland, our first stop is Rotorua, a geothermal wonderland. This region is bursting with geysers, bubbling mud pools, hot springs, and the historic Buried Village (Te Wairoa), which was buried by the eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886. All these natural wonders are within easy reach of the city.
Video from Rotorua
Leaving Rotorua, we head west toward the coastal town of New Plymouth. Along the way, breathtaking scenery unfolds—meandering rivers, striking pumice cliffs, and rolling fields dotted with sheep and cattle. New Zealand’s dense subtropical rainforests showcase towering tree ferns, creating an almost prehistoric landscape. Though the drive is long, the experience is well worth the effort. Upon arrival, visitors should take time to stroll the unique black sand beaches. New Plymouth itself is a quiet town, but its dramatic backdrop—Mount Taranaki/Egmont—commands attention. At 8,261 feet (2,518 meters), this volcanic peak is one of the most symmetrical cones in the world.
New Zealand is a land defined by warmth—its people, its landscapes, and even its wildlife exude an unmistakable friendliness. However, this also means that most towns feel more like small country villages than bustling urban centers. With a country the size of Great Britain yet a population of just 4 million, it’s no surprise that people here embrace a laid-back lifestyle. While New Zealanders often project an image of adventure and adrenaline (after all, they did invent bungee jumping), the truth is that they’re largely gracious and reserved.
From New Plymouth, the journey continues south to Wellington, the capital and third most populous city in the country. Nestled on the southwestern tip of the North Island between Cook Strait and the Rimutaka Range, Wellington is home to approximately 389,700 residents. This vibrant city serves as the gateway to the South Island and the next chapter of our adventure.
Join me as we continue exploring the breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems of New Zealand.