Planning A Kiwi Road Trip?  Some of the Best Bits of the North Island

October 15th, 2024

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We need to admit that our mates across the ditch have a nice back yard in which they can play, and New Zealand (pronounced “Nuzilin”) isn’t that far away.  And it’s a good place for a road trip.  There are not too many things which can bite you, or, if they do, you’re unlikely to die from them.  So, what does New Zealand have to offer?

Having spent a bit of time in both the North and the South Islands, I’ve come across some spectacular places to go see and experience.  The warmer of the two islands is the North, but that doesn’t mean that there won’t be a cool breeze or a bit of rain scampering up from the south every now and then. 

An airfare from any major Australian centre doesn’t cost a lot flying into Auckland.  Obviously, Sydney to Auckland is usually the cheapest.  From here, one of the coolest bits (figuratively – it’s reasonably warm) of the North Island is the narrow expanse of land to the north of New Zealand’s largest city.  You will take in some breathtaking coastal views as you journey up through Whangarei up to Kaitaia, and then experience the fun of the white sands along ninety-mile beach, which runs right up to Cape Reinga at the top.  Poor Knights Islands are worth a look, and there are plenty of boats that can take you offshore to experience some amazing sights and fishing excursions if you don’t want to stick to the road.  Another hidden away gem is the Whangarei Falls, which is easier to drive to. 

Tongariro National Park

Take in the sights around Lake Taupo as well the magnificent central mountains: Mt Ruapehu, Mt Ngauruhoe, and Mt Tongariro.  Tongariro National Park is one of the stunning scenic places to drive in the North Island.  You can ski in winter or mountain bike in the summer.  There’s always plenty of water sports, fishing, and boat excursions in this area as well.  If you’re driving there in winter, be prepared and check the road report, as snow can sometimes close the road. 

East Coast

Gisborne is home to some of the best surfing waves and citrus fruit you’ll find anywhere – at least on that side of the Tasman.  You can also be the first person in the world to experience the rising of the sun as the new day dawns.  Take your time and travel from north to south, coming toward Gisborne either around the East Cape or more directly through Waioeka Gorge.  Both options are stunningly gorgeous.  If you have a self-contained camper/caravan, there are many lovely places to stop for the night to take in the culture and the scenic beauty. 

The roads here can be very winding and steep, and keep an eye out for logging trucks, as there are lots of them buzzing about these roads.  Although larger wildlife getting on the road isn’t as common as it is over here (they don’t have kangaroos), the roads around the East Coast can be prone to goats.

West Coast

Less known about but equally as amazing are the secluded beaches along the west coast of the North Island.  One amazing trip would be heading from Auckland down through the King Country to Tihiroa, then turn westward and go out to the coast, where you’ll enjoy some amazing scenery, stunning land formations, and Kawhia Hot Water Beach.  Yes, you can make a pool on the beach and soak in some geothermally heated water.  Head further south and experience the amazing Waitomo Caves, then go and grab yourself some fish and chips in New Plymouth.  Mount Taranaki (Mt Egmont) is the stunning backdrop to the east, and the beautiful blue ocean is to the west, so you can eat your fish and chips as you watch the sun sink low into the ocean.  Taranaki also boasts some of the best surfing beaches. 

I haven’t even mentioned the Taihape to Napier, route with its red tussock slopes and steep rugged hills.  This will really put your hill driving skills to the test.  Yes, there’s lots to see.  Next time I’ll have to mention some of the great South Island road trips.