Check out this Complete New Zealand Road Trip Guide trip by rachelhelsby on Steller!

Complete New Zealand Road Trip GuideIf you’re planning a road trip across New Zealand, then this guide is for you. Coffee shops, restaurants, photo spots, things to see and do, camp spots - use this guide to help plan your own trip across this beautiful country. Authorsrachelhelsby
DestinationsNew ZealandItinerary

Northland/Auckland

Smuggler's Bay
A hidden gem with golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and epic coastal views. Perfect for a chill beach day! 🏝️☀️
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Cape Reinga Lighthouse
The top of New Zealand! Where two oceans collide, with breathtaking views and a magical, must-visit vibe. 🌊✨
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Te Aroha (Spirit Tree)
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Bay Of Islands
A stunning coastal paradise with 144 islands, rich history, and great opportunities for sailing, swimming, and exploring.
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Ozone Coffee
Ozone coffee is my favourite coffee in the world - I'm serious! You have to try one of their flat whites.
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Giant Sand Dunes
Massive, rolling dunes perfect for sandboarding or exploring. A unique, adventurous stop near Te Paki in Northland.
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Coromandel

Cooks Beach
A peaceful, crescent-shaped beach with golden sand, calm waters, and great sunset views. Ideal for a relaxing escape.
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New Chums Lookout
A rewarding hike with breathtaking views over one of New Zealand’s most beautiful and untouched beaches.
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New Chums Beach
A secluded, untouched paradise with golden sand and clear waters. Accessible only by a scenic walk through native bush.
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Whangapoua Beach
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Kauri Block Walk
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Kaipawa Trig Track
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Te Whanganui-A-Hei (Cathedral Cove) Marine Reserve
A picturesque coastal spot with a famous rock arch, clear waters, and perfect for swimming, kayaking, or snapping photos.
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Te Hoho Rock
A striking sea stack off Cathedral Cove, offering dramatic views and a must-see for adventure lovers and photographers.
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Smiling Sphinx Rock
A quirky rock formation resembling a smiling face, perfect for a fun photo op and a scenic stop.
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Hot Water Beach - Main Beach Parking
Dig your own hot spring in the sand! A unique spot where warm water bubbles up at low tide.
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Tauranga

Mauao / Mount Maunganui summit
The hike to the top offers stunning 360-degree views of the coastline and bay. A rewarding climb!
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Whenuakura Island
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Surfsup Whenuakura - Donut - Island Tours
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Hamilton

Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Explore the mysterious limestone formations and drift silently through the illuminated grottoes, creating memories that shimmer with the magic of nature's own light display.
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Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours
Step into the fantastical realm of Hobbiton, New Zealand, where the charm of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth comes to life.
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Rotorua

Te Puia - Rotorua, NZ
A cultural gem in Rotorua, home to the famous Pohutu Geyser, bubbling mud pools, and rich Māori heritage.
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Pohutu Geyser
A dramatic natural wonder that erupts with impressive force, sending hot steam and water high into the air.
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Taupo

Lake Taupo
New Zealand’s largest lake! Swim, kayak, or take a boat to the stunning Māori rock carvings. Absolute beauty! 🚣‍♂️✨
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Huka Falls
The sheer power of these thundering falls is incredible! A must-see for anyone visiting Lake Taupo.
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Tongariro Alpine Crossing
An epic hike through volcanic landscapes, with surreal crater lakes and jaw-dropping views. Totally worth the challenge!
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Wellington

Wellington Cable Car
A fun ride up to the Botanic Garden with panoramic city views. Perfect for a quick adventure in Wellington!
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Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
A must-visit in Wellington! A fascinating museum filled with Kiwi culture, art, and interactive exhibits.
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Customs
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Nelson

Anzac Park
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Abel Tasman

Kaikora

Kaikoura Beach
A beautiful spot where you can relax by the sea, with views of mountains and chances to spot seals!
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Taranaki

Christchurch

Christchurch Botanic Gardens
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Arthur’s Pass

Hokitika Gorge
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Arthur's Pass Scenic Lookout
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Arthur's Pass Walking Track
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Fox Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier
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Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo
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Wanaka

Lake Wānaka
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That Wanaka tree
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Queenstown

Queenstown Gardens
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AJ Hackett Kawarau Bungy Centre
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The Remarkables
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Coronet Peak Road
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Buckingham Street
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Onsen Hot Pools and Day Spa
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Lake Wakatipu
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Glenorchy Air
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Milford Sound Lookout Track
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Milford Sound / Piopiotahi
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Doubtful Sound / Patea
A serene fjord surrounded by lush rainforest, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters.
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Dunedin

Nugget Point Lighthouse
A dramatic cliffside spot with stunning views of rocky outcrops, wildlife, and the iconic lighthouse. Perfect for photos!
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Baldwin Street - The Steepest Street in the World
The world’s steepest street! A fun, challenging climb with incredible views at the top. A must-do for the adventurous.
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Dunedin Botanic Garden
A peaceful haven with beautiful plant displays, tranquil walking paths, and stunning views of the city and harbour.
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Tunnel Beach Walk
A scenic cliffside trail leading to a secluded beach, complete with a tunnel through the rock and stunning views.
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Bluff

Shark Experience - Shark Cage Diving
One of my favourite experiences when I was travelling New Zealand was cage diving with Great Whites Sharks. It was so exciting to see them up close!
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