Navigating an Epic New Zealand Road Trip: Itinerary, Cost, and Top Attractions

Nestled in a distant corner of the globe, New Zealand seems to be an unlikely contender for someone's travel bucket list at first. However, with its unparalleled natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes, it would be a shame if road trip veterans missed out on exploring the country and racing local roads. Bonus points if you're a huge fan of the Lord of the Rings movie franchise.

Ranked as the fourth safest country in the world, New Zealand's well-maintained road network and strict road laws make the country an ideal destination for road trippers and travel buffs alike. So, as long as you're practicing due diligence on the road, you can expect smooth driving, whether you're cruising down the north or south islands.

Keep reading to see our favorite routes, along with a couple of must-visit tourist spots and activities to include in your next New Zealand road trip.

307.7 miles, 6 days

Best time to visit: December to February

Begin in Christchurch, and the inner city has a lot in store for you, including the Botanic Gardens, The Arts Centre for some art and history, and the Riverside Market if you're ever in the mood to shop for gifts or have a nice meal. All stops are within walking distance, so you can get some exercise while exploring the city.

Outside the city center, explore the Christchurch Gondola, which provides stunning 360-degree views of the city. Then, a drive of less than 30 minutes will take you to the Orana Wildlife Park, the country's only open-range zoo.

From Christchurch, expect a long drive of around six hours to Queenstown, dubbed the Adventure Capital of New Zealand. True to its name, the city offers a vast range of action-packed activities for thrill-seekers, from skydiving and paragliding to climbing and white-water rafting. Don't forget to hop on the Skyline Queenstown to give you panoramic shots of Lake Wakatipu, the longest lake in the country.

• Lake Tekapo: Marvel the stunning turquoise waters and go to the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd to catch breathtaking sceneries.
• Aoraki/Mount Cook: Brave the Hooker Valley Track and feel like a king on top of New Zealand’s highest peak.
• Omarama: Discover the Clay Cliffs, a remarkable geological formation renowned for its dramatic and picturesque landscapes.
• Lake Wanaka: From boating to relaxing by the lakeside, reconnect with nature and the beauty that surrounds it.
• Arrowtown: Wander through the historic town to immerse yourself in its charming 19th-century gold rush-era architecture and vibrant streets.

258.8 miles, 5 days

Best time to visit: September to November, March to May

Auckland is the place to be if you're craving for urban sophistication mixed with natural wonders. Start your trip in the iconic 328-meter Sky Tower and take in breathtaking views above the clouds and beyond.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can even go for a thrilling SkyJump off the tower! Afterward, a 10-minute drive should take you to the Auckland War Memorial Museum to learn more about fascinating Maori culture and traditions.

The city also boasts a world-class culinary scene, making it a haven for food enthusiasts. For an unforgettable gastronomic experience, consider going on food tours like The Big Foodie and Foodcraft to delight your taste buds.

Good food isn't complete without some good wine. From downtown Auckland, you can catch a ferry to Waiheke Island or the island of wine. The island gained its moniker for the island's many wineries and vineyards, but there are also stunning beaches, excellent dining options, and a range of other exciting activities to enjoy.

A long drive of approximately six hours will bring you to your next destination: Cape Reinga. Don't miss out on heading to the famous lighthouse that overlooks the meeting of the Tasman and Pacific oceans.

Close to Cape Reinga lies Ninety Mile Beach, an expansive stretch of sand running from Ahipara to Scott Point, and the best part is it's drivable when you're sporting a proper 4x4 vehicle and the tide is in your favor. Want to get the blood flowing? Surf down the vast Te Paki Sand Dunes on a sandboard while feeling the wind (and sand) on your face.

• Matakana: Explore the bustling Farmers’ Market and get your hands on fresh local produce and gourmet delights.
• Warkworth: Learn how to horseback, engage in exciting water sports, or simply relax while cruising along Hauraki Gulf.
• Whangarei: Stroll through the picturesque Whangarei Falls and enjoy the lush surroundings and scenic viewpoints.
• Bay of Islands: Go on a boat tour from Paihia to the iconic Hole in the Rock while appreciating the stunning coastal landscapes and turquoise waters.

280.8 miles, 5 days

Best time to visit: September to November, December to February

It's not much of an NZ road trip without exploring its capital, Wellington. Compact and bustling with action, Wellington has everything from pubs, art galleries, scenic drives, wildlife sanctuaries, captivating coastlines, and fish and chips.

Start your day in the Wellington Waterfront, where you can sometimes catch people skateboarding, biking, or kayaking out onto the harbor. From here, it'll be a 5-minute drive to Cuba Street, the heart of Wellington's Bohemian culture. Wander through the district to get something to eat or peruse vintage shops if you're in the mood for some retail shopping.

Head east until you arrive in the Karori area, then follow the signs directing you to Zealandia. Zealandia Ecosanctuary is a great place to know some of New Zealand's rare and impressive wildlife, including the kākā, little spotted kiwi, tuatara, and many more. Other notable destinations in Wellington are the Te Papa Tongarewa, Aro Valley, and Owhiro Bay.

From quaint Wellington, you're off to the city of Rotorua. The city is renowned for its geothermal wonders and Maori culture, so you're in for a treat if you're a huge history buff.

Rotorua boasts several geothermal parks, namely, Te Puia, which features the largest active geyser in the southern hemisphere; Hell's Gate, favored by its many mud baths and sulfur spas; and Wai-O-Tapu known as the most diverse geothermal park with colored waters, bubbling pools, and explosive geysers. The closest to the city proper is Te Puia, while the farthest is Wai-O-Tapu, with a 30 to 40-minute drive.

Want to delve further into Māori culture? Pay a visit to Tamaki Māori Village and Mitai Māori Village, where you can enjoy traditional performances, local cuisine, and deeper insights into the Maori people's customs and traditions.

• Taupō: Enjoy lakeside activities while being enticed at the marvelous Huka Falls.
• Tongariro National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning volcanic landscapes and diverse hiking trails.
• Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Experience one of New Zealand's top day hikes, traversing volcanic terrain and picturesque alpine scenery.
• Otorohanga: Visit the Otorohanga Kiwi House to spot kiwi birds and other native wildlife up close.
• Morrinsville: Get transported into the world of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit by going on the Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours.

127 miles, 3 days

Best time to visit: December to February, March to May

Calling all bookworms and academics! Regarded as one of many UNESCO Cities of Literature, Dunedin is home to many prominent literary writers, with the city having contributed several significant achievements to New Zealand's thriving literary scene.

Visit the University of Otago, the country's oldest university, along with its several public libraries and museums, such as the Central Library and the Otago Museum, which would surely quench your thirst for knowledge. You can also learn a new thing or two about New Zealand's colonial past at the Larnach Castle, considered the country's sole authentic castle.

Invercargill is about a three-hour drive away from Dunedin. Bluff Hill is a must-visit destination, overlooking not just the city but also the Foveaux Strait and Stewart Island. Here, you can sample its famous Bluff oysters, and we can promise you that it's a whole different experience than tasting ordinary oysters found elsewhere in New Zealand. If you're a huge car fan, especially vintage classics, then head on to Bill Richardson Transport World and E. Hayes and Sons to enjoy the sight of antique vehicles and motorbikes.

• Catlins Coast: Cruise down the rugged coastline and see the stunning natural beauty of the Catlins Coast, with highlights including Curio Bay’s fossilized trees and Nugget Point’s scenic lighthouse.
• Taieri Gorge: Gaze at breathtaking landscapes of deep gorges and mountainous terrain.
• Riversdale: Enjoy a tranquil stop in this charming village known for its peaceful beach and beautiful surroundings.
• Balclutha: Discover the riverside charm, with opportunities to relax by the Clutha River and explore local shops and cafes.

Been craving to explore the North and South islands while feeling the wind on your face? Drive around New Zealand confidently with these tips and tricks.

• Rent a car. Discover New Zealand at your own pace by renting a car if you already don't own a set of wheels. Choose the best car rental that suits your needs and budget.
• Protect yourself with car insurance. Car insurance is mandatory when you rent a car in New Zealand. Whether you're getting a comprehensive plan or a 3rd-party one, select the coverage that works for you.
• Secure an IDP. The last thing you want during a road trip is to get stopped by the police. Prevent this and more by getting an IDP to make your trip hassle-free.
• Pack road trip essentials. For a smooth ride, don't forget to bring navigation tools, a car kit, a first-aid kit, emergency supplies, snacks, and essential travel papers.
• Budget wisely. New Zealand can be costly. Food, lodging, car rentals, activities—all can add up and take a big chunk out of your wallet if you're not tracking expenses. Accommodation costs can be up to 164 NZD a night if you book in budget hotels, and eating out in restaurants will run you between 20-45 NZD. Fuel prices often fluctuate around 3-4 NZD per liter.
• Understanding New Zealand roads. The country drives on the left side of the road. The maximum speed limit on open roads is 100km/h, while you can speed up to 50km/h in urban areas. Driving while using a hand-held phone is illegal. New Zealand roads are often narrower, hilly, and have many twists and turns, so it might need a little getting used to.
• Download trip-planning apps for convenient, on-the-go travel. These include MetService for detailed weather forecasts, Google Maps, and Air New Zealand. If you plan to camp out, apps like Rankers Camping NZ and CamperMate are handy to have.

From mouthwatering oysters to wildlife sanctuaries, New Zealand continues to entice travelers globally to witness its many wonders. Make the most of your trip by navigating New Zealand by car at your own pace. Thanks to IDA, you can easily obtain an international driving document for a hassle-free road trip abroad that you truly deserve.

🚗 Driving in New Zealand? Get your International Motorist License online in New Zealand in 8 minutes (available 24/7). Valid in 150+ countries. Hit the road faster!