Auckland To Queenstown 14 Day Self Drive Tour
If you're planning a trip to New Zealand and want to experience the beauty of both the North and South Islands, a 14-day self-drive tour from Auckland to Queenstown is the perfect option. With stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and an abundance of outdoor activities, this tour will give you a taste of everything New Zealand has to offer. Here's a day-by-day itinerary to help you plan your trip.
Day 1: Auckland
Start your journey in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city. Spend the day exploring the city's museums, art galleries, and shopping districts. Don't miss the opportunity to climb the Sky Tower for a stunning view of the city.
Day 2: Bay of Islands
Drive north from Auckland to the Bay of Islands, a subtropical paradise with over 140 islands. Take a scenic boat cruise to see dolphins, whales, and other marine life or relax on one of the many secluded beaches.
Day 3: Cape Reinga
Head to the northernmost point of New Zealand, Cape Reinga. Here you can see the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean collide, walk on the famous 90-mile beach, and visit the iconic lighthouse.
Day 4: Coromandel Peninsula
Make your way south to the Coromandel Peninsula, known for its pristine beaches, hot springs, and lush rainforests. Don't miss a visit to Cathedral Cove, where you can walk through a natural archway and explore the beautiful beach beyond.
Day 5: Rotorua
Drive to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity and Maori culture. Visit Te Puia to see the Pohutu geyser, bubbling mud pools, and traditional Maori performances.
Day 6: Tongariro National Park
Travel to Tongariro National Park, home to three active volcanoes and some of the best hiking trails in New Zealand. Don't miss the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a 19.4km trek that takes you through volcanic landscapes, alpine meadows, and turquoise lakes.
Day 7: Wellington
Drive to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city. Spend the day exploring the city's museums, art galleries, and restaurants. Don't miss a visit to the famous Weta Workshop, where you can see the props and costumes from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies.
Day 8-9: Marlborough
Take the ferry from Wellington to Picton, located in the beautiful Marlborough region. Spend the next two days exploring the area's vineyards, hiking trails, and seafood restaurants.
Day 10: West Coast
Drive south to the West Coast, known for its rugged coastline, glaciers, and rainforests. Don't miss a visit to Franz Josef Glacier, where you can take a guided tour or see the glacier by helicopter.
Day 11-12: Wanaka
Drive to the picturesque town of Wanaka, situated on the shores of Lake Wanaka. Spend the next two days exploring the area's hiking trails, water sports, and scenic drives.
Day 13-14: Queenstown
Drive to Queenstown, New Zealand's adventure capital. Spend the next two days exploring the area's outdoor activities, including bungee jumping, skydiving, and skiing. Don't miss a visit to Milford Sound, one of the most beautiful fiords in the world.
With its stunning landscapes and endless activities, a 14-day self-drive tour from Auckland to Queenstown is the perfect way to experience all that New Zealand has to offer.
