Road Trip An Unmissable 7-Day Wellington to Tauranga Drive

Known for its vibrant culture and film industry, Wellington is the perfect place to kick off an adventure on New Zealand's North Island. Pair that with the beautiful natural landscape surrounding the city, and you could easily spend a few days captivated by Wellington.

"Wellywood" Weta Workshop

Dive feet first into "Wellywood" with a popular and immersive Weta Workshop tour. Marvel at the behind-the-scenes work on award-winning films like Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Avatar, Dune, Black Panther and more. Through amazing special effects and talented prop-makers, Hollywood films come to life in the Wellington film industry, and it's an incredible place to explore for any film fan.

Craft Beer Trail

Wellington is known as the craft beer capital of New Zealand, and the locals have a true appreciation for quality beer. You can get yourself a map, collect stamps in each brewery, and collect a t-shirt to show that you have completed it. Learn about the dedicated brewery owners and their unique beers, and don't forget to drink responsibly.

Mount Victoria

Cap off the day with a short hike or drive up Mount Victoria. With panoramic views overlooking the city, harbour, and surrounding hills, there's no better way to enjoy Wellington and reflect on your next adventure. We recommend visiting in the late afternoon to witness the mesmerising transition from day to night, but an early morning trek to shake off the pre-adventure nerves works too.

The drive from Wellington to Martinborough is an 81-kilometre stretch with a few noteworthy sights along the way.

Along the drive, you'll pass a windy road network that'll eventually stop at the foot of the Rimutaka Hill Road Lookout. Take a short 30-minute trek to the summit and soak in the sights of the scenic Hutt Valley.

Martinborough Wineries

The Martinborough region is renowned for spectacular wines, from Pinot Noir to Chardonnay. If you are taking a trip through the region, then you should decide on a designated driver and pop by some cellar doors to taste the celebrated vineyards.

Putangirua Pinnacles

Located in Aorangi Forest Park, the Putangirua Pinnacles are a spectacular sight to behold. Formed over 120,000 years from erosion, these rock formations featured in The Lord of the Rings series and are magnificent in size. Take a break from driving and hike through the riverbed to the lookout.

Featherston

Featherston, New Zealand's only Booktown, has a lot to offer. You can spend a couple of hours exploring the Featherston Heritage Museum and Fell Locomotive Museum. If you still have spare time, there are plenty of cafes and bookstores scattered around town.

The 147-kilometre drive from Martinborough to Dannervirke passes through some of New Zealand's iconic countryside elements - rolling farmland, river valleys, and charming towns and villages. Dannevirke is steeped in Scandinavian heritage, dating back to the 19th century when Danish, Norwegian and Swedish settlers arrived.

Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre

We recommend first stopping at the Pukaha National Wildlife Centre, a reserve that houses the country's native birds and wildlife, many of which are endangered. The staff are happy to educate you about the place and what they do. You can also grab breakfast at the local cafe in this conservation or take a serene forest walk.

Dannevirke Theatre Company

As a vibrant part of the community, the theatre company hosts a range of musicals, plays and community shows. It's worth an evening at the theatre to immerse yourself in local art and culture on the Wellington to Tauranga drive.

Gallery of History

Housed in the Old Court House, the historic building displays some fascinating artifacts, archives and natural history specimens. If you love to learn about the local history when you travel, this quaint museum is worth a visit.

Leaving Dannevirke for Palmerston North, you'll return to picturesque countryside roads with rolling hills. The great thing about this route is that it's fairly short at just 58 kilometres, meaning you can take it slow and easy.

Victoria Esplanade Gardens

Featuring over 5,000 roses, a farmery and five hectares of native bush, the gardens are a picturesque place to stretch your legs. With a fun miniature railway, mini golf course and wildlife reserve, you could spend a full afternoon here with the full family.

Te Manawa Museum

With over 55,000 items, including art from Maori and Polynesian artists, the Te Manawa Museum is a fascinating art and culture stop. Immerse yourself in interactive exhibits, touring exhibitions and local cultural heritage.

Manawatu Gorge Track

Located in the Tararua Ranges, the Manawatu Gorge Track offers impressive views of the stunning gorge. Take an 11km hike through nature for a truly peaceful break from the Wellington to Tauranga drive.

Start the day early, as the drive from Palmerston North to Tongariro will be a long one at 202 kilometres. The journey will take you across the quintessential rolling farmlands and, later on, some rugged volcanic terrain to switch things up.

Taihape

A town centrally located from these two points is Taihape, also known as the "Gumboot Capital of the World". The giant gumboot sculpture is a must-see while in town. Military history fanatics will love a short visit to the National Army Museum in Waiouru too.

Tongariro National Park

The highlight of this drive is the UNESCO-listed Tongariro National Park, home to three iconic volcanoes: Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro. This is the oldest park in New Zealand and features stunning alpine scenery and many hiking trails to keep you busy.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

If you're up for the challenge, consider hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a 19.4 km trail that brings you close to the volcanoes as well as crater lakes and steaming vents. If hiking isn't your thing, you can simply enjoy the dramatic view from your car or stop by Tawhai Falls for a short dip.

Once you're done with your volcanic adventures, reward yourself with a short road trip to Taupo.

Turangi

Along the way, you'll pass through Turangi, a small fishing town known to Kiwis as the local freshwater trout fishing capital. You can cast a line in the nearby Tongariro River if you fancy some fishing. You'll likely meet some friendly locals along the way.

Tokaanu Thermal Pools

Not a fan of fishing? Not a problem! You can soak in the natural hot springs in Tokaanu Thermal Pools, a short drive away from Turangi. You can also witness the region's geothermal activity up close by going on a Tokaanu Thermal Walk.

Lake Taupo

You have to stop by the largest lake in New Zealand, Lake Taupo. As you revel in the sights or have a picnic at Pukawa Bay, the sheer size of the lake will blow you away. Take a jet board ride to the impressive Huka Falls or soak in the natural geothermal waters of the Wairakei terraces.

Taupo may be home to NZ's largest lake, but this isn't the only geothermal wonderland on the island. Rotorua is the Maori capital of New Zealand and is teeming with adventure, relaxation, and history.

Hell's Gate Geothermal Park

Visit the most active geothermal reserve for the ultimate relaxation day. With mud baths, spa experiences and hot springs, you will feel utterly refreshed and ready for the road again.

Waimangu Volcanic Valley

Take a boat cruise on Lake Rotomahana to marvel at spectacular volcanic craters. Home to the World's largest hot spring, Frying Pan Lake, the journey is worth it to see the hot vapour steaming on top of the striking blue water.

Mitai Maori Village

You can't stop in the Maori capital and not learn about the culture. Experience a traditional Maori performance, see the ancient warrior canoes and learn about the sacred spring, Te Puna Tapu o Tuhoe.

Head north of Rotorua, and in about an hour, you'll see the landscape shift from volcanic terrain to coastal and sandy shores.

Stop, breathe. You're in Tauranga, a laid-back coastal city that touches the Pacific Ocean on its northern tip. You deserve to celebrate after that long but eventful road trip, and Tauranga is a stunning location that gives you plenty of options.

Mount Maunganui

You can hike Mount Maunganui (Mauao) and end it at either the summit or remain at the base track. The hike up is worth it for the iconic volcanic cone views of the summit, and the base features beautiful beaches and Mount Hot Pools if you prefer a relaxing stop.

Waimarino Adventure Park

End the Wellington to Tauranga drive with a bang! With immersive activities like a kayak slide, floating trampoline, rock climbing and beach volleyball, you can connect with your inner child and truly have fun, no matter your age.