A Road Trip Itinerary Through the North Island in 10 Days or more

Not sure where you should go on your road trip through the North Island of New Zealand? This itinerary will take you through a variety of landscapes, from vibrant cities to stunning natural wonders in 10 days or more. 

After picking up your Mojo Campers van from our Hamilton depot (we also do pick ups and drop-offs in Auckland), your first destination is the Coromandel Peninsula. There you can visit the iconic Cathedral Cove beach, and dig your own hot pool at Hot Water Beach. Stay overnight in the sleepy beach town of Whitianga where you can find freedom camping spots, or opt to stay in one of the paid campgrounds. 

Cathedral Cove. Image source: Mitchell Henderson

Once you feel you’ve had some quality beach time, head down on the open road to Rotorua (don’t forget to make a pit stop to see the clearest waters you’ve ever seen at Blue Spring Putaruru), and explore the geothermal wonders at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. Rotorua is one of the best places to experience and learn about the Māori people (the indigenous people of New Zealand) and culture. You can catch cultural performances at this centre here, but best to book early as they are very popular with passing travellers. We recommend staying at the Rotorua Top 10 Holiday Park, or check the Campermate app for any local freedom camping spots. 

Looking for affordable campervan hire? Our Sleepervans are designed to be comfortable, functional and affordable. Explore our hiring options here.

Drive from Rotorua to Taupō and get your adrenaline levels going by taking a thrilling jet boat ride to the mighty Huka Falls. Head into the main township for a good selection of cafes, bars and restaurants - don’t miss a good photo op of the famous McDonald’s Airplane. After a bite to eat, go for a stroll around the lake, where you can find pockets of natural hot springs to submerge your feet into - hello free foot spa! Before you tuck in your campervan for the night, enjoy a nice soak at the Spa Thermal Park. 

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. Image source: 100% Pure New Zealand

Only an hour and half drive from Taupō, it wouldn’t be a North Island road trip without visiting the Tongariro National Park. With its rugged and out-of-this-world landscapes, this breath-taking park is most famous for its day-walk, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Available to the public from November - May, dedicate a day to doing the trek, and then treating yourself to a camping spot at the Tongariro Holiday Park, and a cold beer at the local pub.  

Next, head down to the windy capital of Wellington, where along the way, you can enjoy pit stops in small, quintessential Kiwi townships. These quirky little towns always have the best second-hand shops, and local food joints. Make sure you try the famous Kiwi meat pie and cream donut which you can find at most bakeries and cafes. 

Mount Victoria Lookout. Image source: 100% Pure New Zealand

Luckily, there are some freedom camping spots in the capital city which allows you to easily park up your campervan for a few days while you explore the city centre. Visit Te Papa Museum for some culture, hike up Mount Victoria for a great view of the city, and stop for an ice-cream at Oriental Bay, a man-made beach right in the heart of downtown. 

After a few days of city life, start the drive back up North via the stunning Kapiti Coast where you’ll get a great view of the Pacific ocean, before arriving in New Plymouth. For a good Kiwi flat white, visit Escape Coffee Roasters, before heading to the beautiful Govett-Brewster Art Gallery for the afternoon. Put a day aside to check out Egmont National Park, and if the weather is looking good, try your hand at the Pouakai Circuit Reflective Tarn hike. Park your campervan for free inside the National Park, or head to Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park if you want a campsite with a beach front view.

Pouakai Crossing. Image source: Wild Taranaki

On the last pit-stop before returning your Mojo Campervan back to Hamilton, you can’t miss one of the best places to see the glow worms up close and personal - the Waitomo Caves. Book a guided tour where you’ll learn about the history of the area, before descending down into the caves which lit up only by that famous green glow. Stay overnight at the Waitomo TOP 10 Holiday Park, or neighbouring campgrounds. 

Waitomo Caves. Image source: Discover Waitomo

This itinerary is based on a 10 day period, however if you have more time, we recommend spending more time in each place, and leave room for any towns or areas you may want to end up staying longer. Enjoy your trip!