New Zealand is world famous for its epic landscape, and so it’s only natural that most people who holiday there want to see as much of it as possible. However, because the population of the islands is relatively low, the public transportation system is limited in its coverage and schedule. For this reason, many travellers feel the best way to see the country is by road – so we’ve gathered together three of the best routes you can take to get the most out of your time there. Just be sure to research driving laws before you go (there are some very specific ones all over the world).
Here are 3 of the best road trips to take in New Zealand
Middle Earth and more
First of all – this one’s for all those who first discovered the country via its dreamy appearance in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies.
Starting in Auckland, the country’s world-class capital, the first leg of this journey heads along the coast to the beautiful coves and beaches of Coromandel, famed especially for its Hot Water Beach. Dig a hole in the sand there and you can create your own bubbling natural spa.
From there, it’s on to Matamata – where fans will be guided around the original Hobbiton Movie Set. And, once all geeked out, it’s back on the road – to Rotorua. This geothermal site offers plenty to see – from active geysers to Te Puia and Tamaki Maori Village, where you can learn all about the original inhabitants of New Zealand.
The next stop is Waitomo, where many of the wide open landscape shots for the films were taken – guided tours are available. Even more dramatically, the nearby Ruapehu plateau provided the backdrop for the Mordor scenes.
Finally, to end the journey in magical surroundings, treat yourself to Wellington’s Weta Cave Workshop Tour – which demonstrates how a world of fantasy is created for the silver screen.
Along the Pacific Coast
This trip also sets off from Auckland but soon heads its own way – more about the incredible Kiwi coast than its rolling interiors.
If you haven’t been before, Coromandel is still a great first stop, but after that, head through Wahai, home to the country’s gold-mining boom (though sadly over). Tauranga is the next city on the trail and is a great base for kayaking. Go in the evening and you can paddle through canyons flickering with glow-worms.
White Island offers the unique experience of getting up close and personal with an active volcano (guides will keep you to safe areas). And, from there, where better to toast the end of the adventure than the wineries of Napier, surrounded by the city’s signature Art Deco architecture.
South Island Mountains
Meanwhile, over on the South Island, this is a great route starting from Christchurch, the biggest – and artiest – city in the region.Once you’ve had your fill of culture (for now) it’s time to drive across the grand Canterbury Plains into the foothills of the Southern Alps. Soon enough, these dramatic mountain passes and alpine lakes will make way to the West Coast, a wilderness which spans an incredible range of scenery. You’ll find glaciers and rainforests, caves and (of course) the ocean. In fact, the drive from Westport to Greymouth was recently named one of Lonely Planet’s Top Ten Coastal Drives.
And there you have it, 3 of the best road trips to take in New Zealand!
Written by Herson Blake
