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7 Days, Two Cities & Plenty of Detours! The ultimate off-the-beaten-track NZ road trip

Writer: Louise Donaldson
Louise Donaldson
Oct 1
1 min read
Day 1 – Auckland → Matamata
 Hobbiton Movie Set – explore the famous Shire and enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon.
 Wairere Falls – stretch your legs with the walk to Waikato’s spectacular waterfall.


Day 2 – Matamata → Taumarunui
 Whanganui River adventure – take a jet-boat trip, kayak or canoe on the river.
 Stay at Te Awa Glamping – slow down, soak up the countryside and enjoy a night under the stars.


Day 3 – Taumarunui
 Forgotten World Adventures – take a rail-cart journey through tunnels, farmland and the Forgotten World Highway.
 Walk around Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve and then stop for a coffee at Blue Hill Cafe.


Day 4 – Taumarunui → Tongariro National Park
 Tongariro National Park – tackle a shorter section of the famous trails or, if you're up for it, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing (19.6km)
OR
 Visit Taranaki Falls – a fantastic walk through volcanic landscapes (6km).


Day 5 – Tongariro → Whanganui
 Whanganui National Park – explore one of the North Island's wilder corners.
 Whanganui River Road – take the scenic route and discover small settlements, historic sites and river views.


Day 6 – Whanganui → Martinborough
 Pāekākāriki / Kapiti Coast – stop for coastal scenery and a walk.
 Martinborough vineyards – explore the village and sample some of the region's famous wines.


Day 7 – Martinborough → Wellington
 Cape Palliser – visit the lighthouse and see the seal colony.
 Wellington – finish with Te Papa, the waterfront or the cable car before flying on.



 
 
 

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