Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau is famous for it’s beautiful harbour and surrounding islands, and many visitors choose to explore the sights by sea. However, there is another way to discover the City of Sails, and that’s by car. At VroomVroomVroom, we can help you find the perfect rental car for your next adventure. With top sights like the Coromandel Peninsula / Te Tara o te Ika a Māui and the Bay of Islands within easy reach, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to adventure.
Take a drive north of Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau to the beautiful Bay of Islands, one of the North Island’s iconic holiday destinations. Discover impressive coastal scenery all the way to one of the northernmost tips of the country.
Travel time from Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau: 5h 40m
Directions: Head north on State Highway 1 toward Whangarei. Exit onto Tarewa Road to explore the city and see the sights of the Bay of Islands. To reach Cape Reinga / Te Rerenga Wairua, continue following State Highway 1.
Recommended car: Since this is quite a long drive, we suggest choosing an SUV, like a Toyota Rav4, Hyundai Tucson, or Nissan Xtrail. These vehicles can transport up to five people in comfort and have plenty of room for luggage.
It is one of New Zealand’s most well-known destinations, home to beautiful beaches, charming towns and scenic country roadways. You’ll find plenty of hidden treasures while exploring the Coromandel Peninsula / Te Tara o te Ika a Māui.
Travel time from Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau: 3hrs 40mins
Directions: Head south on the Southern Motorway until you reach State Highway 2. Exit the motorway onto State Highway 25, which will lead all the way around the Coromandel Peninsula / Te Tara o te Ika a Māui. Be sure to take Hot Water Beach Road to explore Hahei and Cathedral Cove / Whanganui A Hei.
Recommended car: The perfect vehicle for a family road trip is the Wagon/Estate such as a Mitsubishi Outlander or similar. You have more room to move around since this vehicle can fit in five people.
For a shorter road trip just west of the city, head through the scenic Waitākere Ranges to the rocky beaches of Piha. You won’t believe the natural wonders within such easy reach of Auckland.
Travel time from Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau: 50m
Directions: Leave Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau on the North-Western Motorway, before exiting onto Te Atatu Road. Following Forest Hills Road and Piha Road will lead you directly into the Waitākere Ranges.
Recommended car: Since this does not require a long drive, an Economy Car like a Toyota Yaris or similar is a more than adequate rental car to enjoy the drive.
Experience history and natural beauty on this road trip from Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau). Explore the rail tunnels of the Karangahake Gorge, and relax on the popular beaches of Tauranga.
Travel time from Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau: 2h 50m
Directions: Follow the Southern Motorway and take the exit for State Highway 2. This road will lead all the way to central Tauranga. For Mount Maunganui, exit onto Totara Street.
Recommended car: A Crossover Car such as Holden Captiva or similar has the capability of driving on the highway and to the summit.
Following the interesting Thermal Explorer Highway will uncover some of New Zealand’s volatile, volcanic landscapes. You can also visit a Hollywood film sets from Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit hidden away in the countryside.
Travel time from Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau: 3h 10m
Directions: Taking the exit for State Highway 2 on the Southern Motorway, you will come to a junction for State Highway 27. At Matamata, follow signs for the Thermal Explorer Highway to Rotorua.
Recommended car: If you are travelling with the whole gang to Hobbiton, then the best choice is a Passenger Van such as a Toyota Hiace or similar. This vehicle can accommodate up to 12 people.
Do you know that you can download this map directly to your phone? Press the box symbol located on the top-right corner of this map to open in your Google Maps app. Now you can easily access this map on your next road trip adventure in Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau.
