15 best road trips in New Zealand

Road tripping in New Zealand isn’t just about getting from A to B — it’s the in-between that makes it memorable. There are plenty of well-known routes, like the drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound or the classic loop around the Coromandel. But you’ll also find quieter backroads that lead to thermal hot pools, remote beaches, or old gold-mining towns. Here's the best road trips of New Zealand, with travel tips and when to go.

1.  Auckland to Rotorua

Driving from Auckland to Rotorua is a good way to see how the North Island shifts from city to countryside to steaming geothermal landscapes. The trip’s about 140 miles (227 km), and it’s easy to do in a day, but there’s enough along the way to make a slower pace worthwhile.

Once you get out of Auckland, it doesn’t take long before you’re surrounded by farmland and bush. The closer you get to Rotorua, the more you’ll start to notice steam rising from the ground and that distinct sulfur smell in the air—it’s a clear sign you’re getting close.

A nice stop en route is the Blue Springs near Putaruru. The water here is extremely clear and actually feeds a lot of the country’s bottled water. Matamata is another popular detour, especially if you're interested in the Hobbiton movie set. Once you reach Rotorua, there’s plenty to do—Māori cultural events, geothermal walks, hot pools, and forest trails.For those hoping to go mountain biking, the trails in Whakarewarewa Forest are worth checking out.

How to drive this road trip

For this New Zealand itinerary, you'll head south from Auckland on State Highway 1, then switch to State Highway 5 toward Rotorua. If you’ve got extra time, you can take State Highway 27 to Matamata and walk to Wairere Falls—it's a bit of a climb, but doable. 

The roads are paved and in good shape. No need for a 4WD. In winter, just be cautious on colder mornings when things might be slick. Bring a swimsuit for the hot pools and some walking shoes if you’re planning to hit any tracks along the way.

When to visit Rotorua

You'll want to go on this New Zealand road trip in February through April is a good window. It’s warm—around 68°F (20°C)—but not too hot, and it's usually less crowded than the peak summer period. Trails are in good shape, the lakes are nice for swimming or walking around, and cooler evenings make the hot pools even better after a day outside.

2. Forgotten World Highway

The Forgotten World Highway runs for about 96 miles (155 km) between Taumarunui and Stratford, and it really does feel like a step back in time. It’s remote, has very little traffic, and passes through a mix of farmland, native bush, and small communities.
Along the way, you’ll cross four saddles, drive through the single-lane Moki Tunnel—nicknamed “Hobbit’s Hole”—and pass through the

Tangarakau Gorge, one of the wildest parts of the route. One of the more memorable stops is Whangamomona, a village that declared itself an independent republic in 1989. You can get your passport stamped at the old hotel, which also serves food and drinks. The locals have a sense of humor—past presidents have included a goat and a poodle.

How to drive the Forgotten World Highway

You have options when you are planning a New Zealand itinerary for this one. You can drive it in either direction. From Auckland, head south to Taumarunui via State Highway 1. From Wellington, go north to Stratford on State Highways 1 and 3. 

There aren’t any gas stations along the road, and there’s a 7.5-mile (12 km) stretch that’s unsealed. So fuel up before you start, bring water and food, and keep an eye on the weather. A regular car is fine, but keep in mind that cell service is limited in parts of the route, and services are minimal.

When to take this trip

Late spring to early autumn—November through April—is the best time to go. The roads are usually drier, and the days are longer, so you’ve got more time to explore. If you’re curious about local events, Whangamomona holds its Republic Day every two years in January. It’s a quirky celebration with mock elections and parades that draw a crowd.
 

3. Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands road trip takes you through the far north of New Zealand, where 144 islands are scattered across calm, clear water. It’s one of the best places to visit in New Zealand—a laid-back part of the country with coastal scenery with some of the most significant historic places in Aotearoa.

Driving through this region, you’ll pass peaceful coves, warm-water beaches, and landmarks that shaped New Zealand’s early days as a nation. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are a must-stop—it’s where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. A short drive (or ferry ride) away, the town of Russell—once known as the “Hellhole of the Pacific”—now tells a much calmer story, full of old buildings and sea views.

You’ll likely see dolphins during boat trips around the islands, especially near the well-known rock arch at Cape Brett. The calm bays are great for swimming, and you can rent a kayak or take a sailing tour if you want to get out on the water. There’s a good mix of things to do—some active, some slow-paced.

How to drive this road trip

From Auckland, it’s about 140 miles (230 km) north along State Highway 1 to reach Paihia. Plan for around 3 hours of driving, maybe a bit more with a stop or two. 

You can take the main highway or follow the Twin Coast Discovery route, which is a little longer but more scenic. Once you’re in Paihia, the passenger ferry to Russell is quick and cuts out the longer drive around the peninsula.

When to take this trip

December through March is the warmest and best time to go to New Zealand for this trip, both for the air and the sea. February usually has the most consistent weather. If you’re trying to avoid crowds, early April is a good call—it’s still warm enough for swimming, and it’s easier to find a place to stay without booking way ahead.

4. Coromandel Peninsula Loop

This drive loops you around a good chunk of the North Island’s coastline. You’ll pass rainforest-covered hills, quiet beach towns, and the Pacific coastline.

You’ll pass places like Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own warm pool in the sand, and Cathedral Cove, known for its dramatic sea arch and clear water. These are some of the best things to do in New Zealand.

There’s plenty to do along the way—short hikes, kayaking trips, snorkeling, or just relaxing at a beachside café. Towns like Thames, Coromandel Town, and Whitianga make easy base camps, and you’ll find local art studios, seafood shacks, and old-fashioned general stores that give the region its character.

How to drive the Coromandel Peninsula Loop

From Auckland, head south on State Highway 1. Around Bombay, turn off onto SH25, which takes you straight onto the peninsula. Thames is the first larger town you’ll hit and a good place to fuel up and grab supplies. You don’t need a 4WD, though some side roads down to more remote beaches are gravel—just go slow. Give yourself at least 3 to 4 days to do the full loop without rushing.

When to take this trip

Most New Zealand travel experts will suggest late summer into early autumn—like February through April. Around Easter, it starts to cool off a bit. If Hot Water Beach is on your list, plan to go around low tide (within 2 hours on either side) so you can actually dig your pool. And if you want a quieter time at Cathedral Cove, aim for early morning on a weekday.
 

5. Mackenzie Basin Scenic Drive

Driving through the Mackenzie Basin feels like moving through a completely different part of New Zealand. You’re on a wide, dry plateau surrounded by mountain ranges, with golden tussock stretching in every direction. 

The lakes here—Tekapo, Pukaki, and Ohau—stand out right away. Their bright turquoise color comes from glacial silt in the water.
This area is also known for its night skies. It’s a designated Dark Sky Reserve, so if you’re staying overnight, it’s worth stepping outside after dark. 

In summer, especially from mid-November to mid-December, lupines bloom in purple and pink along the roads and lake edges. 

The drive also takes you past the Church of the Good Shepherd, a small stone church that’s become a bit of a landmark, and runs close to Aoraki/Mount Cook, the tallest mountain in the country at 12,218 feet (3,724 meters).

How to drive the Mackenzie Basin Scenic Drive

From Christchurch, head south on State Highway 1 until you reach Geraldine. From there, turn onto SH79 toward Fairlie—that’s the start of Mackenzie Country. 

Keep following SH8 through Tekapo and Twizel. If you want to visit Mount Cook Village, take SH80 from Pukaki. The roads are sealed and generally easy to drive, but if you're coming through in winter, an important New Zealand travel tip is to make sure you have snow chains. The full drive is around 186 miles (300 kilometers).

When to take this trip

You'll want to go on this New Zealand road trip mid-November through mid-December, when you’ll see the lupines in bloom. If you’re coming for the night skies, winter (June to August) is best, though it does get below freezing. September can be a good in-between.
 

6. Kaikoura to Nelson

This route takes you from the rugged coastline up into the upper South Island, with a nice mix of nature, food, and wine along the way. You start in Kaikoura, where mountains rise up right next to the ocean. If you’ve got time, it's worth going out on the water—there’s a good chance you’ll see whales, dolphins, or fur seals.

Driving north, you pass through Marlborough wine country. This area is known for Sauvignon Blanc, and you’ll see vineyards lining both sides of the road. Many of them have cellar doors open to visitors. Then the road heads west through beech forest before you reach Nelson, which is a laid-back town with a creative scene and easy access to Abel Tasman National Park.

How to drive this road trip

Leave Kaikoura heading north on State Highway 1. This stretch of road was rebuilt after the 2016 quake and now hugs the coastline even more closely. Once you reach Blenheim, switch to SH6 and follow it west over the Bryant Range to Nelson. 

The full drive is about 150 miles (240 kilometers), which takes around 3 to 4 hours without stops. But if you’ve got a couple of days, you can slow down and explore along the way.

When to take this trip

March and April work well for this New Zealand road trip. The seas tend to be calmer near Kaikoura, which helps with marine tours. It’s also harvest time in Marlborough, so the vineyards are busy and colorful.

In Nelson and the Abel Tasman area, it’s still warm enough to get out on the water or walk parts of the coastal track. 

7. Queenstown to Milford Sound

The drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound covers about 179 miles (288 km) and runs through some of the most dramatic landscapes on the South Island. You’ll pass through Fiordland National Park, where the road winds between mountains, through forest, and past waterfalls that come alive after rain.

Milford Sound is at the very end of the road. Sheer cliffs rise nearly 4,000 feet (1,200 meters) straight up from the water. Even if you’ve seen photos, being there feels completely different. Along the way, keep an eye out for kea (they’re not shy), fur seals near the shore, and now and then, you might catch a glimpse of a Fiordland crested penguin.

How to drive this road trip

From Queenstown, take State Highway 6 to Te Anau. That’s your last chance to get fuel—there’s nowhere to fill up beyond that. After Te Anau, take SH94, also known as the Milford Road. This stretch is scenic and remote, with the Homer Tunnel cutting right through the mountains about 0.75 miles (1.2 km) before you reach the fjord.

If you’re driving between May and September, make sure you’ve got snow chains in the car and check road conditions before you head out. Snow and ice are common, and the road sometimes closes during storms.

When to take this trip

March through May tends to be quieter for this New Zealand road trip, and you’ll usually get a mix of autumn colors and full waterfalls. Early mornings often bring in that low-hanging mist that gets caught between the peaks—it can make the whole place feel kind of otherworldly. 

If you're hoping to stretch your legs in between your days on the road, be sure to check out the Great Walks of New Zealand, a series of fantastic and well-maintained hiking trails.

8. East Cape Road

East Cape Road gives you a real sense of remote New Zealand—quiet, coastal, and full of cultural depth. It’s a 208-mile (334 km) route that wraps around the eastern edge of the North Island, where you’ll pass through small towns and Māori communities.

The carved meeting houses (marae) along the way speak to how important the culture is here, and Tolaga Bay has a long wooden wharf—2,165 feet (660 meters)—that many still use for fishing and walks.

The East Cape Lighthouse is worth the detour. It’s known as the first place to see the sunrise each day, and while getting there means a gravel road and a decent climb up some stairs, the views out over the Pacific are wide open and quiet. The beaches along this road are often empty.

If you're driving through Māori communities, it’s important to be respectful. Avoid taking photos of marae unless you’ve been invited to do so, and don’t enter any grounds without permission—they’re not tourist attractions but living cultural spaces. If you’re staying overnight or visiting a local event, it’s a good idea to ask ahead about any customs or expectations.

How to drive this road trip

From Gisborne, follow State Highway 35 as it loops along the coast to Opotiki. The road is sealed, but it’s narrow in places and winds through quite a bit of hilly terrain. Cell reception comes and goes, so it’s smart to download offline maps ahead of time. 

There are lots of one-lane bridges, so expect to slow down and give way here and there. It may look like a 4-hour drive on a map, but if you’re stopping to walk the wharf, take photos, or go out to the lighthouse, plan on 6 to 7 hours.

When to take this trip

February and March tend to be a sweet spot for this New Zealand road trip. The ocean’s still warm enough for a swim, and the weather is usually settled before autumn starts to bring rain. The pohutukawa trees will have finished blooming by then, but roadside fruit and corn stands start popping up around this time, which makes it easy to grab snacks without needing to plan big meals.
 

9. West Coast Glacier Route

This west coast glacier route runs between Hokitika and Haast—about 132 miles (212 km)—and gets you right up close to two active glaciers: Franz Josef and Fox. What makes them unusual is how far down they reach, coming straight into the rainforest. 

You don’t need to be a hardcore tramper to see them either—there are short walks to viewpoints, and if you want to get on the ice, there are guided trips and helicopter rides that land on top.

Beyond the glaciers, there’s a lot packed into this drive. Lake Matheson is known for its reflections of the Southern Alps, and Bruce Bay and Ross are quiet and easy to check out without adding much time. You can pull off for a quick beach walk or grab something from a bakery and be back on the road in a few minutes.

How to drive this road trip

You’ve got two main options. From Christchurch, take State Highway 73 through Arthur’s Pass to Hokitika, then go south on SH6. Or come from Queenstown via Wanaka and Haast Pass. The road’s in good condition the whole way, so you won’t need a 4WD, but if you’re doing this in winter, it’s worth carrying chains in case of snow through the alpine sections.

When to take this trip

November through April is generally a good time to go. March and April are a bit quieter than peak summer and still get decent weather. Rain is always a possibility—this part of the South Island sees up to 197 inches (5 meters) a year—so pack layers and plan for wet walks. After heavy rain, the glaciers can shift and form dramatic meltwater channels, so even a drizzly day can still be worth it.
 

10. Catlins Coast

The Catlins Coast sits down in the southeast corner of the South Island, and it doesn’t get a lot of through traffic. It’s quiet, a little rugged, and has a mix of forest, coastline, and wildlife that feels pretty untouched. You’ll drive through thick podocarp forest, then suddenly come out to wide beaches or cliffs with ocean views.

Curio Bay is one of the main places where people go to see yellow-eyed penguins—usually around dusk if you're lucky. Purakaunui Falls is an easy walk through native bush, and Cathedral Caves are worth checking out too, but only at low tide. You can learn more about how to reach them in our guide to the best hikes in New Zealand.

Nugget Point Lighthouse is another quick stop, with great views across the water and a good chance of seeing fur seals hauled out on the rocks.

This stretch isn’t busy, and you’ll probably go a while between towns. Keep your fuel tank full, and don’t expect to grab food just anywhere. It’s also common to see sea lions and Hector’s dolphins along the way.

How to drive this road trip

The main route runs between Balclutha and Invercargill along the Southern Scenic Route. If you’re coming from Dunedin, take SH1 south to Balclutha, then switch to SH92. The full stretch is around 100 miles (162 km).

A lot of the turnoffs to beaches or waterfalls are gravel roads—manageable in a regular car, but you’ll want to take it slow. Gas stations are spaced out, so fill up before you head in.

When to take this trip

In summer (December to February), you’ll get long days with early sunrises and late sunsets—good for this New Zealand road trip if you’re trying to pack a few things into one day. If you’re hoping to see penguins, your best chance is May to July around dusk. 

Spring (September to November) is quieter, and there are usually wildflowers along the roads. No matter when you go, check tide times before heading to Cathedral Caves—they’re only accessible when the tide is low.

11. Wellington to Martinborough Wine Trail

This drive gets you out of the city and into wine country in about an hour and a half. Once you’re over the Remutaka Range, it’s all rolling farmland and quiet little towns.

Martinborough is the main stop—it’s small enough that you can bike between the wineries without much effort. Pinot Noir is the main draw here, and most of the vineyards are family-run. 

The town itself is centered around a square, and everything’s pretty walkable. If you’ve got time, Greytown is just up the road and has a few old buildings, cafés, and shops. You can also check out Stonehenge Aotearoa or ride the Remutaka Rail Trail.

How to drive this road trip

Head northeast from Wellington on State Highway 2 through the Hutt Valley. You’ll climb over the Remutaka Pass—narrow in places, so take it slow—then drop into the Wairarapa. From Featherston, go north on SH2 to Greytown, or turn onto SH53 for Martinborough. It’s about 50 miles (80 km) all up and usually takes around 90 minutes, depending on traffic and weather.

When to take this trip

March through May is a nice time to go on this New Zealand road trip, with the grape harvest happening and the vineyards changing color. November is busy with the Toast Martinborough wine festival, so it’s worth booking ahead if you plan to stay overnight. In summer, you can make a weekend of it—bike around, go for a swim in the river, have a picnic—but accommodation fills quickly during holidays, so plan in advance if you can.

12. Banks Peninsula

If you’ve got a day free from Christchurch, driving out to Banks Peninsula is well worth it. You head southeast toward Akaroa, and before long, the flat farmland gives way to steep, winding roads as you start climbing the rim of an ancient volcano. 

Akaroa is the main stop. It’s a small harbor town with a French background you’ll notice right away—bakeries, street names, architecture. 

Keep your eyes on the water—Hector’s dolphins sometimes swim right up near the harbor. They’re small and fast, so you’ve got to be lucky, but they’re often around. The climate here tends to be a little warmer than Christchurch, which helps support native bush pockets and well-kept gardens tucked into the hillsides.

Driving the summit road gives you long views across the Canterbury Plains on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other. If you're interested in geology or just like a dramatic coastal drive, this loop is worth carving out a full day.

How to drive this road trip

From Christchurch, take State Highway 75 toward Akaroa—it’s about 50 miles (80 km). The road starts off easy, but once you get past Little River, it starts to twist and climb. If you’re up for it, take the Summit Road for the views—it’s narrow but fine for a 2WD if you drive carefully. Plan for a few detours down to bays like Okains and Le Bons if you want to explore a bit more.

When to take this trip

March and April are good months to go. The weather tends to be stable, and there aren’t as many people around. You’ll still have a decent shot at seeing dolphins, and the autumn colors start to come through in the hills. If you can swing a midweek visit, even better—you’ll have the road and lookouts mostly to yourself.

13. Queen Charlotte Drive (Picton to Havelock)

This is a short but winding drive between Picton and Havelock that traces the ridgelines above the Marlborough Sounds. It’s only about 22 miles (35 km), but it feels longer thanks to the constant curves—and all the chances to pull over and take in the views. You’ll see long arms of sea filling old river valleys, with native bush covering the hills above.

There are plenty of places to pull over and take in the views. Forested slopes drop steeply into water on one side of the road, while the other side opens to wide views of bays, headlands, and hidden inlets. Cullen Point is one of the better-known viewpoints—it’s worth stopping if it’s clear.

You don’t need to commit to a boat trip to appreciate this part of the Sounds. If you’re into walking, you could pair the drive with a short stretch of the Queen Charlotte Track. 

Havelock is known for green-lipped mussels. You’ll see them on menus everywhere.

How to drive this road trip

Start in Picton, especially if you’ve just come off the ferry, and head west. Don’t follow your GPS if it tries to send you down State Highway 1—the whole point is the scenic route. The road is narrow and curvy, so go slow, especially in a larger vehicle. Plan for 2 to 3 hours if you want to take your time and stop at lookouts.

When to take this trip

Late November to mid-December usually works well. The weather has settled, but the holiday crowds haven’t arrived yet. In early summer, the pohutukawa trees bloom in bright red and line parts of the road, which is a nice bonus. Mornings are good too—less wind means calmer water, which can look almost like glass in some sections.
 

14. Road to Mount Aspiring

This drive takes you deep into Mount Aspiring National Park, through one of the South Island’s most rugged and rewarding landscapes outside the Aoraki/Mount Cook area. You’ll follow the Matukituki Valley, starting with rolling farmland before entering a glacier-carved valley with steep cliffs, waterfalls, and alpine views.

The road ends at Raspberry Creek, where you can head out on hikes like the Rob Roy Glacier Track. It’s a good pick if you want to see an active glacier from a safe distance without a huge climb. Kea (those cheeky alpine parrots) often show up along the way, and the river is clear and cold—great for a quick dip in summer if you don’t mind icy water.

It’s a good choice if you're after a backcountry feel without needing to trek for days. You’ll move through grassy flats, native forest, and into more rugged terrain as you go.

How to drive this road trip

From Wanaka, head west on Wanaka–Mount Aspiring Road. After about 19 miles (30 km), the pavement ends and the gravel begins. The whole drive is about 31 miles (50 km), but the last part includes a few creek crossings. 

After rain, those can swell up quickly and become hard to pass, so it’s worth checking the road conditions ahead of time. You don’t need a 4WD, but a car with decent clearance helps. The DOC center in Wanaka usually has current info on conditions.

When to take this trip

Late spring—roughly November into early December—is a great time to head out on this New Zealand road trip. You’ll still see snow on the peaks, and the waterfalls are running strong from the spring melt. The wildflowers start to come out in the valley.
 

16. Southern Scenic Route (Queenstown to Dunedin via Invercargill)

This one’s a big drive—about 373 miles (600 km)—and takes you through some of the most varied landscapes in the South Island. You start in the mountains near Queenstown, head down through the rainforest and coastlines of Fiordland and the Catlins, and end in Dunedin, where the buildings and street names reflect a lot of Scottish history.

Wildlife is a big part of the trip. You might see sea lions hauled out on the beach, penguins nesting near the cliffs, or dolphins swimming close to shore. Good places to stop include Milford Sound (if you’re adding in the detour), Curio Bay’s petrified forest, Nugget Point lighthouse, and Purakaunui Falls. A lot of these places feel remote, especially once you get into the Catlins. This is one of the best road trips in New Zealand for seeing wildlife.

How to drive this road trip

From Queenstown, take State Highway 6 south to Lumsden, then carry on to Invercargill. From there, you’ll follow SH1 before turning off toward the Catlins and eventually reach Dunedin. 

The whole thing takes at least 4–7 days if you want to make the most of it. Most roads are paved and easy to drive, though a few detours—especially in the Catlins—are gravel. Fuel up when you can, since stations are few and far between in the more remote parts.

When to take this trip

February and March usually bring the best conditions—generally stable weather, fewer crowds, and more wildlife activity. The ocean’s a bit warmer too, if you’re tempted by a swim. 

Which should you choose? North or South Island in New Zealand: which is best.