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Day 1: Auckland Sky Tower Admission (photo 3), North Island Explorer - Accessible
North Island · Self Drive

North Island Explorer - Accessible Tour

  • 10 days, 9 nights
  • Auckland to Wellington
  • Hotel 4 star

Overview

Discover the best of New Zealand’s North Island on this accessible 10-day tour, thoughtfully designed for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. 10 days through the North Island, running Auckland to Wellington. Along the way: Auckland Sky Tower Admission, Auckland Harbour Cruise with Fullers 360, All Blacks Experience. Every night is booked, the route is planned around sensible driving days, and the day by day itinerary below shows exactly where you sleep and how far you travel.

  • 9 nights accommodation
  • 9 included activities
  • 9 meals included
  • 4 optional add-ons

Trip highlights

Included in your price

  • Auckland Sky Tower Admission
  • Auckland Harbour Cruise with Fullers 360
  • All Blacks Experience
  • Matamata to Rotorua
  • Hobbiton Movie Set Signature Tour from Shires Rest
  • Auckland to Hobbiton via Matamata

Extras (optional)

Not in your price. Add any of these and we re-quote, or leave them and decide once you are here.

  • Wētā Workshop Unleashed
  • Auckland War Memorial Museum - Entry + Maori Cultural Performance
  • Polynesian Spa Retreat Day Spa
  • Huka Falls Jet Boat Ride

What is included

9 nights of accommodation, staying in hotel 4 star
Rental vehicle for the full trip (Mazda 3 or similar), with upgrades below
9 nights of accommodation, booked and confirmed before you travel
Rental vehicle for the full itinerary, with the route planned around it
9 included activities and entries along the way
A detailed day by day itinerary with every booking reference
Support from a New Zealand based specialist while you travel

This itinerary can be customised: extra nights, different rooms, more activities or a different vehicle. Tell us what you would change.

Choose your vehicle

The from price includes the Mazda 3 below, with every price confirmed in writing before you pay anything. Pick the vehicle that suits and the price updates. All vehicles are automatic, with unlimited kilometres.

Prices vary with the season; pick a month for exact figures.

"Or similar" means the rental company may supply an equivalent vehicle of the same class. Upgrade prices are for this itinerary's 10 day hire and are confirmed on your written quote.

Where you will go

Overnight stops, in route orderVisited, not overnight3 overnight stops across 10 days. Select a stop to jump to that day.

Day by day itinerary

Your journey:AucklandRotoruaWellington

Aucklandview on Google Maps

Standing at 328 metres (just over 1000 feet) - the Sky Tower is the tallest man-made structure in New Zealand and offers panoramic views of the Auckland landscape. Travel in the glass-fronted lift to one of three spectacular viewing platforms, or for a little more excitement do a SkyWalk - an outside loop around the pergola 192 metres (just over 600 feet) above ground. If you’re really bold, Take the quick way down and SkyJump off the tower - a controlled free fall to the base. Inside, the Sky Lounge offers coffee and light meals while the iconic Orbit Restaurant is Auckland’s only 360-degree revolving dining experience.

Private Transfer Auckland Airport to your Auckland Accommodation with Tourcorp

You will be met at the Auckland airport by the driver and transferred to your Auckland accommodation.

Welcome to Auckland

Welcome to Auckland, known in Māori as Tāmaki Makaurau. Auckland is New Zealand’s vibrant "City of Sails," and the country’s largest metropolitan area. Set between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea. Surrounded by native bush, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches, Auckland is a haven for both adventurers and urban explorers. Wander through world-class museums and galleries in the city centre or enjoy a peaceful retreat at the Auckland Gardens, where stunning landscapes showcase New Zealand’s diverse flora. Stroll along the lively waterfront to savour fresh seafood and international cuisine at Viaduct restaurants. For an unforgettable perspective, ascend the iconic SkyTower, New Zealand’s tallest structure, and take in panoramic views of the city and its picturesque islands.

AucklandTourism New Zealand
Included this daySudima Auckland City

Conveniently located within easy walking distance of Auckland’s bustling shopping, arts, dining and entertainment precincts and opposite the New Zealand International Convention Centre.

Aucklandview on Google Maps

Discover Auckland’s stunning waterfront and surrounding islands on the Fullers Auckland Harbour Cruise. This 1.5-hour scenic journey takes you past iconic landmarks, including the Auckland Harbour Bridge, Devonport’s historic waterfront, and the volcanic silhouette of Rangitoto Island. Enjoy panoramic views from the open-air decks as expert commentary provides insights into the region’s history and marine life. A complimentary refreshment and a free return ferry ticket to Devonport add extra value to this relaxing and informative cruise, perfect for first-time visitors and locals alike.

All Blacks Experience

See what it takes to make, shape and be an All Black. Experience first-hand the excitement and emotion of game day. Discover the stories behind some of world rugby’s most famous players, moments, and matches. This guided experience introduces you to the game of rugby including state-of-the-art displays combining sound, images, interactive technology, and hands-on activities. Discover New Zealand’s deep passion for our national sport, experience the full force of the All Blacks haka, and tackle interactive zones where you can try out your kicking, catching, line-out, and accuracy skills against legendary All Blacks.

Wētā Workshop UnleashedOptional

A jaw-dropping, senses-shattering, awe-inspiring adventure into the heart of movie magic! Get hands-on and take in an extraordinary world of practical effects, props and larger-than-life sets. On this award-winning tour, you can explore three movie projects imagined by the Weta crew and uncover how they bring big screen concepts to life. Discover a mind-blowing world of robots, monsters, dinosaurs and more - step right into the action to see, play and experience movie-making up close.

Auckland War Memorial Museum - Entry + Maori Cultural PerformanceOptional

Join talented performers on a vibrant journey through the story of Aotearoa New Zealand and Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. Recognized as one of the best Māori cultural experiences in New Zealand, the show culminates in a spine-tingling haka. After the show, enjoy meeting and taking photos with friendly performers. Auckland Museum is the only venue in Auckland offering daily performances.

Included this daySudima Auckland CityBreakfast

Rotoruaview on Google Maps

Just south of Matamata is the township of Tirau, home to the largest tin sheep and sheepdog, but it also offers a surprising number of bric a brac, art, craft and antique stores if you feel like browsing. Arriving into the City of Rotorua the regions geothermal activity becomes evident as you see steam rising from the roadside and surrounding hills. Considered the cultural centre for the Maori people, Rotorua is the ideal place to gain an insight into the history and culture. Dominating the display is the devastating volcanic eruption of Mt. Tarawera in 1886 but also of great interest is the Maori battalion display which portrays stories of this once feared military unit. Nearby Ohinemutu Village is the original site of the first Maori settlers in the area and despite its now modern surroundings and buildings you can still gain a sense of what the original village was like. The magnificent meeting house and historic carvings along with the unique 'Tudor-style' St Faiths Church feature in many visitors photo albums. One of the most popular introductions to the Maori Culture is through an evening at Mitai Maori Village where you can enjoy performances and demonstrations followed by a traditionally cooked hangi meal. Of course Rotorua is also a great place to enjoy many other activities including, fishing, 4WD trips, relaxing spa treatments, mountain biking, walking and hiking plus helicopter and float plane trips.

Hobbiton Movie Set Signature Tour from Shires Rest

In the heart of New Zealand, you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire with a guided tour of Hobbiton, as featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies. Hobbiton is located just outside of Matamata in the heart of the lush Waikato farming region. Here you can visit such iconic Hobbit locations as Hobbit Holes, the Green Dragon Inn, the Mill and the Party Tree with a guide sharing behind-the-scenes tales and insight into the making of the films. Spend time wandering through Bagshot Row before being led inside a Hobbit Hole to view the detailed interior, designed to provide an authentic glimpse into the dwelling of a Hobbit.

Auckland to Hobbiton via Matamata

Head southbound on State Highway one through the lush farmland and dairy pastures of the Waikato region. The Bombay Hills mark the outer boundary of the greater Auckland area and its here you turn inland towards Matamata. This is the real Middle Earth, and you’ll see many locations used in the filming of The Lord of The Rings and The Hobbit, as well as visiting the actual set of Hobbiton. Collect your rental car - Haval H6 Ultra Hybrid (SFAR) or similar (Europcar) 4 door SUV Air Conditioning, Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay Engine: 1.5 litre Automatic Passengers: 5 passengers Luggage Space: 3 large bags Maximum Excess/ Liability: NZD$0

Your Europcar Rental Car will be delivered to you

Included this dayRegent of RotoruaBreakfast

Regent of Rotorua Boutique Hotel & Spa occupies a great location within walking distance of the lakefront, the government gardens and the city centres shops and restaurants. Luxury rooms are well equipped and on site facilities include a swimming pool, restaurant and bar and spa treatments.

Rotoruaview on Google Maps

New Zealand’s Most Awarded Cultural Attraction, presenting Te Pā Tū. Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within the forest Pā (village) blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and a forest-formed amphitheatre. Te Pā Tū shares Māori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting. These events change with each season of the Maramataka, the Māori lunar calendar.

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a spectacular showcase of New Zealand’s colourful and unique geothermal elements sculpted by thousands of years of volcanic activity. You will be introduced to a diversely different natural landscape, extending over 18-sq. km. Enjoy viewing the volcanic features as you walk at your own pace along well-defined tracks. Relax in the first-class Visitor Centre, home to the Gift Shop and Café facilities. Visit the Mud Pool, the largest in New Zealand, it was originally the site of a large mud volcano which was destroyed through erosion in the 1920s. See the history and beauty of the Lady Knox Geyser at 10:15 am every day where a daily eruption happens of up to 20 metres.

Rotorua

Discover the geothermal, adventure, and cultural wonderland of Rotorua. As you explore, you may see steam rising from cracks in the road, bubbling and hissing water in pools along the lake’s edge, and the unmistakable smell of Sulfur. Rotorua is rich in Māori culture and history, with many Māori inhabitants recognising the great potential of the volcanic land. For an outdoor adventure, head to The Redwoods and experience the rainforest treetops from high up. There are a few accessible trails for disabled hikers and great biking trails as well. If you’re lucky, you might spot some of New Zealand’s native birds, such as the Pīwakawaka (Fantail) and the Tūī. Alternatively, enjoy the Lake Tikitapu Blue Lake Walk or explore Kuirau Park, where you’ll find bubbling mud pools and steaming lakes. Don’t miss the private thermal reserves such as Te Puia and Wai-O-Tapu, where you can walk among bubbling mud pools, spouting geysers, and Sulfur ponds. Just a few minutes from the town centre, the Agrodome and National Kiwi Hatchery offer an insight into nature. Rotorua’s rich Māori culture is a must-see. Spend an evening with Te Pā Tū, complete with a traditional-style dinner or stroll along the lake edge to reach one of the country’s oldest Māori villages at Ohinemutu. When hunger strikes, visit Eat Street in Rotorua CBD, a vibrant street lined with delicious eateries and restaurants to satisfy any craving. No visit to Rotorua would be complete without experiencing Rotorua’s original tourist attraction - a relaxing spa treatment. This town boasts an array of wellness experiences to unwind in. Whether you are seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, Rotorua offers an unforgettable experience.

Included this dayRegent of RotoruaBreakfast and dinner

Rotoruaview on Google Maps

The National Kiwi Hatchery Experience is a special opportunity to gain insight into and view this highly regarded conservation centre. Developed with the visitor experience in mind, the hatchery boasts special viewing opportunities and is hosted by kiwi expert guides who ensure guests leave fully informed and all questions answered. Learn all about New Zealand’s intriguing national icon and the efforts of the kiwi husbandry team, see and discover what it takes to hatch and rare chicks, and if you’re lucky see baby chicks in person!

Mountain Jade - Highlights Tour

This 30-minute highlights tour is a rare opportunity to spend time with New Zealand Jade artists. New Zealand Jade known as Greenstone, but more commonly known in New Zealand as Pounamu has a rich history within Maori culture. The expert guide will show you the intricate process of Pounamu carving firsthand in the Mountain Jade studio. The local artist will be there to personally demonstrate the carving process and share their stories and knowledge with you. To top off the tour, you will get to select your very own piece of Pounamu and learn to string it yourself so you can take it home.

Polynesian Spa Retreat Day SpaOptional

Unwind and relax with a luxurious spa treatment in this secluded 60-minute Day Spa Therapy. Enjoy complimentary access to the lakeside Deluxe Lake Spa hot pools for a pre-therapy soak. Unwind in the post therapy relaxation lounge overlooking Sulphur Bay Wildlife Reserve with a complimentary herbal tea.

Included this dayRegent of RotoruaLunch

Rotoruaview on Google Maps

Discover Hawke’s Bay, known in Māori as Te Matau-a-Māui or the fish hook of Māui. This is a region renowned for its Mediterranean charm, iconic Art Deco architecture, and award-winning wineries. Explore Mission Estate, the birthplace of New Zealand wine, or tour vineyards for a deeper dive into its winemaking legacy. Fans of the 1930s can enjoy a Vintage Car Tour, showcasing Napier’s architectural gems. Outdoor enthusiasts can cycle over 200km of scenic trails or unwind at pristine beaches like Ocean and Waimarama. Indulge your taste buds with local delights, from honey and chocolate to fresh orchard produce. The Hawkes Bay is also home to an abundance of wildlife, head out on a Gannet Safari or educate yourself at the National Aquarium of New Zealand.

Rotorua to Napier via Taupō

This drive will take you through the thermal region just south of Rotorua. Home to a plethora of unique geothermal attractions including boiling mud pits, natural hot springs and steaming geysers, this area is a must do before you move on to Napier. Notable attractions are Wai-O-Tapu, Waimangu and Craters of the Moon. Continue on to Taupō and marvel at the lake, a giant crater formed following a volcanic eruption in the year 180 CE. As you approach the town, be sure to stop at Huka Falls to view the spectacular sight of hundreds of cubic metres of water spilling every second down the narrow 11 metre drop. For an extra thrill take a jet-boat ride at the base of the falls. Leaving Taupō, follow the road as it climbs the rugged Ahimanawa Range before descending back down the Pacific Coast to art deco coastal township of Napier.

Huka Falls Jet Boat RideOptional

The Huka Jet is 30 minutes of pure fun and exhilaration, skimming close to cliffs, sliding past trees, feeling the adrenalin of full 360 degree spins. The excitement continues right up to the base of the foaming Huka Falls, where you get a spectacular water level view to New Zealand’s most visited natural attraction. Nothing compares to watching 220,000 litres per second tumbling over the cliff face towards you. The water from the mighty Huka Falls runs down the Waikato River through a series of Hydro Power Stations. You’ll get a view of the Wairakei Geothermal Power Station in the comfort of a powerful Chevrolet V8 jet boat. This unique Geothermal Power Station uses underground geothermal activity to produce hot steamy water. The Waikato Rivers beautiful environment is varied and unique and is New Zealand’s longest river flowing north from our largest lake, Lake Taupō. It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information please see here.

Included this dayScenic Hotel Te PaniaBreakfast

Scenic Hotel Te Pania offers 4-star accommodation of a truly international standard. The hotel’s slender, curved form echoes the shape of the bay. Enjoy sweeping views out over the water from a premium waterfront location on Marine Parade.

Rotoruaview on Google Maps

The National Aquarium of New Zealand stretches along Napier’s Marine Parade. It’s home to a wide range of saltwater, freshwater, and land animal exhibits from New Zealand and around the world. Experience, stingrays, living coral, a huge range of fish species, and native wildlife. Visit Penguin Cove and watch the little penguins swim, feed and play. Spot New Zealand native wildlife including the Kiwi and Tuatara.

Art Deco Trust Vintage Car Tour

Discover Napier’s Art Deco heritage in style in a luxurious 1930s vintage car. Your journey will take in Napier’s famous Art Deco Quarter, historic Port Ahuriri and a delightfully quaint Art Deco residential suburb.

Napier City

Napier, a coastal gem, is famed for its 1930s Art Deco architecture, the annual Art Deco Weekend, stately Norfolk pines, nearby wineries, and fresh local produce. With a Mediterranean climate and over 2,200 hours of sunshine annually, it boasts a thriving café culture set against stunning heritage buildings. The city centre has around 30 cafés within walking distance, while Ahuriri, just beyond Bluff Hill, offers more upscale dining. Marine Parade overlooks the Pacific Ocean and Cape Kidnappers, home to the world’s largest mainland gannet colony. Visitors can explore Ocean Spa, the Hawke’s Bay Museum, and the National Aquarium of New Zealand Bluff Hill, a key landmark, provides sweeping views of Napier, Perfume Point, Westshore Beach, and the busy Port of Napier, which exports timber, fruit, and meat worldwide. In 1931, Napier was devastated by a 7.8-magnitude earthquake, New Zealand’s worst natural disaster. Fires ravaged the city. Rebuilding efforts transformed Napier and Hastings into modern cities, while the uplifted Ahuriri Lagoon created much-needed land for expansion.

Included this dayScenic Hotel Te PaniaBreakfast

Wellingtonview on Google Maps

Wellington known in Māori as Te Whanganui-a-Tara is home to New Zealand’s centre of government. Often referred to as ‘mini Melbourne', this windy city is a melting pot of art, culture, food, and fashion. Quirky laneway bars, underground art shows, and hipster eateries make up its inner-city vibe, while a host of sandy beaches outside the urban bustle bring a cheerful holiday feel. Head to Te Papa Museum for a history lesson and a ticket to one of its many international exhibitions or jump aboard the Wellington Cable Car - the only running funicular railway in the country. For those with an eye for boutique, fashion wander through Cuba St to sample some of the city’s best vintage stores. Break for coffee at a hipster cafe and be sure to snap a pic outside the ‘Beehive,’ New Zealand’s parliamentary debate chamber. Go behind the scenes at Weta Workshop Experience, the Oscar Award Winning design studio behind Lord Of The Rings, The Hobbit, and Avatar. If you’re a foodie at heart, a two-hour round trip to Martinborough is a must-do. Take your time as you wind through spectacular wine country. For an educational day out, learn about New Zealand’s native species at Zealandia, the world’s first fully-fenced eco-sanctuary and home to over 40 types of endangered and native birds.

The Kapiti Coast

Just a short drive north of Wellington, the Kapiti Coast offers a refreshing escape with its long, sandy beaches, stunning views, and laid-back coastal towns. This stretch of coastline is defined by its star attraction: the majestic Kāpiti Island. Kāpiti Island is one of New Zealand’s most important and accessible nature reserves. A protected sanctuary for rare and endangered native birds, the island is a genuine ecological treasure. A guided tour is a truly special experience, where you can walk through pristine native forest and get up close with species like the cheeky kākā, the curious weka, and if you’re lucky, even the rare takahe. Back on the mainland, a string of charming towns offers a slice of authentic Kiwi life. Paekākāriki, at the southern end, is known for its artsy, bohemian vibe, while Paraparaumu serves as the main hub and the departure point for Kāpiti Island tours. Further north, Ōtaki is rich in Māori culture and history. All along the coast, you’ll find boutique shops, vibrant cafés, and beautiful beaches perfect for a walk, a swim, or simply watching the sunset over the Tasman Sea.

Napier to Wellington via Kapiti Coast

Journey from the charming Art Deco city of Napier through rolling vineyards and picturesque countryside as you head towards Wellington. Enjoy the scenic drive along the stunning Kapiti Coast, with views of the rugged shoreline and tranquil beaches. As you approach the capital, you’ll be greeted by Wellington’s vibrant culture, bustling waterfront, and renowned culinary scene. A perfect blend of natural beauty and urban excitement awaits on this unforgettable road trip.

Included this dayBolton Hotel WellingtonBreakfast

The Bolton Hotel offers contemporary apartment-style accommodation in the heart of Wellington. Just steps from the Parliament buildings and central business district, Bolton Hotel is conveniently close to the best of the city’s shops, cafes and restaurants and is within walking distance of Wellington’s vibrant waterfront.

Wellingtonview on Google Maps

Te Papa Tongarewa, meaning "Container of Treasures," is New Zealand’s national museum, located on Wellington’s stunning waterfront. Renowned for its bold and innovative approach, Te Papa seamlessly blends science, art, history, and Māori culture into interactive and thought-provoking exhibitions. Visitors can explore everything from colossal squid and geological wonders to contemporary art and powerful stories of Aotearoa’s people. A visit to Te Papa is more than a museum experience, it’s an inspiring journey through the heart of New Zealand’s identity.

Wellington Scenic Half Day Private Tour

Discover Wellington’s highlights on a private 3-hour scenic tour of New Zealand’s vibrant capital. Begin with panoramic views from the iconic Mt Victoria and the Brooklyn Hill Wind Turbine, offering breathtaking vistas of the city and beyond. Relax as you enjoy a scenic drive along the picturesque Eastern and Southern Bays. Step into the world of film at the Weta Cave, where you can explore the magic behind movie-making. Savor a cup of Wellington’s famous coffee, ride the historic Wellington Cable Car, and experience even more of what makes this city so special.

Included this dayBolton Hotel WellingtonBreakfast

Wellingtonview on Google Maps

Bid farewell to Aotearoa / New Zealand, taking with you unforgettable memories of its breathtaking landscapes and incredible adventures. In Māori, it is said mā te wā, which is not goodbye, it is see you soon!

Return your vehicle to Wellington Airport

Explore more of Wellington before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

Good to know

Driving in New Zealand

We drive on the left, roads are well maintained and distances shown for each day are realistic averages, not race times. Your full overseas licence in English is all you need.

Departures

This itinerary departs on the dates that suit you, subject to availability. Peak season (December to February) books out early, so enquire well ahead for summer travel.

Make it yours

Add nights, upgrade rooms, swap activities or extend into the other island. Tell us what you would change and we will re-quote, no obligation.

Never travelling alone

Your whole itinerary lives in a smart travel app with live vouchers, maps and daily guidance, and your own travel specialist is reachable seven days a week while you are on the road. If plans change, we rearrange them in real time.

Watch: Hobbiton on this itinerary

Asked before booking

Still deciding? Worth a read: Driving in New Zealand: what surprises overseas visitors · The 10 day North Island itinerary, Auckland to Wellington

  1. Tell us about your trip

  2. Get your firm quote

  3. Shape it until it fits

  4. Confirm with a 20% deposit

  5. Everything is booked for you

  6. Travel with us beside you

The Silver Fern Promise

You never hand over more than a small deposit

Nothing to enquire, nothing until your quote is confirmed in writing, and never more than your deposit until the balance falls due 70 days before travel. Deposits can be paid by card, which keeps your card scheme’s protections in play.

How your money is protected

A firm quote within one business day

Availability checked with our New Zealand operations team and confirmed in writing, not an automated estimate.

No booking fees, and nothing to pay to enquire

Quotes are free and carry no obligation. You pay a deposit only once the itinerary is right and you say go.

One person, before and during your trip

The same specialist plans your trip and is reachable while you are travelling, alongside in-country support seven days a week.

100% Pure New Zealand InsiderQualmark Gold, the official quality mark of New Zealand tourismInsider status, Tourism New Zealand 100% Pure New Zealand Specialist Programme. IATA certified. Every itinerary is operated by a Qualmark Gold certified New Zealand tour operator.

Questions before you enquire? Email hello@silverferntravel.com and ask. No form required.

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