Travel Like Janice!

Pick up your motorhome rental from Oli Campers and head towards Raglan. 

Located on the rugged western coastline of the Waikato, Raglan is known for its beautiful scenery and the laid-back vibe that is thanks, in part, to the residents who are mostly into sustainable lifestyles, many of them creative painters, potters, poets and the like.

Finish your first day with a 90 minute Sunset Cruise which starts from the Raglan Wharf heading off to explore the beauty of the Whaingaroa Harbour conservation area. Cruise among the marine wildlife, ancient limestone formations and beautiful coastline where more than 2 million trees have been planted. You will be guided with fascinating tales about the history and culture of this very special area.

Janice Tip - Definitely get the Fish and Chips!

Overnight: Raglan Holiday Park 

Starting the day in Raglan MUST include a breakfast stop at The Shack  before heading south to Waitomo Caves. If time permits stop off at the popular Bridal Veil Falls

See Glowworms right up close in the magical Ruakuri Cave. Journey down through the spectacular spiral entrance, marvel at the limestone formations and crystal tapestries in this uniquely sustainable experience (this is a solar powered cave!).

Dinner suggestion: The Huhu Cafe
Overnight: Waitomo Top 10 

Head south on State Highway 3 and make your way to New Plymouth.  

Once you arrive, check out the Coastal Walkway, it is a great to stretch the legs after a morning of travel. There is so much to see and do along the walkway – iconic bridges, sculptures, stone art, children’s playgrounds, historic sites, and impressive surf beaches. The Coastal Walkway is a must-do for anyone spending time in New Plymouth.

Hire an ebike to see more!

Dinner suggestion: Shining Peak Brewery
Overnight: Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park 

Spend the morning exploring Pukekura Park a world-renowned park located in the heart of New Plymouth city. Beginning its life as a barren and swampy valley, it has been shaped into one of the best inner-city parks in New Zealand. Finish your time at Pukekura Park with lunch at the very popular, Tea house

Spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding area, discovering waterfalls, lava formations, or nearby scenic drives. Return to your spa retreat for another rejuvenating evening surrounded by the mountain landscape.

Dinner suggestion:  Liardet Street Projects
Overnight in New Plymouth 

Climb to the top of Paritutu in around 15 minutes to enjoy a bird's eye view of New Plymouth and its coastline from the top of this distinctive volcanic outcrop.

Brunch in Ōakura at Dawn.  

Surf Highway 45, the 105km coastal route around Taranaki’s coast, connects New Plymouth in the north to Hāwera in the south.From Oakura, head along the Surf Highway 45 and stop at points of interest along the way:

• SS Gairloch Shipwreck- Cape Egmont Light House

• Ōkato

• Ōpunakē town and beach

South to Hawera to stock up on goodies for the Motorhome at the Good Score Food Store 
Dinner and Overnight: Whangamomona Hotel 

Travel from the quirky, self-declared Republic of Whangamomona through one of New Zealand’s most memorable drives, the Forgotten World Highway. This remote and winding route reveals dramatic gorges, native bush, and glimpses of rural life, with opportunities to pause at unique local spots along the way. Stop in for a bite or a coffee at Blue Hill Cafe , explore artisan experiences like lavender gardens, and take in the quiet beauty that defines this part of the country. As the journey unfolds, the landscape gradually opens toward the Ruapehu district, arriving in Waimarino where small-town charm and a rich natural backdrop offer the perfect place to unwind after an unforgettable road trip.

Dinner suggestion: The Station
Overnight: Kiwicamp National Park 

Start the day by riding the Sky Waka Gondola on Mt Ruapehu for a spectacular journey high into the alpine landscape of Tongariro National Park. The modern gondola carries you 1.8 km up the mountain to around 2,020 metres above sea level, offering panoramic views of volcanic terrain, waterfalls, and surrounding peaks along the way. At the top, visitors can enjoy scenic walking tracks or relax at the Knoll Ridge Chalet café while taking in the views across the Central Plateau.

In the afternoon, explore the Old Coach Road. TCB offers both self-guided and guided e-bike ride options on the Ohakune Old Coach Road. Riders can choose to explore the trail independently at their own pace, with bike hire, safety briefing, maps, and shuttle transport to the trail start provided. For those who prefer more support, guided options are also available, offering local knowledge and assistance along the way.

Dinner suggestion: The Cyprus Tree
Overnight: Ohakune Top 10 

Depart Ohakune and drive north to Taupō, enjoying the scenic central North Island landscape along the way. After the drive, unwind at Wairakei Hot Pools and soak away the previous days in the relaxing geothermal mineral pools. It is the perfect place to ease tired muscles and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Taupō’s geothermal landscape.

Dinner suggestion: Chengdu Kitchen 
Overnight at DeBretts Spa Resort

Begin the day with an adventure on the water with 4B Bike Tours & Shuttles, exploring Taupō’s scenic trails and lakeside landscapes by bike. After the ride, enjoy a relaxed lunch at Jimmy Coops Lakehouse, a popular waterfront spot known for its casual atmosphere and views across Lake Taupō.

In the afternoon, experience the lake from a different perspective on the Chris Jolly Outdoors Māori Rock Carving Cruise, where you will cruise across the lake to view the impressive Ngātoroirangi Māori rock carvings while learning about their cultural significance. In the evening, return to town for dinner at The Bistro, where refined dishes and local flavours provide the perfect way to end the day.

Janice Tip - Wine pairing at The Bistro!

Overnight in Taupō

Start the day with breakfast at Lava Glass Café, set within a unique glass art garden and sculpture park. Afterward, travel to Orakei Korako for a self guided thermal walk through one of New Zealand’s most striking geothermal areas, featuring colourful silica terraces, steaming vents, and bubbling mud pools.

Continue north to Hamilton and begin your visit to the Hamilton Gardens with lunch at the onsite café. Afterward, explore the gardens on a guided tour, discovering the beautifully themed garden collections and the stories behind their design.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at Palate, known for its refined seasonal cuisine and welcoming atmosphere.

Overnight in Hamilton or Cambridge

Begin the day with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, where a guided tour takes you through the rolling farmland that brought the Shire to life on screen. Wander past charming Hobbit Holes, explore the detailed film sets, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of one of New Zealand’s most iconic filming locations.

Continue the journey to Waikatakaruru Sculpture Park, where art and landscape combine across peaceful farmland. Take time to stroll the walking trails and discover the impressive collection of large scale sculptures set against the open rural scenery.

In the evening, arrive in Cambridge for a memorable finale at the recently opened Clements Hotel, a beautifully restored heritage boutique hotel that blends historic elegance with modern luxury. Begin the night with a pre dinner cocktail in the atmospheric 1866 Speakeasy Bar, tucked within the hotel’s original 150 year old basement and inspired by classic Chicago speakeasies. The intimate setting, crafted cocktails, and rich historic character create a refined start to the evening.

From there, move through to The Gallery Restaurant for a three course dining experience showcasing seasonal cuisine and the best of local produce, served in an elegant space overlooking the hotel’s terrace and gardens.

After dinner, retire upstairs to your beautifully appointed room and enjoy the comfort and timeless style of The Clements, a boutique hotel created through the meticulous restoration of the town’s historic 1866 building.

Drop Motorhome back to HLZ Airport

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Cambridge or Hamilton before travelling a short distance to Hamilton Airport for departure. This final stretch offers a calm and easy conclusion to your journey through the central North Island.