Country to Coast: 4 days, 3 nights

Taking a country to coast approach this itinerary has been designed to combine adventure with relaxation. Heading south from Auckland you’ll overnight in the city of Hamilton, a bourgeoning artistic and cultural hub. From Hamilton you’ll travel through the town of Cambridge with its quaint ‘old-English’ feel and on to the Bay of Plenty. A popular stop for cruise liners, the area’s warm microclimate produces great marine activities and fabulous food and wine. Heading north up the coast you’ll reach the Coromandel Peninsula, a holiday hot spot for Kiwis and visitors alike with its golden beaches, superb fishing and diving, and laid-back lifestyle.

Day 1: Auckland to Hamilton

Head south out of Auckland, take SH1 and the Thermal Explorer Highway towards Hamilton. Drive time to Hamilton approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Hamilton options:

Visit the Waikato Museum for the stories of the area, interactive shows and leading art exhibitions.
Walk through the themed gardens of Hamilton Gardens – it’s like a tour of the world as you step from Italian Renaissance to Surrealist Garden to Chinese and many more.
Take advantage of the great shopping and nightlife – both are making a name for themselves along with the casino in this rapidly growing, cosmopolitan city.
Enjoy a relaxed meal at one of many amazing eateries in Hamilton.

Overnight Hamilton

Day 2: Hamilton to Bay of Plenty

Head south out of Hamilton following SH1 to Cambridge and Lake Karapiro. Drive time approximately 20 minutes.

Cambridge Options

Pavement dining doesn’t get much better than at one of the many cafes in Cambridge’s town centre, or try the Boatshed overlooking Lake Karapiro.
Hire a kayak and paddle the tranquil waters of Karapiro – a leisure boaties’ dream.

Continue on SH2 south to SH29 towards Tauranga and Mount Maunganui. (Bay of Plenty)

Tauranga / Mount Maunganui options:

Go diving, swim with dolphins or just make the most of the fishing opportunities.
Relax in the hot saltwater pools with their lovely setting.
Visit Mills Reef Winery and sample some award winning wines.

Overnight Tauranga / Mt Maunganui

Day 3: Bay of Plenty to Whitianga / Coromandel

Head north east on SH 2 towards Waihi and the Coromandel Peninsula, well known for its white sandy beaches and bohemian lifestyle. Drive time approximately 2 hours 40 minutes.

Coromandel Options

Take a breather at the coal mining town of Waihi and check out the Martha Mine located adjacent to the main street of the town.
Stop off at the twin harbour towns of Tairua and Pauanui. Walk the beach, surf cast, climb Pauanui hill, soak up the scenery.
Walk to the inspirational and much photographed Cathedral Cove.
Dig your own private spa at Hot Water Beach – when it’s close to low tide.

Overnight Whitianga