Auckland to Northland road trip itinerary

It’s day one of your exciting 7-day Auckland to Northland road trip, and the first item on your travel itinerary is to pick up your maui campervan from the Auckland branch conveniently located near the airport. Today, you’ll be enjoying a short drive to the tiny township of Matakana. Along the way, plan a stop in the quaint village of Puhoi. Visit the historic Puhoi Pub, a beloved local landmark dating back to 1879. Enjoy a bite to eat and soak in the rustic charm and stories of this historic spot.

Next, continue to Matakana Village. This charming village is known for its boutique shops and cosy cafes. If you’re there on a Saturday, don’t miss the Matakana Farmers' Market, where you can sample fresh local produce, artisan foods, and handmade crafts.

Just a short drive away is Goat Island, New Zealand’s first marine reserve. It’s a fantastic spot for snorkelling and diving, with clear waters teeming with marine life. If you prefer to stay dry, you can explore the underwater world from a glass-bottom boat or take a coastal walk with stunning ocean views.

After a day of exploring, head to Matakana Country Park, which offers powered sites for campervans and excellent facilities. It’s a perfect spot to relax and prepare for the next leg of your New Zealand road trip.

On day two of your Auckland to Northland road trip, you’ll head from Matakana to the historic town of Rawene, with some must-do stops along the way. First, take a break in Dargaville, a town known for its rich history and connection to the kauri gum industry. Visit the Dargaville Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the area's heritage, including Māori artefacts, maritime exhibits, and kauri gum displays. Afterwards, take a stroll along the banks of the Northern Wairoa River or enjoy a coffee at one of the local cafes.

Continuing your journey, be sure to plan a stop and see Tāne Mahuta, the largest kauri tree in New Zealand. Located in the Waipoua Forest, this magnificent tree is estimated to be over 2,000 years old. The short walk from the car park to Tāne Mahuta is well worth it to stand in awe of this ancient giant.

Next, you’ll pass through Ōpononi, a picturesque coastal settlement known for its massive sand dunes and beautiful harbour views. You can take a boat trip across the Hokianga Harbour to the dunes and try sandboarding for an adrenaline rush. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxed beachside walk and perhaps a fish and chips lunch with views of the water.

Finally, enjoy an overnight stay at Rawene Holiday Park. This peaceful spot offers modern amenities, including kitchens, laundry, and clean bathrooms. Settle in for the night and enjoy the tranquil surroundings as you prepare for another day of exploration on your New Zealand campervan holiday.

Day three of your Auckland to Northland road trip takes you from Rawene to the historic area of Waitangi, with a stop to explore the vibrant town of Paihia. Paihia is the heart of the Bay of Islands. Here, you can take a dolphin watching cruise to see dolphins and other marine life, or explore the beautiful waters of the Bay of Islands by kayak or paddleboard. Relax on Paihia Beach, go for a swim, or enjoy a picnic with stunning views.

Next, head to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the historic site where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. This significant landmark offers a deep dive into New Zealand's history, with guided tours, cultural performances, and a museum showcasing the story of the nation’s founding document. The beautifully maintained grounds also feature breathtaking views over the Bay of Islands.

For your overnight stay, park your campervan at the Waitangi Holiday Park. Conveniently located near the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, this holiday park offers excellent facilities for campervans, including powered sites, modern kitchens, clean bathrooms, and laundry facilities. It’s an ideal spot to unwind after a long day.

On day four of your Auckland to Northland road trip, you’ll enjoy a scenic ferry ride from Paihia to the historic town of Russell. Book online and you’ll be able to drive your campervan onboard, sit back, and take in the view.

Once you arrive in Russell, take time to explore the village’s historic buildings, boutique shops, and waterfront cafes. Known as New Zealand’s first capital, Russell is rich in history and charm. Visit the Russell Museum to learn more about the area’s past, including Māori history and the early European settlers.

For a bit of adventure, take a hike up to Flagstaff Hill for panoramic views over the Bay of Islands. Alternatively, explore the nearby Long Beach, a beautiful and quiet spot perfect for swimming and relaxing.

End your day by parking your campervan at the Russell Top 10 Holiday Park. This well-equipped holiday park offers powered sites with stunning views over Russell and the Bay of Islands. 

On day five of your Auckland to Northland road trip, you’ll make your way from Russell to the lovely Waipu, with plenty of interesting places to check out along the way. First up, visit Whangarei Falls. Just outside Whangarei, this 26-metre waterfall is a perfect spot for a short walk and some amazing photos. The easy loop track around the falls gives you plenty of great viewpoints.

When you arrive at Waipu, you’ll find a beautiful beach with white sand and clear waters. It’s a fantastic spot for swimming, surfing, or just relaxing by the water. There are also some lovely coastal walks with great views. For a bit of adventure, head to the Waipu Caves. These caves are full of glowworms and make for an exciting exploration. Just remember to bring a flashlight and wear sturdy shoes, as it can be a bit slippery inside.

Tonight, park your campervan at Camp Waipu Cove. This beachfront campground has everything you need for a comfortable night’s stay. Enjoy a peaceful evening by the beach, soaking in the sea breeze and getting ready for the final few days of your New Zealand road trip.

As you head back towards Auckland on day six, swing by Mangawhai Heads, a spot known for its beautiful beaches and stunning coastal walks. If you're feeling energetic, the Mangawhai Cliff Walk offers incredible views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.

Next, make a stop in Orewa, a lovely coastal town just north of Auckland. Take a stroll along Orewa Beach, a long stretch of sandy shoreline perfect for a swim or a leisurely walk. If you’re in the mood for a treat, visit one of the local cafes or ice cream shops along the main strip. Before you reach Auckland, take a detour to Wenderholm Regional Park. This park is a gem with its lush forests, tranquil beach, and the historic Couldrey House. It’s perfect for a picnic or a short hike to stretch your legs.

When you arrive in Auckland, park your campervan at Takapuna Beach Holiday Park. This beachfront spot offers fantastic views of Rangitoto Island and easy access to the lively suburb of Takapuna.

While in Takapuna, spend some time at Takapuna Beach, a favourite for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply lounging on the sand. If you're around on a Sunday, check out the Takapuna Markets for fresh produce, crafts, and tasty street food. You might also want to see what’s on at the Bruce Mason Centre, a local performing arts theatre that often hosts concerts, plays, and other events.

On the final day of your Auckland to Northland road trip, spend some time exploring the vibrant city of Auckland before returning your maui campervan. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Sky Tower. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and beyond from the observation deck, or for the more adventurous, try the SkyWalk or SkyJump for an exhilarating experience.

Next, head to the Auckland War Memorial Museum, located in the beautiful Auckland Domain. The museum offers fascinating exhibits on New Zealand’s natural history, Māori culture, and military history. The surrounding gardens and parks are also perfect for a relaxing walk.

For a taste of local flavour, visit the Auckland Fish Market. Here, you can sample fresh seafood, enjoy a meal at one of the many eateries, or simply soak up the lively atmosphere. It’s a great spot for lunch and to experience the culinary delights of the city.

Finally, take a walk along the Auckland Waterfront, where you can explore the vibrant Viaduct Harbour, check out the boats, and enjoy the numerous cafes and restaurants. The area is perfect for a relaxing end to your journey before you head back to maui’s Auckland branch to drop off your camper.

Ready to take the road trip from Auckland to Northland?

Charming villages and townships, beautiful beaches, breathtaking scenery, and bucket-list experiences… this awesome Auckland to Northland road trip really does have it all. And there’s no better way to make the most of everything on offer than with the comfort and convenience of a maui campervan hire. If you’re ready to experience this must-do New Zealand road trip for yourself, take the first step and book your maui campervan today.