New Zealand in 1 Month (4 Weeks / 30 Days): Road Trip Itinerary

The Ultimate 4-Week New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary

We know that you have heard a million times: one month is not enough time to explore New Zealand. But if four weeks is all the time you have for travelling Aotearoa, then you can certainly have a good go at it! In the itinerary below, we go over how you can really make the most of New Zealand in four weeks.

The great thing about road-tripping around New Zealand for four weeks is that it opens many transport options for you to really make the trip your own. We go through a quick guide on how to get around New Zealand in a month before we get into the itinerary. For an idea of what awesome destinations to hit, as well as activities and budget accommodation, take a look at the 30-day New Zealand itinerary below. You’ll also get an idea of travel time between destinations so you can work out the perfect New Zealand trip for you.

What’s more, we show you how to plan this itinerary the EASY way with First Light Travel – more on that at the bottom of the itinerary.

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary for 4 Weeks (30 Days): Overview

Day 1 – Auckland Airport to Hahei (Coromandel)
Day 2 – Hahei to Rotorua (via Hobbiton)
Day 3 – Explore Rotorua
Day 4 – Rotorua to Taupo
Day 5 – Taupo to the Tongariro National Park
Day 6 – Tongariro National Park to the Ruahine Ranges
Day 7 – Adventure in the Ruahine Ranges
Day 8 – Ruahine Ranges to Wellington
Day 9 – Wellington to Picton
Day 10 – Picton to Nelson
Day 11 – Explore Nelson or Abel Tasman Day Trip
Day 12 – Nelson to Punakaiki (via Nelson Lakes)
Day 13 – Punakaiki to Franz Josef
Day 14 – Franz Josef to Wanaka
Day 15 – Wanaka to Queenstown
Day 16 – Explore Queenstown or Milford Sound Day Trip
Day 17 – Queenstown to Mt Cook
Day 18 – Explore Mt Cook
Day 19 – Mt Cook to Geraldine (via Lake Tekapo)
Day 20 – Geraldine to Christchurch
Day 21 – Christchurch to Kaikoura
Day 22 – Explore Kaikoura
Day 23 – Kaikoura to Picton
Day 24 – Picton to Wellington
Day 25 – Wellington to Whanganui
Day 26 – Whanganui to Stratford
Day 27 – Stratford to Waitomo
Day 28 – Explore Waitomo
Day 29 – Waitomo to Auckland
Day 30 – Explore Auckland + Departure

New Zealand in 1 Month (4 Weeks / 30 Days): Road Trip Itinerary [2023]

How to Get Around New Zealand in 4 Weeks

We’re not going to beat around the bush there is going to be a lot of driving – A LOT. If you can handle it, then get yourself a rental vehicle and continue down to the itinerary below. Otherwise, if driving almost every day for an entire month does not quite sound like the trip you were imagining, then consider travelling New Zealand by bus. Here are your options when it comes to travelling New Zealand in a month.

Car or Campervan Rental

The itinerary below begins and ends in Auckland meaning that you can have the same rental vehicle for the entire trip and avoid those hefty “one-way” fees. Get started with planning your vehicle rental in New Zealand with The Guide to Renting a Car and The Guide to Renting a Campervan in New Zealand.

National Coach

By far the cheapest option for getting around New Zealand is by coach. Get one of the InterCity bus passes to hit all of the destinations listed below. For more information, see How to Travel by Bus in New Zealand.

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours

A hop-on hop-off bus is a flexible bus tour where you can hop off the bus at any point on the route and jump back on the bus at a later date. There are a few hop-on hop-off bus companies in New Zealand where their national bus passes have a minimum travel time of around 20 days, which you can discover for yourself in Hop-On Hop-Off Buses in New Zealand: Complete Guide + How Do They Work.

Escorted Bus Tours

All the logistics are sorted out for you, so all you need to do is enjoy. There are a number of bus tour companies offering 21-28-day tours around New Zealand following a similar itinerary to what is featured below, yet including accommodation, some meals and some activities. Check them out in The Best 20+ Days Tours of New Zealand.

For more ways to explore New Zealand, take a look at the 10 Best Ways to Travel Around New Zealand.

New Zealand in a Month: Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – Auckland Airport to Hahei (Coromandel)

Drive time: 2 hrs 15 mins

You’ve arrived in Auckland, New Zealand! You will have plenty of time to see the city toward the end of this 4-week New Zealand itinerary, but for now, head south toward the Coromandel and the start of your one-month New Zealand adventure. Coromandel is the home of beautiful beaches, most famously, Cathedral Cove.

Things to Do in Hahei

These are pretty relaxing and accessible activities/sights to see for your first day in New Zealand:

Hike to the famous Cathedral Cove and its beach with white cliffs and a giant coastal arch
Take a boat tour with Hahei Explorer to Cathedral Cove
Explore beaches and islands with Cathedral Cove Kayaks
Go to Hot Water Beach at low tide to dig yourself a hot pool in the sand.

For more ideas, head to the 22 Best Things to Do in The Coromandel.

Accommodation in Hahei

Budget:

See more like this in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in the Coromandel.

Mid-range:

For more mid-range stays, take a look at the 15 Best Hotels & Resorts in the Coromandel.

Day 2 – Hahei to Rotorua (Via Hobbiton)

Drive time: 3 hours

Your final destination today is Rotorua, famous for its geothermal activity and for being the cultural heart of New Zealand. Before you get there, don’t miss the Karangahake Gorge, halfway through the drive. There are a number of walking tracks in the area between 45 minutes to 4 hours going through a historic mining area taken back by the forest and the river. Walk through mining tunnels, through native forest, alongside mining relics and to magnificent waterfalls.

On the other hand, you may want to use that time to visit the Hobbiton Movie Set in the town of Matamata.

Things to Do in Rotorua

If you get to Rotorua with time to spare, here are a few suggestions.

Relax in a natural geothermal hot pool. There are paid options, such as the Polynesian Spa (more info on Klook or KKday), or go find some of the 5 Free Natural Hot Pools in Rotorua
See an evening cultural performance at one of the Maori attractions
Go for a bite to eat on Eat Streat and beyond
See the forest decorated on the Redwoods Treewalk
Have a race on the night Luge at Skyline Gondola.

For more recommendations, check out the 25 Best Things to Do in Rotorua.

Accommodation in Rotorua

Budget:

For more options, check out the 20 Best Budget Accommodations in Rotorua.

Mid-range:

See more stays in The 50 Best Accommodations in Rotorua.

Luxury:

More lavish finds are available in the 20 Best Luxury Accommodations in Rotorua.

Day 3 – Explore Rotorua

There is so much to do in Rotorua that it is the perfect place to have a break from driving. There’s a huge range of activities from adrenaline fixes, wildlife, Maori cultural shows, geothermal parks and so much more!

Things to Do in Rotorua

Geysers, steaming lakes, bubbling mud, silica terraces and so much more can be seen in one of the many geothermal parks of Rotorua
Catch a Maori cultural performance (if you missed doing so yesterday)
Do some adrenaline activities
Zorb your way in a giant hamster ball down a hill, go luging from the top of the Skyline Gondola, hike or mountain bike in the Redwood Forest, jet boat or do a freefall experience at the Velocity Valley, and so much more!
See native New Zealand wildlife at Wingspan or National Kiwi Hatchery (more info on Viator and Klook).

For more inspiration, get stuck into The Complete Guide to Rotorua.

Day 4 – Rotorua to Taupo

Drive time: 1 hour

Not too far from Rotorua is Taupo on the edge of New Zealand’s largest lake! Again, there really is a lot to do here. If you want to skydive and/or bungy jump on the North Island then Taupo is a great place to do it. Plus, there are plenty of options to get out on the lake, relax in hot pools, see raging waterfalls and more!

Things to Do in Taupo

Take a trip out on New Zealand’s largest lake, whether it’s fishing, kayaking, sailing, cruising or parasailing
Bungy jump over the Waikato River with Taupo Bungy
Do a skydive with Taupo Tandem Skydive
Go on a white water rafting trip on the Tongariro River with Tongariro River Rafting
Walk along the Waikato River to a natural hot pool at Spa Park, then onto Huka Falls
Sail to the Maori Rock Carvings with Sail Barbary (more info on Viator and Klook).

For more inspiration, take a look at the 20 Best Things to Do in Taupo.

Accommodation in Taupo

Budget:

Check out more options over at the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Taupo.

Mid-range:

For more, check out the 20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Taupo.

Luxury:

Discover more upscale finds in the 15 Best Luxury Accommodations in Taupo.

Day 5 – Taupo to Tongariro National Park

Drive time: 1 hr 15 mins

Get up early and drive to the Tongariro National Park to do the Tongariro Crossing, New Zealand’s most popular day hike over the volcanic plateau. Otherwise, take your time getting to the Tongariro National Park and enjoy one of the shorter hikes in the area, still giving fantastic views of the Central North Island volcanoes. You also have the option of mountain biking or even skiing on the Whakapapa Ski Field in winter.

Things to Do in Tongariro National Park

Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, taking you over the volcanoes of the central North Island. The 6-8-hour hike is one-way and requires some planning in terms of transport and keeping safe; take a look at our Guide to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing to work out a plan
Ski or snowboard at Whakapapa Ski Field in winter
Choose from other hikes in Tongariro National Park, such as Tawhai Falls, Silica Rapids and Taranaki Falls
Discover the birthplace of the Haka at the historical Opotaka.

For more ideas, check out the 15 Best Things to Do in the Tongariro National Park.

Accommodation in National Park Village

Budget:

See more options in the 7 Best Hostels in National Park Village & Whakapapa.

Mid-range:

Day 6 – Tongariro National Park to the Ruahine Ranges

Drive time: 2 hours

The mission today is to spend some time in the New Zealand wilderness. Ruahine Forest Park is an awesome place to do that and a local favourite! There are a few different wilderness lodges and camping options in the Ruahine Forest Park, as well as activities from hikes to horse riding to white water rafting.

To break up the journey, stop in Ohakune for a coffee or check out the Mangawhero Walking Track (1-hour loop) to walk in the forests at the base of Mt Ruapehu.

Your final destination today will be at one of the accommodation options listed below. You’ll get more time to explore the area or do an activity there tomorrow.

Accommodation in the Ruahine Ranges

Budget:

River Valley Lodge

Mid-range:

Day 7 – Adventure in the Ruahine Ranges

It’s time to relax/go wild in the Ruahine Forest Park! Whatever your bag is, you could do some white water rafting or horse riding at River Valley, horse riding, 4x4ing or claybird shooting at Makoura Lodge, or hiking in the Ruahine Ranges. Alternatively, relax at your farmstay to get a taste of Kiwi life.

Things to Do in the Ruahine Ranges

Go white water rafting with River Valley
Horse trek through the stunning landscape with River Valley Stables or Makoura Lodge
Hike one of many Ruahine tracks listed in the 25 Awesome Hikes Around Palmerston North.

Day 8 – Ruahine Ranges to Wellington

Drive time: 3 hrs 20 mins

Your final destination today is the capital city of New Zealand! However, we recommend breaking up the drive by stopping along the Kapiti Coast, full of beaches and walks to check out! Walk over a sand dune walkway at Queen Elizabeth Park or relax on Pekapeka Beach. There’s plenty more to discover in the 10 Best Things to Do on the Kapiti Coast.

Once you reach Wellington you have the evening to enjoy the eateries and nightlife of the capital city! You’ll have more time to explore Wellington on the way back up north.

Accommodation in Wellington

Budget:

Need more options? Head to the 15 Best Budget Accommodations in Wellington.

Mid-range:

Check out The 50 Best Accommodations for all of your best options.

Luxury:

See more stays in the 15 Best Luxury Accommodations in Wellington.

Day 9 – Wellington to Picton

Ferry time: 3 hrs 30 mins

Today you have the treat of taking the ferry from the North Island to the South Island! We recommend a sunrise or sunset sailing for the best prices and the best light for a stunning journey across the Cook Strait and through the Marlborough Sounds – see The Ferry Between the North Island and South Island: Full Guide.

Depending on what time your sailing is, you will either have time to do something in Wellington or Picton. Here are some ideas.

Things to Do in Wellington

Visit the Te Papa Museum to learn everything there is to know about New Zealand
Go to Zealandia to see native New Zealand wildlife
Do a self-guided Lord of the Rings tour or be guided by Xplor Tours
Tour the city sights of Wellington from the Waterfront to Cuba Street to the Botanic Gardens to Mt Victoria. Find out more in our One Day in Wellington: City Walking Tour Itinerary…

… And more as listed in the 25 Best Things to Do in Wellington.

Things to Do in Picton

Take the Beachcomber Cruises‘ mail boat cruise out onto the waters of the Marlborough Sounds
Go dolphin swimming with E-Ko Tours (more info on Viator and Klook)
Mountain bike the Link Pathway or Queen Charlotte Track
Kayak around the harbour with Wilderness Guides
Take a tour of the wine region and do some wine tasting with Sounds Connection.

Learn more about these activities, as well as many others, in the 20 Best Things to Do in Picton.

Accommodation in Picton

If everything goes to plan and you do not miss your ferry then these are some excellent accommodation options in Picton.

Budget:

For more ideas, check out the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Picton.

Mid-range:

Check out the 20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Picton for more details on these accommodations and others.

Luxury:

Learn more about these stays in the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Picton.

Day 10 – Picton to Nelson

Drive time: 1 hr 50 mins

Do one of the activities that you missed in Picton yesterday or hit the road to Nelson.

Stop by Havelock to take a boat cruise out into the Marlborough Sounds or join a kayaking tour with Pelorus Eco Adventures down the Pelorus River one of The Hobbit filming locations. For more inspiration, check out the 10 Best Things to Do in Havelock.

Then you will reach New Zealand’s sunniest city, Nelson, where you will have more opportunities to do some of the following activities…

Things to Do in Nelson

Walk to the Centre of New Zealand found in the Botanic Reserve
Step back in time and also try some craft beer at Founders Park
See where the One Ring was made at the Jens Hansen Ringmaker store
See native birds at the Brook Waimarama Sanctuary
Treat yourself to local Nelson cuisine…

… And the list continues over in the 20 Best Things to Do in Nelson.

Accommodation in Nelson

Budget:

There’s a lot more listed in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Nelson.

Mid-range:

Check out more options in the 20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Nelson.

Luxury:

More indulgent options await in the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Nelson.

Day 11 – Nelson or Abel Tasman Day Trip

Drive time: 0-1 hour

Nelson is the gateway to three national parks in the South Island. One of which is the Abel Tasman National Park, full of pristine golden sand beaches backed with lush forest. Tours operate from Nelson daily taking you into the Abel Tasman National Park, such as Wine, Art & Wilderness. Either drive to Kaiteriteri yourself (1 hour one way) for maximum flexibility or take one of the shuttle services.

In Kaiteriteri, you have a great deal of Abel Tasman options from kayaking tours, water taxis to hikes, or boat tours…

Things to Do in the Abel Tasman National Park

Paddle a traditional Maori canoe with Waka Abel Tasman
Skydive over beaches with Skydive Abel Tasman (more info on Viator and Klook)
Do some beach-hopping by kayak with Wilson’s Abel Tasman
Cruise Abel Tasman from Kaiteriteri with Wilson’s Abel Tasman
Take a hiking a boat cruise of Abel Tasman from Nelson with Wine, Art & Wilderness.

Learn more about these activities and more in the 20 Best Things to Do in the Abel Tasman National Park.

Day 12 – Nelson to Punakaiki (via Nelson Lakes National Park)

Drive time: 3 hrs 45 mins

There’s a fair bit of driving to do today but the beautiful views of the Buller Gorge help pass the time quickly. There are a few quaint towns to stop by for a coffee, such as Murchison. However, to really make the most of the drive we suggest taking a 20-minute detour into the Nelson Lakes National Park to see the beautiful Lake Rotoroa or Lake Rotoiti. Both are very similar in terms of views and short walks available so take your pick!

Once you arrive in Punakaiki, you have plenty of experiences to choose from but don’t miss the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes for their impressive and bizarre rock formations.

Things to Do in Punakaiki

Do the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes Walk
Visit the Punakaiki Cavern
Kayak on the Pororari River with Waka Puna
Experience Barrytown Beach by horse wagon with Golden Sands Horse and Wagon Tours
Sample the Paparoa Track, one of the New Zealand Great Walks.

Learn about all of these activities and more in the 10 Best Things to Do in Punakaiki.

Accommodation in Punakaiki

Budget:

Te Nikau Retreat
Punakaiki Beach Hostel

More details on these hostels can be found in the 5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Punakaiki.

Mid-range:

Punakaiki Beachfront Motels
Punakaiki Beach Camp

Luxury:

Tasman Sea Retreat
Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

Day 13 – Punakaiki to Franz Josef

Drive time: 3 hours

Head to the West Coast’s Glacier Country where you’ll find some of the world’s most mesmerising glacier experiences. Franz Josef is your opportunity to walk on, crawl inside, fly over, skydive over or walk up to a glacier, as described in the 7 Ways to Take on New Zealand’s Glaciers. Nevertheless, there’s actually more to do here than glacier gallivanting! Check it out in the list below.

Things to Do in Franz Josef

Do a heli-hike with Franz Josef Glacier Guides
Do one of New Zealand’s highest skydives over the glacier and the Southern Alps with Skydive Franz Josef & Fox Glacier (more info on Viator and Klook)
Hike to the Franz Josef Terminal Face
Relax in the Waiho Hot Tubs
Kayak on the reflective waters of Lake Mapourika with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours (on Viator and Klook).

Get much more details over in the 25 Best Things to Do in Franz Josef.

Accommodation in Franz Josef

Budget:

Discover more affordable stays in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Franz Josef.

Mid-range:

Head to the 20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Franz Josef for more recommendations.

Luxury:

For more details, check out the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Franz Josef.

Day 14 – Franz Josef to Wanaka

Drive time: 3 hrs 40 mins

You’ve got a long drive ahead today but plenty of reasons to stretch your legs. You’ll be going through another super scenic road on the Haast Pass where we recommend you stop at Thunder Creek Falls just a minute’s walk from the road. Then don’t miss the Blue Pools of Haast. This is a 1-hour return walk through the forest to some of the clearest and bluest rivers you will ever see!

This evening, you will have the time to relax by the beautiful Lake Wanaka.

Things to Do in Wanaka

Hike up Roy’s Peak
Climb a waterfall with Wild Wire Wanaka
Visit Puzzling World and get lost in their giant maze
Skydive over beautiful Lake Wanaka with Skydive Wanaka
Cruise to a sanctuary island on Lake Wanka with Eco Wanaka Adventures.

Head to the 25 Best Things to Do in Wanaka for more ideas.

Accommodation in Wanaka

Budget:

More cheap stays can be found in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Wanaka.

Mid-range:

Check out the 20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Wanaka for more ideas.

Luxury:

More recommendations can be found in the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Wanaka.

Day 15 – Wanaka to Queenstown

Drive time: 1 hour

Time to hit the “Adrenaline Capital of the World”! Take the Crown Range to be the best views on the way to Queenstown. Once there, you have so much to do! Take a look at The Complete Guide to Queenstown or the list below.

Things to Do in Queenstown

Do a bungy jump; you have three to choose from in Queenstown
Do a giant swing with Nevis Swing or Shotover Canyon Swing
Experience the thrills of a jet boat ride
Go skiing or snowboarding at The Remarkables in winter
Hike Ben Lomond.

The possibilities are endless, as described in the 45 Best Things to Do in Queenstown.

Accommodation in Queenstown

Budget:

Choose from more affordable stays in the 15 Best Budget Accommodations in Queenstown.

Mid-range:

Browse all of the top stays in The 50 Best Accommodations in Queenstown.

Luxury:

Find out more about each premium accommodation in our 20 Best Luxury Accommodations in Queenstown.

Day 16 – Explore Queenstown (or Milford Sound Day Trip)

With towering mountains, untouched rainforest and unbelievable scenery, Milford Sound is an unforgettable journey.

To have a break from driving, we recommend taking one of the many bus tours to Milford Sound and then boarding a cruise of the fiord. Bus trips give you plenty of opportunities to hop off the bus and do multiple short walks on the way. For more information, get your head in the 10 Best Milford Sound Tours from Queenstown & Te Anau.

If a 13-hour bus and cruise trip doesn’t appeal, see the 6 Best Scenic Flights to Milford Sound from Queenstown instead.

However, if you want a break from the road, you have plenty more options for things to do in Queenstown listed above as well as some more inspiration in the 45 Best Things to Do in Queenstown.

Day 17 – Queenstown to Mt Cook

Drive time: 3 hours

If you have not had enough of epic scenic drives, then here’s one more for you through the Lindis Pass on the way to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park.

On the way to Mt Cook, consider stopping by the Highlands Motorsport Park in Cromwell to challenge your travel buddies to go-karting or stop by Omarama for their hot pools with a view. Additionally, there is a pleasant river walk in Twizel.

Once at Mt Cook, you have a lot of options to explore the heart of the Southern Alps with its glaciers, but we’ll get onto that more tomorrow.

Accommodation in Mt Cook

Budget:

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
Glentanner Park Centre

You know the drill; check out 5 Best Budget Accommodations in Mt Cook.

Mid-range:

See the 10 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Mt Cook for your top options.

Luxury:

Go high-end with the 5 Best Luxury Accommodations in Mt Cook.

Day 18 – Explore Mt Cook

There are many ways to enjoy the impressive landscape of the Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, from glaciers to lakes to mountains, so you’ll want to spend a whole day doing some or all of the following activities!

Things to Do in Mt Cook

Walk the Hooker Valley Track
Land on the Tasman Glacier in a ski plane (more details on Viator or Klook)
Do a heli-hike on New Zealand’s longest glacier with Mt Cook Glacier Guiding
Go boating on the Tasman Lake with Glacier Explorers
Stargaze in the Aoraki Mt Cook International Dark Sky Reserve.

That’s right, you can learn more about these experiences, as well as many others in the 20 Best Things to Do in Aoraki Mt Cook.

Day 19 – Mt Cook to Geraldine (via Lake Tekapo)

Drive time: 2 hrs 15 mins

Next stop, Geraldine! This is not without an obligatory stop at Lake Tekapo with its vibrant blue lake and the most scenic church in New Zealand, The Church of the Good Shepherd. We have a list of experiences for you in the 10 Best Things to Do in Lake Tekapo.

Stop by the Fairlie Bakehouse for one of their award-winning New Zealand pies, then onward to Geraldine. You have time to either do an activity this evening or tomorrow morning so take your pick from the following!

Things to Do in Geraldine

Do grade 5 white water rafting on the Rangitata River with Hidden Valleys
Go canyoning in the Kaumira Canyon with Big Rock Adventures
Walk in the Talbot Forest Scenic Reserve
Explore the Orari Gorge Track
Visit all of the town’s vintage museums, including the Geraldine Vintage Car & Machinery Museum, Route 79 Museum, Roger Mahan Heritage Centre and Geraldine Museum.

All of these and more are listed in the 10 Best Things to Do in Geraldine.

Accommodation in Geraldine

Budget:

Mid-range:

Luxury:

The Vicarage
Ngā Whare Mānatu

Day 20 – Geraldine to Christchurch

Drive time: 2 hours

If you missed any of the awesome activities yesterday, take the time to do them before you hit the road to Christchurch.

Journey through the Canterbury Plains, perhaps stopping by the Ashburton Domain to stretch your legs, to Christchurch where you now get the chance to explore the South Island’s biggest hub.

Things to Do in Christchurch

Wander around the Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Visit the Canterbury Museum
Take to the skies in a unique way with Adventure Balloons NZ
Take a hop-on hop-off tram tour of the city (more info on Viator and Klook)
Feel the freeze at the International Antarctic Centre
Try some Kiwi cuisine in Christchurch.

Get more details in the 15 Best Things to Do in Christchurch.

Accommodation in Christchurch

Budget:

See more reasonably-priced stays in the 12 Best Budget Accommodations in Christchurch.

Mid-range:

All the top recommendations can be found in 20 Best Hotels in Christchurch.

Luxury:

For the cream of the crop, check out the 15 Best Luxury Accommodations in Christchurch.

Day 21 – Christchurch to Kaikoura

Drive time: 2 hrs 15 mins

Enjoy a coffee in Christchurch before hitting the road toward Kaikoura, the marine wildlife mecca of New Zealand. The drive is a scenic one along the coast until you reach the small coastal town famous for its seafood and sea life. Although you have a full day to make the most of Kaikoura tomorrow, there is so much to do that you can start exploring straight away!

Things to Do in Kaikoura

Walk the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway with multiple viewpoints over seal colonies
Catch a scenic flight with Wings Over Whales (more info on Viator and Klook) to see whales from the sky
Join a wildlife boat tour to see whales with Whale Watch Kaikoura (on Viator and Klook)
Have a close encounter with seals with Seal Kayak Kaikoura (on Viator and Klook)
Try some famous Kaikoura crayfish at the local restaurants.

More details can be found in the 20 Best Things to Do in Kaikoura.

Accommodation in Kaikoura

Budget:

Find more affordable stays in the 15 Best Budget Accommodations in Kaikoura.

Mid-range:

For more options, take a look at the 21 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Kaikoura.

Luxury:

Discover more details in the 15 Best Luxury Accommodations in Kaikoura.

New Zealand in 1 Month (4 Weeks / 30 Days): Road Trip Itinerary

Day 22 – Explore Kaikoura

Because there is so much to do in Kaikoura, we recommend spending the day doing any activities you missed yesterday. Plus, here are some more things to do in Kaikoura, which are best done if you are spending a whole day here.

More Things to Do in Kaikoura

Hike Mt Fyffe for some epic views.
Swim with dolphins in their natural habitat with Dolphin Encounter
Land in the majestic Kaikoura Mountains with Kaikoura Helicopters
See the world’s largest seabirds with Albatross Encounter
Trek through woodlands with a special friend with Kaikoura Llama Trekking.

Again, more details can be found in the 20 Best Things to Do in Kaikoura.

Day 23 – Kaikoura to Picton

Drive time: 2 hours

Next stop, Picton! As you travel to Picton, be sure to stop off in Blenheim. Blenheim is surrounded by vineyards and is in the centre of New Zealand’s biggest wine-making region. Take advantage of that fact by going on a wine-tasting tour or hiring a bike for a self-guided tour among the vines. Check out our top recommendations in the 15 Best Things to Do in Blenheim.

Once you reach Picton, again, you have a lot of things to do from exploring the Marlborough Sounds to mountain biking to hiking. Take a look at the list on Day 9 to see if there was anything you missed, or get more inspiration from the 15 Best Things to Do in Picton.

Accommodations in Picton are also listed on Day 9.

Day 24 – Picton to Wellington

Ferry time: 3 hrs 30 mins

We recommend taking the ferry early today to give you enough time to explore Wellington – see The Ferry Between the North Island and South Island for a full recap.

Was there an activity that you missed in Wellington? Check Day 9 for recommendations or simply head to the 25 Best Things to Do in Wellington.

Then have a relaxing evening in New Zealand’s capital city, perhaps indulging in its food scene (see The Food Guide to Wellington), before hitting the road up north tomorrow!

Day 25 – Wellington to Whanganui

Drive time: 2 hrs 30 mins

Make your way back up north via the west coast of the North Island to see some wild coastline and the perfectly-shaped Mt Taranaki volcano. The journey begins by heading toward Whanganui, a coastal town with a culturally important river and a whole lot of charm.

Things to Do in Whanganui

Check out Victoria Avenue for its shopping and historic architecture
Walk the tunnel to the Durie Hill Elevator then climb the Durie Hill Tower!
Visit the stunning Kai Iwi Beach
Watch the insane amount of birds at Virginia Lake
Experience the Whanganui River by canoe with Ki Tai.

More ideas can be found in the 15 Best Things to Do in Whanganui.

Accommodation in Whanganui

Budget:

Check out the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Whanganui for more ideas.

Mid-range:

Get more inspiration from the 20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Whanganui.

Luxury:

Find alternative upscale stays in the 7 Best Luxury Accommodations in Whanganui.

Day 26 – Whanganui to Stratford

Drive time: 1 hr 30 mins

On today’s drive, you’ll get to see the wild west coast of the Taranaki region as you make your way up to Stratford. Stratford is on the edge of the Egmont National Park with the impressive Mt Taranaki at its centre. Stratford gives good access to the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre and the Stratford Plateau on Mt Taranaki giving you a great deal of walking and hiking options through enchanted forests to waterfalls and volcano views!

Things to Do in Stratford

See the town centre Glockenspiel that performs at 10 am, 1 pm, 3 pm and 7 pm
Do the Wilkies Pools Loop Track and Dawson Falls Track
Take a stroll around King Edward Park
Step back in time at Pioneer Village
Check out the Percy Thomson Gallery.

For more recommendations, head to the 10 Best Things to Do in Stratford and the 10 Best Things to Do in Egmont National Park.

Accommodation in Stratford

Budget:

Stratford Motel and Holiday Park
Regan House

Mid-range:

Luxury:

Day 27 – Stratford to Waitomo

Drive time: 3 hrs 15 mins

Now it’s time for an ironically unforgettable journey through the Forgotten World Highway. Fill up with fuel before delving into this historical and isolated part of the North Island.

You will get breathtaking views of Mt Taranaki as you leave Stratford. Stop by the Republic of Whangamomona and get your passport stamped. After that, you will go through old tunnels (or over them if you are too scared), as well as through the wild and wonderful Tangarakau Gorge. There are plenty of photo opportunities along the way. You can find a few in our 10 Places You Can’t Miss on the Forgotten World Highway.

After a long drive to Waitomo, just relax in Waitomo in one of these affordable accommodations.

Accommodation in Waitomo

Budget:

Learn more in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Waitomo.

Mid-range:

See more options in the 10 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Waitomo.

Day 28 – Explore Waitomo

Now you have the whole day to enjoy one or more of the epic glowworm and caving activities in Waitomo. Join one of the caving operators in Waitomo, throw on a sexy wetsuit and tube/abseil/climb your way through the glowworm caves! There are a few walks in the area too if you are still feeling active.

Things to Do in Waitomo

Explore the Waitomo caves with one of the 8 Best Waitomo Cave Tours
Do a walking tour of the Ruakuri Cave or the Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Do the Ruakuri Bush Walk at night to see glowworms
Go on a caving adventure with Waitomo Adventures, The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co. (more info on Viator and Klook) or Cave World Waitomo.

Check out the 15 Best Things to Do in Waitomo for more recommendations.

Day 29 – Waitomo to Auckland

Drive time: 2 hrs 30 mins

Take your time driving up to your final destination on this four-week itinerary of New Zealand. There are a lot of quirky little towns to stop by on the way like Otorohanga with the best public toilets in New Zealand and the Ed Hillary Walkway in the centre of town. For a bit of nature, do one of the short walks of the Pirongia Forest Park, or revel in what people can do with nature at the Hamilton Gardens.

You’ll then reach Auckland city where you can relax tonight at one of the harbour eateries or on top of the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, the Sky Tower (more info on Viator and Klook). Well give you more ideas on what to do in Auckland tomorrow, but if you have time, you can fit in some activities this evening.

Accommodation in Auckland

Budget:

More cheap stays can be found in the 20 Best Budget Accommodations in Auckland.

Mid-range:

There’s a lot more where that came from in The 50 Best Accommodations in Auckland!

Luxury:

See more stays in the 25 Best Luxury Hotels & Accommodations in Auckland.

Day 30 – Explore Auckland + Departure

Drive time: 45 minutes

For your final day in New Zealand, why not have one last day of wild beauty by taking the ferry to one of the off-shore islands, like Rangitoto, Waiheke or Tiritiri Matangi?

Alternatively, this could be your last chance to do a skydive in New Zealand with Skydive Auckland or jump from the Sky Tower. You can even cruise out into the harbour searching for whales and dolphins with Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari (more info on Viator and Klook). Auckland really has a lot to offer!

Things to Do in Auckland

See T-rexes and Maori artefacts at the Auckland Museum (more info on Viator and Klook)
Walk up the volcanic Rangitoto Island
Drink wine and be merry on Waiheke Island
See protected wildlife on the Tiritiri Matangi Island bird sanctuary
Do a skydive at Skydive Auckland
Jump off the Sky Tower with the SkyJump or walk around the top of it with the SkyWalk
Take a whale-watching cruise with Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari (on Viator and Klook)
Walk to Mt Eden for some city views.

And the list continues over at the 50 Best Things to Do in Auckland.

Departure from Auckland Airport

Then, it’s time to return your rental car and head to Auckland Airport for the next step of life’s adventure. You can either return your vehicle at your vehicle rental company’s Auckland Airport depot and then the company will likely provide a free shuttle to your requested terminal.

Alternatively, you can return your vehicle to the Auckland city depot (perhaps on Day 29) and take an airport transfer to the airport – take a look at The Cheapest Airport Transfers for Auckland Airport for recommendations.

Plan This Itinerary with First Light Travel

If you like this New Zealand road trip itinerary for four weeks but don’t like the hassle of planning everything yourself, then there’s a way to lighten the load. First Light Travel is an online travel agent specialising in road trip itineraries in New Zealand. Plus, using their service is super simple:

First, send First Light Travel an enquiry by completing their online form
Then, you’ll receive your customised self-drive itinerary
Review your itinerary and work with your First Light Travel agent on perfecting it
Finally, First Light Travel will organise the rest including the bookings.

First Light Travel has access to more than 20,000 travel products, including almost all the tours and accommodations featured on this list (and more). With that and their local expertise here in New Zealand, they will create a well-catered itinerary to meet your needs while also suggesting some dream travel experiences that you may have never heard of. They only work with companies where their past clients have had positive experiences, so you know you’re in good hands.

What’s more, all of the bookings are arranged by First Light Travel, so instead of having to contact each individual accommodation and operator should your travel plans change, any amendments can be done through your FLT agent – easy! Did we mention the service is at no extra cost to you?!

For more information on planning your own New Zealand itinerary, see How to Create the Perfect New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary. Or better yet, jump on firstlighttravel.com and start making your own itinerary there.

More New Zealand Itineraries for 1 Month / 4 Weeks / 30 Days

That’s the end of our New Zealand road trip itinerary for four weeks / 30 days. If this itinerary didn’t take you fancy, see our alternative one-month itineraries:

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Best Travel Guide to New Zealand.

Author

Laura S.

This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in New Zealand over 10 years ago and with a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to travel New Zealand. She knows Aotearoa inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience New Zealand’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides and is the co-host of NZ Pocket Guide’s live New Zealand travel Q&As on YouTube.

Contact Laura via our contact page