Auckland to Taranaki road trip adventure

Your road trip adventure begins in Auckland, where you’ll pick up your maui campervan from our branch conveniently near the airport. Our friendly team will make sure you're fully prepared, showing you everything you need to know about your campervan hire, so you can hit the road with confidence. 

Once you're set, it’s time to head south towards Hamilton. The drive is easy and scenic, and in under two hours, you’ll be in the heart of the Waikato region. Be sure to visit the stunning Hamilton Gardens, where you can wander through themed gardens like the Italian Renaissance, Japanese Garden of Contemplation, and more. This award-winning attraction is the perfect introduction to the natural beauty of the region. 

After your visit to the gardens, take some time to explore Hamilton City and grab a bite to eat in one of the local cafes or restaurants, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of this riverside city. 

For your first night, settle in at Hamilton City Holiday Park, nestled in a peaceful and colourful setting near the city centre. The park offers well-maintained powered sites, modern facilities, and everything you need for a comfortable stay. 

Leaving Hamilton, your next destination is the famous Waitomo Caves, a short and scenic drive through rolling farmland. As you approach Waitomo, the landscape becomes even more dramatic, with limestone hills hinting at the incredible caves beneath. The highlight of your visit will undoubtedly be the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where you can take a guided boat tour and glide through a dark, magical cave illuminated by thousands of glowing worms. 

If you're up for more adventure, explore the Ruakuri Cave with its impressive underground waterfalls and fascinating rock formations, or test your bravery with some black water rafting through subterranean rivers. 

Just 600 metres from the caves, Waitomo TOP 10 Holiday Park is the perfect place to park your maui campervan for the night. The park offers spacious powered sites, modern amenities, and is within walking distance to all of Waitomo’s attractions. 

After your adventures in the Waitomo Caves, it’s time to hit the road again and head west to New Plymouth. This scenic drive takes you through beautiful rural landscapes and rolling hills. You’ll arrive in New Plymouth, a vibrant coastal city known for its art, culture, and dramatic views of Mount Taranaki. 

One of the must-visit spots in New Plymouth is the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre, a contemporary art museum that’s as much about its stunning architecture as the exhibits inside. For something more outdoorsy, take a walk along the Coastal Walkway, which stretches along the waterfront and offers fantastic views, including the iconic Te Rewa Rewa Bridge. 

Park up for a few nights at New Plymouth TOP 10 Holiday Park, where you can relax and unwind in comfort. With amenities like a heated pool, hot tub, BBQ area, and modern powered sites, this holiday park has everything you need for a cosy evening after a day of exploration. 

New Plymouth offers plenty to see and do, making it the perfect place to spend a full day. Start your morning by visiting Pukekura Park, one of New Zealand’s premier botanical gardens. Take a leisurely walk through its stunning landscapes, including lakes, waterfalls, and native bush. If you're up for more activity, hire a rowboat and enjoy the park’s serene waterways. 

Afterward, head to Back Beach for incredible views of Paritutu Rock and the Sugar Loaf Islands. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even climb Paritutu Rock for panoramic views of the coastline and Mount Taranaki. It’s a short but steep climb, and the views from the top are absolutely worth the effort. 

In the afternoon, dive into some local history with a visit to the Taranaki Aviation Transport and Technology Museum. It’s a hidden gem that showcases an impressive collection of vintage vehicles, machinery, and aircraft, offering a fascinating look into the region’s past. 

To wrap up your day, take a drive to Lake Mangamahoe, just outside New Plymouth. This scenic lake is perfect for a peaceful walk or picnic while offering stunning views of Mount Taranaki reflected in the water, making it a quiet and picturesque spot to end the day. 

Today, it’s all about getting up close to the majestic Mt Taranaki. After a short drive from New Plymouth, you’ll find yourself at the base of this iconic volcano, ready for a day of exploring one of New Zealand’s most striking natural landmarks. 

Start your adventure with a visit to Egmont National Park Visitor Centre, where you can learn more about the area’s unique ecosystem and get advice on the best hiking trails for your fitness level. If you're looking for a moderate trek, the Pouakai Circuit offers incredible views of Mt Taranaki, alpine tarns, and sweeping landscapes. For a shorter, more leisurely walk, the Dawson Falls Track is a beautiful option, leading you to the stunning 18-metre Dawson Falls. 

For more experienced hikers, the Summit Track is a challenging, all-day climb to the top of Mt Taranaki, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding region. Even if you don’t tackle the summit, there are plenty of short walks and scenic spots around the lower slopes that are equally rewarding. 

READ MORE: 15 fun things to do in Taranaki 

Options to extend your North Island road trip

If you’re looking to keep the adventure going, there are plenty of exciting options to extend your road trip beyond Taranaki. Whether you’re after more scenic drives, cultural experiences, or just want to take your time exploring, here are a few ideas: 

Head home via Matamata

Alternatively, you can journey back to Auckland at your own pace. Take a detour to the Hobbiton Movie Set Tours in Matamata to explore the magical world of Middle-earth, or stop in Raglan, a surfer’s paradise known for its chilled-out vibe, black sand beaches, and excellent waves. 

Explore the Forgotten World Highway

For those craving a road less travelled, take the Forgotten World Highway from Stratford to Taumarunui. This remote and rugged 150 km route winds through historic settlements, lush forests, and stunning hill country landscapes. Along the way, you can explore the quirky self-declared Republic of Whangamōmona, and take in spectacular views at the Tangarakau Gorge. It’s a journey into New Zealand’s past, with plenty of photo-worthy moments along the way. 

Continue south on the Coastal Arts Trail

For a more relaxed but equally rewarding option, follow the Coastal Arts Trail 

through Taranaki, Whanganui, and Manawatū. This trail is a must for art lovers, offering the chance to explore local galleries, studios, and artisan shops showcasing New Zealand’s vibrant art scene. It’s the perfect way to connect with the region’s creative culture while enjoying the scenic coastal roads. 

Take the long way home!

Another fantastic option is to take the long way back to Auckland by stopping in Taupō and Rotorua. Enjoy the geothermal wonders, lakeside scenery, and cultural experiences these regions have to offer. Explore Huka Falls, relax in the hot pools of Rotorua, or take part in a traditional Māori cultural experience. This route adds adventure and relaxation to your journey home. 

Ready to take an Auckland to Taranaki adventure?

Whether you’re exploring the glowworm-lit caves of Waitomo, soaking in the scenic views of Mount Taranaki, or taking in the vibrant art and culture of New Plymouth, this Auckland to Taranaki road trip is filled with unforgettable experiences. And if you’re keen to extend your journey, the options are endless.  

There’s no better way to enjoy the journey than with the comfort and flexibility of a maui campervan hire. Road tripping around New Zealand is easy with maui. With branches in Auckland, Christchurch, and Queenstown, you can pick up your campervan at one branch and drop it off at another.  

If you’re ready to explore the road trip from Auckland to Taranaki (and perhaps beyond!), take the first step and book your maui campervan today.