Incredible 5-day west coast of the North Island road trip

Leaving Auckland behind, the drive to Raglan takes you through peaceful rural backroads and rolling Waikato farmland. It’s not a long haul, which means you’ve got plenty of time to take it slow and stop at a few interesting spots along the way. The scenery starts to shift as you head southwest – the hills get steeper, the roads windier, and the coast begins to call.  

Key stops and attractions

About an hour into your drive, a detour off State Highway 22 brings you to Nikau Caves & Café. This is a great place to break up the journey – the cave tours are guided and take you through narrow limestone passages lit by hundreds of glowworms. If you’re not up for the underground walk, the café alone is worth the stop. It’s surrounded by farmland and has a peaceful outdoor area that’s perfect for a coffee break. 

Further down the road, Waingaro Hot Springs offers a retro-style pool experience that feels a bit like stepping back in time. With three thermal pools and a hydroslide, it’s a good option for a dip, especially if you’re travelling with kids or the weather’s a bit cooler. 

Once you reach Raglan, head straight to Ngarunui Beach for a walk along the sand or a swim if the tide’s right. This is one of the best beginner surf beaches in the region, and the views from the clifftop car park are a nice way to get your bearings. 

If you’ve got time before dinner, take the short drive inland to Bridal Veil Falls. The walk to the first viewing platform is flat and easy, and if you’re feeling energetic, you can take the stairs down to the base for a closer look at the 55-metre drop. 

Back in town, Raglan Wharf is a good place to end the day. You’ll find art galleries, a few low-key shops, and one of the best spots in town for fish and chips by the water. 

Where to stay in Raglan

Located right by the estuary, Raglan Holiday Park is just a short walk from the centre of town. It’s got everything you need for a comfortable overnight stay, including powered sites and clean facilities, with the bonus of being close to the beach. 

countryside as you make your way from Raglan to the quiet harbour town of Kāwhia. It’s the kind of route where you won’t pass many other vehicles – just a few classic rural landmarks, green hills, and the odd herd of cows. The pace slows down noticeably out here, and by the time you arrive in Kāwhia, you’ll feel like you’ve properly stepped off the beaten track. 

Key stops and attractions

Before you reach Kāwhia, you’ll pass through Te Mata, a small rural village with a peaceful, countryside feel. It’s worth a quick pause if you’re curious about tiny North Island townships – there's not much in the way of facilities, but the setting is beautiful, and it's a good spot to break the drive. 

Once you arrive in Kāwhia, head straight for the hot water beach. At low tide, you can dig your own natural thermal pool in the sand – a simple but very satisfying experience. It’s far less crowded than the Coromandel version, and there’s something special about soaking in the warmth with just the sound of the waves nearby. Just check the tides in advance so you don’t miss your window. 

For a bit of local history, stop in at the Kāwhia Museum. It’s small and community-run, but offers an interesting glimpse into the area’s Māori heritage, early settlers, and maritime past. The staff are friendly and always happy to share a few stories. 

If you’re after something to eat, the Ōparau Roadhouse just before Kāwhia is known for good coffee, proper Kiwi pies, and a few surprises. It's part café, part general store, and part local gathering spot – a great place to get chatting with a local or pick up a few road trip essentials. 

Where to stay in Kāwhia

The popular option for campervan travellers is the Kāwhia Camping Ground, which sits close to the harbour and within walking distance of the beach and town. It’s a simple, peaceful spot with powered sites and everything you need for a comfortable overnight stay. Perfect if you’re keen to take things slow and enjoy the quiet. 

Today’s drive follows State Highway 3 south through the King Country, passing through quiet rural towns and the dramatic gorge at Awakino before reaching the Taranaki coastline. It’s a shorter and more direct route than the inland roads, with changing landscapes and glimpses of the coast as you go. As you get closer to New Plymouth, Mt Taranaki comes into view – a striking presence that signals you’re not far from the city.  

Key stops and attractions

Once you reach New Plymouth, the Coastal Walkway is a great way to get your bearings. This 13-kilometre path follows the edge of the sea, connecting parks, public sculptures, and viewpoints. Even just walking a short section gives you a feel for how closely the city is tied to the coast. 

Not far from the city centre, Pukekura Park offers a quieter contrast. With forested walkways, lakes, and garden areas, it’s a peaceful place to slow down for an hour or two – especially if you’ve had a few days of beach and highway. 

If you’re interested in arts and architecture, the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery is well worth a visit. It’s home to the Len Lye Centre, which showcases kinetic sculptures and experimental film in a space that’s just as bold as the artwork inside. 

If you have time after exploring the city, consider heading out to Ōākura Beach – a wide, black-sand beach popular with locals for swimming and surfing. From there, a further detour takes you to the Cape Egmont Lighthouse, where you can take a short walk to the viewing platform and snap a photo of the lighthouse backed by the mountain. It’s about 40 minutes’ drive, but worth it if you’re chasing one more west coast moment before calling it a day. 

Where to stay in New Plymouth

For a beachside stay, Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park is a great choice with powered sites just steps from the sand. Alternatively, Belt Road Seaside Holiday Park offers panoramic ocean views and direct access to the Coastal Walkway. Both spots are ideal for campervans and make it easy to explore the city on foot. 

Leaving the coast behind, today’s drive takes you through small towns, open countryside, and stretches of quiet road that feel a world away from city traffic. It’s a more relaxed leg of the trip, with a few interesting detours along the way. Whanganui makes for a rewarding end to the day – full of history, creativity, and a strong sense of local pride. 

Key stops and attractions 

South of Hāwera, the town of Pātea is a good first stop. It sits on the banks of the Pātea River and has deep roots in Māori and settler history. While it’s a small place, it played a significant role in the region’s past – and it’s also the birthplace of the iconic Māori song Poi E, which still holds strong cultural significance today. 

About 30 minutes further on, a short detour will take you to Waiinu Beach, a quiet coastal spot with picnic areas and long stretches of black sand. It’s rarely crowded, and a good place to stop for a late morning tea or a bit of time out of the van. 

Once you reach Whanganui, take the time to ride the Durie Hill Elevator – one of only two public underground lifts in the Southern Hemisphere. Built in 1919, it still operates daily and takes you up to the Durie Hill Tower, where you’ll get sweeping views over the city and out to sea. 

If you’re in town on a Saturday morning, swing by the Whanganui River Markets. Set right by the river, it’s a great place to pick up fresh produce, handmade crafts, and hot food from local vendors. There’s usually live music too, which adds to the relaxed weekend vibe. Art lovers should also make time for the Sarjeant Gallery, one of New Zealand’s most important regional galleries.  

Where to stay in Whanganui

Whanganui Seaside Holiday Park offers a quiet location near the beach, with powered sites and easy access to walking tracks and local attractions. For something a little further out, Kai Iwi Beach Holiday Park sits right by the coast and is a great option if you’re after a more relaxed, rural setting for the night. 

Your final day on the road winds through the Kāpiti Coast, with a mix of small-town stops, beach views, and nature walks before arriving in the capital. With less than four hours of driving, there’s time to take things slow, pick your moments, and make the most of the last stretch before city life kicks back in. 

Key stops and attractions

A good first break is in Foxton, where the De Molen Windmill stands tall above the town. This full-size Dutch-style flour mill is fully operational and open to visitors, and it’s surrounded by a cluster of local shops and museums if you want to dig a little deeper into the area’s history. 

As you make your way through Waikanae, the Waikanae Estuary Scientific Reserve offers a great spot to stretch your legs. There’s a short walking track through wetland areas, with plenty of birdlife and a peaceful setting just a few minutes off the main road. 

Further south, Paraparaumu Beach is a good option for a coffee stop or a walk along the sand. On clear days, you’ll get great views of Kāpiti Island, and there are plenty of places nearby to pick up lunch before continuing on. 

Once you reach Wellington, start with the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum. Entry is free, and it’s an easy way to dip into Aotearoa’s natural history, art, and culture – whether you’ve got an hour to spare or the whole afternoon. 

If the weather’s good, drive or walk up to the Mount Victoria Lookout. From the top, you’ll get wide views over the harbour, city centre, and beyond – a great way to get your bearings and take a final look back at where you’ve come from. 

Before calling it a night, wander through the Cuba Street precinct – one of Wellington’s most iconic spots. Lined with vintage shops, galleries, and some of the city’s best food, it’s a great place to wrap up your North Island road trip with something tasty and a bit of atmosphere. 

Where to stay in Wellington

Wellington TOP 10 Holiday Park is a solid option for campervans, with powered sites, good facilities, and space to unwind after your final day on the road. If you’re self-contained and looking for a more flexible setup, freedom camping spots are available in a few designated areas around the city and greater Wellington region. 

Ready to take a road trip from Auckland to Wellington?

From black-sand surf beaches to quiet hot springs and creative little towns, this west coast route offers a side of the North Island that many travellers miss. With short drive times, plenty of campgrounds, and a good mix of coast and culture, it’s the kind of road trip that’s easy to enjoy without overplanning. 

Whether you wrap things up in Wellington or carry on to the South Island, there’s no better way to explore than behind the wheel of a campervan. Book your maui campervan online today and get started on your next New Zealand road trip.