Glaciers in New Zealand
Maori children
Northland, New Zealand
Queen Charlotte Sound
Routeburn Track
Boating in Taupo
Tongariro, New Zealand
Wellington, New Zealand

Driving Route : Auckland - Rotorua - Napier

Start: Auckland
Finish: Napier
Recommended Length: 4 Days
Distance: 457 km (286 miles)

View more Auckland driving routes.

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Route Summary

Travel time is approximate only, based on an average driving speed under normal road conditions.

  Travel Time Km (Miles)
Day 1
Auckland to Hamilton
1.5 hrs 127 79
Day 2
Hamilton to Rotorua
1.5 hrs 110 69
Day 3
Rotorua to Taupo
1 hr 81 51
Day 4
Taupo to Napier
1.75 hrs 139 87
Totals for Driving Route 5.75 hrs 457 286

Thermal Explorer Highway

Thermal Explorer Highway

Journey through the centre of the North Island on the Thermal Explorer Highway. This drive begins in New Zealand's largest city, where marine adventures are a specialty.

A riverside drive takes you to Hamilton, a city known for its gardens, riverboat cruising and free flight aviary.

The antique town of Tirau is an interesting stop on your way to Rotorua, where you can explore geothermal attractions and discover the unique culture of New Zealand's Māori people.

An hour further south is the trout fishing mecca of Taupo, which sits on the edge of New Zealand's largest lake. Your final destination is Napier, a place to enjoy Art Deco architecture and fine wine.

The Thermal Explorer Highway is part of the Great New Zealand Touring Route.

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View more Auckland driving routes.


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Featured
 
New Zealand Coach Tours

New Zealand Coach Tours

The largest range of escorted & small group tours

New Zealand road trips - Let's go on an adventure

New Zealand Road Trips

Let's go on an adventure

New Zealand self-drive tours

NZ Self-Drive Tours

Explore NZ on a custom self-drive package holiday

Bluebridge Ferry

Bluebridge Cook Strait ferries

Cross Cook Strait and enjoy Kiwi hospitality.

World Nomads Travel Insurance

Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance for independent travellers.