Driving Route : Auckland - Rotorua - Napier
| Start: | Auckland |
| Finish: | Napier |
| Recommended Length: | 4 Days |
| Distance: | 457 km (286 miles) |
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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
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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