Wellington - Taupo - Wellington

Overview
Day 1 : Wellington to Martinborough
Day 2 : Martinborough to Palmerston North
Day 3 : Palmerston North to New Plymouth
Day 4 : New Plymouth to Waitomo Caves
Day 5 : Waitomo Caves to Taupo
Day 6 : Taupo to Turangi
Day 7 : Turangi to Wellington

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Day 1 : Palmerston North to New Plymouth

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

	Travel Time	Km	(Miles)
Palmerston North - Whanganui	1 hr	72	45
Whanganui - New Plymouth	2 hrs	166	104
Totals for Day	3 hrs	238	149

Palmerston North - Whanganui

72 km (45 miles)
Approximately 1 hour
Road Conditions: State Highway

One of New Zealand's largest provincial cities, Palmerston North has an attractive historic heart. Many of the original stores built in the 1920s and 1930s have been restored and now function as boutiques, cafes and restaurants. Rose gardens and museums should also be on your agenda of things to see.

On the short drive to Whanganui, you'll enjoy refreshing farmland and river scenery. Pause in the town of Bulls if you're interested in antiques. In nearby Marton, a maze is cut into a field of maize every summer.

The picturesque river city of Whanganui has a long history. Take time to explore the restored heritage areas, then check out the various options for an expedition on the river. You can also take the tunnel and elevator to the top of Durie Hill, for commanding views of the city and surrounding countryside. A number of private gardens in and around Whanganui are open to visitors.

Whanganui - New Plymouth

166 km (104 miles)
Approximately 2 hours
Road Conditions: State Highway

The picturesque river city of Whanganui has a long history. Take time to explore the restored heritage areas, then check out the various options for an expedition on the river.

As the road heads west, interesting townships pop up regularly. Keep an eye out for small museums and quirky art shops. The rural centre of Hawera is home to New Zealand's largest milk factory and an interactive dairy farming attraction.

At Hawera it's time to make a choice. You can follow the 'Surf Highway' around Cape Egmont and have a beach view all the way. Or you can take the inland route via Stratford and enjoy the green serenity of farmland. Either way, the dramatic volcanic cone of Mt Taranaki will dominate the landscape for much of your journey. The forested lower slopes of the mountain are laced with walking tracks.

The city of New Plymouth is known for its beautiful parks and gardens. It also has a strong arts focus, so check out the current exhibitions.