Day 1: Auckland to Hamilton – Gardens & Glowworms
Distance: ~125 km (~1.5-hour drive)
Start your Thermal Explorer Route from Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, and head south towards Hamilton.
Key Stops & Attractions:
- Hobbiton Movie Set (Matamata) – Take a guided tour through the famous Lord of the Rings movie set.
- Hamilton Gardens – A world-renowned collection of themed gardens.
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves – Explore the magical caves with a boat tour by Waitomo Adventures or try a thrilling Black Water Rafting experience.
Where to Stay in Hamilton:
- Luxury: Novotel Tainui Hamilton – Riverside 4-star comfort.
- Mid-range: Quest Hamilton – Self-contained apartments.
- Budget: Juno Hall Backpackers – Close to Waitomo Caves.
Where to Eat:
- Zealong Tea Estate – New Zealand’s only tea plantation with a stunning high tea experience.
- Good George Brewing – Try locally crafted beers and hearty meals.
Day 2: Hamilton to Rotorua – Geothermal Wonders & Māori Culture
Distance: ~110 km (~1.5-hour drive)
Drive towards Rotorua, the heart of New Zealand’s geothermal and Māori cultural experiences.
Key Stops & Attractions:
- Te Puia – Witness the famous Pōhutu Geyser and Māori cultural performances.
- Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland – Explore colorful geothermal pools, including the Champagne Pool.
- Polynesian Spa – Soak in natural hot mineral pools with a stunning lake view.
- Redwoods Treewalk – Walk among towering California Redwoods on an illuminated nighttime walk.
Where to Stay in Rotorua:
- Luxury: Pullman Rotorua – Upscale hotel with modern amenities.
- Mid-range: Prince’s Gate Boutique Hotel – Charming historic accommodation.
- Budget: Rock Solid Backpackers – Budget-friendly with climbing wall access.
Where to Eat:
- Atticus Finch – Fusion dishes and great cocktails.
- Eat Streat – A vibrant dining hub with multiple options.
Day 3: Rotorua to Taupō – Lakes & Hot Springs
Distance: ~80 km (~1-hour drive)
Continue your Thermal Explorer Route to Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake, surrounded by geothermal activity and adventure sports.
Key Stops & Attractions:
- Huka Falls – See the powerful waterfall where 220,000 liters of water rush per second.
- Orakei Korako – A hidden geothermal valley with colorful terraces and bubbling mud pools.
- Spa Thermal Park & Otumuheke Stream – Relax in free natural hot pools by the Waikato River.
- Taupō Bungy & Swing – Try New Zealand’s highest water-touch bungy jump.
Where to Stay in Taupō:
- Luxury: Hilton Lake Taupō – Stunning lake views and a thermal pool.
- Mid-range: Suncourt Hotel & Conference Centre – Comfortable with an on-site restaurant.
- Budget: Finlay Jack’s Backpackers – Great for budget travelers.
Where to Eat:
- The Brantry Eatery – A local favorite for fine dining.
- L’Arte Café – Famous for its unique mosaic artworks and delicious food.
Day 4: Taupō to Napier – Wine Country & Art Deco Charm
Distance: ~140 km (~2-hour drive)
Head east through rolling countryside to Napier, the heart of Hawke’s Bay wine country and famous for its Art Deco architecture.
Key Stops & Attractions:
- Waipunga Falls – A scenic stop for a quick waterfall photo.
- Hawke’s Bay Wineries – Visit Mission Estate Winery or Craggy Range for wine tastings.
- Napier Art Deco Tour – Learn about the 1931 earthquake and the city’s iconic Art Deco design.
- Te Mata Peak – Enjoy panoramic views over vineyards and coastlines.
Where to Stay in Napier:
- Luxury: The Dome – Elegant boutique apartments with ocean views.
- Mid-range: Art Deco Masonic Hotel – A stylish heritage stay.
- Budget: YHA Napier – A great budget-friendly option.
Where to Eat:
- Bistronomy – Creative modern dining using local ingredients.
- Emporium Eatery & Bar – Art Deco-style dining with delicious cocktails.
Day 5: Explore Hawke’s Bay
Spend a full day exploring Napier and the wider Hawke’s Bay region, famous for its food, wine, and nature.
Must-Do Activities:
- Cycle the Hawke’s Bay Wine Trail – Rent a bike and visit wineries at your own pace.
- Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony – See the world’s largest mainland gannet colony.
- Farmers’ Market (Hastings – Sundays only) – Browse fresh produce and artisan goods.
Day 6: Napier to Taupō (Return Stop) – Adventure & Relaxation
Distance: ~140 km (~2-hour drive)
On the way back, stop at places you may have missed or revisit favorite spots.
Additional Activities:
- Aratiatia Rapids – Watch the dam release massive torrents of water (scheduled releases daily).
- Wairakei Terraces – Enjoy more hot springs in a quieter setting.
Stay another night in Taupō before heading back to Auckland.
Day 7: Taupō to Auckland – Scenic Return
Distance: ~280 km (~3.5-hour drive)
End your Thermal Explorer Route by driving back to Auckland.
Optional Stops:
- Blue Spring – Te Waihou Walkway (Putāruru) – A stunning natural spring with crystal-clear water.
- Cambridge – A charming town with great cafés and horse-breeding heritage.