14 Day North Island Itinerary: Auckland Round Trip via Wellington for the Faultline Ultra Marathon

Ease into your road trip with a short hop to the black sands and rainforest of Auckland’s west coast. The winding climb over the Waitākere Ranges feels a world away from the city, with kauri and nīkau crowding the roadside and the Tasman Sea flashing between ridgelines. Park up and breathe in the salt air, then lace up for your first taste of North Island trail time. 

Where to stop between Auckland and Piha 

Things to do in Piha 

Hike or run the Kitekite Falls track through lush bush to a tiered waterfall and swim beneath the cascades if it is warm. Wander Piha Beach, watch surfers dance with the break, and climb partway up Lion Rock for a coastal outlook. If your legs need a shakeout run, the Tasman Lookout Track is short, steep and satisfying. 

Where to stay in Piha 

Piha Campground (Piha Domain) sits a short stroll from the beach, with flat powered sites and the sound of waves to lull you to sleep. It is a convenient base for early walks and late golden hour beach time. 

Cross back through Auckland and head for the old gold country at the base of the Coromandel. Today is all about river gorges, railway tunnels and a mellow beach town to rest up in. The scenery shifts from rainforest to rolling farmland and vine-clad valleys. 

Where to stop between Piha and Waihi Beach 

Stretch your legs in Karangahake Gorge on the Windows Walk, a family friendly loop that threads through historic tunnels with views into the gorge below. Pause at Owharoa Falls for a photo and picnic. If time allows, circle Waihi’s Martha Mine Pit Rim Walkway for a fascinating look into the region’s mining past. 

Things to do in Waihi Beach 

Settle into a late afternoon swim or beach run along the wide, gentle sand. Wander into the village for fish and chips or a casual bistro dinner, then catch a soft pastel sunset over the Pacific. Early risers can greet the next day with an oceanfront jog beneath pōhutukawa trees. 

Where to stay in Waihi Beach

Tasman Holiday Parks Waihi Beach offers powered sites close to the water, a relaxed vibe, and great facilities for post run recovery. It is an easy base for exploring the southern Coromandel in the morning. 

Hug the coast north toward the Coromandel’s famous coves and hot sands. The driving is scenic but short, leaving much of the day free for beach time and short hikes. Keep your camera ready for teal water and craggy headlands. 

Where to stop between Waihi Beach and Hahei 

Pause in Whangamatā for coffee and a beach stroll, then continue to Tairua. If you fancy a leg burner, the short summit track up Paku offers sweeping views across the estuary and offshore islands. 

Things to do in Hahei 

Time your visit to Hot Water Beach for low tide and dig your own thermal spa in the sand. If the Cathedral Cove walking track is open during your visit, it is a rewarding coastal stroll to an iconic natural arch. Alternatively, join a local boat or kayak tour to access the cove and sea caves from the water. Hahei itself is perfect for relaxed swims and sunset picnics. 

Where to stay in Hahei 

Hahei Beach Resort sits beside the sand, making sunrise swims and late night stargazing as easy as stepping outside your camper. If you prefer to be nearer the hot pools, Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park is a convenient alternative. 

Say goodbye to the sea and roll inland to the geothermal heart of the North Island. Steam vents curl from roadside gullies, lakes gleam between hills, and the scent of mineral pools hangs in the air. Rotorua is a playground for mountain bikers, trail runners and hot spring soakers. 

Where to stop between Hahei and Rotorua 

Break the journey at Mount Maunganui for a quick coastal walk or a gentle trot around the base track of Mauao. Near Rotorua, the Ōkere Falls Track in the Ōkere Falls Scenic Reserve threads past a series of rapids on the Kaituna River and makes a great leg stretch. 

Things to do in Rotorua 

Head straight for the Redwoods in Whakarewarewa Forest. Whether you ride the world class mountain bike trails or jog under soaring Californian redwoods on soft, pine needle paths, it is a tonic for restless legs. Explore a geothermal valley, wander the bubbling mud pools of Kuirau Park, then finish with a restorative soak at a local hot pool complex. In the evening, consider a cultural performance and hāngī style dinner to connect with Māori stories and traditions. 

Where to stay in Rotorua 

Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park is close to the Redwoods and offers onsite hot pools, roomy sites and easy access to town. It is ideal for gear rinses, early trail starts and end of day soaks. 

A short, scenic drive brings you to New Zealand’s largest lake, framed by volcanic peaks. With minimal time on the road, you can pack in waterfalls, geothermal wonders and a lake cruise, or simply relax by the water and watch the world go by. 

Where to stop between Rotorua and Taupō 

Call in at a geothermal park en route to marvel at steaming terraces and neon pools, then stop at Huka Falls to feel the thunder of the turquoise Waikato River as it funnels through a narrow rock chasm. If your timing aligns, catch the Aratiatia Rapids release for another dramatic water show. 

Things to do in Taupō 

Take a scenic cruise or kayak tour to the Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay, then stroll the lakeside path or spin along a section of the Great Lake Trail. Runners will love the flat lakefront for an easy tempo session. Cafés line the town center for brunch, coffee and lake views. 

Where to stay in Taupō 

Taupō DeBretts Spa Resort offers powered sites and access to mineral pools, ideal for recovery. Alternatively, a lakeside holiday park near town keeps you close to dining and the sunset lit shoreline. 

Use a full day to venture into volcano country. The Central Plateau’s lava landscapes and alpine tussock feel wild, yet there are options for every fitness level. Choose a half day hike, a short trail run or a relaxed soak back at the lake. 

Things to do in Taupō and Tongariro 

Drive south to Tongariro National Park for the Taranaki Falls track, a classic loop with beech forest, open alpine views and a curtain waterfall. Experienced walkers may opt for longer routes in settled weather, while runners can sample shorter segments of the park’s great walks. On the way back, ease into Tokaanu Thermal Pools for a quiet soak. 

Where to stay in Taupō 

Return to your Taupō base for a low key evening. A lakeside campsite keeps sunrise swims and morning jogs within easy reach. 

Climb out of Taupō and descend through rugged hill country to Hawke’s Bay, where vineyards meet art deco seafronts. The drive is beautiful and swift, which means more time for tastings, viewpoints and coastal walks. 

Where to stop between Taupō and Napier 

Pull in at Waipunga Falls lookout for a quick photo stop as twin streams drop into a forested gorge. As you approach the coast, detour to a cellar door for a tasting and light lunch among the vines. 

Things to do in Napier 

Stroll Napier’s art deco streets, shaped by the 1930s rebuild after the earthquake. Head to Te Mata Peak near Havelock North for sweeping views and a network of tracks for hiking or hill reps. Wildlife lovers can book a guided seasonal trip to Cape Kidnappers or Te Kauwae a Māui to view the gannet colony, noting that access is seasonal and can be restricted for safety. 

Where to stay in Napier 

Westshore Holiday Park places you near the water and cycleways while keeping the city center handy. Kennedy Park Resort is another comfortable option with ample facilities for families and groups. 

Today you cut inland across classic sheep and cattle country toward the Manawatū. The scenery is all big skies, braided rivers and wind turbines, and the driving is gentle. It is a great reset before the capital city buzz to come. 

Where to stop between Napier and Palmerston North 

Break in Waipukurau for coffee, then continue to the Te Āpiti wind farm viewpoints at the Manawatū Gorge for a short lookout walk and photos. If time allows, visit the Tui Brewery in Mangatainoka for a bite and a peek at a local icon. 

Things to do in Palmerston North 

Stretch your legs along the Manawatū River Pathway or explore the Victoria Esplanade’s gardens and aviaries. The compact city center has plenty of cafés for an early dinner, and the flat paths make for a relaxed taper jog. 

Where to stay in Palmerston North 

Palmerston North Holiday Park sits near the river, making morning runs simple and traffic free. Sites are spacious and it is an easy drive to rejoin the highway south. 

Roll down the Kāpiti Coast into New Zealand’s vibrant capital. Ocean views appear beside the highway and island silhouettes sit on the horizon. Plan to arrive early to collect race packs if you are competing, scout the course vibe or nab a waterfront table for carb loading. 

Where to stop between Palmerston North and Wellington 

Pause in Waikanae for coffee and a beach stroll, or visit Ngā Manu Nature Reserve for close encounters with native birds in leafy surrounds. If the weather is fine, stretch your legs on the easy coastal paths at Paraparaumu or Paekākāriki. 

Things to do in Wellington 

Walk the waterfront from Te Papa to Oriental Bay and soak in the city’s creative energy. Ride the historic Cable Car to the Botanic Garden, then wander downhill through sculptures and roses. Later, sample the capital’s famous coffee culture and eclectic dining on Cuba Street. 

Where to stay in Wellington 

Wellington TOP 10 Holiday Park in Lower Hutt offers roomy sites, public transport links and space to prep gear. For a coastal feel without moving camp, plan your runs along the flat Bays waterfront around Lyall Bay. Full service holiday parks are limited near Lyall Bay itself, so most travellers base in Lower Hutt and day trip into the city. 

If your visit aligns with the Faultline Ultra weekend, lean into the event as a runner, crew or cheer squad. The city’s network of ridgeline and bush tracks delivers a true trail celebration with big views across the harbour and quick transitions from native forest to windswept tops. Not in town on race day? Build your own trail sampler on sections of those same skyline routes for a taste of the course vibe. 

Things to do in Wellington 

If you are racing, keep it simple: hydrate, rest, and soak up the community atmosphere. Spectators can pick vantage points on the skyline trails or cheer at key aid stations, then meet their runner at the finish. Later, explore Te Papa’s main galleries, which are free for New Zealand residents. International visitors may have a general entry fee, and special exhibitions can be ticketed. Or recharge among birdsong in Zealandia, a pioneering urban eco sanctuary just minutes from town. 

Where to stay in Wellington 

Stay a second night at your Wellington base. You will appreciate the short drive back to camp after a big day on the feet and the chance to sleep in before heading north. 

Point the camper up the west coast for a relaxed recovery day. The route traces sandy beaches and market garden towns before turning inland to the Whanganui River. Gentle walks, heritage sites and riverside sunsets set the pace today. 

Where to stop between Wellington and Whanganui 

Break at Raumati or Paraparaumu for a beach stroll and coffee, then continue to Foxton Beach to watch kites on the sand. If you are curious about classic cars, the Southward Car Museum is an easy detour earlier in the drive. 

Things to do in Whanganui 

Explore the riverside path on foot or by bike, ride the historic Durie Hill Elevator and climb the Memorial Tower for views across town. Virginia Lake offers a flat loop through gardens and birdlife, perfect for an easy spin after race day. 

Where to stay in Whanganui 

Whanganui River TOP 10 Holiday Park gives you leafy sites, quiet nights and direct access to riverside walks. It is a comfortable stop before tomorrow’s coastal drive into Taranaki. 

Follow the Surf Highway along the Tasman Sea, with Mount Taranaki’s near perfect cone appearing ahead like a compass point. This is a day of beaches, lighthouses and subalpine trails if the weather cooperates. The roads are smooth and the views get bigger with every bend. 

Where to stop between Whanganui and New Plymouth 

Pause at Pātea Beach for a sand and sea break, then consider the excellent Tawhiti Museum near Hāwera for immersive regional history. Farther on, a short detour to Cape Egmont Lighthouse delivers classic photo ops of the mountain rising above the coast. 

Things to do in New Plymouth 

Walk or run a section of the award winning Coastal Walkway past surf breaks, sculptures and wide sea views. If conditions are settled, drive to Te Papa Kura o Taranaki for a short hike such as Wilkies Pools or Dawson Falls among lush forest and rivers. In town, Puke Ariki and Pukekura Park add a dose of culture and calm. 

Where to stay in New Plymouth 

Belt Road Seaside Holiday Park offers clifftop views and quick access to the Coastal Walkway. Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park is another great choice for surfy sunrises and easy rides or runs right from camp. 

Turn inland through green hill country dotted with sheep and limestone bluffs. Today is a gentle drive that delivers you to one of New Zealand’s most magical underground worlds. Save energy for an afternoon cave tour or glowworm cruise. 

Where to stop between New Plymouth and Waitomo 

Detour to Tongapōrutu at low tide to view the Three Sisters rock formations and sea caves, or continue to Mokau for coffee with ocean views. For waterfalls and karst close to Waitomo, consider Mangapōhue Natural Bridge and Marokopa Falls. Mount Damper Falls is a beautiful option too, but it is a longer detour north of State Highway 3 and best tackled only if you have extra time. 

Things to do in Waitomo 

Join a guided tour through the famed glowworm caves and drift beneath starry bioluminescence. Adventurous travelers can opt for black water rafting through underground streams, while families might prefer easy walking tours with stories of stalactites and stalagmites. Afterwards, wander farmland trails above ground for soft sunset light over karst country. 

Where to stay in Waitomo 

Waitomo TOP 10 Holiday Park provides spacious sites, a pool and hot tub, and easy access to cave tour check in points. For something quirky, book a spot at a nearby themed holiday park set among fields and native trees. 

Glide north through the Waikato’s dairy heartland back to the City of Sails. It is a smooth final leg, with time for one or two leisurely stops before you return your motorhome. If you are not quite ready for the adventure to end, add a last garden or harbour stroll. 

Where to stop between Waitomo and Auckland 

Visit the Otorohanga Kiwi House to see New Zealand’s iconic nocturnal birds and other native wildlife, or wander the themed landscapes at Hamilton Gardens for a peaceful horticultural finale. If you prefer a coastal detour and time allows, drop into Raglan for coffee and a short boardwalk stroll beside the estuary. 

Things to do in Auckland 

With time to spare, walk up Maungawhau Mount Eden for a city and harbour panorama, or wander the waterfront from Wynyard Quarter to the Viaduct for lunch. The Domain’s leafy paths make a final easy run, then it is a short hop to the branch for drop off. 

Where to stay in Auckland 

If you are spending an extra night, Takapuna Beach Holiday Park offers sites beside the sand with Rangitoto views and quick access to the North Shore’s eateries. Otherwise, return your camper at the Auckland branch and toast a loop well driven. 

From black sand to glowworm glow, high ridgelines to hot pools, this 14 day loop is built for travellers who want to move, explore and soak it all in. Time your visit to line up with the Faultline Ultra weekend or simply go to cheer, then keep chasing New Zealand’s big views and small town charm all the way back to Auckland. Ready to make it your own? Book your Britz campervan online today.