North Island Road Trip: Unmissable Stops for Budget Travelers

There’s no more thrilling way to explore the beauty of a region than to see it first hand on the road. Buckle up for an epic adventure as we guide you around the North Island/Te Ika-a-Māui on this action-packed road trip, taking you past all the best and budget eats, scenery and activities. 

An island as beautiful as it is large, you won’t be hard-pressed to discover stunning scenery as you make your way across the North Island. Beginning in Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau and finishing in Wellington/Te Whanganui a Tara, this awesome road trip guide is the only map you need to make your way across the island in your Thrifty rental car, with plenty of spectacular and affordable action along the way! 

All Aboard the Adventure in Auckland 

Not only is Auckland the easiest place to begin your epic adventure because of its position near the northern tip of the North Island—it’s also the largest city in New Zealand/Aotearoa, so you’ve got a plethora of options of directions to start your journey. The most thrilling direction is towards Lake Taupō via the scenic Thermal Explorer Highway. An island famous for its natural wonders, Taupō is the perfect place to experience some of these beasts of nature firsthand. A hotspot of geothermal activity throughout the region, Taupō will stun with its collection of geysers, hot springs and mud lagoons. While Orakei Korako Cave and Geothermal Park is the most famous of these attractions, it’s also the most expensive. For a cheaper option, check out Craters of the Moon Geothermal Walk. If your muscles are feeling weary after all that adventuring, make sure to pay a visit to the natural Otumuheke Stream at Spa Thermal Park—this free natural geothermal stream makes for a perfect relaxing end to an epic day. 

Turn the Adrenaline Up a Notch in Taranaki 

If you’re on the hunt for awesome views and thrilling activities around the North Island, we’ve got just the stop for you! Taranaki, located on the western coast of the North Island, is a hotspot of scenic adventure, with the Surf 45 Highway the best way to get a taste of this incredible region. Follow the highway around the western tip for panoramic views of the seemingly endless Tasman Sea that stretches out before you. They say the best things in life are free, and this view is truly testament to that! For when you’re wanting to get out of your car and begin adventuring on foot, there’s no going past an opportunity to explore the majestic Mount Taranaki. Egmont National Park/Te Papakura o Taranaki is an enormous stretch of natural beauty that delights with everything from waterfalls to rainforests encompassing the area around the country’s famous most-perfectly formed volcano. The best way to make the most of this adventure is by following the Pouākai Circuit’s Pouākai Crossing Track, a thrilling one day walk that delivers picture-perfect views. All that adventure is sure to make you hungry, so when you’re looking for a place to take it easy with a good feed, make sure to check out the coastal town of New Plymouth. If a juicy burger sounds great to you, Serial Griller is a must-try. For coffee and snacks with a twist, try Escape Coffee Roasters and Cafe, where you can even enjoy your brunch and then try a whirl of their very own indoor skate bowl! 

Discover a Different Side to Wellington 

As you continue to head further south down the North Island, don’t start wrapping up your adventures yet, because you’ve still got some unmissable activities ahead of you. Wellington may be the country’s capital city, but don’t be fooled by all the hustle and bustle—there’s an adventurous side to Wellington, too. Head down to the Wellington Waterfront to get a taste of fresh ocean air, and make sure to follow the bay all around. Mount Victoria Lookout is another gem in Wellington’s crown of jewels. This majestic mountain delivers sweeping city views that encapsulate the beauty of the thriving city as it stretches out into the land and ocean that surrounds it. What better way to both get a good dose of thrill from high above, all while appreciating the adventure you’ve completed! 

Whether it’s following the scenic coastline in your Thrifty rental car, climbing a historic volcano or getting a taste of city life, the North Island has a bucket load of stops that you can discover on this ultimate road trip—all without breaking the bank!