New Zealand's North Island self-drive tour

Today you join an excursion that takes you to the hidden spots of Auckland city, the rugged Waitakere Ranges, just outside of Auckland, and then on to the beautiful black sand beaches of the western shores. Your Māori guide will explain the cultural significance of the area on this fascinating day out.

You collect a hire car from the downtown depot this morning and make your way to the Coromandel Peninsula. You can either take the more direct route through the mountain ranges of the Coromandel Peninsula, which takes around two and a half hours, or drive the longer coastal road to see the stunning coastline and stop in at the Coromandel Mussel Kitchen for lunch, then visit Stuart and his wild pigs on the 309 road. The coastal drive takes around five hours but is not to be missed.

You have today at leisure to enjoy the Coromandel area. Don't miss Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove. If you took the direct road over yesterday we suggest exploring the coastal road today.

Make your way along the Bay of Plenty to Whakatane where you will spend the day exploring the town.

Today spend the day exploring Whakatane that is known its fishing, walking trails and hot springs.

You make your way through scenic Waioeka Gorge today across to the southern coast, and the laid-back town of Gisborne.

Enjoy a day at leisure exploring some of the beautiful white sand beaches along the eastern coast. This is a great place to try your hand at surfing.

Make your way along the coast to Hastings in the Hawke's Bay wine region today. This evening you will enjoy the best wine tour in the area, where you visit several wineries. You will be served a tasting menu dinner throughout the evening, with one course accompanied by beautifully paired wines at each location.

A day at leisure to enjoy the Art Deco city of Napier and the surrounding vineyards of Hawke's Bay. You may like to join an Art Deco tour of the town or visit the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers.

You head inland today to the volcanic interior of the North Island, and three peaks of Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu that make up Tongariro National Park.

You have a day at leisure and, weather permitting, may like to try the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing walk today. For something less strenuous take a more leisurely stroll in the National Park or ride the chair-lift up to the top for some spectacular views.

You journey along the 'Forgotten World Highway' today, a scenic drive through some very rural landscapes which brings you out on the eastern side of Taranaki (Egmont) National Park.

Enjoy a day exploring the slopes of Mount Taranaki, or enjoying views of the volcano from the beaches around New Plymouth.

Today you make your way to Waitomo, and take a tour around the famous Glowworm Caves.

Make your way to Auckland airport today and return your hire car as you join your international flight.