9 Tage
North Island Beaches to Mountains + Waterfalls - 9 Day Itinerary
What you'll do
This itinerary is the ultimate way to experience some of the best North Island beaches, mountains and waterfalls on a 9 day journey across the upper and central North Island, a route I have taken on many of my own personal photography trips. The photos speak for themselves and I can't think of a better way to explore the white sandy coastlines of the North Island as well as the volcanic and mountainous terrain of the Central Plateau than by going to these favourite spots of mine.
This adventure will take you from Auckland to the incredible coastal Coromandel Region, down to the Bay of Plenty, then on to volcanic regions of Rotorua and Taupo, across to the Central Plateau mountains, back up to the magical little town of Raglan stopping by Hobbiton on the way, and then finishing in Auckland covering some of the most incredible photo locations New Zealand has to offer.
This itinerary is designed if you are travelling in a campervan or self driving on a budget.
Day 1
Start your journey by collecting your rental car and/or camper (if required) and heading to the supermarket to grab food supplies. It is usually cheaper to shop in the bigger cities like Auckland.
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Britz Campervans Auckland
Explore NZ by camper from Auckland
Britz is the perfect choice for unforgettable holidays and experiences in New Zealand. With 35 years of experience, 14,000+ customer reviews, local pickup from branches across NZ, Covid-clean standards and expressions return packs on offer, Britz Campervan hire can provide you and your family with peace of mind for your next getaway. Our wide range of vehicles, from 2 berth Venturers to 6 berth Frontiers, are all self contained and include all the mod-cons you’ll need to make your stay comfortable and convenient. So why wait? Get moving with extraordinary prices today and kickstart a unique adventure with Britz Campervan hire!
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Omega Rental Cars - Auckland Airport Car Hire
Car rental from Auckland Airport
Looking for affordable and reliable car hire at Auckland Airport? Look no further than Omega Rental Cars! With a modern fleet of well-maintained vehicles, including economy sedans and luxury SUVs, Omega offers competitive rates with no hidden charges. Their convenient shuttle service from the airport terminal to their depot makes picking up your rental car a breeze. Plus, with unlimited kilometre rates, free additional drivers, and excellent customer service, Omega is the go-to choice for stress-free car rental in Auckland.
Although we are starting in Auckland, we're actually going to drive out of the city and head to Coromandel and experience Auckland on the way back.
Drive to Waiau Falls Coromandel (2 hours 40 minutes)
Wasserfall
Waiau Falls Coromandel
Stunning waterfall in the Coromandel
The Waiau Falls in the Coromandel are easily accessed off the 309 Road. The 309 Road becomes gravel part way through and then the falls are located about 4km down the road from there.
Although the Waiau Falls are not the tallest or largest of falls .. this site makes for a beautiful photograph and the swimming hole at the bottom of the falls is a popular place for a dip during the summer time.
There is a clear path to the falls and the track takes about 20 minutes return.
About 1km further up the road you can view the Waiau Kauri Grove which is home to giant ancient Kauri Trees that were spared from logging in the 1970's. These trees are a magnificent sight and well worth a stop to admire.
Take your wide angle with you for this shot and if you have ND filters for long exposure photography this is a great spot to use them.
After checking out the falls head to the Waiau Kauri Trees (5 min)
Besichtigung
Waiau Kauri Grove Coromandel
Majestic kauri giants in forest
The Waiau Kauri Grove is a must-visit spot in Coromandel Town, New Zealand. Just off the 309 Road, this hidden gem boasts majestic kauri giants that tower above the forest canopy. You can take a short walk to marvel at these ancient trees, which are a special part of The Coromandel's natural heritage.
For centuries, the Giant Kauri Trees stood as pillars of New Zealand's native forests, revered by indigenous Māori and early settlers alike. However, the demand for Kauri timber during the 19th and early 20th centuries led to extensive logging operations that significantly depleted these ancient forests. This exploitation not only altered the landscape irreversibly but also had devastating ecological consequences, endangering countless species dependent on these forests for survival.
This small patch of Kauri Trees in the Waiau Grove are some of the last in the area and were saved in the 1970's but locals who protested felling them and the government finally gave in and left them standing.
Don't forget to use the wash stations to protect these ancient treasures.
For photography take your wide angle (16-35mm) lens with you and a tripod for the low light conditions.
Head to The Pepper Tree for lunch
Restaurant
Pepper Tree Restaurant and Bar Coromandel
Fresh seafood & modern NZ cuisine
Located in the heart of Coromandel Township, Pepper Tree Restaurant and Bar offers a unique dining experience with a focus on fresh local seafood and award-winning modern New Zealand cuisine. Whether you're soaking up the sun in the courtyard during summer or cozying up next to the open fire in winter, this restaurant provides a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for enjoying delicious food and drinks. Fully licensed and open 7 days a week, Pepper Tree is a must-visit spot for those looking to savor the flavors of the region in a welcoming setting.
For the afternoon head to Whangapoua (25 mins from Coromandel Town) to check out the beach. Take the walk over to New Chums Beach. Be sure to stop at the New Chums Beach lookout on the way back for sunset.
Besichtigung
Whangapoua Beach Coromandel
Stunning beach with crystal-clear waters
Whangapoua Beach is a stunning spot on the Coromandel Peninsula, known for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. It's a great place to chill out, catch some rays, and take a dip in the ocean. Plus, if you're up for a little adventure, you can explore nearby Opera Point for some shady relaxation or head over to New Chums Beach for a more secluded vibe. Overall, Whangapoua Beach is the perfect place to unwind and soak up some Kiwi beach vibes.
If you're planning to head over to New Chums Beach, just drive right to the end of Mangakahia Road where the New Chums Carpark is. You can access Whangapoua Beach from here also and chill out before taking the quick walk over the hill.
For photography I am yet to photograph Whangapoua Beach at sunrise or sunset but sunrise would be the better option with it rising on the east and showering the beach in golden light. Take your wide angle lens (16-35mm) with you for this spot.
Photospot
New Chums Beach Coromandel
Spectacular secluded beach and lookout
New Chums Beach is a stunning and secluded Coromandel beach located near Whangapoua. Voted one of the worlds top 10 beaches, it is one of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches on the planet, and for good reason. Golden sand beaches, native bush, red flowering Pohutukawa trees in the summer and turquoise blue water where dolphins can be seen playing in the waves all year round .. New Chums Beach truly is one of the best Coromandel beaches on offer.
New Chums Beach is only accessible on foot, via a 30 minute walk over rocks and boulders, and then through native bush to reach the beach, adding to its charm and seclusion. The walk itself is an experience in its own right, with beautiful scenery and a diverse range of flora and fauna to admire along the way.
For photography, around the halfway point along the track to New Chums Beach, there is a track leading up to Motuto Point which is a magical spot at sunset and sunrise. It looks over the coast from above and gives a stunning perspective of the beach. However, this track is not for the faint hearted as it is very steep and requires a lot of climbing, even for such a short track. Do this at your own risk.
Check in to your accommodation at either Whangapoua, Matarangi or Kuaotunu (all within 30 minutes)
Campingplatz
Whangapoua Holiday Park Coromandel
Camping and campervan parking near New Chums
Whangapoua Holiday Park is the perfect spot for a getaway in the charming and picturesque Coromandel Peninsula of New Zealand. With large tents and powered sites, this relaxed family-friendly park boasts trees and shrubbery throughout, giving it a natural and inviting atmosphere. The kitchen is equipped with all you would need to prepare meals, BBQs are on the communal deck and there is a children's playground for hours of fun. The nearby beaches are stunning, making trips away easy and stress-free. Whether you're camping, glamping, caravaning or in a cozy cabin, Whangapoua Holiday Park is the ideal summer destination.
Hotel
Coromandel Luxury Escapes Matarangi
Boutique glamping by the water
Coromandel Luxury Escapes offers a boutique glamping experience where you can enjoy the basic necessities with a touch of luxury. Nestled on the edge of Matarangi Harbour, you'll have uninterrupted views of the Coromandel ranges and be just a stone's throw from the water's edge. It's the ultimate escape for those looking to relax and unwind in a beautiful coastal setting.
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Kuaotunu Campground Coromandel
Relaxing holiday on NZ's coast
Kuaotunu Campground is a great place to spend a holiday on the stunning Coromandel coastline of New Zealand. The campground is located right across the road from a beautiful ocean beach, and guests are invited to explore the 1.8 hectares of park-like surroundings, making it an ideal spot for active adventurers. There are kayaks available for hire, and a modern fish cleaning area with boat wash facilities. For those looking for a more relaxed experience there are self-contained cabins and caravans and motorhomes are welcome. Facilities include a communal kitchen, toilet/shower facilities and laundry, as well as an outdoor covered barbecue area. Enjoy great days at the beach followed by evenings of relaxation under the stars in this picturesque campground.