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Planning a road trip from Auckland to Hawkes Bay is exciting, but it can be stressful, especially if you aren’t sure where to stop or what sights to enjoy. Although the drive itself is only 451 km and takes around 5 and a half hours, there is so much to see and do along the way that you should consider dedicating an entire weekend to the trip. But where should you stop along your drive? That’s what we are here to tell you!
Today, we bring you the 10 sights that you should see on your road trip from Auckland to Hawkes Bay, helping you to plan your itinerary and ensure that you don’t miss any gems on your road trip!
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
First up, we have the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, a series of geysers and pools that have been made over thousands of years. They are an incredible sight to behold, with the Lady Knox Geyser that can reach heights of up to 20 meters. The mud pools are worth checking out too, situated on the site of a previously large mud volcano.
You can take tours throughout the day to learn more about this thermal wonderland and the science behind it. There is also a gift shop and an on-site cafe where you can purchase souvenirs and refuel before the next leg of your journey.
Te Puia
You can find Te Puia in the Te Whakarewarewa Valley, where it’s home to the famous mud pools, hot springs, and the Pohutu geyser. You can spend hours marvelling at this natural beauty, with boardwalks that allow you to walk through and see the geyser and hot springs up close!
This is also the perfect spot for arts and crafts lovers, as it is home to the National Wood Carving School, National Stone and Bone Carving School, and the National Weaving School. It is also home to the Kiwi Conservation Centre, which works to preserve the iconic bird and allows you to see them foraging in nocturnal enclosures.
Whakarewarewa: The Living Maori Village
If you are interested in Maori culture or want to learn more, visit Whakarewarewa, the Living Maori Village. This is home to the Tuhourangi Ngati Wahiao people, and you can gain a unique insight into their lives here. Guided tours are available, taking you through the village, or you can enjoy the walks and cycle trails, like the Whaka Geothermal Trails. We also recommend attending one of the cultural performances that take place throughout the week.
Huka Falls Track
Looking to stretch your legs on your road trip? Then make time for the Huka Falls Track, where you can walk a lovely 7km trail, heading towards this beautiful waterfall. The peak allows you to enjoy the waterfall from above, seeing the water fall 11 meters into the Waikato River.
There are several lookout points around the falls, allowing you to enjoy different views and capture the perfect shot to remember your trip. There is a river cruise that operates, allowing you to see the falls up close, but it can be bumpy, and we only recommend it for those feeling adventurous.
Crates of the Moon
Craters of the Moon is one of the newer natural wonders in New Zealand, where in the 1950s, the ground heated up and began steaming. Bubbling mud pools appeared, creating the crater-like surface that gives this location its name. While you can’t walk in the craters, there are wooden boardwalks that allow you to explore the area at a safe distance, with many viewpoints that allow you to see these craters from all angles.
Lava Glass
Lava Glass is one of the best stops to visit, offering a wonderful collection of glass art. Throughout the year, the series and themes change, so you are guaranteed to see something different every time you visit. Each artist has their own interpretation of the theme, and many of the pieces are for sale, should you want to bring back a piece of your trip.
Te Mata Peak
Te Mata Peak is found on the western boundary of the Heretaunga Plains. Climbing the peak takes you 400 meters above sea level, where you can enjoy some of the best views in New Zealand. You will have views of the Kaweka, Maungaharuru, and Ruahine ranges, making this the perfect shot for your holiday pictures.
You can also enjoy the mythology of Te Mata Peak, with a rich love story that adds romance to this stunning view. It isn’t the easiest of walking trails to reach the top, so it’s best left to more experienced hikers and explorers.
Mission Estate Winery
The Mission Estate Winery is another must-see stop, where you can experience New Zealand’s oldest winery. You can visit for a meal and to sample their wine, or head off on one of their tours to learn how wine is made and walk across their grounds and cellar door! Even if you don’t like wine, you will love the stunning location and food on site, which is made using the finest local produce.
Birdwoods Gallery
Birdswood Gallery boasts a vast selection of New Zealand and African arts and crafts, making it well worth a visit. You will see how artists have utilised various materials and techniques to create their pieces, including ceramics, metal, stone, and textiles. The gallery features both indoor and outdoor exhibits, offering a wealth of items to explore. You can spend hours here soaking up the art before heading to their Garden Cafe for a refuel. Not only can you eat and drink here, but you can also see some of the most beautiful views in the area. Who doesn’t love dinner with a view?
Marine Parade
Finally, Marine Parade should be on your list! Located in Napier, Hawkes Bay, it is the perfect sight to round off your trip, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. There is plenty to do here, especially if you are travelling as a family. The ocean viewing platform is a must, with the option to walk through gardens, head to a junior bike track, or enjoy some mini golf after!
You can also pay a visit to The National Aquarium of New Zealand, where you can see marine life up close and pay a visit to the penguins!
Start planning your Auckland to Hawkes Bay road trip today
With your sites and stops mapped out, it’s time to continue planning your road trip. You will need to confirm when you want to go and how you will travel; a campervan is one of the best options. When it comes to campervans for road trips, we recommend hiring one so that you can travel in comfort with plenty of space to relax and eat on the go. You can hire a campervan from Travellers Autobarn in Auckland, allowing you to pick it up and start your journey right away! Check out their campervan rates in Auckland to see if they are right for you