Come along on our adventure through the stunning scenery and let’s discover the best places to visit in New Zealand! With our little one in tow, we embarked on this unforgettable journey. From the rugged coastlines to the majestic mountains, the North Island’s beauty and culture left a lasting impression on us. Join us as we share our experiences, tips, and favorite spots, all with a personal touch and the genuine commitment of a trusted review. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip, let us inspire you to explore the wonders of Kiwi country!
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Quick Peek
Fact-sheet about our New Zealand trip for our busy travelers.
Explore New Zealand’s Hidden Treasures: Our Top Picks
New Zealand is packed with amazing spots, and honestly, it wasn’t easy to narrow it down. These are some of the best places to visit in New Zealand that truly stole our hearts!
Tauranga and Surroundings: A Home Away from Home (3 weeks)
Tauranga and its surroundings captured our hearts like no other. We spent over three weeks immersed in its beauty, and it felt like the perfect home. Whether it was the morning jogging routes along the beachfront or the daily beach strolls, the exhilarating climb up Mount Maunganui, or the idyllic surf town vibes, Tauranga had it all for us. It truly was the perfect place to be.


Rotorua and Surroundings: Where Our Journey Began (3 days)
Rotorua and its surroundings served as our gateway to the wonders of New Zealand. From the moment we arrived, we were enchanted by the region’s thermal springs and unique geothermal features. Rotorua’s exceptional charm lies in its extraordinary landscapes and rich Maori culture, making it a must-visit destination. Just a short drive away, the tranquil landscapes of Putaruru offer a serene escape. Surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and crystal-clear springs, Putaruru captivates with its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to unwind and immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of New Zealand’s North Island.
Auckland: The City of Sails (4 days)
Auckland, known as the “City of Sails,” beckons visitors with its vibrant urban energy and breathtaking waterfront. Explore its bustling markets, iconic landmarks, and diverse culinary scene, all set against the backdrop of stunning harbor views.


Piha Beach (Daytrip)
Piha Beach is one of the best places to visit in New Zealand, with its rugged coastline, black sand, and wild waves. Just 40 kilometers from Auckland, this surfer’s paradise is perfect for anyone craving an authentic coastal experience. We loved the dramatic cliffs and peaceful vibe – definitely a must-see!
Whakapapa: Gateway to Tongariro National Park (2 days)
Whakapapa is undoubtedly your gateway to Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best places to visit in New Zealand. Moreover, this incredible location is known for its dramatic landscapes and world-class hiking trails. Additionally, it’s a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Whakapapa and, furthermore, experience the magic of New Zealand’s oldest national park.


Tairua: A Peaceful Getaway (3 days)
Surrounded by stunning scenery, Tairua offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Moreover, with its beautiful beaches, lush green forests, and charming villages, Tairua is a truly special place waiting to be explored. Additionally, it’s just a 140-kilometer drive from Auckland, making it easy to reach. Furthermore, it’s perfect for anyone looking to unwind and soak in New Zealand’s incredible natural beauty.
Rest and Recharge: Our Favorite Accos Across New Zealand
Oceanfront Bliss in Tauranga: A Unforgettable Airbnb Experience
One of the highlights of our journey across New Zealand was staying at an Airbnb in Tauranga, located on the stunning Oceanbeach Road. Moreover, this accommodation was one of the best we’ve ever experienced, offering breathtaking oceanfront views and a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere. Additionally, the location added to its charm, making it an unforgettable part of our trip.
Although it’s no longer available for rent, we highly recommend exploring the surrounding area. Furthermore, Oceanbeach Road truly captures the essence of a classic New Zealand ocean road – simply fantastic and not to be missed!



Discovering Comfort and Charm: Our Airbnb Escapes Across New Zealand
Along with our amazing stay in Tauranga, we also chose Airbnb accommodations in Rotorua, Auckland, Tairua, and Whakapapa, each offering its own special charm. Moreover, from cozy city apartments to peaceful countryside cottages, every place provided us with a unique and unforgettable experience. Additionally, the variety of options made it easy to find something perfect for each location.
If you’re curious about where we stayed, feel free to reach out! We’d love to share the exact addresses and links to these gems. Furthermore, we’re happy to help make your trip to New Zealand just as incredible as ours.



Green Eats: Our Guide to Vegan Dining in New Zealand
During our travels, we nearly exclusively pursued self-catering options. As vegans, we discovered our bliss in the supermarkets of New World – where we stumbled upon a vast array of vegan options. This abundance was particularly evident in our accommodations, especially in Tauranga, where preparing meals at home felt like a natural choice.
Our experience in Auckland, however, was a bit surprising. The selection of vegan options was less abundant than anticipated. However, we found solace in establishments like Revive Cafe on Wyndham Street and the Sunflower Thai restaurant, both of which we highly recommend. Despite this, there are still plenty of restaurants offering a variety of vegetarian options.
On the Move: Exploring New Zealand’s Mobility Options for Travelers
During our exploration of New Zealand, we chose to go with a rental car, specifically a Toyota Hilux rented through EZI. From time to time, you hear or even experience unpleasant encounters with car rental companies. However, we can wholeheartedly recommend EZI. Everything worked wonderfully, and the car became a faithful companion throughout our journey. Due to the vast distances and rural infrastructure, we wouldn’t recommend exploring this part of New Zealand without a rental car. However, for those focusing solely on the major cities like Auckland and Wellington, public transport is a viable alternative.

Counting the Costs: A Breakdown of Our New Zealand Expenses
Accomodation
Tauranga €385 (684NZL$)
Tairua €125 (222NZL$)
Whakapapa €95 (169NZL$)
Rotorua €150 (276NZL$)
Auckland €145 (275NZL$)
all prices per day
Food & Dining
Mainly self-catering
around €50 (89NZL$) per day
Mobility
Rental car Toyota Hilux
around €90 (160NZL$) per day
Activities
Glowworm Cave Fam.Ticket €108 (191NZL$)
Te Puia Fam.Ticket €126 (226NZL$)
rest: free of charge!
Total Spent
around €390 (693NZL$) per day
without air fare
Picture-Perfect: Northern New Zealand’s Most Instagram-Worthy Locations
While we’re highlighting a few incredible spots here, the North Island has so much more to offer. For a full guide to the best places to visit in New Zealand, check out our dedicated posts!
Blue Springs in Putaruru
Check out Blue Springs, one of the best places to visit in New Zealand, known for its stunning blue waters. Park in the small lot and take a relaxed 45-minute walk to this amazing spot. It was one of our all-time favorites! Even better, it’s free to visit, making it a budget-friendly adventure.
Mount Maunganui in Tauranga
Enjoy stunning sunsets from the top of Mount Maunganui, one of the best places to visit in New Zealand, offering panoramic views of Tauranga’s beautiful coastline. Moreover, you can reach the summit via a moderate hike or a scenic drive, making it accessible for most visitors. Additionally, there’s no cost to enjoy this incredible experience, making it a must-see spot for anyone exploring the area.
Piha Beach
Discover the unparalleled beauty of Piha Beach, one of the best places to visit in New Zealand, on a memorable day trip from Auckland. Moreover, this unique destination is ideal for families, featuring rugged cliffs, black sand, and thrilling surf. Additionally, getting there is easy by car, bus, or guided tour. Just make sure to check for parking fees, especially during busy times, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit with your loved ones.
Mount Paku Summit in Tairua
Head up to Mount Paku Summit, one of the best places to visit in New Zealand, for breathtaking views of Tairua and the stunning Coromandel Peninsula. Moreover, the hike to the top is easy and completely free, making it accessible for everyone. Additionally, all you need to do is lace up your shoes, enjoy the scenery, and take in the beauty without worrying about any costs.
The Lightpath Auckland
GPS coordinates: -36.8463° S, 174.7564° E
In the heart of Auckland, you’ll find the Lightpath, one of the best places to visit in New Zealand for a unique walking or cycling experience. Moreover, this colorful pathway, located along Nelson Street, is famous for its bright pink surface, making it easy to spot amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. Additionally, it’s a fun and accessible way to explore Auckland while enjoying its vibrant urban atmosphere.
Curious About New Zealand? Here Are the Answers to Your FAQs
The ideal time to explore the northern part of New Zealand is during the summer months, from December to February, when the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor adventures. However, we explored the island during March and the beginning of April, and temperatures were still over 20 degrees Celsius. While it may not be warm enough for swimming in the sea, it was very pleasant for exploring the island.
Most visitors to New Zealand do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days. However, it’s essential to check visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling.
Yes, New Zealand has strict biosecurity regulations to protect its unique ecosystems. Visitors are required to declare any food or agricultural products upon arrival, and certain items may be subject to inspection or quarantine.
The currency used in New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD).
The official languages of New Zealand are English and Te Reo Maori. English, however, is the most widely spoken and commonly used language across the country. Additionally, Te Reo Maori is an integral part of New Zealand’s culture, so you’ll often see signs and hear phrases in both languages, making it a unique and enriching experience for visitors
New Zealand operates on New Zealand Standard Time (NZST), which is UTC+12 during standard time and UTC+13 during daylight saving time.
Tipping is not a common practice in New Zealand and is generally not expected. However, for exceptional service in restaurants and cafes, it’s definitely appreciated. Moreover, in New Zealand, it’s more common to tip the whole team rather than an individual, which reflects a shared appreciation for the overall dining experience. Additionally, this collective approach makes dining out feel even more welcoming and community-focused.
Visitors to New Zealand can use their valid foreign driver’s license for up to 12 months, provided it is in English or accompanied by an official translation.
Explore some of the best places to visit in New Zealand, like Hobbiton in Matamata and the forests of Waikato. We passed by these spots on our way to Rotorua and loved the beautiful surrounding landscapes. For die-hard fans, though, we totally get why you’d pay the entrance fee to dive into the cinematic world of Middle-earth!
Yes, capturing aerial footage of New Zealand’s landscapes with a drone can result in stunning imagery. Just ensure that you comply with local regulations and respect privacy and safety considerations.
The standard voltage in New Zealand is 230/240 volts, and the plug type is a three-pin plug with angled flat pins. Visitors may need a plug adapter and voltage converter if their electronic devices are not compatible.
In case of emergency, dial 111 for police, fire, or medical assistance in New Zealand.
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