Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city and the port of entry for nearly all visitors. It’s a mecca of things to do, but there are also plenty of fascinating places outside of the city worth a visit. While the places listed here really deserve at least an overnight trip, sometimes day trips from Auckland are the only option. Here, we show you what it’s possible to do in a day.
Popular day trips from Auckland range from glowworms to geysers, from beaches to caves, and from Māori culture to hobbit holes. If you’re wondering what to do outside the city, check out these incredible one-day trips from Auckland.
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As American expats who have been living in and exploring NZ for over 20 years, we see things from both a local’s perspective and from that of a visitor. Therefore, we understand what it’s like to come here and have things be similar, but not always exactly what we are used to. We share the information on this page from this perspective.
Day trips from Auckland – Where can I go?
Day trips from Auckland New Zealand range from adventurous to relaxing. They often involve nature, animals, or man/hobbit-made structures. Or, they can be a combination. Start here, with a brief overview of the top five most popular places to visit near Auckland.
New Zealand highlights on Albom Adventures
Hobbiton Movie Set
Hobbiton Movie Set is 176 km from Auckland, a bit over two hours each way.
A middle earth destination that needs no introduction to Lord of the Rings fans. Hobbiton visits are only available via guided tour. Each two-hour tour of the 12-acre Hobbiton Movie set takes visitors to Hobbit Holes, the Old Mill, and the Double Arched Bridge. You will discover details about the movie set and how it was created. The tour concludes with a complimentary drink at The Green Dragon Inn. Hobbiton is as touristy as one would expect, yet movie fans love it.
Rotorua
Rotorua is 228 km from Auckland, nearly three hours each way.
A geothermal wonderland and centre for Māori culture, Rotorua is also known for its extreme adventure options. One of my favourite places to take visitors, Rotorua is like few other places on the planet. If you have the time, spend at least a night here. If not, a visit to Te Puia will give you the highlights, including Pohutu Geyser, the largest active geyser in the southern hemisphere, erupting once or twice each hour. Te Puia also has bubbling mud pools, hot springs, silica formations, Kiwi birds, and the national schools of wood carving, weaving, stone, and bone carving.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Waitomo Caves are 197 km from Auckland, a two and a half hour one-way drive.
Entry into the Waitomo Glowworm Caves is via a 45-minute guided tour. Starting on foot, admire stalagmites and stalactites before boarding a small boat and drifting through the glowworm grotto in near silence. The caves are lit by thousands of phosphorescent lights from a species of glowworm found only in New Zealand (Arachnocampa luminosa).
Coromandel Peninsula
Coromandel is 173 km from Auckland, with a one-way drive time of two hours twenty minutes.
Bushwalks, forest hikes, natural hot springs, beaches, and a rugged coastline are what attracts visitors to the Coromandel Peninsula. One of the more popular activities is to dig your own ‘spa’ at the natural hot springs of Hot Water Beach (at low tide).
Bay of Islands
Bay of Islands is 232 km north of Auckland, with an over three hour one-way drive time.
Historically important, the Bay of Islands is home to both the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the town of Russell, which is New Zealand’s first colonial capital. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds is the founding site of modern New Zealand. It is here that the first accord between the British and the 43 Maori chiefs was signed. In addition, it is the 140 islands and beaches that keep locals visiting here when we find time to relax.
Should I rent a car or take a tour?
Driving in New Zealand – advantages and disadvantages
The main advantage of driving is the ability to change your plan when something piques your interest. The downsides are the cost and time involved in getting the car, the possibility of getting lost, staying focused on long driving days, and finding a car park. A few things to consider before renting a car in New Zealand:
- In New Zealand, vehicles drive on the left side of the road and the steering wheel is on the right. The transition is easy for most people, although driving requires a higher level of concentration. Check the NZTA for driving tips for overseas visitors.
- New Zealand motorways are generally in excellent condition. However, some rural roads are unpaved. Speed limits tend to be slower than in other developed countries. Also, be aware that Kiwis drive somewhat aggressively, and as a population, tend to drive too close as the following vehicle.
- Renting a car is easy. The major international companies are in New Zealand, and the cars are in good condition. We have been using RentalCars.com successfully around the world. As an aggregator, they present options from many brands, often at a lower price than going directly. Plus, RentalCars includes its own customer service and insurance options. Click here to check the prices from RentalCars.com
Taking day tours from Auckland – advantages and disadvantages
The primary advantage of a tour over self-driving is that someone else does the planning and the driving, a fact especially appreciated in Auckland traffic. Also, there is the added knowledge that comes from shared stories, legends, and history retold by the guide. The downsides are that you are on someone else’s timeline, no opportunity to add extra time at a favourite spot, and you may have to wait or miss something if other guests are inconsiderate. A few things to consider before signing up for a tour:
- Bus tours are usually the most economical option. The advantages depend on the tour and often include commentary, large windows, wifi, and toilets onboard. They are often a good choice for scenic tours or places like Hobbiton that require bus entry. The downside is less personal attention.
- Small group tours cost a bit more but have a personal flair. Also on walking, hiking, or other active tours, it is easier for a small group to stay together and to hear the guide.
- Private tours are fully customizable. They cost more but generally allow you to see more overall. You move at your pace, and there is no waiting on strangers.
- Active tours: In addition to group size, you need to think about the activity level of a tour. Does it include adventure that excites or terrifies you?
- Scenic tours: At the other end of the spectrum, scenic tours will allow you to enjoy the spectacular landscapes that New Zealand offers with very little effort.
Our favourite day trips from Auckland
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New Zealand will forever be associated with the Lord of the Rings, and a Hobbiton tour from Auckland is a popular option. As the Hobbiton tour is only two hours, we prefer to visit it along with another destination. Click here if you want a tour that only visits Hobbiton before returning to Auckland.
Auckland to Hobbiton, Rotorua, & Waitomo caves in a day
This is the perfect tour for people with limited time and a budget allowing for multiple sites. You will experience the magic of the North Island while travelling in small groups in a Mercedes van with comfortable leather seats. Be ready for an early start and a long day on this tour that is listed amongst TripAdvisor’s most popular day tours in New Zealand.
The first stop is the Hobbiton movie set. There are no short cuts here, you get the full tour. Next, travel to Rotorua. Here, you will be treated to a traditional Maori hangi lunch buffet in Te Puia’s restaurant overlooking Pohutu geyser, as well as limited time to explore Te Puia. Note: in order to get to all three major sites, less than 90 minutes are allocated for both lunch and exploration at Te Puia.
Back on the bus, the final stop takes us into the Waitomo glowworm caves both on foot and in the boat. Afterwards, you will be glad someone else is doing the driving back to Auckland.
This 13-hour tour includes:
- Transportation with pick up and drop off at your central Auckland hotel
- Entry and guided tour at Hobbiton Movie Set and at Waitomo Glowworms Cave
- Entry and lunch at Te Puia
- Small groups
- Local guide
Check the prices and reviews of the Hobbiton, Rotorua, and Waitomo Caves tour here
Hobbiton & Rotorua tours from Auckland
This is the tour for people who are excited by the above tour but desire more time in Rotorua. Run by the same company, it starts out identically, with hotel pick up, a guided tour of Hobbiton, and then hangi lunch at Te Puia in Rotorua. Here is where the tours differ. You will have more time at Te Puia to explore all it has to offer. It may be your only chance to see bubbling mud pools or kiwi birds, as well as the other unique features of Te Puia. Then, you will visit Rotorua’s lakefront and beautiful government gardens.
A nice feature of this tour is the option to either return to Auckland or to stay in Rotorua.
This 10-13 hour tour includes:
- Transportation with pick up and drop off at your central Auckland hotel (or choose the option to stay in Rotorua)
- Entry and guided tour at Hobbiton Movie Set
- Entry and lunch at Te Puia
- Guided tour of the waterfront and Government Gardens in Rotorua
- Small groups
Check the prices and reviews of this Hobbiton & Rotorua tour
Hobbiton & Waitomo caves tour from Auckland
This one is ideal for people who prefer fully escorted tours and want a slightly shorter day. It travels first to the Hobbiton Movie Set, then enjoy lunch at The Shire’s Rest Café (a Kiwi-style cafe), before driving to the Glowworm caves in Waitomo. Both destinations are seen with guided tours. Please note the travel times above. You will spend nearly 2/3 of this trip in transit.
This 9.5-hour tour includes:
- Transportation, pick up, and drop off from your central Auckland hotel
- Small-group tour
- Entry and guided tour of Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves
- Lunch at The Shire’s Rest Café
Check the prices and reviews of the Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves Tour here
Auckland to Rotorua day trip
If you are more into nature than movies, this may be the tour for you. Offering several options, it’s the most customizable tour on this page. It starts with Te Puia’s Māori Arts and Crafts Institute and geothermal sites, followed by a guided city tour.
The next two hours offer three options (reflected in the price). You can have free time, a 2-hour private soak at the Polynesian Spa, or a visit to Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. Finally, you can choose to return with your guide or end your tour and stay in Rotorua.
This 13-hour tour includes:
- Transportation, pick up, and drop off from your central Auckland accommodation
- Small-group tour
- Entry to Te Puia and to New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute
- Lunch (with vegetarian and gluten-free options)
Check the prices and reviews of the Rotorua Day Tour from Auckland with options here
Coromandel day trip from Auckland
A tour for active nature lovers, it includes hiking and the opportunity to sit in your own ‘spa’ at Hot Water Beach. You will travel up through Thames to Coromandel town visit the Driving Creek Railway for a ride on New Zealand’s only narrow-gauge railway system. You then travel through a magnificent Kauri forest on your way to Hot Water Beach. Your final stop will be a visit to hike along a coastal track into the stunning Cathedral Cove (a film location used in The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian).
This 12-hour tour includes:
- Transportation, including pick up and drop off in Auckland
- Riding on the Driving Creek Railway
- Taken through rugged landscapes and regenerating Kauri forest
- Enjoy digging your own bath at Hot Water Beach
- Explore Cathedral Cove
- Lunch and driver/guide
Check the prices and reviews of the Coromandel Day Tour from Auckland on Klook
Bay of Islands day tour from Auckland
It is my opinion that you need at least two days to visit the Bay of Islands from Auckland, as otherwise, you will spend more time travelling than seeing the sites. However, if all you have time for is a one day trip from Auckland, and you really want to see the Bay of Islands, we recommend this tour.
In 10 hours, it takes you from your hotel in Auckland to the Bay of Islands. Along the way, you’ll stop in Warkworth to see the giant Kauri trees and grove at Parry Kauri Park. You will also visit Whangarei falls and Haruru falls. Once in Paihia, you will visit the Waitangi Treaty grounds and have the opportunity to take a cruise to the Cape Brett Lighthouse and the famous Hole in the Rock.
This 10 private tour includes:
- Private driver and guide
- Pick-up and return from your Auckland hotel
- Light refreshments
Check the prices and reviews of this private Bay of Islands tour from Auckland
Tips and practical information on taking day trips from Auckland
Regardless of which tours you select, keep the following in mind:
- The weather is changeable and often unpredictable. It’s always a good idea in Auckland and the surrounding areas to dress in layers and bring a light rain jacket.
- If you are travelling in summer, bring sunscreen. The hole in the ozone layer over Antarctica thins the atmosphere over New Zealand, making the sun that much more dangerous.
- Carry water and a small snack. Even if your tour includes meals, they may not happen when you are hungry.
- Bring a camera.
- If you have more time, head north to the top of the island, or head south from Auckland to the nations capital city.
Staying in the city
I love Auckland so much, I decided to live here. There is a seemingly endless list of things to do in Auckland without ever leaving town. Personally, I head to the wild west coast or out to one of the local islands when I have a free day in Auckland. If you are looking to stay with 2 hours travel distance, check out this list of a dozen day trips.
If you are looking for that one of a kind Auckland adventure, check out this list.
Save on your NZ trip with these resources
These are our go-to companies when we travel. We believe this list to be the best in each category. You can’t go wrong using them on your trip too.
- Flights: we use Expedia for the best and cheapest flight options.
- Accommodations: we use Booking.com (hotels), Bookabach (self-contained in NZ), or Hostelworld (budget).
- Cars (gas or electric): we use RentalCars to search for deals and dealer ratings.
- Motorcycles: we have heard good things about BikesBooking.
- Campervans or Motorhomes: we use Campstar where Albom Adventures readers get a 3% discount.
- Activity discounts: we check Bookme.com for discounts of up to 70% on activities.
- Private guides: we love the private guides at Tours by Locals.
- Travel Insurance: while not required, we always opt for travel insurance and start at InsureMyTrip to compare coverage plans.
Check out our travel resources page for more companies that we use when you travel.
Save for later
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Which of these day trips from Auckland do you think you will try?
More from Auckland you might also like … starting with these 75 free and nearly free things to do in the city
LAUREN BETH MONITZ
This brings back such memories, although your Rotorua pics are much better than mine!
Erin Gustafson | Oregon Girl Around the World
All of them! I have been smitten with Rotorua since reading about on your site before… looks so very interesting and the Coromandel Bay just stunning. I have mixed feelings about the Glo Worms as they are larval, and that really creeps me out, but the bioluminescence just might be enough to get over my fear. Fab list – cheers from Copenhagen!
Obligatory Traveler
Great information. I made sure to pin it for when we visit New Zealand someday. It’s good to know that there are tours that offer a full day of multiple activities as that is what we would probably do. I most excited about the worm cave as it looks so neat.
Sharon
As I’m not familiar with New Zealand geography, this is very informative! I’m pretty sure the Hobbiton would be my favorite. That tiny door is just charming. And to see the movie locations would be thrilling!
Sue Davies
Hoping to get to Auckland next year. Definitely, want to go to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Very helpful information on day trips from Auckland.
Candy
The glow worms! So many fun things! New Zealand just moved up a spot on my bucket list.
Sage Scott
I want to do ALL of this so badly. What an amazing set of experiences! ~ Sage Scott, the Everyday Wanderer
Sue
Really useful post – thank you for sharing! I was in New Zealand so long ago but spent most of my time on the South Island. I’m due another visit & reading this has made me rethink how I need to explore the North Island more next time! Thanks for sharing.
Michela
I have been to New Zealand in 2013 and visited some of these fabulous places, but missed out on Coromandel so I’ll make sure it’s on my list on my next trip, hopefully soon.
Esther
Oh wow, those caves look absolutely amazing, I think I’d choose those. Though I really wouldn’t mind learning more about Maori culture either! What a great list of day trips, thanks you.
Julie
Fabulous part of the world. Rotorua and the Glowworm Caves are fabulous destinations. Love the tour tips.
Clare
I love the sound of all these day trips, Rhonda, although those DIY mud baths on the beach look a bit peculiar! My boys would absolutely adore the Hobbiton visit and I’ve always wanted to go to Rotorua. Coromandel looks beautiful too.
marja
Beautiful photos We have been to several of these places We still want to go to the Bay of islands one day
Sumi
Beautiful Place. I hope i can go there
Jill
I would pick the Coromandel tour because Hot Water Beach is really appealing to me but I know my daughter would go just to visit Hobbiton. Actually, all of these day trips sound fantastic and I hope to visit there someday.
Jasmine Hewitt
i’d love to see Auckland one day. NZ is a beautiful country!
Mandy
My dream. I would love to visit Auckland. The day trips you mentioned look phenomenal! 🙂
Kalyan Panja
Thanks for sharing this nice and concise Auckland day trips guide. The photography is awesome.
Rosey
I have always heard New Zealand has the prettiest water in the world. I would love to visit Auckland.
betty - NZ
Lots of good info for those who like tours. There is so much to see in New Zealand!!!
Ressa
Everything you shared about Auckland makes me really want to go now! Especially the Hobbiton Movie Set! Looks so dreamy that I will definitely want to snap some photos!
Chelle Dizon
Auckland sounds a really magnificent place to visit and I wanna thank you for this helpful suggestion and tips. Perfect place to snap some pictures!
Bella and Dawn at Dear Mummy Blog
Glowworm caves looks like something from Avatar! We’d love to visit Auckland New Zealand one day when I’m older x
Alissa A Apel
I’d like to go to all the above! I love that little red orange door in the first shot! My favorite spots would probably be Rotorua and the cave. How cool!
Photo Cache
What a dream destination NZ is. I hope I can go there, really want to visit Hobbiton.
Jay
What a beautiful place! Definitely need to add to this to our bucket list.
Jenny MacKenzie
Oh my gosh I HAVE to see Hobbiton!! So cool. Although all of those day trips do look pretty amazing…
Ash
I’d definitely have to visit the Hobbiton movie set, it would be such a fascinating place to visit.
L. Diane Wolfe
The glow worm caves would be gorgeous.
LadyLebz
Aaaah thanks so much for this – New Zealand and learning about the Maori culture and heritage is definitely on my bucket list 🙂
Luci
I wouldn’t be able to just choose one of them. But the first one I would go to is Bay Island.
Paul Pietrangelo
Wow, there were so many things in your blog. The one that one that I was interested was the Hobbiton visits. I have all the movies for the Lord of the Rings. The weirdest one was the hot water beach. See ya Rhonda.
Cruisin Paul
Krista
Rotorua looks like an absolutely fun place to travel too; it reminds me of some northeastern US scenes that I’ve experienced. I think I’d also love to check out Bay of Islands sometime- thanks for your tips!
stevebethere
LQQKS beautiful there I wish I was well enough to travel but at least I can do it through your blog heheh!
Have a great week Rhonda ➡
Lisa
I’m all NZ inspired after reading this! I’d love to see the glow worms, I’ve only ever photos of these caves, and they look incredible. Hobbiton would be a must too, just because it’s so novel. Would love to get to NZ one day!
Norafiqin
This is so comprehensive and exciting that I find myself wanting to pay a visit to NZ. I’ve been to Australia multiple times, but for some reason, New Zealand has always slipped my radar. Time to correct that!
kumamonjeng
This is such a comprehensive guide for anyone who wishes to travel to NZ. I am an avid traveler but still have not been to Nz and it is in my bucket list. Hobbiton Movie Set sounds like a great place for photography as I have seen it often get posted on Facebook from my friends.
Hilary
Hi Rhonda – a great list of ideas for any of us who visit Auckland … I’d love to come out one day … NZ sounds just amazing … cheers Hilary
Krishnadip Das
Article is Very Nice. Keep Sharing With Us And What a beautiful Place. I hope i can go there.
Zoë
My husband is from Auckland so we go there often. We just came back from a trip there and during that trip we did Coromandel, so I can totally agree that people should go there and it’s not too far. I’m still waiting to do the rest of your suggestions though 🙂
Marie
I wish I had read this post a few years ago before I visited NZ. Although I did visit these places it was on a tour bus. I should have hired a car and had the freedom to stay longer and stop at places of interest to me. I won’t make that mistake again.
dee
Awesome sights!! So inviting!
Rotorua has been jotted in my mind for some time now. Nice to know about the glow worm caves. It looks amazing.
Alex J. Cavanaugh
I definitely want to hit the first three items!
Nancy
I’d sure love to visit Australia & New Zealand sometime.
Sandee
Really cool places to go, but I want to go to the Glowworm caves. That would be awesome. Wow.
Have a fabulous day and week, Rhonda. ♥
Carol
I like all of them and would want to go on several – Hobbits first of course!