From New Zealand’s largest city to its geothermal heart, this 5-day Auckland to Rotorua itinerary for families showcases must-visit spots. Discover volcanoes, glowworm caves, hobbit holes, and thrilling zipline adventures. Perfect for a family road trip, this journey is packed with activities everyone will enjoy.
- Day 1: Discover Auckland – New Zealand’s Largest City
- Day 2: Discover Waitomo’s Glowworm Caves
- Day 3: Explore Hobbiton and Relax in Rotorua
- Day 4: Ziplining Adventure and Geothermal Wonders in Rotorua
- Day 5: Explore Rotorua’s Natural Beauty
Day 1: Discover Auckland – New Zealand’s Largest City
There is so much to see in Auckland, but many are too quick to get out of our largest city to see the rest of our beautiful country.
First, begin your day with a ferry crossing across the Waitemata Harbour. In 25 minutes you’ll be on Rangitoto Island, one of the city’s 48 extinct volcanoes. An easy climb through pohutukawa trees and lava fields gets you to the summit where you can enjoy panoramic views.
We highly recommend going up the Sky Tower – another of the city’s popular vantage points and a hit with all ages.
In west Auckland, take your pick of the black sand beaches. These are popular with both locals and visitors for their surf and views. Piha, Muriwai (home to an impressive gannet colony), Karekare or Bethells – there are many choices.
End your day with fish and chips on the beach watching the sun go down over the Tasman Sea – simply stunning!
Photo: Auckland’s skytower is not to be missed on our New Zealand family itinerary.
Day 2: Discover Waitomo’s Glowworm Caves
Journey through an array of farmland, lakeland and forest on your way to Waitomo Caves – south of Auckland. The Waitomo Caves region is renowned for its underground wonders, including an extensive limestone cave system. You’ll find stalactites, stalagmites and glowworms suspended from the cave ceiling, all accessible on easy walks. Or you can take a boat ride through the glowworm grotto and marvel at the twinkling lights from thousands of tiny glowworms.
For the more adventurous, there are sinkholes and a labyrinth of rivers for caving and blackwater rafting.
After your underground adventures carry on to Matamata that evening and enjoy a farmstay – another very ‘kiwi’ experience and the next stop on our New Zealand family itinerary.
Photo: Explore the limestone cave system at Waitomo and see magical glow worms
Day 3: Explore Hobbiton and Relax in Rotorua
Matamata is home to Hobbiton Movie Set, a must-do for all Lord of the Rings fans on our New Zealand family itinerary.
You can explore all 44 hobbit holes including Bag End (Bilbo’s house), the famous Party Tree and Green Dragon Inn.
Before leaving Hobbiton for Rotorua, you can visit Wairere Falls, the North Island’s highest falls (153m) with a beautiful outlook.
Matamata to Rotorua is an hour’s drive.
Once in town, head to Polynesian Spa and soak in a natural hot pool. The family pool that is ideal for the whole family – an awesome way to end the day.
Day 4: Ziplining Adventure and Geothermal Wonders in Rotorua
Today you’ll experience the thrill of flying high above emerald forests in a 3 – 3.5 hour zipline adventure. Led by the awesome guides of Rotorua Canopy Tours in a treasured piece of native forest at the Dansey Road Scenic Reserve, just 10 minutes out of central Rotorua. This experience has gained a ‘must-do’ reputation very quickly because of its epic nature and fantastic guides. Not only will you be flying over gigantic, ancient trees, you’ll also learn about the flora and fauna. Even more, you’ll find out about our conservation project that you’re helping to support by coming on tour.
Then spend the afternoon at one of Rotorua’s geothermal parks, gazing in wonder at geysers, bubbling mud and beautifully-coloured sulphur pools.
Day 5: Explore Rotorua’s Natural Beauty
On your final day, visit the stunning Whakarewarewa Forest, known as “The Redwoods,” for bush walks or mountain biking. The forest features epic trails for riders of all abilities. Discover some of the best Rotorua bush walks to immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty.
For a more relaxed option, head to Blue Lake (Tikitapu) for a picnic, a swim, or a family-friendly walk around the lake. Here you can relax with a picnic, take a dip or enjoy the walking track that navigates the lake.
Photo: Enjoy the views walking around the Blue Lake.
