By: Sarah Keller
Auckland is the biggest city in New Zealand, which makes it a fantastic starting point for some incredible road trips that will take you deep into the mountain regions of the North Island.
From the Waitākere Ranges to the Tongariro National Park, you can head to several majestic mountain ranges and scenic landscapes within a couple of hour’s drive of the “City of Sails.”
Whether you want to photograph volcanic peaks, hike through bushland, or cruise along winding mountain roads, the world—or at least the North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui)—is your oyster.
Best Mountain Road Trip Destinations from Auckland
Before we outline the destinations, it’s worth pointing out that you will need a car to visit most of them.
For those without a vehicle, there are several car rental Auckland businesses you can secure one from. Just make sure you hire a 4WD with good clearance if you plan on going off-roading, especially during the winter months.
Once you have command of a vehicle, here are some of the best mountain destinations you can head to on the North Island.
1. Waitākere Ranges
Photo by Ben Mack on Pexels
The Waitākere Ranges are just a 40-minute drive southwest of Auckland, so it is a great place for a day trip.
Separating the metropolitan area of Auckland from the Tasman Sea, the beautiful mountainous region incorporates over 16,000 hectares of dense native rainforest and scintillating coastline.
It is also home to incredible natural phenomena like the thunderous Karekare Falls, which are so loud you won’t be able to hear yourself think!
Hiking and walking are two popular activities here, and you can pick up trail maps from the Arataki Visitor Centre to guide you.
While here, don’t miss the black sand Piha Beach, where you can see a striking volcanic monolith called Lion Rock that features Māori carvings and war memorials.
2. Coromandel Peninsula
Photo by Ferntech DJI on Unsplash
The Coromandel Peninsula is a good option if you are in mind for a weekend escape.
It will take you just over 2.5 hours to get there along State Highway 1 and 25, but once you arrive in the region, its mountainous native rainforest and over 400 km of spectacular white beaches are sure to lift your soul.
Despite its popularity as a tourist destination, the Coromandel Peninsula is the very definition of unspoiled, rustic, and relaxed. Its highlights include the Coromandel Coastal Walkway, which is perfect for hikers, the Karangahake Gorge, and the stunning Hot Water Beach. The incredible Cathedral Cove is also a must-see destination.
For those who do stay the weekend, make sure you take the opportunity to check out the stars at night. The galaxy in this part of the world is simply mesmerising.
3. Mt. Taranaki
Photo by Marvin Rozendal on Unsplash
Should you want a longer adventure, Mt. Taranaki fits the bill perfectly, given that it is about a five-hour drive from Auckland on the west coast, not far from New Plymouth.
Estimated to be around 130,000 years old, the mountain is believed to be a dormant volcano, as opposed to an extinct one, with the last known eruption being in 1755. So, you could say it’s due. However, don’t let that stop you from visiting this perfectly symmetrical volcanic wonder.
Sometimes described as the most climbed mountain in New Zealand, Taranaki Maunga can be a challenge to reach the summit—but if you’re in good health, have some climbing experience, and pack and prepare appropriately, it’s an incredible achievement that’ll reward you with amazing views. Be aware of the weather conditions, which can change quickly here!
If you’d prefer a less vigorous way of taking in the mountain, spend some time exploring Egmont National Park. There you will be able to take on the Pouakai Circuit whereupon you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the mountain reflected in tarns.
4. Rotorua and Mount Tarawera
Rotorua is a wonderful city set around a lake of the same name, about a three-hour drive from Auckland.
It is best known for its rich Māori culture (it is home to both the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute and a living Māori village) and geothermal activity—the latter of which predominantly takes place at the Whakarewarewa Valley, where you’ll find bubbling mud pools and the lively Pohutu Geyser, which erupts to over 30 metres in height several times a day.
The city is flanked by mountains, including the imposing Mount Tarawera. It is also surrounded by native forests, flowing rivers, and no fewer than 18 freshwater lakes, which means it is a terrific place for activities like mountain biking, walking, swimming, or trout fishing.
5. Tongariro National Park
Photo by Robert Rusell on Unsplash
It is definitely worth the four-hour drive down from Auckland to Tongariro National Park because it houses some of the most dramatic landscapes in New Zealand, if not the world.
Centred upon not one but three volcanoes, Tongariro, Ruapehu, and Ngauruhoe, the national park is the oldest in New Zealand, dating back to 1894.
It covers a landmass of 80,000 hectares and boasts a collection of volcanic wonders that will break you out into goosebumps.
Think old lava flows, colourful silica terraces, shimmering emerald lakes, steaming craters, and extraordinary alpine gardens, and prepare to have your mind blown by the wonders of nature that lie before you.
About the Author
Sarah Keller is the Content Specialist at Visiting.com.au. From Sydney, Australia, Sarah specialises in tech, finance, and travel writing. She loves staying up to date with industry news so she can bring well-researched, timely, and accurate information to her readers.
Featured image by Sophie Turner on Unsplash
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