Auckland & Bay of Islands Road Trips

This is the Coromandel chapter from Lonely Planet’s Auckland & the Bay of Islands Road Trips guidebook.

Meandering coastal roads weave a magical path on this journey around the compact but colourful Coromandel Peninsula. Visit in January for the crimson splash of pohutukawa.

• ride a quirky railway and feast on seafood in Coromandel Town
• pick the right route with inspirational images and key trip highlights
• dig yourself a natural sandy spa pool at Hot Water Beach
• get around easily with colour maps and route directions in easy stages
• explore Waihi’s fascinating history of gold-mining
• discover even more with detours and ways to link your trips

Coverage includes: Thames, Rapaura Water Gardens, Coromandel Town, Colville, Kuaotunu, Whitianga, Hahei, Hot Water Beach, Whangamata, Waihi and Waihi Beach.

This is the East & West Coast Explorer chapter from Lonely Planet’s Auckland & the Bay of Islands Road Trips guidebook.

From Auckland, embark on a circular route north of the city to uncover secluded and spectacular beaches, sophisticated vineyard restaurants and a menu of family-friendly activities.

• discover Goat Island, a marine reserve packed with underwater life
• pick the right route with inspirational images and key trip highlights
• visit Matakana and soak up the local arts scene, vineyards and farmers market
• get around easily with colour maps and route directions in easy stages
• marvel at the looming Lion Rock at Piha beach
• discover even more with detours and ways to link your trips

Coverage includes: Auckland, Pulhoi, Matakana, Goat Island, Helensville, Muriwai, Kumeu, Te Henga, Bethells Beach, Piha and Titirangi.

This is the Northland & the Bay of Islands chapter from Lonely Planet’s Auckland & the Bay of Islands Road Trips guidebook.

Embark on this diverse northern adventure showcasing New Zealand’s Māori and colonial history amid a backdrop of sparkling beaches, soaring forests and hidden harbours.

• explore Cape Reinga, the leaving point for souls to the spiritual Māori homeland
• pick the right route with inspirational images and key trip highlights
• discover Waipoua State Forest and pay homage to giant centuries-old kauri trees
• get around easily with colour maps and route directions in easy stages
• experience Poor Knights marine reserve by diving, snorkelling, kayaking or paddle boarding
• discover even more with detours and ways to link your trips

Coverage includes: Auckland, Mangawhai Heads, Waipu, Whangarei, Tutukaka, Russell, Paihia, Kerikeri, Mangonui, Cape Reinga, Ahipara, Rawene, Opononi & Omapere, Waipoua Forest and Matakohe.

Start your planning here. We reveal the ultimate road-trip list for Auckland & the Bay Islands PLUS the highlights you’ll discover on the way and practical advice to kick-start your trip.

• road trip essentials: from hiring a car to road rules
• expert advice: discover even more with our city guide to Auckland, plus practical need-to-know information

Coverage includes: Welcome to Auckland & the Bay of Islands, Auckland & the Bay of Islands Highlights, Auckland City Guide, Need to Know, New Zealand Driving Guide and Auckland & the Bay of Islands Travel Guide.

This is the Waiheke Island Escape chapter from Lonely Planet’s Auckland & the Bay of the Islands Road Trips guidebook.

An hour from the city, Auckland’s favourite Hauraki Gulf island combines vineyard restaurants, active adventure and a thriving art scene, with beaches and coves definitely worth discovering.

• negotiate winding roads to the waterfront winery Man O’War Bay
• pick the right route with inspirational images and key trip highlights
• stroll or swim along Onetangi Beach
• get around easily with colour maps and route directions in easy stages
• soar above vineyards and pristine native forest at EcoZip Adventures
• discover even more with ways to link your trips

Coverage includes: Auckland, Oneroa, Church Bay, Onetangi, Onetangi Beach, Man O’War Bay, Connells Bay, EcoZip Adventures and Te Whau Point.