The Best Auckland Road Trips
New Zealand, oceania
60 km
N/A
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Auckland's got it all – beaches, forests, you name it. And the road trip scene? Totally on point. Here are a few spots you gotta check out:
**Muriwai Beach:** Surf's up, wildlife's wild, and the views are killer. This west coast gem boasts epic coastal trails stretching about 60 km. Plus, if you're into fresh produce, the local organic markets are a must-stop. It's only a 40 km jaunt from the city, making it the perfect weekend escape.
**Matakana:** This place has transformed from a sleepy little town into a hotspot for trendy cafes and bars. Hit up the Saturday farmers market for some local goodness. On the way back, detour to the Puhoi Valley Cheese Factory for a tasting platter – trust me, it's worth it! The drive is roughly an hour from Auckland.
**Puhoi:** History buffs, this one's for you. German immigrants settled here way back when. The Bohemian Museum tells their incredible story of grit and perseverance. Grab a pint at a traditional pub or paddle down the river in a kayak.
**Cape Reinga:** Get ready for some serious views! This northern tip of the North Island is wild and windswept. Explore Maori legends etched on plaques near the lighthouse. One tale speaks of the meeting of the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea representing the union of male and female energy, another tells of a spirit tree whose roots plunge into the underworld.
**Coromandel Peninsula:** If you're short on time but big on scenery, the Coromandel is your go-to. This coastline is ranked among the world's best. Don't miss Cathedral Cove with its iconic archway and golden sands. Nearby Hot Water Beach is another must-do. Dig your own spa pool and soak in the naturally heated water!
Where is it?
The Best Auckland Road Trips is located in New Zealand (oceania). Coordinates: -40.2466, 176.4973
Road Details
- Country
- New Zealand
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 60 km
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -40.2466, 176.4973
Related Roads in oceania
hardDriving the Corrugated Ernest Giles Road Through the Desert
🇦🇺 Australia
The Ernest Giles Road in the Northern Territory is a true Aussie outback adventure! Named after the explorer Ernest Giles, this isn't your Sunday drive. Think 100km (62 miles) of red desert stretching between the Luritja Road and the Stuart Highway, linking cattle stations and remote communities. This track demands a 4WD – we’re talking serious dips, bone-rattling corrugations, and patches of deep sand that’ll test your skills. You'll want to lower your tire pressure! Oh, and did I mention it closes regularly during the wet season? Be warned: this road isn't pampered. It's rough, remote, and can become a muddy, slippery mess after rain. Even 4WDs can get stuck out here, so pack extra water, spares, and let someone know your plans. Don't even think about attempting this in a 2WD! Mobile coverage? Forget about it! Despite the challenges, the scenery is incredible. Imagine driving through a landscape painted in vibrant reds, with dust devils dancing in the distance. The real reward? Visiting the Henbury Meteorite Craters, a truly otherworldly sight. Just remember to be prepared for anything – this road is as unpredictable as it is beautiful, offering a real taste of the raw Australian outback.
moderateHow long is Waikawau Tunnel Beach?
🇳🇿 New Zealand
Okay, picture this: you're on the North Island of New Zealand, heading towards a secret beach. But here's the thing, this beach is accessed via a hand-carved tunnel! Waikawau Tunnel Beach isn't super long, but the real adventure is getting there. The tunnel itself is a labor of love, dug through sandstone cliffs way back when, by just a few determined souls. It used to be for driving cattle, but now it's just for us adventurous beachgoers. The entrance is located at the end of the winding and dangerous Pembroke Road. This picturesque tunnel sits at the end of the winding and dangerous road. Trust me, once you emerge on the other side, the isolation and raw beauty of the beach will blow you away. Just be careful on that road leading up to it – it's a bit of a zigzag!
moderateThe Rugged 4x4 Road to Mount Matlock in Victoria
🇦🇺 Australia
Okay, adventurers, listen up! Deep in southern Victoria, Australia, there's this awesome peak called Mount Matlock, topping out at 1,372m (4,501ft). The prize at the summit? A seriously cool 37-meter fire tower, built after those crazy 1939 bushfires. It's a comms hub, but don't expect to update your Insta from up there—mobile signal is a no-go. The road up, Corn Hill Road, is a proper 4WD track – all unpaved and ready for adventure! You'll find it inside Yarra Ranges National Park, branching off the C511 (Warburton-Woods Point Road). The climb's just under 2km (1.18 miles), gaining 167 meters with a pretty steady gradient. Get ready for some great views, though, because this one is all about the scenery!
moderateCrossing the historic Bertrand Road Swing Bridge
🇳🇿 New Zealand
Hey fellow road trippers! Ever heard of a bridge that's basically a time machine? Head to the northern reaches of New Zealand's Taranaki region, and you'll find the Bertrand Road Swing Bridge, a true gem connecting Huirangi (near Lepperton) and Tikorangi. This old-school wooden suspension bridge stretches 67 meters (220 feet) across the Waitara River. Now, it's not exactly a speedway – think more like a leisurely 10 km/h cruise. And with a 4-tonne weight limit, leave the monster trucks at home. It's cozy, too, only fitting two vehicles (and twenty people) at once. This bridge has seen things! Originally built way back in 1897, it's been through floods, rebuilds, and a whole lot of history. For a while there, it was even closed down completely, but thanks to some awesome community effort, it was resurrected in 2006, staying true to its original design. Keep in mind you're on a single lane of paved road here, so take it easy and enjoy the views. It's not just a crossing; it's a piece of New Zealand's past that you can drive (or walk!) right over.