Are you looking for sights to break up your drive from Auckland to Hawkes Bay and aren’t sure where to stop? Finding the perfect sightseeing spots on your road trip can be difficult, but it doesn’t need to be. We are here to help, with our guide showing you the best sights to see to help make your road trip planning a breeze. Let’s see where you should stop on your road trip!
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Do you like thermal pools? Then, you have to stop at the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. The series of pools and geysers are the result of thousands of years of work, with the Lady Knox Geyser reaching 20 meters into the air! The Mud Pods are on the original site of a large mud volcano, and you can take tours and talks to see them up close.
On the tours, you will also learn about the science behind these geothermal spots and can pick up some souvenirs in the gift shop on your way out!
Whakarewarewa – The Living Maori Village
If you want to learn about Maori culture, the Living Maori Village is the perfect place for you to stop. You can learn about the Tuhourangi Ngati Wahiao people learning about their day-to-day lives. The guided tours allow you to enjoy the village and see the village up close, or you can enjoy the Whaka Geothermal Trails to enjoy the views.
It’s worth sticking around to see the cultural performances that take place throughout the day, too.
Te Puia
Te Puia sits in the historic Te Whakarewarewa Valley and is home to mud pools. Hot springs, and the famous Pohutu. You can enjoy these fantastic natural spots, along with the National Weaving School, National Wood Carving School, and National Stone and Bone Carving School, making it the perfect place for nature and art lovers to visit.
There is also the Kiwi Conservation Centre here, where you can learn about the preservation of the iconic birds and see them foraging in their enclosures. It’s the ideal place for animal lovers!
Huka Falls Track
Do you need a pit stop to stretch your legs after driving? Hookah Falls Track is the perfect place for it. The easy 7km walking trail takes you towards the waterfall, where you will see the waterfall 11 meters into the river. The sound of the water is quite loud, so you will hear it before you see it!
There are several lookout points around the falls where you can see different views of the waterfalls so you can get the perfect photograph. River cruises also run, which allows you to get a closer view of the falls, especially if you are feeling adventurous!
Lava Glass
Art lovers will enjoy this stop! Lava Glass is home to the most beautiful handblown glass art, where you can wander through and enjoy the artistic talent of New Zealand glassmakers. There are different themes and series running through the year, with their own artists’ interpretations, allowing you to enjoy a unique experience whenever you visit.
Most of the glass is for sale, too, allowing you to treat yourself to the perfect piece of art or grab a souvenir for friends or family.
Te Mata Peak
Te Mata Peak sits 400 meters above sea level and provides you with some of the most beautiful views of the Kaweka, Ruahine, and Maungaharuru ranges. It’s the perfect spot for anyone who loves hiking and wants to enjoy the stunning views from the top of the range. It isn’t the easiest hike, but there is plenty of beauty and even a mythological story that adds romance to this beauty.
Birdwoods Gallery
Birdwoods Gallery is an excellent place for art lovers to stop. It features a range of African and New Zealand arts and crafts, allowing you to see how artists make their pieces using a range of materials. Expect to see textiles, metal, stone, and ceramic works on display. There is a mixture of outdoor and indoor exhibits, so you can explore the entire space and make the most of your time here.
There is a lovely cafe where you can enjoy some food and drinks while enjoying the picturesque views that surround you.
Finish planning your Auckland to Hawkes Bay road trip today
Now that you know where to stop on your road trip, it’s time to get the best rates on campervan rental in Auckland, allowing you to finalise your plans. Once you have your van, it’s time to head off and enjoy your once-in-a-lifetime road trip!
