After leaving Auckland, we took a scenic two-hour drive to the laid-back surf town of Raglan. Once we arrived, we headed straight to Ngarunui Beach, a stunning stretch of black sand perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply relaxing by the waves. After spending the afternoon soaking up the sun and watching surfers ride the famous breaks, we explored the charming town of Raglan, filled with health-conscious cafés and boutique shops. As the sun set, we enjoyed a fresh seafood dinner before settling in for the night at a cozy campground overlooking the beach, ready for another day of adventure.

Leaving Raglan, we drove through the picturesque countryside to Hobbiton, passing rolling green hills and fields dotted with lambs along the way. The pastoral landscape felt like stepping into a fairytale, perfectly setting the mood for our visit to the famous movie set. Once we arrived, we spent the day exploring the charming hobbit holes, gardens, and the Green Dragon Inn, where we enjoyed a drink. After a magical day, we opted for a countryside stay tucked into the countryside, where we could continue to enjoy the serene rural atmosphere and fresh air before heading to our next stop.

After leaving the rolling hills of Hobbiton, we made our way to the dense forests and geothermal springs surrounding Rotorua. The highlight of this leg of our trip was Kerosene Creek. Surrounded by a lush rainforest, this unique hot spring offered not only a pool to soak in but a whole creek and waterfall heated by geothermal energy! Knowing the springs hold deep significance in Māori culture, as they’re believed to be infused with the earth’s life force, made the experience even more special. After enjoying the springs, we spent the day hiking near Rotorua, in the Whakarewarewa Forest, surrounded by towering redwoods, vibrant ferns, and native plants creating an otherworldly atmosphere. We could feel that we were walking through a place of deep spiritual and natural power, immersed in the history and traditions of the land.

After leaving Rotorua, we set out on the six-hour drive to Wellington, arriving in New Zealand’s capital for a two-day stay before catching the ferry to the South Island. As the country’s foodie city, Wellington offered an array of incredible restaurants, and we indulged in fresh seafood and local specialties. We spent our days exploring both nature and culture, hiking the scenic Eastern and Southern Walkways, which provided breathtaking views of the harbor and surrounding hills. We also visited the Te Papa Museum, where interactive exhibits gave us a deeper understanding of New Zealand’s history and culture. After seven days of exploring the New Zealand North Island region, I was ready for the next leg of our journey south!