Let’s Take the Scenic Route!
Let’s Take the Scenic Route!
We are now well into spring and we all know what comes next… Summer!
I don’t know about you, but Spring & Summer are my favourite seasons of the year because it means the weather is getting better for some epic weekend road trips.
If you have some free weekends coming up, why not book a car rental/ car hire for a weekend, pack an overnight bag with your family or your best pals and head away on a fun but chilled New Zealand road trip.
If you’re keen to check out some beautiful spots and take the scenic routes, we’ve got your back. Here are some of the best scenic drives to take in the North Island of Aotearoa.
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“Scenic Drive”. If you’re planning on heading to the Auckland region, you can’t go past the drive from the beautiful Waitakere Ranges, starting from Titirangi and connecting with Piha Road, fittingly named “Scenic Drive”. With a name like that, it’s surely one you can’t miss! Once you make your way to Piha, park up and talk a walk on the beach and head up “Lion Rock”. Some rad views from up there. Perfect anytime but especially on a still & clear afternoon.
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“Cape Reinga”. A long drive, but worth it. These are the words you’ll hear from nearly everyone who has made this gorgeous trip. There is something special and magical about the very top of the North Island. As you travel this route, you will be met by endless ocean and sky. Once you get there, there is a lovely walk (not too long, don’t worry) & you can head down for a stroll to the lighthouse. If you’re up for a bit more exercise, there are plenty of longer walks you can take. All of it will be worth the time and effort.
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“Forgotten World Highway”. At 150 kilometres long, the Forgotten World Highway is an incredible drive not to be missed! The Forgotten World Highway can be driven from Stratford to Taumaranui. This mysterious drive winds it’s way over four mountain saddles, through a single lane tunnel and along a very bendy river gorge. You’ll find that parts of the drive are unsealed so make sure you take your time, for both safety and to take in your surroundings. Some highlights of the trip are undoubtedly Whangamomona, Tahora Saddle & Mount Damper Falls.
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“The Pohutukawa Coast”. Another stunning Auckland scenic drive is the gorgeous Pohutukawa Coast. Make your way from the city, winding your way through Howick & Cockle bay. You can also take an alternative route through Clevedon, but either way you will find yourself in Maraetei, which is magical. This is a lovely day trip to make with the family. There is the family friendly Omana Regional park, which is the perfect spot for a picnic and some summer cricket. Or relax in the evening and watch the sun go down. As the sun heads to sleep for the night, slowly make your way back, maybe you could take the alternative route to what you drove there.
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“Thermal Explorer Highway – (Volcanic Loop)”. This is a loop scenic drive, which runs from Taupo down to Tongariro National Park and back to Taupo. The region is full of volcanic mountains, stunning emerald lakes, white snow covered ski fields, and is home to The Tongariro and Whanganui National Parks (which hold a Dual status as a World Heritage Area). The plan would be to head south, down the eastern shores of Lake Taupo, which also offer many opportunities to swim or picnic. Head west at Turangi and follow State Highway 47 to National Park Village. Travel south to Ohakune on State Highway 49 and on to Waiouru. From there head north back to Turangi, completing the loop. Along the way you’ll pass three gorgeous mountains, Mt Tongariro, Mt Ruapehu and Mt Ngauruhoe. This is the perfect trip to take if you want to experience the picturesque mainland of New Zealand.
New Zealand, both North & South Islands are without fault. They are beautiful. Ultimately no matter which way you decide to go, you’re bound to end up somewhere incredible and discover some pretty great places along the way.
Rite Price Rentals has a variety of rental vehicles/ hire vehicles available and suitable for weekend trips or longer. Whether you need a car hire or van hire, we can get you sorted. We are located in three great North Island locations, in Rotorua, Taupo and Tauranga. Give us a call today on 0800 250 251 or simply book through our website. We look forward to helping you on your journey.
