Itinerary

The North Island’s main attractions are relatively close together. Starting from Auckland, head south via Matamata and Rotorua to form a loop, covering city sights, movie sets, geothermal wonders, and Maori culture in just four days.

Day 1: Auckland

Visit the Sky Tower (adventurous travelers can try the SkyWalk) → Explore the harbors and the Viaduct Harbour area → Take a ferry to the seaside town of Devonport → Watch the sunset and enjoy seafood at Mission Bay in the evening. Auckland is known as the "City of Sails," with its iconic sailboats and harbor.

Day 2: Hobbiton and Rotorua

In the morning, go to Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata and join a guided tour to see Bag End and the Green Dragon Inn; in the afternoon, arrive in Rotorua, soak in the Polynesian Spa, and in the evening, attend a Maori cultural dinner to experience the haka war dance and hangi earth-cooked meal.

Day 3: Rotorua Geothermal

In the morning, visit the Champagne Pool and geysers in the Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park, or explore the Te Puia Maori Cultural Centre; in the afternoon, head to Lake Taupo and see Huka Falls. The entire city of Rotorua has a faint smell of sulfur, which is its most distinctive feature.

Day 4: Glowworm Caves and Departure

On the way back, stop by the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and take a boat ride into the underground caverns, where blue glowworms create a "starry sky" above your head — one of the most unforgettable experiences on the North Island. Return to Auckland in the evening and catch an evening flight out.

Tips

• Hobbiton and the glowworm caves require advance online booking and often fill up during peak season.
• Road conditions on the North Island are good, making self-driving the most flexible option; alternatively, you can join a 2-day tour departing from Auckland.
• Do not cross safety barriers in geothermal areas, and be cautious as hot springs and mud pools are extremely hot.