New Zealand Itinerary
14 jours

What you'll do

In this guide, I’ve put together what I believe is the ultimate 2-week New Zealand itinerary—packed with my favourite places to see and the best things to do across both the North and South Islands. From dramatic mountains and glowworm caves to wild coastlines and pristine lakes, this journey showcases the very best of Aotearoa.

Not only have I included my must-visit destinations, but I’ve also shared recommendations on where to stay, the best food spots, and activities worth adding to your trip. The itinerary is designed for two weeks, but you can easily shorten or extend it to suit your own travel style.

Get out there and explore—and if you do, let me know how your adventure goes. I’d love to hear about your highlights 🥰

Day 1

1

Budget Car & Truck Rental Auckland Airport

Car_Rental

Convenient Airport Car Rentals

Budget Car & Truck Rental at Auckland Airport is a convenient spot for travelers looking to hit the road in New Zealand. Located just a short distance from the airport, it offers a range of vehicles, from compact cars to larger trucks, catering to different needs and preferences. The staff is friendly and ready to help with any questions, making the rental process smooth and hassle-free. Plus, they often have great deals that make renting a car budget-friendly. Whether someone’s planning a quick trip around the city or an adventure further afield, Budget has got them covered with reliable options and easy access right when they land.

2

JUCY Car Rental and Campervan Hire Auckland Airport

Car_Rental

Affordable rentals for New Zealand adventures.

JUCY Car Rental and Campervan Hire at Auckland Airport is a popular spot for travelers looking to explore New Zealand. They offer a range of vehicles, from compact cars to quirky campervans, making it easy for visitors to hit the road and discover the stunning landscapes. The staff is known for being friendly and helpful, ensuring that customers have a smooth rental experience. Plus, their convenient location near the airport means it's super easy to pick up and drop off vehicles. With JUCY, adventurers can enjoy the freedom of the open road while having a bit of fun along the way.

3

Muriwai Beach

plage

Wild stretch of black sand

Muriwai Beach, on Auckland’s rugged west coast, is a wild stretch of black sand that feels both powerful and untamed. Strong surf pounds the shoreline, while steep cliffs frame the coastline and carry the sound of crashing waves far inland. One of the highlights here is the gannet colony perched on the clifftops—a spectacular sight during breeding season when thousands of birds swoop and nest above the ocean.

The beach itself runs for over 50 kilometres, making it popular for long walks, horse riding, surfing, and 4WD access (with a permit). At sunset, the whole coastline glows with golden light against the dark sand, creating dramatic photography opportunities that are uniquely West Coast.

Bring a zoom lens if you want to capture the gannets up close, and a wide-angle to take in the sheer scale of the cliffs, ocean, and horizon.

4

Piha Beach

plage

Famous black sand beach

Piha Beach is one of Auckland’s most iconic west coast spots, famous for its wild surf, black sand, and the towering Lion Rock that dominates the shoreline. The beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs and dense native bush, giving it a raw, untamed feel that makes it both beautiful and dramatic. On calm evenings, the sunsets here are unforgettable, with fiery skies reflecting across the dark sand.

Getting to Piha is straightforward—it’s about a 45-minute drive from central Auckland, winding through the Waitākere Ranges with plenty of scenic pull-offs along the way. Once you arrive, the beach stretches wide and long, perfect for walking, exploring tide pools, or just taking in the atmosphere.

For photographers, Piha is a dream. Bring a wide-angle to capture the vast sweep of the beach and cliffs, and a zoom for details like the textured rock formations or surfers braving the waves. Sunset is the prime time to shoot, but the moody skies on stormy days are just as striking.

5

Kitekite Falls

Cascade

Stunning waterfall in New Zealand

Here’s your guide to exploring Kitekite Falls:

🚨 Protect our Kauri, make sure you use the cleaning stations whenever they are provided! 🚨

🥾 Trail: A relatively easy 1 hr return walk to a cascading waterfall with multiple swimming holes.

🅿️ Access/Parking: Plenty of free parking is available at the trailhead.

📏 Difficulty: Moderate.

🤫 Secret: Take the trail to the top of the falls to find even more, and less crowded, swimming holes!

👧👦 Family-friendly: Yes.

🦮 Dog-Friendly: Yes.

🌞 Shade: There is plenty of native bush providing shade.

🚽 Facilities: Yes, at the trailhead.

🗑️ Leave no trace: Preserve this beautiful spot by taking your rubbish with you and staying on marked trails.

🙏 Follow @getlostwithliam for more hidden gems, trail tips, and outdoor inspiration!

6

Piha Store

café

Charming coastal store in Piha

Piha Store is a charming little spot nestled in the picturesque Piha, New Zealand. Known for its laid-back vibe, it serves as a go-to place for locals and visitors alike. The store offers a variety of delicious snacks, fresh coffee, and essential supplies, making it perfect for beachgoers looking to refuel after a day in the sun. With its friendly staff and cozy atmosphere, it's not just a place to grab a bite; it's also a hub where people can catch up and enjoy the relaxed coastal lifestyle. Whether you're stopping by for a quick treat or to stock up for a picnic, Piha Store has that welcoming feel that makes everyone feel right at home.

7

Piha Beachstay Accommodation

hôtel

Cozy beachstay near Piha Beach

Piha Beachstay Accommodation is a cozy spot nestled near the stunning Piha Beach in New Zealand. This place offers a relaxed vibe, perfect for those looking to unwind by the ocean. Guests can expect comfortable rooms with a laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal getaway for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. The location is fantastic, with easy access to the beach and nearby hiking trails, allowing visitors to soak up the sun or explore the beautiful surroundings. Plus, the friendly staff adds a welcoming touch, ensuring everyone feels right at home during their stay.

8

Piha Domain Motor Camp

camping

Relaxed beach camping experience

Piha Camp is a laid-back spot nestled near the stunning Piha Beach in New Zealand. It’s known for its beautiful scenery, with rugged cliffs and black sand beaches that attract both locals and tourists alike. The camp offers a relaxed atmosphere where people can set up tents or park their caravans, making it a great place for families and friends to gather. With plenty of outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and exploring the nearby nature reserves, there’s never a dull moment. Plus, the community vibe makes it easy to meet fellow campers and share stories around a fire. Overall, Piha Camp is all about enjoying the natural beauty and having a good time in a friendly environment.