2 Day Road Trip Route

Get ready for an unforgettable 2-day summer road trip from Auckland to Rotorua! This itinerary covers breathtaking scenery, iconic attractions, and hidden gems, ensuring a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Day 1: Auckland to Rotorua (via Lavender Farm & Hobbiton)

Start Time: 8:00 AM

Stop 1: Lavender Backyard Garden

Kick off your journey with a sensory escape at Lavender Backyard Garden! Wander through picturesque lavender fields, soak in the calming aroma, and capture stunning photos. Treat yourself to real fruit ice cream and, if in season, enjoy a hands-on experience picking fresh blueberries and lavender.

• Distance from Auckland: 1–1.5 hours drive
• Suggested duration: 1–2 hours
• Activities: Lavender sightseeing, photography, PYO lavender & blueberries

Click to learn more about Summer Activities at Lavender Backyard Garden

Lunch - Cambridge

Lunch Stop: Cambridge

Enjoy a relaxing meal in the charming town of Cambridge, known for its great cafes and eateries.

Stop 2: Hobbiton Movie Set

Step into the magical world of Middle-earth at the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata. Wander through 44 hobbit holes, visit The Green Dragon Inn, and relive moments from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies on a guided tour.

• Distance from Lavender Backyard Garden: 40-minute drive
• Suggested duration: 2 hours
• Activities: Hobbiton guided tour (booking recommended)

Image Credit: Hobbitontours.com

Stop 3: Rotorua Accommodation

End the day in Rotorua, famous for its geothermal attractions, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures.

• Distance from Hobbiton: 1-hour drive
• Evening options: Polynesian Spa, geothermal walks, Maori cultural experiences

Distance from Hobbiton 1 hour 

Day 2: Rotorua to Auckland (via Blue Springs)

Stop 4: Skyline Rotorua

Start your morning with thrilling adventures at Skyline Rotorua! Take a gondola ride for panoramic views, zip through the trees on a zipline, or race down the tracks on the luge rides.

• Suggested duration: 2–3 hours
• Activities: Gondola rides, zipline, luge rides, Sky Swing

Image Credit: Skyline Rotorua

Stop 5: Lake Rotorua

Enjoy a scenic lakeside walk at Lake Rotorua, taking in the serene beauty of this geothermal wonder.

• Suggested duration: 1 hour
• Activities: Walking trails, sightseeing

Image Credit: newzealand.com

Lunch Stop: Rotorua

Refuel with a delicious meal at one of Rotorua’s top-rated cafes or restaurants.

Stop 6: Blue Springs – Putaruru

Discover the crystal-clear waters of the famous Blue Springs. Take a leisurely walk along the scenic trail, or dip your feet into the refreshing spring water.

• Distance from Rotorua: 40-minute drive
• Suggested duration: 1–2 hours
• Activities: Walkway, sightseeing

Image Credit: newzealand.com

Drive Back to Auckland

• Distance from Blue Springs to Auckland: 2-hour drive

Summary of Must-Visit Stops:

✅ Day 1: Lavender Backyard Garden → Hobbiton Movie Set → Rotorua
✅ Day 2: Skyline Rotorua → Lake Rotorua → Blue Springs → Auckland

This 2-day Auckland to Rotorua road trip is the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and stunning scenery. Start planning today and make your summer one to remember!