Auckland to Cathedral Cove Road Trip

While it’s tempting to drive straight into the open road, Auckland (often nicknamed “The City of Sails” itself deserves a bit of your time. Start your day with a coffee in Ponsonby, one of the city’s trendiest neighbourhoods, where artisan coffee roasters and hip brunch spots are on almost every street. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a short climb up Mount Eden or One Tree Hill, two iconic volcanoes that offer you some of the best views of the city and the surrounding harbours.

If you’re after something a little more cultural, Auckland’s waterfront is home to the Maritime Museum and there are also plenty of places to grab fresh fish and chips by the sea. Also, the Auckland War Memorial Museum in the Domain is a great place to learn more about the region’s Maori heritage before heading south on State Highway 1 and leaving the city behind.

After about 45 minutes on the road, you’ll arrive in Bombay Hills, which will really mark your official departure from the city and the gateway to New Zealand’s rolling countryside. These hills are more than just a motorway landmark, though – they’re a great place to catch your breath and ease yourself into road-trip mode! There are loads of cafes to explore here, as well as roadside fruit stands selling fresh produce, including blueberries, strawberries, and avocados (depending on the time of year).

As well as these roadside stands, Bombay Hills is famous for its market gardens, so it’s ideal if you want to grab some fruit and vegetables for any picnics you’ve got planned for your journey. And, as you drive further, the landscape switches to become suddenly more rural, with winding roads and stops that are just begging you to pull over and take in the scenery.

Just off the main highway and about 35 minutes from Bombay Hills, Miranda is a must-stop for wildlife lovers. There are huge mud flats and wetlands here, which attract all kinds of migratory birds, and the Miranda Shorebird Centre offers you the chance to spot rare species like godwits and wrybills up close. Even if you’re not a bird enthusiast, there’s something so peaceful about this environment, and it’s a great place to take a break from the road and stretch your legs.

From Miranda, a 30-minute drive brings you to Thames, a town that is steeped in gold rush history and absolutely full of small-town character. Strolling through the main street here feels like stepping back in time, with heritage buildings and boutique shops that you’ll want to spend hours exploring. There are also some lovely local cafes serving small bites like homemade cake and classic New Zealand mince and cheese pies. 

If you’re really interested in history, the Thames Historical Museum and Goldmine Experience are absolute must-visits. You’ll learn about the days when the town was alive with gold prospectors, and you’ll even get the chance to pan for gold yourself. Also, if you’ve got a bit of time to spare, head 15 minutes inland to the Kaueranga Valley, which has some excellent hiking trails and swimming spots.

The next stop on your list is Whangamata, which is around 50 minutes on from Thames. This beach town is famous for its golden sand beaches, and if you’re a surfer, the waves here are consistently good and definitely worth breaking the board out for. Don’t worry if you’ve forgotten your surfboard or if you’ve never surfed before but want to try your hand at it, as there are surf schools along the coast where you can hire equipment and book lessons. 

It’s not all about surfing here, though. The Whangamata Harbour is also perfect for kayaking and paddle boarding, and it’s surrounded by calm waters and hidden inlets waiting to be explored. And after a long day on the water, there are some lovely waterside restaurants where you can dine in peace with the sound of the waves crashing in the background. 

As you continue along the coast, another 30 minutes on the road will take you to Tairua, another small town that feels as though it’s been plucked straight from a postcard. Dominated by the twin volcanic peaks of Mount Paku, Tairua has some of the best views you’ll find on this road trip, and if you’re feeling up for it, a hike to the summit is well worth the effort. From the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding coastline, which is dotted with islands and bays, making for some amazing photographic opportunities.

Assuming you’ve not spent all of your energy hiking Mount Paku, head over to Tairua Harbour, where you can take a gentle stroll, or if you’re keen to get out on the water, rent a paddle board and enjoy the sun setting over the ocean. 

As you start getting closer to your destination, the quiet village of Hahei (which is just 25 minutes from Tairua) gives you a final chance to unwind before you reach Cathedral Cove. The beach is simply stunning, with soft golden sands and clear, calm waters, creating a scene that is perfect for swimming, beachcombing, or just relaxing along the shore.

Hahei also serves as the gateway to Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve, and if you’ve got the time, it’s definitely worth considering joining a kayak tour to explore the reserve’s hidden caves and secluded beaches. This is one of the best ways of exploring the area’s natural beauty, and with the chance to spot dolphins or stingrays along the way, it’s guaranteed to be one of the most memorable moments of your road trip. 

After just 10 minutes more on the road, you’ll reach your final destination of Cathedral Cove. The first thing you need to do here is park up and explore the Cathedral Cove Trail, which leads you through bushland and cliffside paths, with views of the turquoise waters along the way. And as you round the final corner, grab your camera and get ready to snap the best view of the iconic rock arch!

While you’re here, take some time to explore the beach and its golden sands, which are surrounded by cliffs and waves gently lapping at the shore. Also, if you’re staying in the area for a couple of days, make the time to visit Cathedral Cove Macadamias. This is a family-run orchard with tours on offer and the opportunity to sample a range of delicious treats, including roasted macadamia nuts, oils, and butters. This is the place to pick up some souvenirs or gifts or simply stock your campervan with some tasty treats for the rest of your road trip!

Even though it’s a relatively short journey, a road trip from Auckland to Cathedral Cove shouldn’t be rushed! From the history-rich streets of Thames to the peace and quiet of Hahei, every stop along the way adds its own layer of magic to the adventure. 

If you’re itching to explore New Zealand’s North Island, there’s no better way to do it than with Travellers Autobarn. With unlimited kilometres on our campervan rentals, you’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace and have everything you need to make the most of this incredible road trip. So, what are you waiting for? Cathedral Cove and all the adventures you’ll find along the road await!