10 Top Destinations Within a 3-Hour Drive of Auckland
RaD Car Hire’s Day Trip Guide
Ready to escape the city and discover the best of the North Island? Whether you’re a visitor fresh off the plane or a local looking for a spontaneous adventure, Auckland is the perfect launchpad for epic day trips and weekend escapes.
Whilst Auckland is a wonderful place to live or to visit, sometimes, it’s good to leave the “big smoke” behind you and head out on the open road to explore some of the fantastic destinations that are located within a short drive from the City of Sails.
Whether you are a local seeking some inspiration or it’s your first time visiting New Zealand and you’re starting to plan your adventure, you will be surprised to discover how many awesome destinations are located within 3 hours of Auckland CBD or the Airport.
With RaD Car Hire’s convenient Auckland Airport, Auckland West, and CBD Pick Up and Drop Off services, your dream road trip is just a set of keys away.
“Alexa, tell me some cool places to visit within three hours of Auckland”
Why Hire with RaD Car Hire in Auckland?
- Three handy locations: Auckland Airport for instant getaways, Auckland West for easy city escapes, and a super-flexible Auckland CBD Pick Up and Drop Off service.
- Freedom to explore: No waiting for buses or juggling train timetables - just you, your crew, and the open road.
- Local knowledge: Our team knows every shortcut, scenic lookout, and best pie shop between Auckland and your destination.
1. The Coromandel: Whitianga, Cathedral Cove, Hahei & Hot Water Beach
Drive time: 2–2.5 hours
Why go: Pristine beaches, lush forest, and that classic Kiwi holiday vibe.
Summer highlights:
- Dig your own spa at Hot Water Beach (bring a shovel!).
- Kayak to Cathedral Cove for epic photos.
- Chill in Hahei or explore Whitianga’s waterfront.
Winter tip: Hike the Pinnacles for misty forest views.
RaD Team Tip (Auckland Airport):
“Leave early to beat the traffic and catch sunrise at Cathedral Cove, it’s pure magic.”
2. Bay of Islands: Paihia & Russell
Drive time: 3 hours
Why go: Island cruises, Māori history, and dolphins galore.
Summer highlights:
- Cruise to the Hole in the Rock.
- Swim at Long Beach in Russell.
- Explore the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
Winter tip: Enjoy fewer crowds and cosy cafés.
RaD Team Tip (Whangarei Branch):
“Take the ferry from Paihia to Russell and wander the historic streets. Don’t miss the old Duke of Marlborough Hotel for a great pint and some wonderful local food.”
Related Travel Guide:
3. Waitomo Caves
Drive time: 2.5 hours
Why go: Glowworm caves, underground rivers, and adventure.
Summer highlights:
- Glide through the Glowworm Grotto by boat.
- Try black water rafting for a thrill.
Winter tip: The caves stay at a steady temperature year-round, perfect for rainy days.
RaD Team Tip (Hamilton Branch):
“Book a combo tour to see all three caves, as each one is unique, and it’s a fantastic experience to see them all”
4. Mt Maunganui
Drive time: 2.5 hours
Why go: Iconic surf beach, volcanic summit, and laid-back vibes.
Summer highlights:
- Hike up Mauao for panoramic views.
- Swim or surf at the Main Beach.
- Relax in the Mount Hot Pools.
Winter tip: Warm up in the hot pools after a brisk walk.
RaD Team Tip (Tauranga Branch):
“Grab fish and chips and watch the sunset from Pilot Bay with the locals.”
Related Travel Guide:
Things to do in Tauranga and Mt Maunganui
5. Hamilton
Drive time: 1.5 hours
Why go: Gardens, river walks, and a vibrant food scene.
Summer highlights:
- Explore the themed Hamilton Gardens.
- Picnic by the Waikato River.
- Visit the Hamilton Zoo.
Winter tip: Check out the Waikato Museum or a cosy café.
RaD Team Tip (Hamilton Branch):
“Try the Zealong Tea Estate for a unique high tea experience, although you will need to book ahead in peak seasons”
Related Travel Guide:
6. Mangawhai
Drive time: 1.5 hours
Why go: Surf beaches, sand dunes, and artisan treats.
Summer highlights:
- Surf at Mangawhai Heads.
- Walk the clifftop Mangawhai Coastal Track.
- Indulge at Bennett's Chocolate Factory.
Winter tip: Explore the museum or enjoy a hot chocolate at Bennett’s.
RaD Team Tip (Auckland West):
“Head to Wood Street where you will find a range of great places to eat out, including Wood Street Pizzeria and Gringas for awesome Mexican food.”
7. Omaha
Drive time: 1 hour
Why go: White sand beaches, golf, and Matakana’s food scene.
Summer highlights:
- Swim or surf at Omaha Beach.
- Explore Matakana’s Saturday Farmers’ Market.
- Tour local vineyards.
Winter tip: Beach walks and boutique shopping.
RaD Team Tip (CBD Pick Up):
“Pack a picnic and enjoy it on the sand. If you head up for the weekend, Omaha’s sunsets are unforgettable.”
8. Rotorua
Drive time: 3 hours
Why go: Geothermal wonders, Māori culture, adventure sports.
Summer highlights:
- Visit the Redwoods Treewalk.
- Soak in the Polynesian Spa.
- Try mountain biking or luge rides.
Winter tip: Warm up in natural hot springs after exploring geysers.
RaD Team Tip (Rotorua Branch):
“Book an evening at a Māori cultural village for a hangi feast and performance – it’s a unique experience for international visitors and never disappoints.”
Related Travel Guide:
9. Raglan
Drive time: 2.5 hours
Why go: Surf town, black sand beaches, and bohemian charm.
Summer highlights:
- Learn to surf at Manu Bay.
- Browse local galleries and shops.
- Grab brunch at a waterfront café.
Winter tip: Hike to Bridal Veil Falls.
RaD Team Tip (Hamilton Branch):
“Try the fish tacos at Raglan Fish, best enjoyed with your toes in the sand or a cold beer in your hand in the summer months”
10. Matamata (Hobbiton)
Drive time: 2 hours
Why go: Movie magic at the Hobbiton Movie Set.
Summer highlights:
- Guided tours of the Shire.
- Enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn.
Winter tip: Tours run year-round, bring a raincoat just in case.
RaD Team Tip (Hamilton Branch):
“Book a morning tour for fewer crowds and the best light for photos.”
Bonus Destinations
- Kai Iwi Lakes: Crystal-clear freshwater lakes, perfect for swimming and kayaking in summer.
- Waipu: Scottish heritage, caves, and beautiful beaches.
- Whangamata: Surf, cycle, or relax on the Coromandel’s quieter side.
Seasonal Road Trip Tips
Learn more about the seasons in New Zealand and the best times to visit.
Why RaD Car Hire Makes Day Trips Easy
- Flexible pick up/drop off: Choose from Auckland Airport, Auckland West, or have your car delivered to your CBD hotel.
- Branch network: Need to finish your trip in Tauranga, Whangarei, Hamilton, Rotorua, or Taupo? Easy, just ask about one-way hires.
- Local tips: Our team is always ready with advice on the best coffee stops, photo ops, and must-see detours.
Ready to Road Trip?
Auckland is your gateway to adventure, so grab your crew, pack your sunnies, and let RaD Car Hire help you make the most of every kilometre. Wherever you’re headed, we’ll get you there with a smile (and maybe a secret beach tip or two). Happy travels!
For more road trip inspiration, check out our travel guides and chat with the RaD team at any of our North Island branches. Safe driving and see you on the road!