π³πΏ New Zealand North Island: 4-Day Hidden Gem Road Trip
π Why Self-Drive? Freedom to explore at your own pace π£οΈ Easy parking (only paid in Auckland on Day 1) Stay in cozy Airbnbs + cook local groceries π‘π³ πΊοΈ Itinerary Breakdown π Day 1: Auckland Mt Eden (volcanic views) π Mission Bay (seaside brunch) β Devonport (charming harbor town) β΅ Sky Tower (city skyline) π π Day 2: Coromandel & Whitianga Cathedral Cove ποΈ (must-see!) Hot Water Beach (dig your own spa!) β¨οΈ π Day 3: Tauranga Mt Maunganui hike (360Β° coastal views) β°οΈ Maunganui Beach (golden sands) ποΈ Omanawa Falls (hidden jungle waterfall) π¦ π Day 4: Rotorua β Hamilton Redwoods Forest (giant trees + treetop walks) π² Tarawera Volcano Hike (optional, ~NZD 200) π Hamilton Gardens (serene lakeside stroll) π‘ π° Budget Tips Skip Tarawera if volcanoes arenβt your thing (pricey for Β½ day). Free gems: Cathedral Cove, Mt Maunganui, Omanawa Falls! β€οΈ Why We Loved It Whitianga & Tauranga: Quiet, scenic, perfect for unwinding. Hamilton: Laid-back pitstop with lakeside charm. #NZRoadTrip #NorthIslandAdventures #HiddenGems #TravelSlowly #NoCrowdsJustViews