🇳🇿 NZ Highway 35: The East Coast's Hidden Gem Road Trip!

Wind along the Pacific on this uncrowded, breathtaking coastal drive—where every turn reveals postcard-perfect seascapes! We spent 3 dreamy days cruising from Auckland to Gisborne via Tauranga, staying in garden retreats and farm stays. Pure magic! 💫 📍 Day 1: Auckland → Tauranga ✅ McLaren Falls Park 🌿 "Silver-chain" waterfalls + serene forests = ultimate zen. (Almost no crowds—just you and nature’s symphony!) ✅ Mount Maunganui Sunset ⛰️ 40-min hike up for heart-stopping views. At golden hour, the sky melts from cotton-candy pink to deep tangerine—photos can’t do it justice! 🌅 ✅ Historic Manor Stay 🏡 Time-capsule vibes: Antique-filled rooms + storybook gardens. Even the walls whisper tales (thanks to the owner’s vintage photos!). 📍 Day 2: Highway 35 Adventure Begins! 🍜 Brunch Pick: RiceRiceBaby (Maungatapu Rd) 🇻🇳 Must-try: Pho + crispy shrimp chips. Then explore nearby ice cream shops and boutiques! 🌊 Papamoa Beach Road 📸 Left side = endless Pacific drama. For apocalyptic-beach vibes, hit the Surf Lifesaving Club’s viewing platform. 🥝 Te Puke: Kiwi Capital 🤳 Giant kiwifruit statue alert! The quirkiest photo op on the North Island. 🚗 Route Summary: Auckland → Tauranga (McLaren Falls + Mauao sunset) → Papamoa Coast → Te Puke → Opotiki (Hwy 35 gateway) #NZRoadTrip #HiddenNZ #CoastalMagic #TaurangaSunsets #OffTheBeatenPath #NorthIslandAdventures