Auckland North | The Most Fun, Relaxing

A leisurely yet epic self-drive adventure—camping, motels, cooking under the stars, and almost all free attractions (except goat island snorkel gear rental!). 🗓️ Itinerary D1: Auckland → Goat Island → Uretiti Beach Snorkel with fish at Goat Island 🐠 Sunset + sandboarding + crab fishing + BBQ at Uretiti Beach (Check my post "Northbound to the Mirror of the Sky" for details!) D2: Waipu Glowworm Caves → Waitangi Holiday Park Free glowworm magic! (No tickets needed) Campsite: $144 (tent) / $160 (RV) — RV spots have power! ⚡ Bonus: Book a dolphin tour or dive if time allows! (See my "Northbound to Waipu Caves" post.) D3: Cape Reinga Lighthouse → Giant Sand Dunes → Kerikeri Motel Slide down 90m dunes! 🏜️ Missed but cool options: Coca-Cola Lake (turquoise waters!) 90-Mile Beach sunset Houhora’s abalone pie & strawberry ice cream (closes at 5pm 😢) (Details in "NZ’s Northernmost Landmark: Cape Reinga"!) D4: Rainbow Falls → Back to Auckland Extra stop: Kai Iwi Lakes (mini-Maldives vibes!). 💡 Pro Tips for Saving $$$ 1️⃣ Book campsites early (powered sites = lifesaver). 2️⃣ Rent long-sleeve wetsuits for Goat Island—water’s chilly! ❄️ 3️⃣ Camping must-haves: Thick sleeping bag 🛌 Air mattress + mosquito spray 🦟 Clothes-as-pillow hack (space-saving + comfy!) 4️⃣ Bring portable BBQ + gas stove—meal-time MVPs! 🍳 5️⃣ December hack: A chilly bin with ice keeps food fresh for 3 days! #NZRoadTrip #BudgetTravel #AucklandAdventures #CampingNZ ⛺🌿