New Zealand undoubtedly has some of the world’s best driving roads and the best way to experience them is behind the wheel of something special. Luxury Car Rentals New Zealand exists to make that possible. Stop whenever you like, take in the scenery and take photos, enjoy the clean, fresh NZ air for the road trip of a lifetime.
Pacific Coast Highway
Pacific Coast Highway – New Zealand’s Coastal Gem
Explore one of New Zealand’s most beautiful road trips – the Pacific Coast Highway. Winding along the North Island’s eastern edge, this route is a spectacular mix of white-sand beaches, native bush, Māori culture, and seaside towns. Starting from Auckland and ending in Hawke’s Bay, the journey is all about slowing down and soaking up the coastal magic.
Route Overview
Auckland → Coromandel → Bay of Plenty → East Cape → Gisborne → Napier
Why Drive the Pacific Coast Highway?
Uncrowded roads and hidden coastal gems / Ideal for cultural explorers, beach lovers, and photographers / A perfect mix of nature, history, and local flavour / Less touristy, more authentic / Easily combined with Rotorua, Taupō, or the Thermal Explorer Highway
Take the road less travelled.
Discover the soul of the North Island on the Pacific Coast Highway
The Forgotten World Highway
Welcome to the Forgotten World Highway – 150 km of winding road through remote farmland, native bush, and historic settlements. Built on old colonial bridle paths, it’s a journey into the heart of New Zealand’s past.
Starting in Taumarunui, we enter King Country – once off-limits to Europeans and rich in Māori and rail history. Tangarakau Gorge – This dramatic gravel stretch runs through native bush and steep cliffs. You’re truly off the grid here – no cell reception, just birdsong and history. Stop at the Republic of Whangamōmona – a playful ‘independent nation’ with its own passport and a pub full of character – Tahora & Strathmore Saddles – These high points offer stunning views across to Mt Taranaki and Ruapehu – perfect photo spots and a breath of fresh country air. Finish in Stratford, where Shakespeare meets Taranaki. Don’t miss the glockenspiel clock tower that brings Romeo and Juliet to life
Thanks for travelling the Forgotten Highway
a drive less taken, but never forgotten
South to North West Coast
Travel the length of the West Coast from Queenstown to Nelson. Explore gigantic glaciers, underground worlds, vast sea-swept vistas and internationally recognised national parks.
Scenic drive over Crown Range, visit Lake Wanaka. Wanaka to Franz Josef – Journey via Haast Pass with waterfall and lake stops, glacier experience. Franz Josef to Punakaiki – West Coast drive with stops at Lake Matheson and Hokitika Gorge. Punakaiki to Westport (optional Karamea) – See Pancake Rocks, seal colonies, and limestone arches. Westport to Nelson – Through Buller Gorge, finishing in sunny Nelson near Abel Tasman.
Milford Sound
New Zealand’s most visited tourist region, for good reason. The scenery in the Sound itself is amazing and the road from Queenstown to Milford via Te Anau is spectacular. Rolling farmland gives way to lush forest, lakes and mountain passes as you get closer and should be on any discerning traveller’s bucket list to drive. In a convertible with the top down is just bliss. An early set off is recommended, however be mindful of road conditions if travelling in the winter months. This 600km round trip has several coverage black spots, so plan and prepare before you hit the road.
