Here is what we are thinking , but would like any and ALL suggestions to make it more feasible and pleasant instead of rushed.

Day 1- Leave Auckland , Drive to Waitomo, do underground tubing tour, overnight in Waitomo.
Day 2- Leave Waitomo and head for either Rotorua or Taupo ( suggestions on whether to do one over the other or both are appreciated)
Overnight in one of these towns.
Day 3- Drive to Whitianga/Coromandel Do/See Cathedral Cove, do waterside hiking.
Stay in Whitianga or Coromandel??
Day 4- Drive back to Auckland-
Day 5- Sight see Auckland and ferry to Waiheke.


Any suggestions on things that are too ambitious or things I am missing on this journey?
Should we leave Waitomo same day and overnight in Taupo instead of staying in Waitomo on first night?

P.S. we are doing this in early February , so I know I must plan my stays EARLY or there won't be anything to be had.

Many thanks!!!

Don't bother with Taupo. It's a cute little place and I am not knocking it but it's too far in the wrong direction. Waitomo to Taupo is about 2 hours and really not worth it for the trip.Rotorua has more to offer the visitor.
Cathedral Cove is closer to Whitianga so stay there. Going to Coromandel means more driving north and then back tracking the next day. There's also Hot Water Beach close to CC so that's worth a look.
February 6 is Waitangi Day (national holiday) and we all take off somewhere (because it's summer and we like the beach!) It's a Wednesday in 2019 so many people will take off the days either side - could be busier than normal.

thank you !

Yes I agree with you. enjoy your tour.

Hi There,

I would recommend travelling to Rotorua for the geothermals and culture, But I recommend Taupo lake, near to Huka falls, beautiful beaches and aterial rivers feeding into the lake . Great for fishing and close to Mt Ruapehi, Narahoe, and Tongariro.
Then head to Coromandel. Hotwater beach. This beautiful peninsula is well worth visiting.
Definitely do Waiheke Island.

​​​​​​​have a great trip

Your schedule seems tight. Auckland / Waiheke will take a full day. The wineries on Waiheke are not close to each other, I would suggest you take a day tour.

Do not sleep in Waitomo. There's nothing there to do.