18 days in Auckland & Hamilton Itinerary

The largest and most populous city in New Zealand, Auckland combines a rich history and thriving contemporary culture in an abundance of museums, art galleries, and performance venues.

Dedicate the 18th (Sat) to wine at some of the top wineries in the area. The adventure continues: enjoy breathtaking views from Sky Tower, get up close and personal with brilliant marine life at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium, learn about all things military at Auckland Museum, and take in the waterfront activity at Viaduct Harbour.

To find photos, ratings, reviews, and other tourist information, read our Auckland road trip app.

Amritsar, India to Auckland is an approximately 23-hour flight. The time zone changes from India Standard Time (IST) to New Zealand Standard Time (NZST), which is usually a 6.5 hour difference. Plan for warmer nights when traveling from Amritsar in February since evenings lows in Auckland dip to 26°C. On the 23rd (Thu), wrap the sightseeing up by early afternoon so you can drive to Hamilton.

On the banks of the Waikato River lies Hamilton, a pretty, active city on North Island.

Change things up with these side-trips from Hamilton: Rotorua (Te Puia, Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, &more), Statue of shearer (in Te Kuiti) and Waitomo Caves (Mangapohue Natural Bridge Walk, Ruakuri Cave, &more). Next up on the itinerary: don't miss a visit to Hobbiton Movie Set, see the interesting displays at Waikato Museum, relax in the rural setting at Agrodome, and test your team's savvy at popular escape rooms.

To see other places to visit, photos, and tourist information, read our Hamilton travel planner.

You can drive from Auckland to Hamilton in 1.5 hours. Other options are to take a bus; or take a train. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 5th (Sun) so you can catch the flight back home.