A good old fashioned road trip is the best way to see the country. Here are Element's four favourite car trips to do in the North Island, with one more down South thrown in for balance. Stock up, stop frequently, and try not to make any firm itinerary plans. The road awaits...
1. Northland loop one
North via SH1 to Kataia, up to Cape Reinga and Spirits Bay (try the Spirits Bay DoC campsite, but bring mozzie repellent). Return to the Bay of Islands via the Karikari Peninsula, where you'll probably want to stop for the night, on for lunch in Maunganui at the famous fish 'n' chips store, across on the ferry to Russell and back through the Tutukaka Coast.
2. Northland loop two
North via SH1, then turn off to Dargaville, up the west coast to the Kai-iwi Lakes, through the Waipoua Forest (stop for Tane Mahuta, the country's biggest Kauri) and then on up to the paradise of the Hokianga Harbour. Cross the harbour on the Rawene Ferry (if you've got time go for a gallop on the sandhills), take the back roads up to Ahipara (where, if you have a four-wheel-drive you can go for a blat around the rocks) and back to Kaitaia. Return back on SH1
3. East Cape
Drive to Opotiki in one hit, then take it easy from there. It's 324km from Opotoki to Gisborne, and around every corner of the northern side of the East Cape you'll want to stop. Postcard perfect. Allow for stops at Tokomaru and Tolaga Bays and Whangara, where Whale Rider was filmed. It has probably calmed down by now. Also look for Loiselles Beach. Return through the Waioeka Gorge to Opotiki and then home as fast as you please.
4. 'Naki loop
From Hamilton, take State Highway 3 to Mokau, and mosey down the coast to New Plymouth. On the way perhaps check out the Seven Sisters, walk the White Cliffs walkway and stop at Mike's Organic Brewery for a cleansing ale. From New Plymouth take the Surf Highway to Hawera, hang a left for Stratford, then take the Forgotten Highway to Whangomomona (leave time for a brew at the iconic pub). When you hit SH4, either head home or detour to Taupo.
5 South Island
Fly into/drive to Christchurch, drive the stunning Athur's Pass, South to Franz Josef, Haast, Wanaka, then drive the interesting Pig Root to Palmerston (stop for the night at St Bathans) and turn right for Dunedin or left for Christchurch once you hit the main road. If you go left, be sure to stop at Fleur's Place seafood restaurant for lunch or dinner.