Weekend Getaways from Auckland the Whole Family Will Love

When the weekend rolls along, and you’re ready for a break from the city, Auckland is a great place to be. With the keys to a Dollar rental car, you can unlock some of the country’s (or even the world’s) most incredible sights with ease. Let’s find out how! 

Coromandel Peninsula 

The Coromandel is a favourite for families who love the beach but prefer somewhere relaxed and unspoiled. Dig your own spa pool in the sand at Hot Water Beach, explore the walking track to Cathedral Cove, or take an easy bush walk to see the cascades at Waiau Falls. The town of Whitianga has plenty of cafés, ice-cream shops and calm swimming beaches. 

Rotorua  

In Rotorua, the steaming geysers, bubbling mud pools and bright mineral terraces make it a fascinating journey for all ages. Kuirau Park offers free geothermal pools and foot baths, while the Redwoods Forest has walking and cycling trails suited to all ages. The Skyline Rotorua gondola and luge tracks add a bit of adrenaline, and nearby lakes like Tikitapu (Blue Lake) are great for a picnic and a swim. 

Bay of Islands 

If your family loves time on the water, the Bay of Islands is hard to beat. All you have to do is hop in the rental car, then take your pick of more than 140 islands. Our tip? Base yourself in Paihia or Russell for easy beach access, short ferry rides and dolphin-watching tours. Don’t miss the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, which is a fascinating and well-presented piece of New Zealand history. And, the region’s beaches like Long Beach and Matauri Bay are perfect for relaxed days in the sun. 

Raglan 

Raglan is a surf town with a creative streak. Ngarunui Beach is great for beginner surfers, with lessons and rentals available right by the sand. Even if you’re not a surfer, you’ll love checking out the local shops and art galleries, or walking up to Bridal Veil Falls: an easy track that leads to one of the most photogenic waterfalls in the North Island.  

Taupō 

Taupō is a bit of a drive (about four and a half hours), but it’s well worth the trip. Its famous lake is big enough for kayaking, swimming, and even sailing, with calm coves that are great for the kids. Stop by Huka Falls to see the thundering blue water or take the short walk to the viewing bridge for an incredible photo stop. Taupō town has playgrounds, hot pools and plenty of restaurants. 

Waiheke Island  

If you’d rather skip a long drive, Waiheke Island offers a weekend escape just a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. Explore beaches like Oneroa and Palm Beach, visit the Saturday markets, or walk part of the island’s coastal trails. The wineries are a must (just make sure you have a designated driver), while the kids will love the open spaces, farm animals, and safe swimming bays. It’s an easy getaway that feels surprisingly far removed from city life. 

Weekend Escapes Made Easy 

And that’s it! You don’t have to travel far from Auckland for a massive change of scenery. In an easy and scenic drive you can reach islands, geothermal areas, wineries and more—all in one weekend, and in a Dollar rental car. Choose the destination that suits your weekend mood, and get ready to turn another weekend into a whole new adventure.