13 night North Island Itinerary--please review/tips

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skysyd1
skysyd1

We are heading to NZ early July for a total of 13 nights. I've been to the South Island years ago so we are focusing on the North. Here is my itinerary so if anyone can suggest tips or any info that would be appreciated.

5th JulyFlying into AKL early morning
Staying 2 nights in the Ponsonby area. (Airbnb).
We will have a car. Must sees in AKL? Also what's a great Seafood to sample some delicious NZ seafood (not fried).

7th July to 9th July Coromandel Town. Thinking after the drive from AKL just chilling out and following day taking a drive around the peninsula. Is this doable or should we only stay one night in coromandel and then closer to hot water. great seafood tips again. :-)

9th July to 11
Rotorua. We are not crazy about touristy things, (I know we are tourists) but is 2 nights too much here?

July 11 for one night Lake Taupo. ??

July 12 Napier. One night

July 13-15 Wellington

July 15 & 16 open to suggestions but have to make our way back to AKL on the night of the 17. Any specific routes or towns to drive/stop at one way back up to AKL. Coastal route?

Fly out on the 18th.

Thanks to everyone in advance.

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westwood
westwood

In Auckland, Harbour side Ocean Bar and Grill, Swashbucklers are just a couple. Plenty more around the Viaduct Basin to choose from.
Must sees? Subjective from person to person depending on sorts of things you like to do. No point recommending the museum if they bore you stupid. But when you fly into Auckland, head to the I site counter and pick up maps, brochures, etc.

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kereru
kereru

Why not skip Lake Taupo on the way south & go Rotorua (Taupo for lunch?) and straight through to Napier - stay 2N; then possibly stay the night of the 15th at Taupo on the way back north?
Or depending on your interests you could go from WLG to New Plymouth for 1 N and on to Waitomo Caves for the 16th.

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hereandtherenz
hereandtherenz

Fish is a great seafood restaurant. Quite pricey but food to die for and great views.

Auckland must sees depends on you. Drive out to Piha might be nice. The waterfall walk is nice.

Wander down K Rd (near Ponsonby). Devonport and North Head. Fish n chips at Mission Bay and a wander along the waterfront. Check out the super yachts and whatever else is going on in the Viaduct.

At that time of year, accommodation won't be a problem so perhaps play by ear and see what the weather is doing. Bay of Islands if Coromandel is crap weather for example.

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skysyd1
skysyd1

Hey thanks all for your tips. Keep them coming.

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