Ever wondered where the most scenic driving routes in the world are? Or asked yourself, “What is the world’s most beautiful drive?” New Zealand consistently ranks at the top, and for good reason. The diversity of landscapes, the stunning interplay of reliefs and colours, and the way nature unfolds around every bend make it a paradise for anyone behind the wheel.

Imagine driving along a road that winds through semi-tropical forests, the ocean glinting to your right, vast plains stretching endlessly to your left, and majestic mountain ranges looming in the distance. The curves keep you engaged, the scenery mesmerises — this is far beyond a Route 66 experience. This is New Zealand at its most spectacular.

Even if you’ve searched for “roads with no speed limits,” you’ll notice they’re rare today. But there are still a few stretches, carefully explored and curated, where every kilometre offers excitement without compromising safety. Likewise, if you’re asking “What is the prettiest road in the world?” or “Where is the most scenic place in New Zealand?”, the options are abundant, but two routes near Auckland stand out for breathtaking views, unforgettable experiences, and a mix of road types.

Exploring North Auckland

For a drive combining coastline, vineyard valleys, and rolling countryside, the North shore region is ideal. Imagine: the morning starts at Muriwai Golf Club, overlooking the ocean, where the route already teases the dramatic coastline ahead. Along the way, you can catch glimpses of the Gibbs Farm Sculpture Park across Kaipara Harbour - a breathtaking display of large-scale outdoor art visible from the road.

The drive continues through Kaukapakapa, a short but scenic stop to stretch your legs, before taking one of the most exciting road in the region: the W Coast road. An unmatched route that takes you from the West Coast to the East Coast, through stunning landscapes, pushing you to alternate between tight left and right turns amid lush vegetation, until you reach the wonderful Matakana region. We suggest stopping for lunch at Brick Bay Restaurant. Set amidst vineyards, a lake, and unique sculptures, lunch becomes an experience as remarkable as the drive itself.

Afterwards, the route winds through Matakana’s local reserve, perfect for photos and a refreshing walk, before coming back in the Auckland area. You can have a last stop at Wainui Golf Club. And there you have it: a truly unforgettable day, filled with long straights across open plains, stunning coastal stretches, winding mountain roads, and moments of culture and gastronomy. Ready to dive into the full details of this itinerary? Just click on the image below.

Coastal Thrills and Countryside Curves: The Kawakawa Bay Area

For those drawn to dramatic coastlines and lush rural landscapes, the Kawakawa Bay region is a perfect choice. Start with breakfast in the city. If you’d rather head straight outdoors, make your way to Whitford Park Golf Club for a morning coffee. Then take Whitford-Maraetai Road. The drive flows south along quiet backroads and farmland, offering hidden valleys, forest trails, and panoramic coastal views. A highlight is Duder Regional Park, where rolling hills meet the ocean — an ideal spot to stretch your legs and take photos.

After a long drive, you might be feeling hungry. We recommend making a stop at John Hill Estate for lunch, where sweeping vineyard views and native gardens provide a serene setting. Now that you’ve enjoyed a wonderful morning of driving and gastronomy, it’s time for the highlight of the day - the East Coast Road. One of the most beautiful routes in the region, it follows the stunning eastern shoreline. From John Hill Estate, head south through incredible mountain roads until you reach Route 2. Then continue towards Whakatiwai. And here you are - all that’s left is to follow East Coast Road northwards. Ready to dive into the full details of this itinerary? Just click on the image below for more details.

Experience the Roads in Style

For those looking to elevate the adventure, MotorShare Luxury Drives allow you to explore these routes behind the wheel of New Zealand’s most exceptional cars. Switch between a Lamborghini Huracan, McLaren 650S, Aston Martin DB9, Nissan GTR, or other vehicles from the MotorShare fleet while enjoying the finest roads in the world.

Gourmet lunches are included, whether at Brick Bay or John Hill Estate, making each tour a complete sensory experience. Full-day tours offer six vehicle swaps for NZ$1,999, while half-day tours provide three cars for NZ$999, allowing you to truly savour every kilometre of New Zealand’s finest driving roads.

Whether it’s a few hours of adrenaline, the most scenic spots, or a full day of luxury driving, these tours offer something unforgettable. With MotorShare, it’s not just driving - it’s experiencing the roads of New Zealand in the most spectacular way!