Auckland, New Zealand, is a vibrant city known for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal starting and ending point for your trip. The city offers easy-to-navigate streets perfect for rental car travel, and plenty of scenic half-day city sightseeing tours that are great for young children. Auckland also provides a wonderful blend of local cultural experiences and modern attractions, ensuring fun and educational adventures for your whole family.

Rotorua is a fantastic destination for families, offering geothermal parks with bubbling mud pools and geysers, Maori cultural experiences, and wildlife encounters that are both educational and fun for young children. The city is easy to navigate with rental cars, making it convenient for families to explore at their own pace. Rotorua's unique natural wonders and rich cultural heritage make it a memorable stop on your North Island loop itinerary.

Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, is known for its vibrant arts scene, rich Maori culture, and stunning harbor views. Your family can enjoy the Lord of the Rings-themed day, explore interactive museums, and experience local cultural performances that are both educational and fun for young children. The city is also very walkable and easy to navigate, making it a great stop on your North Island loop itinerary.