New Zealand- 7 days- North Island- start Wellington end Auckland, where shouldn't we miss?

[evenhope]

Going to NZ next month for 2 weddings. First is in Wellington, second in Auckland. 7 free days to travel north (self drive) and there is so much to do we can't fit it all in.

What should we not miss? Any recommendations for places to visit/ stay?

(We are taking our DD who will be 11 months)

erm - I'm from Hastings [spooky emoticon]

weird, now i'm freaked out! i went to HGHS 1986-1989

karamu, 1984-88. (Frimley School, Hastings Intermediate).

i was at flaxmere primary/intermediate.

small world out there..