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Home » Oceania » New Zealand » Campervanning in New Zealand: Must Read Guide for Backpackers 2024

Campervanning in New Zealand: Must Read Guide for Backpackers 2024

New Zealand is my favorite country on Earth! I was fortunate enough to spend 15 months there working and traveling around on one incredible campervan trip.

In my honest opinion, there is no better way to experience all of the legendary natural beauty and adrenaline pumping activities in NZ than by campervanning in New Zealand.

It’s simply the BEST way to take it all in, period.

New Zealand or  Aeoteroa—  as the Maori’s call it — is a land of staggering diversity.

Snow-capped mountains and glaciers jut out of low lying temperate rainforest, the home to many plant and animal species that are found nowhere else on this Earth.

Dramatic beaches dot the ever-shifting coastline. Thermal hot-springs fill the air with sulfurous gases. This is Middle-Earth: the land of unparalleled natural elegance and power.

Due to its popularity among backpackers, campervanning in New Zealand is big business. Navigating the worlds of both buying a van or campervan hire in NZ can be a challenge for travelers that have just landed in the country.

That is exactly why I wrote the ultimate guide to campervanning in New Zealand. So you can head out on your epic campervan road trip with ease.

Let’s begin!

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Why Go on a Campervan Road Trip in New Zealand?

Campervan hire in new zealand, buying a campervan in new zealand, nz road trip travel tips for campervan backpackers, self-contained vs non-self-contained campervans in nz, what to pack for campervanning in new zealand, final thoughts on campervanning in new zealand.

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Whether you’re coming to New Zealand on a year-long working holiday visa or just intend to make an epic 2-week road trip in a campervan, this is the guide to help you sort out all of your New Zealand campervan questions and needs.

New Zealand is a huge country made up of two islands, simply named North Island and South Island. Getting around these two islands is easy because NZ has a great network of buses that can take you from one town or city to the next.

The most economical way to see New Zealand is by hiring a car. But, you still need to pay for accommodation. To save money on accommodation, that’s where camper vans come in.

A campervan road trip allows you the freedom to explore these rural, off-the-beaten-track locations, and even camp there. Imagine waking up next to a gorgeous lake with snow-capped mountains in the background? You’d pay a pretty price for an Airbnb with that view.

It’s a no-brainer then, that travelling in your own campervan is the way to travel New Zealand .

Your camper van road trip in New Zealand need not be complicated. This guide breaks down everything you need to know in the realm of NZ campervanning.

Learn about the process of campervan hire in New Zealand, compare rental companies, learn where and when to buy a campervan, how to sell your campervan, Freedom Camping, driving in NZ and much more…

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Renting a campervan in New Zealand is a great solution for both long and short-term travellers. If you are only coming to visit New Zealand for a couple of weeks (or a couple of months), then renting your own camper van is the obvious way to go.

For long-term NZ backpackers, renting a van is certainly the less hassle alternative to buying a van. Obviously renting a van will end up being more expensive (in theory) than buying one.

The main benefit to renting is you don’t have to spend ages hunting for the right camper van if you’re short on time and you also don’t have to sell it off at the end of your journey.

Your needs, schedule, budget, and travel plans all factor into the important decision of how best to get your hands on a campervan.

In every “major” city or travel hub in New Zealand, it is possible to rent a campervan. The prices vary wildly depending on the season, length of rental, and the type of campervan you decide to go with.

It is probably the most convenient for you to pick-up your campervan directly from the airport in Auckland , Christchurch, or Queenstown, but this tends to be more expensive. You can save money by hiring from independent companies in the city if you’re willing to shop around.

For those backpackers who only have a few weeks (or less) to spare, it is absolutely essential to book your campervan in advance before arriving in NZ.

The last thing you want to be doing is scrambling for a campervan while you are in the country. Often times in the summer season, the cheaper van options are not available without a prior booking. Most rental companies will offer you a discount if you rent for longer than a few weeks, but it’s always good to shop around.

With a little planning and preparation, you can score the right campervan best suited to your budget and travel style.

Seasonal Prices for Campervan Rentals in NZ

Want to rent a camper van in the New Zealand summer (December – March)? So does every other campervanning fan coming to New Zealand. Prices in the summer are always double what they are in the winter.

I recognize that campervanning deep in the South Island in the middle of winter might not be so fun. That said, there are plenty of places on the North Island that see moderate temperatures throughout the winter.

To get the absolute best price for a campervan rental in NZ, you are going to have to plan your road trip for the winter. The winter definitely has the double bonus of being the tourist low-season in addition to rental prices being at their most reasonable.

Here is a look at several New Zealand campervan rental companies…

*Author’s Note : The prices (USD) and specs featured in this table are based on the cheapest campervans (sleeping two people) each company offers. I kept the price estimates wide-ranging to account for seasonal rates… and as you’ll see the prices skyrocket during summer.

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

Renting a Campervan in NZ: Company Breakdowns

Of all the companies renting campervans in New Zealand,  JUCY Rentals receives my highest praise.

Their prices are reasonable. The customer service has great reviews. All of their campervans offer enough space and luxuries for a kick-ass road trip (or roadie as the Kiwis say).

JUCY Rentals are pretty iconic across the roads of New Zealand, especially over the summer period. You’ll see the bright green and purple vans all over the place full of excited travellers ready to explore the “off the beaten track” of New Zealand!

I’d say JUCY is mid-range price when compared to other camper companies in New Zealand. They’ve got more bells and whistles than the likes of Wicked Campers.

Although Wicked Campers is the lowest in terms of price – the biggest drawback for me is that the standard two-person campervans are NOT self-contained vehicles. Meaning there is no toilet, shower, or grey-water system. In New Zealand, the blue self-contained sticker can be pretty helpful in terms of freedom camping and where you can park up for the night.

However, if you’re up for a low price and minimalist options, Wicked Campers are a pretty good option for us budget backpackers too. A close competitor of Wicked Campers is Hippie Campers . This company has taken the iconic image of hippies and campervans we all have in our minds and turned it into a corporate marketing scheme.

There is nothing “hippie” about this company. That said, they do offer quality campervans at low prices. What you get in terms of campervan features is about the same as Wicked offers.

Self Contained Van Rentals

For backpackers looking for fully-loaded, self contained vehicles, two companies dominate the market: Britz and Maui .

For younger backpackers on their gap year in NZ under the age of 21 (yes, I am talking about all of you gap-year European youngsters!), Britz and Maui campervans are off-limits due to age restrictions (21+). They don’t want young drivers screwing up their fancy campervans!

Let us be clear, Britz and Maui campervans are 3-5x the price of Wicked and Hippie, though if truth be told they are nicer inside. They come with self-contained certification, which includes a water tank, toilet, and gray-water system.

Like anything in life, you get what you pay for. If you are the kind of backpacker that enjoys a more comfortable road-tripping experience you certainly can have it with a Britz or Maui campervan. You’ll just have to pay for it.

They are definitely not the budget choice for backpackers living on a shoestring.

Extra Costs When Traveling New Zealand By Campervan

New Zealand is expensive . When factoring together your campervan rental costs, keep in mind that petrol in New Zealand is expensive , and you will also need to buy insurance for your rental.

We recommend  purchasing a RentalCover.com policy to cover your vehicle against any common damages such as flat tires, chipped windscreens, theft, and more at a fraction of the price you would pay at the rental desk.

If you plan on taking the ferry between North and South islands, the cost for two people and a campervan is around $260 NZD one way.

Also, most companies charge a (sometimes high) fee when you drop off your campervan rental at a different location than you picked it up from.

Campervanning in New Zealand is not without its costs. To get the most out of your time campervanning in New Zealand you need a realistic idea of what to expect!

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

If you know that you are coming to New Zealand for more than a couple of months then you should seriously think about buying a campervan.

Buying your own campervan will be the most important investment you make on your campervan trip in NZ.

I see buying a car or a campervan in NZ as a sort of right of passage for backpackers here. It is a challenging, stressful process. You never really know what you are buying. Which can be very scary for backpackers with little money.

There are a TON of campervans constantly changing hands in New Zealand. Some campervans have gone through 15 different backpacker owners in the last 5 years alone. You can imagine all of the wear and tear these vans must have endured during that time.

I have personally met at least three fellow backpackers who paid several thousand dollars for a campervan only to have it break down within days (or hours). The cost of repair in one case was more than the total amount she paid for the van!

Sadly, this is more common than you might think. I don’t believe a backpacker possessing even the slightest conscience would intentionally sell you a campervan on the verge of death. Though shitty people exist and it has definitely happened.

Campervanning in New Zealand is not without its perils when it comes to buying one, but with a little common sense and forethought, you can hopefully avoid tragedy.

So what can you do to prepare for your big day purchasing a campervan in New Zealand?

Tips for Buying a Campervan in New Zealand

There are many different paths to take when buying a campervan.

Numerous Facebook groups exist for the sole purpose of buying/selling cars in New Zealand. There are specific FB groups just for campervans. I actually sold my vehicle through a Facebook group .

The risk and benefits of buying directly from a fellow backpacker or Kiwi person are straightforward. You are likely to get a better price (you can ALWAYS negotiate) when buying from a backpacker or individual.

The obvious drawback is that you are buying the campervan as is. No refunds. Zero exchanges. No ifs, and, or buts about it.

In the case, you go this route (which I did) it is your responsibility to get the campervan checked out by a professional mechanic. The person selling the campervan should pay for it.

It is possible that the owner has already done a recent mechanic check prior to you meeting them. If this is true you should absolutely demand to see the paper(s) proving/showing all of the details including the date of the inspection.

Another good website for buying/selling Campervans is Trademe.co.nz .

Buying a Campervan Through a Private Company

Another option is buying a campervan from an authorized dealer or private company. This route might be more expensive, but usually, the car will have some sort of minimum guarantee or limited warranty.

Depending on the purchase agreement, if your campervan takes a shit on you two days after you buy it, then there might be something the dealer can do to make amends.

I wouldn’t say that buying from a dealer is a fool-proof security net by any means. Though it is a safer bet than purchasing a car from someone you just met on Facebook.

Some friends of ours in Auckland run a car/campervan dealership there: Travel Cars NZ . Friends of the Broke Backpacker can receive a $100 discount on any vehicle purchase .

Check them out as they really do have an excellent stock of campervans available throughout the year! Be sure to mention us too to receive your $100 discount or simply show them the coupon featured below!

When Buying a Campervan Always:

• Get this vehicle history (when possible)
• Ask when the current Warrant of Fitness expires
• Find about about maintenance history
• Ask when the last oil change was.
• Take the campervan to get looked over by a mechanic.
• Take the campervan for a test drive.
• Do a thorough visual inspection of the interior.
• Inquire if any other camping gear comes with the campervan (tables, chairs, gas cooker, cookware, etc)

When to Buy a Campervan in NZ

As renting a campervan is affected by seasonal prices, so is buying one. Prices are at their highest in the New Zealand summer. Locals and backpackers alike are scouring the internet and vehicle ads in search of that perfect campervan for summer.

If you are arriving in New Zealand say in January, you might want to wait a couple of months before buying anything. Find a place to stay in New Zealand ‘s towns such as Wellington or Auckland, find work, and start saving up.

The summer is the best time to find a job as the tourism sector will be in full swing. If you need to be somewhere close to the action, there is a lot to do in Queenstown during the summer.

The trick is to not be in any mad hurry. When you are in a hurry you are liable to make a mistake. Mistakes can be very costly in this game. Being in a rush and making a bad decision could condemn your New Zealand campervanning experience from the start.

Some of the best deals can be found when fellow backpackers are in a rush to sell their campervan. They might be rushing to sell for example because they are leaving the country in two days’ time.

I have heard of backpackers basically giving away their campervans at the airport because nobody would give them a fair price, knowing that they were leaving.

You will do severe damage to your travel karma if you low-ball a fellow backpacker to the point of breaking their hope in humanity.

You can also put up a notice in your hostel in New Zealand , or ask around the common areas, as someone is bound to know someone who is looking.

How to Sell your Campervan in New Zealand

One of the greatest benefits of buying a campervan is that you can sell it off again at the end of your trip and make some money back.

When the time came for me to leave New Zealand, I sold my vehicle for the exact same price I paid for it six months earlier.

Basically, I got a free vehicle (minus the insurance and the cost of petrol) for six months. Pretty sweet deal right?

So, as you gathered from what I said in the previous section, you as the seller do not want to be in a rush to sell. If you wait until the last minute to sell your campervan, you will certainly not get the best price for it.

I started actively trying to sell my ride about six weeks before leaving New Zealand. I’d say that is the minimum amount of time, especially if you have a rough and ready old backpacker campervan.

On the other hand, if you have a badass self-contained van it is possible to unload it at a great price (even more than you paid for it) in just a couple of days.

Campervans sell like there is no tomorrow in NZ. There are new backpackers arriving into the country every single day and odds are at least one of them wants to buy your campervan…

Don’t Cheat Fellow New Zealand Backpackers!

I advise potential campervan sellers to also price their vehicles in good conscience. Don’t rip people off by charging them way more than you paid originally. Always always be honest about the state of your campervan when the time comes to sell.

If the campervan has issues be upfront about that.

To sell your campervan it will be the easiest for you to make a quick sale if you are near or in a big city. The more remote you are the fewer the people who can visit you to check out the campervan.

Again numerous Facebook groups were created for the sole purpose of buying and selling campervans.

Selling your campervan completes the journey of campervanning in New Zealand.

You have now come full circle and probably had tons of amazing experiences along the way! That is what it’s all about!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Before you hit the high road and start exploring, here are just a few more tips to consider before you go.

Driving a Campervan in New Zealand

As you may or may not know, the driving orientation is on the left (like in the UK). Always use extra caution if you are not used to driving on the left!

The New Zealand “highways” are predominately made up of small 2-lane roads. There is an increasing number of fatalities every year involving foreign tourists.

The Chinese, in particular, are notoriously dangerous drivers in New Zealand. Unfortunately, this has become so much more than a stereotype that I am mentioning it here.

There are bad drivers in every country on Earth, certainly. Though in New Zealand the influx of more Chinese drivers has caused significant enough damage in recent years that authorities are connecting the dots.

That being said, the landscape is so jaw-dropping that anyone can lose focus when at the wheels. Remember when you’re driving, especially if you’re planning to take a lush South Island road trip through natural scenery, to keep an eye on the road when you’re driving. If the view grabs you, pull over and enjoy it.

Driving Licenses Needed for New Zealand

If you are visiting New Zealand for a year or less you’re in luck. For many nationalities, you can drive in New Zealand on the license issued by your home country. This includes the UK, the USA, Europe, Canada, ETC.

If you are from a non-English-speaking country, you will have to obtain a formal translation of your license. My wife, who is French got her license translated at the French Embassy in Wellington (at the cost of $50 NZD).

Before heading to New Zealand you can apply for an international driving license in your home country. In most countries, it is free to do.

Perhaps the first question you should ask yourself before buying or renting a campervan in New Zealand is whether you want a self-contained van.

In New Zealand, the government issues permit certifying self-contained campervans. Basically if certified, the campervan in question meets all the requirements to be self-contained.

New Zealand Self-Contained Campervan Requirements:

• The campervan can contain water for up to 3 days
• At least 12L fresh water tank
• Gray waste water tank: 12L per person for 3 days
• Evacuation hose
• Rubbish bin with lid
• Toliet: fixed or not fixed 

Self-contained campervans will ALWAYS be more expensive to maintain/rent/buy.

It is possible (and common) to buy a non-self contained basic campervan for between $2400-2800 USD.

When you start venturing into the realm of self-contained campervans the price is more like $4500-6000 USD at least.

Where you can park up for the night whilst campervanning in New Zealand can depend on whether you’re self-contained or not.

Freedom Camping laws intended to prevent people from just parking (and shitting) everywhere are strictly enforced in NZ.

Let’s take a look at what the Freedom Camping Laws mean for your New Zealand road trip…

Freedom Camping and Campervanning in New Zealand

Kiwis love campervanning too. As you drive down the road in New Zealand you will see many different campervans in action. A majority of these vans are owned by Kiwis, not backpackers (though backpackers might overtake Kiwis soon in this regard).

Freedom Camping, or free camping, is great in one sense that you can essentially park up anywhere that is public land. That said there are a few asterisks attached to that statement.

Because there are so many campervans in New Zealand there are specific laws protecting the natural environment as well as local communities from free camping (humans specifically) abuse.

The law states:

• Anyone parking in a public space overnight is bound by the same laws as occupying public land at any other time. i.e. respect for the environment (including not causing damage or littering or improperly disposing of waste) and respect for the rights of others (not being a nuisance, etc).
• Any person of legal standing has the right to freedom of movement in any public space in New Zealand.
• This right is also enshrined in New Zealand’s Bill of Rights.
• Therefore, any person has the right to park overnight in any public space. *For this to apply to you, you MUST have a self-contained van.
• Local councils or governments can create their own legislation and rules surrounding Freedom Camping.

Zero Tolerance for Non-Self Contained Campervans

In 2018 and beyond New Zealand locals have had enough of disrespectful campervan owners. In recent years there has been a real battle waged over where people can freedom camp their campervans overnight.

Mostly, this has to do with people leaving copious amounts of trash, toilet paper, faeces, and urine in their wake as they visit some of New Zealand’s most treasured landmarks.

If you are renting/buying a self-contained campervan you WILL have more actual freedom in relation to where you can park (which is almost anywhere really).

If you are not-self contained, do not expect to park your van in a town or populated car park unless there is signage permitting you to do so. More often than not there will be signs communicating the opposite.

That said there are still literally millions of places you can park/sleep for the night that don’t require a self-contained campervan.

Do not feel like having a self-contained van is mandatory because it certainly isn’t. You still have PLENTY of options!

DIY Self Contained Vans in New Zealand

If you are a crafty backpacker looking to get your hands on a self-contained campervan for as cheap as possible, I recommend the DIY method.

The DIY method is just as it sounds: you do-it-yourself.

Basically, you buy a van (in working order) for as cheap as you can manage. Then you trick it out just enough to get the self-contained certification.

All said and done, it might cost you around $500 (more or less) if you do all of the work yourself.

Really it isn’t that complicated. Anyone with a little knack for building can do it. There are many, many helpful Youtube videos on the subject.

Good luck and bonus points for you!

Being that your Campervan will be your home away from home you’ll need a few things to make it comfortable. A majority of items can be bought in New Zealand.

Remember that almost all campervan rentals in NZ come with bedding, towels, pillows, plates, etc.

You won’t however, be spending all of your time in your campervan. You will be exploring all of the beautiful landscapes New Zealand has to offer.

New Zealand is one of the best trekking destinations on earth. It’s also a great spot for camping! Make sure you bring a decent tent and warm clothes so you can enjoy some of those sweet camping spots.

It goes without saying that investing in some quality backpacking gear is a must before arriving. Outdoor gear is notoriously expensive in New Zealand, so I advise that you sort out your NZ packing list before you go.

On every adventure, there are five things I never go traveling without:

Travel Security Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

‘Monopoly Deal’

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Responsible Campervanning in New Zealand

As you might have gathered I am passionate about preserving New Zealand’s natural beauty.

If you are buying or renting a campervan in NZ it is your responsibility to manage all of your own rubbish and bodily waste.

Conveniently enough almost every town I went through in New Zealand has FREE public toilets. Also, there are plenty of super cheap campgrounds and holiday parks where you can park up for the night, refill/empty your water tanks, and grab a shower.

If you need to use the toilet in a more remote area, by all means, do it. But do it in a way that doesn’t leave a pile of mess and filth for the next person to find.

Bury all of your waste at least 6 inches deep. Never go to the toilet near a drinking water source, near a public road, or close to a hiking trail .

Public park grass lawns are off-limits for relieving yourself for obvious reasons. I shouldn’t have to tell you that!

New Zealand truly is a phenomenal place for road tripping with a campervan . Please do your part to protect it so that future generations of people can also enjoy NZ.

Driving the road to Milford Sound, exploring all the North Island highlights and wild camping in Tongariro National Park, are all adventures you could be having in your own camper van.

From cruising the highway lined with purple wildflowers and witnessing Mt. Cook looming out in the distance to navigating the small dirt tracks in the Coromandel at sunrise, there’s nothing quite like this viewpoint.

These wonderful New Zealand scenes are forever burned into my memory.

This is the essence of what makes a campervan road trip in New Zealand such a worthwhile life experience. That feeling of freedom and the open road isn’t just a stereotype found in travel novels. It’s real, and it’s fantastic.

I hope you found this guide to all things campervanning in New Zealand helpful. The goal is for you too to have an awesome campervanning travel experience in this truly special part of the world. I hope this helped you achieve that!

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

Updated by Louisa Smith, June 2022.

Chris Lininger

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Just a couple corrections/updates: 1) Jucy is spelled wrong in your pricing table and 2) They do offer self-contained vans. I just rented one this month. 🙂

Thanks for all the great info!

Thanks for the update!

What an amazing read. Your insights on the type of camper vans and on freedom camping would definitely had helped me plan my NZ trip.

We haven’t been campervanning yet but I totally agree about the prices in the off season. So much cheaper than the summer, it is crazy the difference. Such a good tip for people to remember

Even I’ve been to New Zealand multiple times, and I lived there for one year back in 2018. So for my 4th trip to New Zealand, I wanted to make a proper road trip around New Zealand. To do that I am thinking about to rent a campervan as New Zealand is popular to rent a camper van. And this blog helped me in making my decision.

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Campervan Trips in New Zealand: The Ultimate Guide

✅ Last Update: Jul 29, 2024 @ 11:13 pm

🚐 Introduction to Campervan Trips in New Zealand

New Zealand has amazing views and lots of different natural wonders, making it a great country to explore . One cool way to do that is by going on campervan trips.

It’s like having your own little house on wheels , giving you the freedom to see beautiful landscapes, experience different cultures, and have exciting adventures.

1. Picking the Right Campervan

The first thing to do for a great trip is to choose the right campervan. In New Zealand, many companies rent them out, such as Spaceships Rentals or Jucy Campervans . 

You can pick a small one for easy driving or a big one with all the comforts of home.

Look for things like a good kitchen, bathroom, and comfy sleeping spots to make your road trip awesome.

If you are looking to hire a bigger campervan, like a Motorhome, you can check Star RV Rentals .

For longer stays, buying is the best option , you can check campervans for sale in our own page of Travel Cars NZ .

✅ Additionally, you can also check a review guide we created about: The Best Campervan Companies in New Zealand

2. Planning Your Adventure

New Zealand’s North and South Islands have different things to offer, so planning your trip is super important. Here are some cool places to consider:

3. North Island Campervan Adventure

3.1. auckland to hobbiton (matamata).

Start your trip in Auckland by checking out the city’s extraordinary culture and famous places.

Drive south to Matamata, home of the Hobbiton movie set from “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” movies.

Explore the world of hobbits, with green hills and cute hobbit homes.

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours
• Distance: 160 km

3.2. Auckland to Coromandel Peninsula (Coastal Drive)

Leave Auckland and head east to the Coromandel Peninsula. Enjoy a nice drive along the coast by the Pacific Ocean, stopping at Cathedral Cove with its amazing rock arch and Hahei Beach for chilling.

Have fun at Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own hot spring in the sand.

• Duration: Around 3 hours
• Distance: 250 km

3.3. Rotorua to Taupo (Thermal Explorer)

Embark on a fascinating journey from Rotorua to Taupo, exploring New Zealand’s geothermal wonders and cultural richness.

The route takes you through the heart of the North Island, offering breathtaking views of geothermal landscapes and picturesque countryside.

• Duration: Around 1 hour
• Distance: 80 km

3.4. Taupo to Wellington (Cultural Excursion)

This road trip offers diverse landscapes, from the shores of Lake Taupo to the vibrant capital city of Wellington.

If you are planning to cross to the South Island, you can see stunning views from Mount Victoria before taking the ferry.

• Duration: Approximately 5 hours
• Distance: 385 km

4. South Island Campervan Adventure

4.1. nelson to abel tasman (coastal trek).

Start your South Island adventure in Nelson, a place with lots of cool art. Go to Abel Tasman National Park for a walk by the coast, finding beautiful beaches and blue waters.

Try kayaking, take a boat trip, or just relax on the sandy shores.

• Duration: 1 hour
• Distance: 60 km

4.2. Hokitika to Franz Josef (Glacial Encounter)

Hokitika and Franz Josef are both towns located on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand.

If you’re planning to visit Franz Josef Glacier, keep in mind that weather conditions can affect travel plans in this region, as the area is known for its unpredictable weather.

Always check the latest weather forecasts and road conditions, especially if you plan to travel during the winter months.

• Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Distance: 134 km

4.3. Queenstown to Glenorchy (Adventure Hub)

Queenstown and Glenorchy are both located in the Otago region on the South Island of New Zealand, and the drive between these two towns is renowned for its scenic beauty.

The road follows the shores of Lake Wakatipu, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

• Duration: 45 to 60 minutes
• Distance: 45 km

4.4. Queenstown to Fiordland (National Park Exploration)

Go to Fiordland National Park to see amazing places like Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. Take a boat ride through the fjords, look at big waterfalls, and see animals like seals and dolphins.

Think about going on a hike to get even closer to the stunning landscapes.

The distance from Queenstown to Fiordland can vary depending on the specific destination within Fiordland you are considering.

• Duration: 4 hours
• Distance: 287 km

🧑‍💻 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Travelling by Campervan in New Zealand

1. what license do i need to drive a campervan in new zealand.

You can drive a campervan in New Zealand with a valid driver’s license from your home country, provided it is in English. If your license is not in English, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an official translation.

2. Do I need to book campsites in advance?

It’s advisable to book campsites in advance, especially during peak seasons. Many popular sites can fill up quickly. However, New Zealand also offers freedom camping options in designated areas.

3. Are there restrictions on freedom camping?

Yes, there are restrictions on freedom camping in New Zealand. Make sure you are aware of the regulations in each region, as not all areas allow freedom camping, and there may be specific rules to follow.

4. What type of campervan is suitable for New Zealand roads?

New Zealand roads can be narrow and winding, especially in rural areas. A compact or mid-sized campervan is often more maneuverable and suitable for the country’s diverse terrain.

5. How is the weather in New Zealand, and how does it affect campervan travel?

New Zealand’s weather can be variable. It’s essential to be prepared for rain, especially on the West Coast. Check weather forecasts regularly, and pack accordingly with layers and waterproof gear.

6. Are there dump stations for waste disposal?

Yes, New Zealand has designated dump stations for waste disposal. Campgrounds, holiday parks, and some towns provide facilities for emptying wastewater and disposing of rubbish. Always use designated areas to protect the environment.

7. Can I camp anywhere with a campervan?

While freedom camping is allowed in some areas, camping on private land or in prohibited zones is not permitted. Always check local regulations, use designated areas, and respect the environment.

8. What are the best routes for a campervan trip?

Popular routes include the South Island’s West Coast, Fiordland, and the Southern Scenic Route. In the North Island, the Coromandel Peninsula and Bay of Islands are popular choices. The best route depends on your preferences and the time you have available.

9. Is there Wi-Fi available in campervans?

Some campervan companies offer Wi-Fi as an optional extra. Alternatively, you can use local SIM cards or portable Wi-Fi devices for internet access.

10. What should I pack for a campervan trip in New Zealand?

Pack essentials such as clothing for varying weather conditions, a first aid kit, cooking utensils, bedding, and camping supplies. Don’t forget insect repellent, sunscreen, and a portable charger.

11. Are there specific rules for driving a campervan in New Zealand?

Follow New Zealand’s road rules, drive on the left side of the road, and be aware of local speed limits. Take extra caution on narrow and winding roads, especially in rural areas.

12. Is insurance necessary for driving a campervan?

Yes, it’s highly recommended to have comprehensive insurance for your campervan, including coverage for accidents, theft, and damage.

Table of Contents

Luis Domenech Garcia

Welcome to New Zealand! I'm an expat who has called this beautiful country home for 11 years. During my time in NZ, I worked as a campervan dealer, and now I'm excited to share with you the best tips and experiences about this amazing country. Join me on a unique journey as we embark on adventures together. Your Kiwi adventure starts right here!

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Groovy Mashed Potatoes - Travel Blog

Unique travel experiences, fun itineraries & offbeat places to help you plan your dream trip

New Zealand Campervan Itinerary - North Island & South Island

New Zealand is a no stress destination to explore freely using a unique and popular concept called Freedom Camping. The idea is that you can freely camp just about anywhere on public lands if you have a self contained campervan with a toilet. Freedom camping in a campervan is much easier than tenting around and it's the perfect way to experience the vast natural setting.

Road trip! There are so many incredible places to see and fun things to do in New Zealand. We chose the best of the best and fit it into a 17 day itinerary including a map. Our New Zealand campervan itinerary starts in Auckland and takes you on an exciting journey through the North Island and South Island. We've also included a guide to campervanning New Zealand that will help you get started.

Get ready for an adventure-filled self driving tour of New Zealand!

Driving a campervan in New Zealand

Best campervan rental in New Zealand

We are avid campers, but had never tried a campervan. We couldn't believe the luxuries you get with one of these self-contained living spaces on wheels: running water, sink, pull out stove top and a comfy bed that's ready to crawl in at any time!

We chose Mad Campers because they had a clean design and were newly built. No obnoxious sayings spray painted on the sides like Wicked Camper's "Driver on ACID".  The size of our campervan was perfect for us two.

If you're traveling as a family, consider the Juicy Condo, which still feels like a campervan rather than a big camper and sleeps up to 4 people.

Renting a campervan in New Zealand is a lot cheaper than renting a car and spending money on accommodation. The hotels are not cheap in NZ!

Check out our easy & delicious campervan meal ideas .

What is a self-contained campervan and is it important to get one?

A self-contained camper is a government certified vehicle that meets the sanitary conditions of having a toilet, potable drinking water and a grey water system (sink drain). The van will have a blue sticker on the window if certified. We absolutely recommend getting a self-contained camper, because without one, your freedom camping options are limited. You will have to stay at more expensive, crowded camping sites (called holiday parks) that have shower and washroom facilities. These holiday parks are busy with large camper vans and families.

What is freedom camping, actually?

One of our favourite parts of our road trip was searching for unique private camping spots on DOC (Department of Conservation) land. Just make sure to look up the rules for each county before parking your van, or you can be fined $200!

By far the easiest thing to do to get started is to download the Rankerz app . It will be your camping bible to help you find free or paid camping spots. Some are parking lots, and some require 4x4 access. If that fails, the Campable app is like an Airbnb for campervans, so you can check there too.  

There are places that have very limited freedom camping spots, or that are completely restricted. You will see no camping signs everywhere for popular spots like Mount Cook, Millford Sound and Franz Joseph Glacier. In this case, you will have to bite the bullet and stay at paid DOC sites or at a holiday park. Sometimes it will be better to pay to get the most out of the itinerary.  

Top Tip: Freedom camping sites, especially in municipalities and towns, have limits on how many campers can stay. One tip is to avoid arriving any later than 6PM to get a spot. In parking lots, a sign may state a maximum of overnight campers allowed. However, it is against the law in NZ to drive tired. So, if its late in the evening, you have a good excuse to stay in a parking lot, even if it's above the sign quota.

17 Day New Zealand Campervan Itinerary

North island itinerary map (days 1-6).

Now you're ready to hit the road. The North Island has gorgeous rolling hills, sandy beaches, geothermal parks and volcanic landscapes that offer unique sights and experiences.

Day 1: Auckland

Auckland is a long flight away from most places, so we recommend staying one night near the airport to get a good sleep before taking the van out onto the road. You'll have to be sharp, because they drive on the left here! Mad Campers offers free pick up if you stay near the airport.

We arrived early and took a taxi into Auckland (strangely slightly cheaper than Uber) to grab brunch and supplies. We ate at Chuffed , a bright and white-walled cafe tucked away on High Street in the downtown core. It's a great starting spot to walk around and gather any supplies you need for your adventure on the road. We bought a cheese grater, hanging lights, candles, power adapter, and a doormat. Ari was able to pick up some camera gear as well.

Day 2: Cathedral Cove

Total driving time: 2.5 - 3 hours

Today's the day you will meet your trusty camper van. You'll be shown how to use the gas stove, portable toilet, and water tank. If you don't catch it all the first time they show you, have no fear! There is a handy manual. After the quick 30-minute orientation we were off.

First stop: grocery store! It was time to stock up our fridge. Countdown ended up being our favourite grocery store, since New World and Fresh Choice always had higher prices. New World was also very strict with buying alcohol and they made us grab both our passports from the van to be able to purchase it. No other grocery stores or liquor stores required this. I guess it's a compliment.  

How to get to Cathedral Cove

Next, we were on our way to Cathedral Cove (Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve), a picturesque cove that perfectly frames a large rock coming out of the sea. After about a 2.25 hour drive you will reach the free lower parking lot. In high season (Oct 1- April 30) you have to drop off your van here and take a shuttle to the entrance of the park. It's only $7 NZD roundtrip for the shuttle and the jolly driver likes to crack a few jokes. In low season from May 1 - Sept 30, the upper car park is open so you won't need to take the shuttle.

Cathedral Cove walk

From the drop off point from your shuttle, it's about a 30 minute walk to the cove (1 hour round trip) with scenic views along the way.

The first part of the walk is a paved path and then it turns into wooden stairs that lead you down to the golden sandy beach. Cathedral Cove was one of our favourite activities our whole trip. Plan for at least an hour down there, but don't miss the last shuttle back to the parking lot!

Hot Water Beach & Whangamata surf town

Consider visiting Hot Water Beach or the quaint surfer town of Whangamata on your way to Cathedral Cove. Hot Water Beach is an area where you can dig holes in the sand and create your own little thermal pool. We chose to visit Whangamata instead, since the tide times didn't work out at Hot Water Beach. You can only dig pools 2 hours before and 2 hours after low tide.

Where to camp for the night

There are only a few freedom camping spots available in the area, so make sure to try to arrive before 6 PM. Look up camping spots on your Rankerz app.

Day 3: Waitomo Glowworm Caves & Hobbiton

Total driving time: 4.25 hours

Waitomo Caves

Today will be filled with unique once-in-a-lifetime experiences!

It's a three hour leisurely drive to the multi-level Waitomo Caves. In the 30-million year old caves, you'll be able to see thousands of glowworms radiate their bioluminescent light!

Top Tip: wear sunglasses that afternoon so your eyes adjust more quickly.

After your tour, drive another 1.25 hours to Hobbiton. You literally drive into the shire, a mythical place depicted in the The Lord of the Rings. It was incredible with rolling green hills, just like in the books and movies.

We highly recommend the Hobbiton Evening Banquet tour . It's the last tour of the day, so you have the place to yourself during sunset. As your imagination runs wild with thought of life in the pristine shire, you get to go one step further and head into the Green Dragon to drink craft beer and eat a delicious banquet style dinner, as the hobbits would!

Get into the Green Dragon fast and nab the two big leather chairs by the fireplace for the welcome drink. Next, prepare yourself for a feast of chicken, lamb shank, fish, roast veggies, sausages, salad, mashed potatoes, gravy and bread all laid out on platters within grabbing distance at your table. DIG IN! It really felt like we were in the movie and the music they played was perfect. The Evening Banquet Tour sells out months ahead so make sure you reserve your spot well in advance .

Stay at a local farm down the road called Da Barn Campersite , which you can book through the Rankerz or Campable app. Through Campable it was slightly higher in price. Hobbiton is a 30-minute walk from the camper site or you can arrange with the owners of the farm to drop you off. That way you can have couple pints of beer and not have to worry! After our tour was done, the tour guides at Hobbiton happily dropped us off back to the farm for free with their shuttle bus!

Day 4: Rotorua & Waikarei Terraces

Total driving time: 3 hours

Today you will drive through Rotorua, a volcanic area renowned for its geothermal activity. There are many geothermal parks you can visit, where you can walk through otherworldly sights, detox in a mud bath, or soak in the mineral-rich hot pools.

• Hells Gate Mud Bath and Sulphur Spa Experience
• Secret Spot Hot Tubs

We like how there is free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Wairakei Terraces Hot Pools

After Rotorua, we stopped in at Wairakei Terraces, since they had a mix of thermal sights and a thermal health spa to relax at . We found this thermal spa to be quiet compared to others. After traveling a few days in the campervan, it was a great chance to shower and clean up as well!

You need to purchase separate tickets to bathe in the thermal pools vs. walking around the area to view the silica terraces. We enjoyed both activities, and loved soaking in the mineral rich silica pools. The thermal baths were serene, relaxing, hot and clean. A bonus was that there was a 50% promotion going on through GrabOne . They have lots of these sales, so check it out before you go!

After your relaxing soak, it's time to find a camping spot. The Rotorua area doesn't have the best freedom camping spots, so we recommend driving 1.5 hours to the Whakapapa Scenic Reserve. We pulled over on the side of the gravel road a few kilometres into the park to stay for the night. Staying here will set you up nicely for your hike in Tongariro the next day.

Day 5: Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Total driving time: 2-3 hours, depending on where you camp

Today is your chance to stretch your legs. The hike through the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, aka the sinister Mordor from Lord of The Rings, is difficult, but rewarding. You get to see active volcanoes and otherworldly thermal lakes.

The hike is 19.4 km in distance, with a total ascent of 765m and total descent of 1,125m. The first 100 meters of the descent is very steep, but the rest is very gradual and easy on the knees. Depending on your pace and stops along the way, the hike will take you between 5-8 hours. We higjly reocmmend renting hiking poles for the steep sections of the hike.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing Shuttle

After your hike, start your drive down to Wellington and stay at your campsite of choice along the way using the Rankerz app. We stayed at Waikanae Beach.

Day 6: Wellington

Wellington is New Zealand's cultural hub with a contemporary art scene and an abundance of cafe and restaurants. Did you know it's the world's windiest city? Just wait until you feel it. We enjoyed visiting Fidel's Cafe, a colourful restaurant serving Cuban coffee and homestyle dishes. On the bohemian Cuba street you'll find many boutique stores, cafes, and coffee roasters to explore.

There are a couple free spots you can stay in Wellington with the camper, but you'll likely need to arrive early to grab a spot. You could also reserve a paid camping spot in advance. Check both the Rankerz and Campable apps.

South Island Itinerary Map (Days 7-17)

The less busy South Island is where the scenery really starts to change. Highlights of this leg of the trip include a stay in the Malborough wine region and incredible natural sights, like Milford Sound, Mount Cook, Franz Joseph Glacier and Lake Pukaki. Just drive onto the ferry from Wellington to Picton and you're on your way!

Day 7 & 8: Marlborough Wine Region

Total driving time: 4 hours (including ferry)

It's time to cross over to the other island. Book your ferry ticket in advance to get the best price and time. We chose BlueBridge ferries since they were slightly cheaper, but do we ever wish we took Interislander . BlueBridge has a smaller boat and it made us so seasick!

The next day we picked up our rental bikes from Bike2Wine and stopped in at six wineries. You don't need to make reservations in advance for the wine tastings, and lots of them are free!

Our favourite wineries

Best winery for lunch: Giesen Wines

Giesen Wines was founded by three German brothers and besides their wine, they create delicious charcuterie boards! It was a great experience to taste their wines with a platter for lunch. We got the last table, so recommend booking a table in advance, especially in high season.

Best winery for the setting: Forrest Wines

Forrest Wines had the best setting to relax and taste wines out of the six we visited. We chose a table with bean bag chairs to sit at for our tasting, and the person who worked there came over with our wines. She gave us an informative explanation of each one, and we ended up buying a bottle.

Where to stay in Renwick

Day 9: drive down the coast and freedom camp in lees valley.

Total driving time: 4.5 hours

Today will be a longer driving day down the coast of the island on your way to Arthur's Pass. We stocked up on groceries and were ecstatic to find one of the most scenic and private camping spots of our whole stay! Lees Valley has a winding hillside road through the mountains with a few pull-out spots you can park the campervan at for the night. Check out our camping location here on Google Maps .

Day 10: Arthur's Pass

Today you'll drive through Arthurs Pass, known as one of the most scenic drives through New Zealand. Our highlights were hiking to the magnificent waterfall at Devil's Punchbowl and driving through Castle Hill , where hundreds of giant free-standing limestone rocks sprawl across a golden hill. Park your campervan in the town of Arthur's Pass to stretch your legs, and take the leisurely 1-hour roundtrip hike to Devils Punchbowl. The waterfall is impressive!

There is a lot of hype around this drive, but we were left slightly underwhelmed compared to other areas of New Zealand.

Find a place to camp near Franz Joseph Glacier for the night. Freedom camping is strict in this area so we stayed at a paid campsite.

Day 11: Franz Joseph Glacier, Fox Glacier & Wanaka Lake

Total driving time: 3.5 hours

Wake up early to see Franz Joseph Glacier, since the clouds tend to roll in by the afternoon. It's an easy 1.5 hour round trip hike to the glacier on a wide river stone path. Once you reach the glacier, it's a breathtaking sight!

The glacier's size is decreasing every year at an alarming rate, so we felt fortunate to have seen it. As you walk to the glacier, there are signs that show you where the glacier used to be located and at what year. It puts it into perspective how far and quickly it has receded.

• Franz Joseph Glacier helicopter tours with snow landing
• Fox Glacier helicopter tours with snow landing

Drive to Wanaka Lake for the night and relax lakeside. Use the Rankerz app to find a spot.

Day 12: Arrowtown & Queenstown

Total driving time: 1.25 hours

On your way to Queenstown, stop in at the super cute Arrowtown for some lunch. The quirky and historic gold mining town is filled with cafes, boutiques and galleries.

Queenstown is known as the "adventure capital of the world" where you can find tons of adventurous activities to do such as skydiving, bungee jumping, and rafting. We didn't partake in any adventure sports, but explored the town.

Must try: HELL Pizza

We were shocked to see HELL Pizza, our favourite pizza shop that used to be open in our hometown of Vancouver. We had no idea it came from New Zealand! The company is 100% free-range and they have the wackiest, but most delicious pizzas. You must try their Cursed pizza which has honey mustard sauce, chicken, ham and smoked cheddar. It sounds weird but it is SO GOOD!

Where to stay in Queenstown

There are holiday parks you can stay at in the area, or you could opt to stay the night in a hotel on the lake.

• Best boutique hotel close to city center: Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
• Best boutique hotel with lake view: QT Queenstown

Day 13: Drive towards Milford Sound and stay nearby

Total driving time: 2.75 hours

The famous fjords of Milford Sound are a must see. We chose to stay at one of the many campsites past Te Anau Downs, which are an hour away from Milford Sound. They are all on Rankerz, but remember to bring cash - there are no attendants here. There are a couple of campsites directly in Milford Sound, but they require advance reservations and are expensive.

Stop in at Te Anau for some lunch at Sandfly Cafe . We don't know why they picked the name of New Zealand's most annoying insect, but our meal was tasty! It's also next door to the grocery store if you need some groceries.

Day 14: Milford Sound

Total driving time: ~3.75 hours

We woke up with the worst weather of our whole trip through NZ. Pouring rain, crazy winds, and thick cloudy skies. Sadly for us, it was the day we booked our Milford Sound fjord tour. We were bummed out and didn't even know if it was worth going. Were we ever wrong!

When it rains, hundreds of waterfalls cascade in the area. On our boat tour the eerie grey waters, shaded mountains and gushing waterfalls made it mysterious and raw! With an average of 182 days of rain each year, you just might have a rainy day. Take our advice and embrace it!

When booking your tour, book the earliest boat available, so you avoid tour busses leaving from Queenstown in the morning.  

After your tour, use your handy Rankerz app and camp somewhere along the way towards Mount Cook.

Day 15: Mount Cook

We took the drive towards Mount Cook National park to see views of the magnificent mountain. Mount Cook is a must-see spectacle of geological beauty. There are no freedom camping spots along Mount Cook Road, but there are a couple cheap ones near the end of the road. Those spots were so busy however, we turned back!

We stayed at Glenntanner Holiday Park , which is more expensive at $25 NZD per person/night, but it had more space, showers, and even a nice view of Mount Cook from our camping spot! We cooked up some tacos and had a wonderful evening.

Day 16: Lake Pukaki

Total driving time: 45 minutes

Just when you think you won't see any more natural beauty like Milford Sound or Mount Cook, the stunningly blue Lake Pukaki comes into view. We think it's the most beautiful glacial lake in the world and may even top Moraine Lake in Alberta!

The best part is that there is a lot of freedom camping available on the Eastern side of the lake. We had a spot all to ourselves! We enjoyed taking a swim in the lake and watching the sunset. It was our top camping spot of our whole trip after Lees Valley.

Day 17: Drop off van in Christchurch and fly home

It's about a 3.5 hour drive to Christchurch where you drop the van off.  There actually isn't a Mad Campers office here, but an airport parking lot, where you drop your keys off at a parking desk and hitch a shuttle ride to the airport.

Stop in at Lake Tekapo along the way for lunch to take in more beautiful glacial lake views.

Top Tip: There are no garbage cans at the airport parking lot, so make sure you clean your van beforehand!

That rounds out our 17 day New Zealand Campervan itinerary. We hope you enjoy freedom camping to its fullest and try out the best way to experience the country!

Helpful items to bring on your New Zealand campervan trip

These are helpful items that will go the mile for campervan living and outdoor activities during your time in NZ:

• Make sure to have The Lord of the Rings Trilogy downloaded on your computer so you can binge watch it in the van. Go to a local movie theatre and grab some popcorn!
• Download the Gaspy app and scout out the locations with the best gas prices. There can be quite a difference in price based on location.
• The coffee is excellent, everywhere. Even gas stations have espresso machines.

When you can't stand cooking anymore and you just want to pig out, try these certified Groovy meals:

• Pedros House of Lamb - prepare yourself for that quintessential NZ lamb
• Hell Pizza - Try the Cursed pizza. Chicken, smoked cheddar, pickles and honey mustard never tasted so good.
• Sushi joints - You'll see lots of sushi joints along the way in towns. The salmon is fresh!
• Mince Beef Pie - available almost everywhere, these hearty savoury pies will fill you up
• Fish and Chips - also a ubiquitous Kiwi staple, make sure you remember to order tartar sauce

Extra budget considerations

• We had to fuel up about every 400km of driving with the van. A full tank cost us around $65-$75 NZD per tank (2019 price).
• If you want to charge your laptops, you'll have to stop in at coffee shops. The van only has a USB charger.
• Alcohol isn't cheap; 4 ciders or 4 beers cost around $12 NZD.
• Hotels - if you want to take a break from the van. We rarely saw anything under $200 a night.
• Van improvements (door mat, hanging lights, candle, cheese grater, extra set of tongs, metal plate)
• Some districts or areas don't have free camping spots. You may have to pay around $7-$15 NZD per person/night.
• Liquid petroleum gas refill (for your gas stove) at end of stay is around $8 NZD

See what is was like in our New Zealand vlog:

If you love road trips, check out our other road trip itineraries:

• One week Oman road trip itinerary
• 2 week Chile itinerary for the adventurer

Related: See 15 hidden gems in New Zealand to add to your itinerary.

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out our list of Fun Adventure Ideas and Cultural Travel Experiences to inspired your next trip.

Love food? Don't miss our list of Unique Culinary Experiences Around the World .

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New Zealand Self drive Campervan Holiday Packages

When you decide to see New Zealand by self drive campervan, have you considered arrange everything on your own, or book one of the self drive holiday packages?

New Zealand attracts campers from all over the world for a reason. The magnificent, dreamlike panoramas, bustling metropolises, and lush green hilly landscapes, which were once the backdrop for the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy. 

A home on wheels gives travelers the freedom to take each day as it comes. Roam New Zealand and stop at the most beautiful places for a picnic, hike, or overnight stay. 

What are the recommended itineraries/excursions in New Zealand?

New Zealand is divided into a North Island and a South Island, which can also be traveled separately. If you wish to explore both islands during your motorhome holiday in New Zealand, you will need to use the ferry that connects the two parts of the island.

New Zealand Self drive Campervan Holiday Packages Tour Route Maps

To explore both the North Island and South Island, we suggest you spend two weeks in New Zealand. Depending on how in-depth you want to discover, we recommend two types of sightseeing routes.

Option 1 – Auckland Round Trip

Option 2 – Start in Auckland and Finish in Christchurch

Our rental vehicle partners will allow you to drive your campervan on the Interislander ferry from Wellington to Picton. With a fee, the rental can be one way from Auckland to Christchurch. 

In New Zealand, you can rent a motorhome. We offer suggested campervan packages from 4 to 16 days in the North Island and South Island, so there is plenty of variety.

Enjoy an unforgettable travel experience, perfectly tailored to your needs and requirements, from start to finish. Our holiday packages are suitable for both couples and singles. You can also travel together as a group and enjoy the best time of the year in a relaxed atmosphere. 

Because, as we all know, holiday travel is best when you can share your experiences with other travelers. Do you like to travel alone and as individually as possible? Then a New Zealand self-drive package is exactly what you need.

Benefits of booking an NZ campervan holiday package

Travel as you wish with the freedom of a motorhome or campervan in New Zealand. 

Features: 

Combine campervan rental, including unlimited miles, with attractions, camping sites, and flights within New Zealand. If you are exploring the two islands, we include your ferry crossing between Wellington and Picton.

Our fully automatic motorhome vehicles have a gas cooker, microwave, sink, hot and cold pressurized water, fridge/freezer, shower, and toilet. 

Our best New Zealand motorhome rentals can even be equipped with an oven, rearview camera, and solar power!

All motorhomes and caravans are fully equipped with bed linen and sheets as well as cutlery, crockery, and all kitchen utensils. 

There is a range of 2 to 6 berth motorhomes. Renting motorhomes is a great way to enjoy maximum flexibility in terms of length of stay, even during peak periods. 

Depots: 

Motorhome rental vehicles are available for pick up and return in Auckland, Christchurch, and Queenstown.

South Island

If you do not wish to book a tour package but would like to book a motorhome and caravan directly, please contact us. 

Motorhomes or campervans are the ultimate flexible accommodation choice for self-drivers in New Zealand.

Holiday Parks

Campsites and Holiday Parks are equipped with kitchens, laundry facilities, and bathrooms. They are often beautifully situated on the shore of a lake or right by the sea. 

Freedom Camping

Responsible free camping may be possible under certain circumstances. It is advisable to check with the local tourism information center i-SITE. 

Whether it is a self-drive motorhome or campervan, we have supplied several suggested itineraries, New Zealand.

What are New Zealand’s main attractions?

Cultural sites, lively nightlife, and beautiful nature in the immediate vicinity. If you are exploring New Zealand by motorhome, a visit to the metropolis of Auckland is a must. But the capital of New Zealand, Wellington, also scores points with its irresistible charm. Spectacular scenery and remarkable natural sites can be found en masse throughout the country. The picturesque 15-kilometer-long Milford Sound Fjord, located in the middle of Fjordland National Park, is particularly famous. Fantastic views are also offered around Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake.

When is the best time to travel to New Zealand?

New Zealand is truly on the other side of the planet. This means that the New Zealand winter is our summer. As the North and South Islands have different temperatures, the optimal travel time is also different. On the South Island, it can be freezing in winter (June to August). It is, therefore, not the right time to explore the spectacular natural landscapes of southern New Zealand. However, a winter holiday in the country’s famous ski resort is a good idea at this time of year.

What’s your campervan package difference compared to your competition?

To offer the best possible price, we have developed multi-day self-drive packages that have been optimized for an optimal experience. We also offer a wide range of day trips throughout Iceland for those who have their own rental motorhome.

Here you will find North Island and South Island tours as well as combined north-south tours lasting between 2 and 4 weeks. 

The emphasis is always on cultural and scenic highlights, which you can include in your daily program as you wish. 

All our rental vehicles are equipped with maximum insurance cover.

We can arrange tailor-made tours for individuals and groups. Thanks to our full range of luxury products, we are also able to serve the high-end market at competitive prices.

We look forward to introducing all travelers to the unique culture and nature of New Zealand!

Why take a Campervan Packages?

It gives you time to explore New Zealand’s many natural wonders and the breathtaking diversity of the country according to your wishes. Our itineraries are based on many years of experience and lead to the most beautiful corners of both islands. 

Travel times are moderate, so that you have plenty of time for your own excursions and explorations. And in the evenings you will find a pleasant and comfortable room at your destination – without any stress. All rental motorhome is also equipped by us with maximum safety features.

Disadvantages of Self-drive Trips

As roads in New Zealand can often be narrow, winding, and, depending on the region, mountainous. 

The 200 km in New Zealand cannot be compared to 200 km in Europe – the distances in New Zealand are slightly underestimated. 

Benefits of Booking a Campervan Holiday Package

Rental car tours are a popular way to discover New Zealand. No tedious hotel searches along the way, as accommodation is already booked. This saves valuable time, especially during the peak travel season, when experience shows that there is often a shortage of accommodations. Visits are as varied as New Zealand itself. If you change from the North Island to the South Island, the ferry is also pre-booked for you. All tours can be booked almost throughout the season with daily departures.

All of our motorhome hire tours can be booked, including vehicles from trusted partners. In this case, the one-way fee (if applicable) is included in the price. 

Comprehensive advice and convenient travel booking are essential to us – that’s how our customers know us. Also, our travel experts are distinguished by their friendliness, customer service, and extensive experience of traveling in New Zealand. That’s why we only work with selected, reputable partners who have been convincing us of their high level of satisfaction for many years. 

We are passionate about nature and can take you to unique places and sights. Enjoy the warmth and friendliness of the people of the South Pacific. Unwind in an atmosphere full of breathtaking shores and natural treasures. Contact us today for New Zealand Self drive Campervan Holiday Packages.

Helpful tips

Here's a few useful links to help with planning your trip to Aotearoa New Zealand.

• Best things to do in the North Island
• Best things to do in the South Island
• Other Islands
• Best ways to travel around
• Calculate travel times and distances

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14 Day Campervan & Motorhome Package - South Island Tour

Explore South Island’s best on our 14 Day Campervan package including activities such as a stunning Kayak around 12 Islands at Abel Tasman, twinkling glowworm caves, a beautiful Milford Sound Cruise and thrilling Queenstown jet boat ride.

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Explore the best of the South Island in a comfortable motorhome for 14 days through New Zealand's stunning landscapes. Starting in Christchurch, self drive to Kaikoura for the opportunity to whale watch. Discover Marlboroughs seal colony & wine tasting. Continue to the golden sands of Abel Tasman and kayak the turquiose waters and take some deserved beach relaxation. Explore mighty Franz Josef Glacier, with optional hikes and helicopter flights, before journeying to the famous Queenstown via Lake Matheson and Haast Pass plus more. See the South Island highlights on our 14 day campervan package.

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2 Weeks in New Zealand: Itinerary for a Perfect Campervan Road Trip

January 23, 2023

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New Zealand is a remote island country known for its sharp Alpine peaks, volcanic formations, and Hobbiton valley. Because it is so remote (unless you are traveling from Australia ), planning a trip here requires thorough research, especially if you are doing a packed 2 weeks in New Zealand itinerary.

From the snow-capped mountains of the South Island to the white sand beaches of the North Island, New Zealand has an abundance of stunning natural attractions to explore. Whether you’re looking to explore the country’s many stunning national parks or take a dip in its crystal-clear lakes and rivers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Our New Zealand road trip in a campervan took place in November 2019 during springtime and we managed to travel through both the North and South islands in 14 days.

2 Weeks in New Zealand Itinerary Day by Day

Our 2 weeks in New Zealand road trip started in Auckland – went though Rotorua geothermal area region – Lake Taupo – Wellington – on to West Coast on South Island – through Wanaka – Lake Tekapo – ending with Christchurch on East Coast of South Island.

New Zealand road trip itinerary map

Day 1. Arrival to Auckland and Hobbiton

Day 1 of your campervan journey on 2 weeks in New Zealand itinerary begins with your arrival in Auckland, the largest city in the country. Day one will be hectic since you will have to go through customs, pick up the campervan, stock up the fridge with groceries, and figure out the first night stop. Be ready to lose around half of the day for that.

After picking up your campervan, you can explore the city and its many attractions, such as the Sky Tower, the Harbour Bridge, and the Auckland Art Gallery. In the afternoon, you can make your way to Hobbiton, the movie set of the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. Here, you can take a guided tour of the set, see the hobbit holes, and learn about the making of the films. After the tour, you can spend the night in your campervan, parked at a nearby camping ground. This is a great way to start your New Zealand adventure, immersing yourself in the culture of both the city and the countryside.

Day 2: North Island – Geothermal Rotorua

Day 2 of your road trip in New Zealand takes you to the geothermal wonders of Rotorua. You can start the day by visiting Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland, a geothermal park known for its colorful pools and bubbling mud pools. You can walk around the park and see the Lady Knox Geyser, the Champagne Pool, and the Artist’s Palette. After that, you can head to Waimangu Volcanic Valley, the world’s youngest geothermal system. Here, you can hike around the valley, see the boiling mud pools, and learn about volcanic activity.

Rotorua is not only known for its geothermal activities, but also for its cultural experiences providing insights into the life of Māori people. Once you are here and have spare time, take a tour to Tamaki Māori Village for an unforgettable experience of Māori rituals.

We visited two geothermal parks in the Rotorua area: Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland and Waimangu Volcanic Valley . But if you have more time on your hands, be sure to also check out Orakei Korako Geothermal Park & Cave for gushing geysers, hot springs, and bubbling mud pools.

Wai-o-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Make sure to arrive early. It gets pretty busy very fast. We arrived by 08:30 for the opening time and there were already busses with people queueing. The entire walk of three loops took us 1,5 hours to complete. I was truly astonished to see all the geological formations the park has to offer.

If you have limited time or resources and you need to go with one park only, I would choose the Wai-o-Tapu. It has a bigger variety of geothermal structures to show and it is easier to walk through.

There is a geyser that you can experience in its active state around 10:15-10:30. There are seats gathering crowds much like in the ancient amphitheater. If you are curious about how is it possible that a geyser erupts daily exactly at 10:15 am, do not be puzzled. The park ranger will come and induce the geyser eruption with a few chemicals for everyone to witness. This of course diminishes the charm but allows everyone the possibility to see the geyser in action.

Waimangu Volcanic Valley

The lady at the entrance said it would take about 2 hours to complete the walk. We finished a bit sooner, but there were certainly some gaze-grippers that made us pause in amazement. The highlight of this hike was the Inferno Crator of course. Make sure to use your time in a good fashion so that you come just in time for the bus that can take you back to the Visitor Center. It goes only once an hour.

The parks are a funny representation of hell on earth.

After a day of exploring the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, you can spend the night in your campervan, parked at a nearby camping ground.

We decided to stay overnight at Lake Taupo camping, which was a great ending to the day. The Five Mike Parh campsite might not have the best facilities but it certainly has the best views!

There is only one vault toilet with no water or trash bins, so it is suitable for self-contained vehicles only. But once you settle in, enjoy the view towards the snowy mountain peak across the lake covered with yellow lupins.

Day 3: Scenic Drive through Wellington to South Island

Day 3 of this two-week New Zealand itinerary will be all about driving through the Wellington region to reach the South Island.

If you have enough time, you can make a stop to explore Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, where you can visit the city’s many attractions such as the Te Papa Museum, Parliament Buildings, and the Botanic Gardens.

We drove from Lake Taupo, took the ferry from Wellington to Picton, and drove a little more through beautiful Marlborough wine fields.

The drive through Marlborough will take you through picturesque countryside, with stunning views of the vineyards and the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, you can stop at some of the local wineries, where you can taste the wines and learn about the wine-making process. Marlborough is known for its world-renowned Sauvignon Blanc wines, you will have the opportunity to try some of the best wines in the region.

Once you reach Lake Rotoiti, you can take a leisurely stroll around the lake, and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding nature. For the overnight stay, you can pick Kerr Bay Campground situated in St. Arnaud right on the lake. If you are lucky, you might spot quite a number of black eels who enjoy hiding under the lake bridge.

Day 4: Pancake Rocks and West Coast

On the way to the famous Pancake Rocks, we make a stop in a little ghost town Lyell, which is practically non-existent anymore. Lyell is a historic gold mining town, known for its picturesque scenery, including the Buller River, and the Lyell Dam. You can take a walk around the town and learn about its history, and visit the Lyell Museum. It is a nice rest spot with a small suspension bridge leading the way for a bicycle hike track.

After that, you can drive to Punakaiki, home to the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, a unique rock formation created by the erosive power of the sea. Here, you can take a walk along the coastal path to see the Pancake Rocks, the blowholes, and the limestone cliffs. You can also take a hike in the Paparoa National Park, where you can see the limestone landscape and the native flora and fauna.

Punakaiki introduces us to the vastness of the West Coast ocean with constantly crashing waves. The rugged shore really is a dramatic place for some drama movies waiting to be shot.

Day 5: Blue Lakes of New Zealand

Moving down South through the west coast is as easy as it is scenic. There are plenty of beautiful spots to stop by and snap a shot. The next pin on our New Zealand travel route was Hokitika George, a beautiful baby-blue water creek.

The Blue Lakes, also known as the Hokitika Lakes, are a series of glistening blue-green lakes located in the Hokitika Gorge. The lakes are fed by the Hokitika River and are surrounded by lush native forests, making for a picturesque setting. You can take a hike around the lakes and take in the natural beauty of the area. After that, you can visit the town of Hokitika, a small town known for its arts and crafts, particularly jade and greenstone jewelry. You can take a stroll along the main street and browse through the local shops and art galleries. You also can visit the Hokitika Heritage and cultural center to learn about the history of the town and the region.

To be frank, I was skeptical of the pictures I saw on the internet but I immediately gasped with amazement when we approached the waters of Hakitoka George. Yep, it is better than pictures. The baby-blue color is real.

Day 6: Franz Josef Glacier

On this day we finally reached Glacier city which is way more lively than any other spot on the west coast. This, however, is mainly due to tourists who come here to see the glaciers and take scenic helicopter flights.

The choices for adventure here are plenty: you can either take a guided full-package glacier tour including helicopter pickup and drop-off with hours of glacier hiking (or even overnighting), have a short scenic flight above the glaciers, or take a self-guided free walk towards the Franz Josef glacier.

The walk is easy and takes 1-1.5 hours. You can’t get close to the glacier because it melted a lot in the last 10 years and the area is now dangerous due to rock falls.

You can relax after your icy adventure by soaking in hot pools. The entrance fee is $29 per adult. The facility has three pools with different temperatures of 36, 38, and 40 degrees. After a cold day, we were happy to soak in the pools in the evening.

Day 7: Fox Glacier

A short 30-minute ride away is another wonder of New Zealand a twin of Frank Josef – Fox Glacier. The Fox Glacier is located in the same national park and offers a different perspective of the glaciers.

This time, instead of hiking towards the glacier, we took a circuit walk around Matheson Lake. The lake is known for its beautiful reflections of Mt Cook and Mt Tasman, similar to the European lake of Lago do Braies in Italy . For the best views, try to visit at dawn or dusk when the water is calm. The slightest wind disturbances can ruin the mirror effect. The walk is an easy 1.5 stroll.

Day 8: Drive Through Blue Pools to Lake Wānaka

Leave the glaciers behind and drive through Haast Pass, a scenic route that takes you through lush rainforests and along the Haast River. Stop at the Blue Pools and Thunder Creek Falls for a refreshing swim and a picnic. The walk to the pools is a short 20-minute hike and a good stretch for your legs on this long day of driving.

A long drive led us all the way to Wānaka lake, which greeted us with sunshine peeking through the thick cloud carpet. Wānaka is a great getaway spot for water activities, skydiving, hiking, you name it! It is also one of a few cities on our route, so it was a good spot for getting petrol, shopping for groceries, and getting WiFi. It was getting close to the sunset and we ended up stopping at the Neck between Wānaka and Hawea lakes and taking a bunch of beautiful pictures. We camped at Lake Hawea Freedom Campsite with nice facilities and an amazing view of the lake.

Day 9: Lake Pukaki – Another Turquoise Gem

Only a two-hour drive away is Lake Pukaki, which exceeded all the expectations I didn’t have. The water is so incredibly bright blue, that it made me question my own vision. Could it be that my sunglasses distort it? No, it’s real. Not far from it, glorious Mt. Cook is visible among other mountain peaks.

If you have the time, make a stop at Lake Ruataniwha. It is far less known which makes it a special little treat. Lake Ruataniwha has this unusual green and see-through water. You can have this lake all to yourself since it is far less popular.

Lake Pukaki, on the other hand, is a large glacial lake known for its stunning turquoise blue waters and the surrounding mountain ranges, which offer breathtaking views. The lake is a popular spot for camping, fishing, and boating. Visitors can also take a tour of the hydroelectric power station at the lake’s outlet, which provides insight into the region’s energy production.

Day 10: Mt Cook National Park

The wow effect starts during the drive approaching the mountain range as it grows bigger and bigger in front of your eyes and all you want to do is stop and take pictures. So that’s what we did!

The road from Pukaki lake is just 40 minutes of pretty easy drive. I was expecting windy mountain roads and complexity but the road was straight all the way, following the toxic colors of lake Pukaki half of the way.

What you find arriving in Mt Cook National Park is a small village with a few cafes (we found 2 cafes and 1 restaurant), a visitor center, and a shelter where tired travelers can take a break, use the kitchen, bathroom, and even take a shower for free.

There is a number of hikes one can attempt in Mt Cook National Park. I went for a 3-hour return trail to Hooker lake. This is an easy trail that passes through 3 hanging bridges and Mueller lake as a bonus. The Hooker lake is where the Glacier ends here you can still see pieces of ice floating about. But the best thing about it is the nice view towards Mt Cook that sits just right above the glacier.

The most exciting adventure of our stay happened at dusk when all visitors dispersed and we were the only ones going on a hiking trail in a nearby Tasman valley. An easy 10-minute trip to the Blue lakes brings instant reward! The lakes were more green than the name suggested, but they were 3 tiny mountain lakes perfectly still upon the sunset. You could photograph the reflection of the mountain drop in it too.

Being adventurous souls that we are, we didn’t stop there but climbed up the hill to get a better sunset view and we weren’t disappointed. The Tasman lake with its same-named glacier appeared in front of our eyes. The sunset rays looked incredibly good on it and made the water almost glow blue in the twilight. This little climb definitely made my day.

Day 11: Lake Tekapo

All I knew about New Zealand landscapes before my trip was lake Tekapo. But it still ended up looking much better in life than pictures can tell.

That is all because most people photograph the same location with flowers and while it is a nice spot, honestly, flowers are everywhere in Tekapo! The town is quite small but charming, there are cafes and supermarkets here. The highlight is of course the lake itself with its unreal bright baby-blue color, the same as Pukaki.

Of course, the signature card of Tekapo is lupin flowers that grow absolutely all around the lake in late spring. A sharp contrast to Rotorua with its thermal smells, lupins in Tekapo made the entire city smell like perfume.

Among things to see in Lake Tekapo, is the Church of a Good Shepherd, a tiny rock church standing on the lake shore. I encourage you to go inside. No photography is allowed there, but just take a moment of peace and be present. Church of a Good Shepherd is the most photographed place in lake Tekapo especially for night photography. This is because Lake Tekapo is a perfect stop to gaze at the night sky. There is a number of star-gazing and night photography tours in the area, including the tour to the Mt John Observatory.

Day 12: Akaroa

Leaving Lake Tekapo, we started slowly heading towards Christchurch, the point of our departure and end of our 2 weeks in New Zealand adventure.

Akaroa is a small town located on the Banks Peninsula known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and French and British colonial heritage.

Apart from that, Akaroa is home to a large population of Hector’s dolphins, the world’s smallest and rarest marine dolphins, which can be observed in the wild. Therefore, it is a perfect spot to wind down and enjoy nature.

You might also enjoy reading “A Detailed Guide to Planning an East Coast Australia Road Trip”

Day 13: Christchurch

It’s time to head towards Christchurch – the last stop of our 2 weeks in New Zealand itinerary. We didn’t want to rush out of our new beloved spot by the water but it was time to return our hired campervan. Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island, which proved to be a very charming calm little town with the aspiration to be a cultural hub. The Anglican churches all around give it a little European feel and a little tram going around the city reminded me of San Francisco. It was easy to find good food and a good hotel – our stay at The Grange B&B added extra charm as well.

Overall, a nice spot to end two weeks adventure in New Zealand.

Day 14: Departure from Christchurch

It is time to say goodbye to your magical campervan road trip with 2 weeks in New Zealand itinerary, the land of kiwi.

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What a wonderful post about the 2 weeks in New Zealand itinerary for a perfect campervan road trip. You have shared some practical and useful information that I would love to follow on my next trip. I agree that travelling by campervan is the best way to explore New Zealand and experience its culture and scenery. I liked the idea of visiting both the North and South islands and seeing the highlights of each region. . I especially liked the detailed breakdown of each day and the stunning photos you shared. Thank you for this useful and engaging post.

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South Island Campervan Itinerary: 10 Days 🚐 [2024]

Support nz pocket guide and get our huge ebook collection to access our tips on the go, 10-day campervan itinerary for the south island.

The South Island of New Zealand is the ultimate campervan holiday destination with a new and breathtaking landscape to admire every couple of hours on the road. With 10 days to see as much of New Zealand ‘s most scenic island as possible, this South Island campervan itinerary for 10 days incorporates all the highlights for the traveller who doesn’t mind a few long days of touring combined with a couple of standstill days. What’s more, this 10-day South Island campervan itinerary includes campervan rental and campsite recommendations to make planning your road trip effortless.

10-Day South Island Campervan and Motorhome Rentals

This South Island campervan itinerary is designed with self-driving a campervan or motorhome in mind, beginning and ending in Christchurch for a hassle-free rental experience. For a road trip in a comfortable, functional and reliable motorhome, not to mention being fully self-contained to make the most of the free camping spots listed in this itinerary, we recommend Wilderness Motorhome Rentals . They offer a range of late-model and cleverly designed RVs, from compact vans-for-two to more spacious and family-friendly 4-berth motorhomes. Check out their full fleet at Wilderness.co.nz .

See how Wilderness compares with more awesome alternatives in The Best Campervan Rental Companies in Christchurch .

Day 1 – Christchurch Airport to Hanmer Springs

Travel time: 1h45mins

Welcome to Te Waipounamu, otherwise known as the South Island of New Zealand! After arriving in Christchurch and picking up your rental vehicle from Wilderness , we recommend taking the scenic yet manageable drive to Hanmer Springs .

Depending on what time you can get on the road, you may like to stop by the city centre of Christchurch to admire its selection of gardens, as well as pick up groceries to cook in your campervan.

On the drive to Hanmer Springs, you’ll pass through the boutique wine region of Waipara with tastings worth seeking out (don’t drink and drive though). Your final destination is the alpine resort village of Hanmer Springs, most famous for its large hot pools complex. While there are a ton of amazing experiences in the town, as listed in the 19 Best Things to Do in Hanmer Springs , we recommend relaxing at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa .

Camping in Hanmer Springs

• Alpine Adventure Holiday Park
• Hanmer Springs TOP 10 Holiday Park
• Hanmer Springs Forest Camp Trust
• Alpine Holiday Apartments & Campground
• Hanmer Springs River Reserve (Free)

Day 2 – Hanmer Springs to Franz Josef Glacier (via Hokitika)

Travel time: 5 hours

Today, continue on your road trip to the West Coast of the South Island via the mountain and forest scenery of Lewis Pass . Stop for refreshments in the quaint town of Reefton before making your journey following the Grey River to Greymouth . The largest town on the West Coast is another good place to stop for self-catering supplies.

If the weather is clear but forecast to be wet for the next couple of days, we recommend making a beeline to Franz Josef so you don’t miss out on their helicopter or glacier hiking experiences. Otherwise, take your time on the way down to Franz Josef, perhaps to admire the vibrant blue pools of Hokitika Gorge or to experience the New Zealand rainforest from a different perspective on the West Coast Treetop Walk (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor ) .

We’ll talk more about what to do in Franz Josef tomorrow. For now, relax at your chosen campground…

Camping in Franz Josef

• Rainforest Retreat
• Franz Josef TOP 10 Holiday Park
• Orange Sheep Campervan Park
• Otto/MacDonalds Campsite (Department of Conservation/DOC)

Day 3 – Spend the Day in Franz Josef

Most travellers visit Franz Josef to set foot on the famous glacier itself via helicopter. But don’t overlook some of the spectacular free experiences, like hiking to the glacier terminal face!

If you catch yourself in Franz Josef in bad weather, however, you can always soak the disappointment away at the Glacier Hot Pools or Waiho Hot Tubs , or choose something else from the  10 Things to Do in Franz Josef on a Rainy Day.

Things to Do in Franz Josef

• Do a free or guided walk to the  Franz Josef Glacier Terminal Face
• Heli-hike onto the  Franz Josef Glacier (more info on Viator , TripAdvisor and KKday )
• See rare birds and a stunning wetland environment at the  Okarito Lagoon
• Do a helicopter flight over the  Southern Alps   (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor )
• See a kiwi bird at the  West Coast Wildlife Centre   (on  Viator  and  Tripadvisor )
• Kayak on  Lake Mapourika  with  Franz Josef Wilderness Tours …

… And the list continues over in our  25 Best Things to Do in Franz Josef .

Day 4 – Franz Josef to Queenstown (via Haast Pass and Wanaka)

Travel time: 4h45mins

If you didn’t get the chance to fly over the glacier yesterday, today might be your chance. Otherwise, set off for Haast where you’ll journey through the   Haast Pass with its  array of short walks to stunning waterfalls and blue pools to enjoy independently, as listed on the DOC website .

Enjoy a pitstop in Wanaka  whether it’s to do one of the 25 Best Things to Do in Wanaka or simply enjoy a picnic by the lake and take a photo of “# ThatWanakaTree ”.

Then, take your campervan on a scenic drive over the Crown Range and the Cardrona Valley to the “Adrenaline Capital of New Zealand”, Queenstown . You have plenty of time to experience its tours tomorrow. For now, you might like to check out the dining scene as outlined in  The Foodie Guide to Queenstown .

Camping in Queenstown

• Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park
• Creeksyde Queenstown Holiday Park
• Q Box Motorhome Park
• Frankton Motor Camp
• Queenstown Top 10 Holiday Park
• Arrowtown Holiday Park
• Twelve Mile Delta (DOC)
• Moke Lake Campsite (DOC)
• Twenty Five Mile Stream (Free)
• Kawarau Bridge Car Park (Free)
• Rum Currie’s Hut (Free)
• Crown Range Road Summit Car Park (Free)

Find out more about camping in Queenstown using our complete guide, Where to Camp in Queenstown .

Day 5 – Explore Queenstown

Adrenaline, food, wine, golf, scenery, spas: whatever your vibe is, Queenstown is likely to have it. In summer, take part in some epic canyoning or white water rafting , while winter is when the mountains beckon for the ski season (make sure you hire some snow chains ). You might even like to take the campervan on a bit of a day trip along Lake Wakatipu to Glenorchy or to the historic mining town of Arrowtown.

Things to Do in Queenstown

• Take the leap with a  bungy jump
• Do a giant swing through a canyon  (find out more, read reviews and get the best travel deals on  Viator ,  Tripadvisor ,  Klook  and  KKday )
• Experience one of the  5 Best Jet Boat Tours in Queenstown
• Ski at  The Remarkables , following our advice in  The Ultimate Guide to the Queenstown Ski Season
• Hike  Ben Lomond
• Soak in the scenery and hot pools of the  Onsen Hot Pools Retreat & Day Spa  (on  Klook ,  Viator  and  Tripadvisor )
• Take a day trip to  Arrowtown  or one of  The Best Day Trips from Queenstown .

For more information on each experience, check out the  45 Best Things to Do in Queenstown .

Day 6 – Queenstown to Milford Sound

Travel time: 2h50mins to 3h30mins depending on campsite

Do anything that you might have missed in Queenstown this morning, then hit the road to the glacier-carved fiords of Milford Sound . This is a scenic journey that you’ll want to take your time with giving that you have the luxury of a campervan to stay at one of the many campsites on the way to Milford Sound. This means you have more time to enjoy short hikes and see stunning natural attractions in the Fiordland National Park. Take your pick from the  18 Stops You Can’t Miss on the Road to Milford Sound , including the gorgeous Lake Gunn and the popular three-hour hike on the Routeburn Great Walk to the Key Summit .

You have many DOC campsites to choose from on this journey, just make sure to book early for these popular pieces of paradise. Otherwise, Milford Sound Lodge offers powered sites should you want to plug in your Wilderness camper .

Camping in Milford Sound

• Milford Sound Lodge
• Cascade Creek Campsite (DOC)
• Deer Flat Campsite (DOC)
• Henry Creek Campsite (DOC)
• Kiosk Creek Campsite (DOC)
• Totara Campsite (DOC)
• Upper Eglinton Campsite (DOC)
• Walker Creek Campsite (DOC)

For more details, head to the  11 Best Accommodations in Milford Sound .

Day 7 – Milford Sound to Te Anau

Travel time: 1h25mins

Enjoy a morning cruise at Milford Sound or one of the alternative activities like kayaking or the underwater observatory (see the 15 Best Things to Do in Milford Sound ) before the tourist buses arrive. Then, make your way back toward your final destination today, Te Anau . Some of the town’s highlights include the free Te Anau Bird Sanctuary and the Te Anau Glowworm Caves (more info on Viator , Tripadvisor and Klook ) . For more ideas, head to the  10 Te Anau Must-Dos .

Camping in Te Anau

• Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park
• Te Anau TOP 10 Holiday Park
• Getaway Te Anau
• Fiordland Great Views Holiday Park

Find out more about some of your camping options in the 5 Best Holiday Parks in Te Anau .

Day 8 – Te Anau to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

You have a long yet stunning journey ahead of you today with the first part being the return to Queenstown . Then, you’ll experience the dramatic river scenery of Kawarau Gorge on your way to Cromwell . Take a break in Cromwell before heading north through what is deemed the most beautiful road in New Zealand , Lindis Pass . You’ll come out the other side in Omarama where a highlight includes soaking in the tubs of Hot Tubs Omarama or checking out the otherworldly scenery of the Omarama Clay Cliffs. 

The final stint to Aoraki Mt Cook is through the high country village of Twizel where you can stop by for a skydive with Skydive Mt. Cook .

Follow the vibrant blue waters of Lake Pukaki to Aoraki Mt Cook Village or to any one of the nearby campsites.

Camping in Mt Cook

• Glentanner Park Centre
• White Horse Hill Campsite (DOC)
• Lake Poaka Campsite (DOC)

Day 9 – Explore Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

This is your last full day among the South Island’s most magnificent scenery so make the most of it. For instance, take to the skies and land on a glacier in a ski plane . Alternatively, there are some stellar hikes to lap up the scenery.

Things to Do in Mt Cook

• Walk the  Hooker Valley Track
• Land on the  Tasman Glacier in a ski plane
• Heli-hike on the Tasman Glacier with  Mt Cook Glacier Guiding  or  The Helicopter Line (on KKday and Tripadvisor )
• Go boating on a glacier lake with  Glacier Explorers
• Stargaze in the  Aoraki Mt Cook International Dark Sky Reserve …

… And the list continues over on our  20 Best Things to Do in Aoraki Mt Cook .

Day 10 – Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to Christchurch Airport (via Lake Tekapo)

Travel time: 4 hours

Your final day in New Zealand ends with one last Kiwi road trip, this time between Aoraki Mt Cook and Christchurch. Your first stop will be the lakeshores of Lake Tekapo with its brilliant blue waters leading up to the Southern Alps. Pick up souvenirs at the boutiques in Fairlie and, if you have time, do a horse trek in the Peel Forest just outside of Geraldine . The final leg of your journey is through the Canterbury Plains .

Remember to give yourself enough time to return your rental vehicle to Wilderness Motorhome Rentals who will be able to transfer you to Christchurch Airport, should that be your next destination.

Then it’s goodbye to the South Island of New Zealand!

The Best Campervan Rental for 10 Days on the South Island

So, how can you make the most of this South Island campervan itinerary for 10 days? Wilderness Motorhome Rentals offers an amazing range of motorhomes to really treat yourself while cruising the South Island. With inclusions such as airport or accommodation transfers in Christchurch, a New Zealand SIM card and all of the living amenities for a true home-away-from-home experience, your road trip couldn’t be easier. Get your trip started at Wilderness.co.nz .

More About a South Island Campervan Itinerary for 10 Days

That’s the end of our South Island campervan itinerary for 10 days. If this itinerary didn’t take you fancy, see our alternative 10-day itineraries, as well as more advice on campervanning in New Zealand.

• How to Travel New Zealand in 10 Days
• South Island in 2 Weeks : New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary
• How to Plan a Campervan Trip in New Zealand

Finally, make sure all aspects of your trip are organised with  The Best Travel Guide to New Zealand .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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Explore New Zealand’s Best with Our 2-Week Campervan Itinerary: A Comprehensive Guide [2021]

**Short answer: new zealand campervan itinerary 2 weeks**

A two-week New Zealand road trip in a campervan should include must-see destinations like Auckland, Rotorua, Queenstown, and Milford Sound. Driving from north to south or vice versa, travelers can also explore scenic routes like the Coromandel Peninsula and Mount Cook National Park. Allow time for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and glacier tours. Check vehicle rental policies and campsites availability before planning the itinerary.

Step-by-Step Guide: Creating the Ultimate New Zealand Campervan Itinerary for 2 Weeks

If there’s one thing that Kiwis know best, it is the art of exploration. With its breathtaking landscapes and pristine natural beauty, New Zealand has become a hotbed of adventure tourism over the years. And what could be a better way to explore this stunning country than with your very own campervan ?

With nearly 15,000 km of coastline and endless open roads, you can see why driving a campervan across New Zealand is one of the top bucket list items for thrill-seeking travellers worldwide. If you’re planning on exploring this island nation, we’ve got you covered with our ultimate guide to creating an unforgettable two-week itinerary.

Step One: Choose Your Campervan

Choosing the perfect campervan that meets all your needs is essential for an enjoyable road trip in New Zealand. Based on your budget and expected requirements, there are various options available – from luxury motorhomes to compact camper trailers – which will ensure you get the most out of your journey.

If it’s just yourself or a couple travelling, then go for van conversions like Jucy or Spaceship rentals as they provide convenient and affordable rental packages. If traveling with family or larger groups and need more space to move around comfortably during long drives or overnight stays, then Camperman or Britz are great options providing larger RVs with countless amenities including cutlery sets, outdoor chairs & tables that make packing a lot easier.

Step Two: Choose Your Route

New Zealand has so much to offer travelers; epic hikes through national parks, unique wildlife spotting opportunities in secluded areas or even tasting some outstanding wine while taking in incredible vistas of rolling hillsides – anything here makes for an experience worth cherishing for life!

Whatever might interest you pick one route out of few popular ones like Auckland-Wellington along State Highway 1 (SH1) or Christchurch-Queenstown via State Highways 73 + 6 to Te Anau or maybe hire a ferry from the North Island to South Island and explore it along State Highway 6 (SH6) with an added extra touch of Milford Sound, it has all of it. That said, do your research and customise your stops depending on what appeals most to you.

Step Three: Plan Your Stops

Once you know where you’re heading, planning out stops is the next essential component – whether you’re looking for fun thrills in nature or bonding experiences with locals. The locations of popular sights such as geothermal hot springs like Rotorua, vibrant cities like Wellington and Christchurch would make great pit stops.

Make sure also to check the best free or paid campsites available with facilities such as water supply, clean toilets and shared cooking areas before hitting those winding roads . New Zealand’s Department of Conservation (DOC) offers endless options that provide visitors with access to some breathtakingly unique landscapes compared to any other country in the world.

Step Four: Pack Smart

Packing for a campervan holiday can be tricky so make sure to pack light but smart! Depending on how many people are travelling ensure enough appropriate clothing is packed: hiking boots/shoes, sunglasses & hats/chilly weather wear/fleece jackets/rain gear/sunscreen etc. Do purchase a mobile data plan for browsing maps/ directions if you don’t want to go old school carrying physical copies during road trips .

No matter what route you choose or how long your journey takes – this spectacular country will undoubtedly leave you craving more – So just buckle up because there’s nothing quite like exploring New Zealand by campervan !

FAQ about a New Zealand Campervan Itinerary for 2 Weeks: Everything You Need to Know

New Zealand is a land of breathtaking scenery, hidden valleys and pristine natural beauty. The best way to see it is by campervan! A campervan tour not only gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, but also lets you enjoy the stunning landscapes along the way. Here’s everything you need to know about planning a 2-week campervan itinerary in New Zealand.

Q: What’s the best time of year to travel in New Zealand? A: The best time to visit New Zealand for outdoor activities is during summer (December-February). However, this is also peak tourist season, so prices might be higher and popular sites can get busy. In autumn (March-May), the rates are usually more affordable and there are fewer crowds. Winter (June-August) offers great skiing opportunities, but some roads may be closed due to snow.

Q: Which rental company should I choose ? A: There are numerous rental companies operating in New Zealand, ranging from high-end luxury vehicles to budget-friendly options. Consider the size of your party, length of stay and budget when selecting a rental . Some popular brands include Apollo, Maui Motorhomes and Britz.

Q: How much does it cost? A: Campervan rentals typically range from around $100 – $300 per day depending on size and amenities provided. You’ll also need to factor in fuel costs as well as food expenses if you plan on cooking your meals.

Q: Where should I go? A: This really depends on your personal interests! If you’re into hiking and nature walks then visiting national parks like Abel Tasman or Fiordland would be ideal. For wine lovers head down south towards Marlborough region while adventure seekers will love Queenstown! Make sure that you do ample research before arriving in NZ so that you can make an informed decision about which places interest you.

Q: Do I need insurance? A: Yes, insurance is mandatory when renting a campervan in New Zealand. Most rental companies offer insurance packages to cover liability, damage and loss of personal items . Most NZ policies are comprehensive in nature as they include theft protection for the vehicle and all your equipment.

Q: Are there any restrictions on where I can park my campervan ? A: It’s important to know local laws regarding freedom camping (i.e parking overnight at places that are not designated camping sites). New Zealand has various rules about free camping, which differ between regions. You’ll want to research or ask around before attempting it so you don’t break any laws.

Q: Do I need to book campsites in advance? A: Yes, advance booking is always recommended particularly during peak tourist season. Some popular spots sell out very quickly!

Q: What’s the driving like in NZ? A: The roads vary from winding mountain pass roads to long stretches of straight highway. Be prepared for changes in weather patterns and road conditions while driving. Remember that Kiwis drive on the left-hand side of the road – this may take a bit of getting used to if you’re coming from a country that drives on the right!

Q: Can I do laundry while travelling? A: Many campsites have laundry facilities but it’s best to check ahead of time with each location you plan on staying at just to make sure.

In short, travelling by campervan is an amazing way to experience all of New Zealand’s natural beauty up close — just follow these basic guidelines and you will be well-equipped for an unforgettable adventure!

Top 5 Must-Know Facts About a New Zealand Campervan Itinerary for 2 Weeks

New Zealand is a destination that is truly meant to be explored at your own pace. With so much natural beauty to discover, it can be difficult to decide on an itinerary that will allow you enough time to see everything you want without feeling rushed. That’s where a campervan comes in – it’s the perfect way to experience New Zealand’s stunning landscapes and get off the beaten track. Here are our top five must-know facts about a New Zealand campervan itinerary for two weeks:

1. It’s all about freedom

One of the biggest advantages of travelling in a campervan is having the freedom to go wherever you please and stay as long as you want. You are not bound by schedules or hotel reservations, making it easy to change your plans on a whim if something interesting catches your eye.

2. The roads can be challenging

While New Zealand has some of the most breathtaking roads in the world, they can also be quite challenging for novice drivers. Many roads are narrow and winding, with steep inclines and hairpin turns that require careful navigation.

3. Plan ahead but remain flexible

When planning your itinerary, it’s important to have a rough idea of where you want to go and how long you plan on staying there. But remember – sometimes the best experiences happen when you least expect them! Stay open-minded and allow yourself some wiggle room in case you want to detour or spend more time exploring an area than anticipated.

4. Respect nature & Leave no Trace

New Zealand boasts some of the most pristine natural environments globally, and preserving its beauty should be at the forefront of every traveller’s mindset when visiting this country with their camper van rental NZ based service provider encourages responsible tourism practices through their ‘Leave No Trace’ policy which promotes conservation efforts throughout campervanning excursions.

5. Embrace local culture

Finally, take time out from sightseeing activities for immersive cultural experiences such as indulging in the local cuisine, partake in Maori cultural activities, exploring ancient forests and soaking up some of the laid-back Kiwi lifestyle. With this open-minded approach to travel, you are sure to return home from your campervan adventure with a newfound appreciation for this stunning country.

In conclusion, New Zealand is an ideal destination for campervanning enthusiasts who crave freedom and independence when itinerary planning such as Two Fishes- a leading Campervan Hire New Zealand company suggests that travellers research areas well in advance and create an itinerary based on where they wish to travel throughout the North or South island before taking off on their exciting adventure. Remembering through responsible tourism practices such as ‘Leave No Trace’ policy its delicate environment will remain preserved for future generations of Kiwis and tourists alike! So grab a map or dust off your GPS, rent yourself with a reliable campervan rental provider, hit the roads of NZ and embark on an unforgettable self-drive journey filled with epic nature sights, sensational landscapes, diverse cultures – all at your own pace!

Discovering the Best Scenery on a New Zealand Campervan Itinerary for 2 Weeks

New Zealand, the Land of the Long White Cloud, is a country that offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. From towering mountains and pristine lakes to rugged coastlines and lush forests, the natural beauty of this country is simply stunning.

One of the best ways to experience New Zealand’s stunning landscape is by exploring it on a campervan itinerary. With two weeks at your disposal, you have plenty of time to discover some of the most iconic natural wonders in the North and South Island. All you need to do is rent a campervan or motorhome and set off on an adventure you’ll never forget.

Your North Island Itinerary

Begin your journey from Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, situated on the north island. This vibrant city provides ample opportunities for fun-filled activities such as sightseeing or visiting interesting museums.

After spending a couple of days here soaking up all that Auckland has to offer, it’s time to get back on the road. Head over westwards towards Waitomo- home to numerous magical underground limestone caves made up of stalactites & stalagmites reaching up to 250 feet in height- then onwards towards Raglan–famous amid surfers for its long stretches of beach with huge waves that are perfect for surfing.

Making your way down southward be sure not to miss out Tarawera- also known as Waimangu Volcanic Rift Valley located near Mt Tarawera – where visitors can enjoy thermal activity such as geysers and hot springs amidst nature trails within one vast park & take scenic helicopter rides too if interested. Continue onward in order visit Rotorua; famed for Maori culture experiences including traditional dance performances (like Haka dance), mineral springs as well as other thrilling attractions like jet-boats & bungee jumping guaranteed to get any adrenaline-junkie excited!

Heading further Southeast brings us towards Tongariro National Park alongside Lake Taupo, which boasts a total of three amazing mountains hike: Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of the most iconic hikes in New Zealand- Also known as “The Lord of the Rings” mountain.

Finally, it’s time to hit Wellington- the capital city with highlights like visiting Te Papa Museum or riding on the cable car for stunning city views along the harbor.

South Island Wonders

The South Island of New Zealand is home to some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. After crossing over from Wellington on ferries- ensuring breath-taking views of Queen Charlotte Sound & Abel Tasman National Park – get ready to be amazed by what awaits you next.

Start off by making your way up Christchurch along Akaroa Hills & Hiking trails, then make your way back down south towards Lake Tekapo – famous for turquoise-colored water as a result of glacial sediment which provides gorgeous panoramic views amidst rugged mountains & stars-filled skies alike. Consider spending nights here stargazing as you will see everything that Astrology has to offer under clear skies!

Further down leads us to Franz Josef Glacier–one amongst two glaciers in Westland Tai Poutini National Park that are renowned worldwide for their unmatched beauty and uniqueness. Visitors can enjoy glacier walks/hikes as well as helicopter rides allowing them private access via fox & Franz valleys right onto glaciers’ ice cliffs alongside competent guides !

Next stop should be nearby Wanaka-Lake Hawea areas where adventure enthusiasts can indulge in various thrilling activities such as jet boating, skydiving or even deciding against jumping out from perfectly good aircraft altogether within Wingspan Bird show territory amidst picturesque landscapes that makes all these even more unforgettable experiences.

Lastly stopping at Queenstown closes this trip itinerary sheet off! This island township ‘Queenstown’, located southwards among Southern Alps & Lake Wakatipu guarantees an unusually wide range of activities ranging from Bungee jumping off the Kawarau Bridge over the rivers nearby or even braving ahead to climb Mt. Earnslaw and Lake Wakatipu from above thanks to prominent local tour guides cruising on private boats allowing hikers plenty of photo-opportunities coupled with stunning navigational views for you to end your trip itinerary.

New Zealand is a country that overwhelms visitors with its natural beauty, and embarking on a campervan itinerary offers the perfect way to explore everything this amazing nation has to offer. With two weeks at your disposal, there’s no limit as to where your exploration can take you; “just keep driving”- something new awaits around every bend or crook-dotted along these diverse terrains offering plenty in terms of attractions, nature hiking, adventure activities & cultural exposure making it a vacation option that caters well for all sorts of visitors. Enjoy an unforgettable experience as you discover the best scenery on this incredible New Zealand campervan itinerary!

Foodie Delights and Local Cuisine on a New Zealand Campervan Itinerary for 2 Weeks

New Zealand is a dream destination for foodies who love to indulge in local cuisine while travelling. A campervan trip across New Zealand offers an unmatched experience of exploring the country’s stunning landscapes and local delicacies at your own pace. With a plethora of gourmet options available, you are bound to have an amazing culinary adventure while on your 2-week campervan itinerary across this beautiful country.

Here are some of the must-try foodie delights that you can add to your New Zealand campervan itinerary:

1. Geographical Food Trail: New Zealand’s varied topography makes it a treasure trove of natural produce. You can take a geographical food trail where you will discover fresh seafood, organic vegetables, and fruits grown in fertile soil. Some popular stops for local produce include Farmers Markets in Auckland or Christchurch, or berry farms in Nelson.

2. Seafood Delights: With its long coastline, New Zealand has an abundance of fish and seafood available around every corner. Freshly caught fish like snapper, hoki or blue cod served with chips is one of the most popular dishes enjoyed here by locals and tourists alike. The iconic seafood chowder made with creamy fish broth and clams is another must-try dish.

3. Charcoal Grilled Barbecue: The Kiwis know their craft when it comes to barbecuing meat perfectly over charcoal grills. From lamb chops to T-bone steaks or even venison sausages – there’s something for every meat-lover out there. You could stop off at a scenic spot like Queenstown or Lake Wanaka where there are several public barbecue areas set up along the foreshores perfect for enjoying these delicacies.

4. Winery Tour: Make sure to visit any one (or all!) of the many vineyards throughout New Zealand during your campervan trip- as they offer wine-tasting trails for visitors amid beautiful scenery. The Marlborough wine region near Blenheim is a popular place to start your winery tours where you can taste Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay or Pinot Noir as well as local cheeses.

5. Seafood pizza: If you are in Dunedin city, make sure you try out the famous seafood pizzas. These delicious pizzas come loaded with fresh seafood toppings like mussels, prawns and scallops along with rich tomato sauce and oozy cheese!

6. Local Ethnic Cuisines: New Zealand is home to various ethnic communities which bring their own unique foods to the table, such as sushi in Wellington, dumplings or ramen soups from Japan, Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches, Indian curries or kebabs.

Wrapping Up

A New Zealand campervan itinerary presents the perfect opportunity for indulging in local cuisine and discovering gourmet delights with ease! Whether it’s trying fried fish from a food truck on an isolated beach road trip or dining at one of New Zealand’s top-rated restaurants – there is something here for everyone’s palate.. Happy Eating!

From Beaches to Mountains: The Most Exciting Activities on Your New Zealand Campervan Itinerary For 2 Weeks

New Zealand is undoubtedly one of the most scenic countries in the world. This small island country located in the southern Pacific Ocean boasts of an array of breathtaking natural wonders, ranging from pristine beaches to imposing mountains. With a campervan rental , you can explore this stunning landscape at your own pace and enjoy all that New Zealand has to offer.

A 2-week New Zealand campervan itinerary can be jam-packed with exciting activities for adventure-seekers, nature lovers, and beach bums alike. Starting off with the coastal destinations on New Zealand’s North Island like Auckland and Bay of Islands boasting an extensive network of sandy shorelines perfect for surfing or swimming. Even for those who prefer a more relaxed setting, the subtropical climates allow them to watch dolphins frolic around in their natural habitat.

New Zealand’s South Island offers majestic mountain ranges for trekking enthusiasts looking to bag one of its many peaks or indulge in skiing during winters. Christchurch is often the starting point for these adventures as it’s close by several towering ranges such as Mount Cook, Arthur’s Pass or Queenstown know as an adrenaline junkie paradise.

However, if scenic spots are what entice you the most; travelling along Milford Sound should top your list! This side road gives travellers access to cinematic waterfalls flowing between staggering cliffs surrounded by dense forests spilling into deep glacial valley below making it one of the most photographed and awe-inspiring areas across New Zealand!

Don’t forget soaking up some culture while there? “For LOTR fans Hobbiton Movie set near Rotorua is bound to create unforgettable memories as they visit Hobbit holes adorned with artful carvings made by local artisans showcasing Middle Earth!”says Sarah from Cheapa Campa NZ.

These two weeks aren’t just enough and will leave travellers lusting for more but here are a few highlights not worth missing:

On Your Way Down • Visiting Whangarei with a mandatory stopover at Whangarei Falls to see views of the cascade • Bay of Island to view dolphins and whales, historic sites and uninhabited islands

South Island Discovery • Adventure through Milford Sound for those foggy mornings and uncanny still water reflections • Trekking glaciers such as Fox for its scenic views or Franz Josef for its gravity-defying climbs both set in West Coast & Nature Walks • Head over to Wanaka to jump off the cliff at Puzzling World, some great photos there!

Exploring Christchurch • See the historic New Regent St. heading out on Tramway, reaching stops like Canterbury Museum that showcase Maori culture • Visit the International Antarctic Centre or go skiing during winters

New Zealand’s campervan scene is popular amongst travelers who get a chance to have an authentic experience discovering hidden gems be it beaches or mountains allowing one-in-a-lifetime travel experiences, which will keep you craving following these unforgettable adventures all year long!

There is absolutely no doubt that your 2-week journey through New Zealand via campervan would be full of adventure, beautiful landscapes and memories you’re bound never to forget!

Table with useful data:

Information from an expert: new zealand campervan itinerary for 2 weeks.

As an expert in travel planning, I highly recommend exploring New Zealand via campervan . For a two-week itinerary, start your journey in Auckland and head towards the Bay of Islands for some island hopping and marine wildlife exploration . Then make your way south to Coromandel Peninsula for hot water beach and cathedral cove. Next up, visit Rotorua for geothermal parks and Maori cultural experiences. Continue your adventure down to Queenstown for some outdoor activities like bungee jumping and jet boating. And finally, end your trip with a relaxing time at the beautiful Milford Sound before returning to Christchurch. Remember to plan ahead and book campsites along the way as they can get filled quickly during peak season. Happy travels!

Historical fact:

New Zealand, also known as Aotearoa in Maori, was first settled by Polynesian ancestors over 1,000 years ago. They arrived in traditional canoes known as waka and established their communities across the islands of New Zealand. It wasn’t until the arrival of Europeans in the 17th century that these communities were disrupted and changed forever. The legacy of these early settlers can still be seen today through Maori traditions, language and customs.

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New Zealand Campervan Itinerary (3 Weeks)

Are you planning a road trip in New Zealand and thinking of renting a campervan for your trip? We have curated this great New Zealand campervan itinerary for a 3-week road trip.

New Zealand is beautiful and offers such diversity in the scenery on a relatively small surface. Unlike Canada or the United States, you don’t have to drive a lot to find a completely new landscape. If you are an adventure and outdoor family, New Zealand won’t disappoint you. From hot springs to eternal mountain peaks, you’ll be amazed by New Zealand.

But first, why should you consider renting a campervan to explore New Zealand?

Disclaimer: Just a heads up, this free article contains affiliate links . If you purchase after clicking one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost . Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps me continue to provide helpful and free content for you .

Why a Campervan is the Best Way to See New Zealand

Traveling New Zealand by campervan is the ultimate way to explore its stunning outdoors at your own pace. With a campervan, you can enjoy the flexibility of self-driving and stay in breathtaking locations. New Zealand’s excellent campervan infrastructure includes fee-paying campsites like Top 10 Holiday Park and over 200 basic Department of Conservation (DOC) sites , offering minimal fees, drinking water, and basic toilets.

For a more budget-friendly option, consider Freedom Camping , available to certified self-contained campervans with their own waste tanks. This initiative allows free camping in diverse locations, from city-center car parks to secluded rural areas.

While renting a campervan can be pricier than a car, it eliminates the hassle of hotel check-ins and offers built-in cooking facilities. Keep in mind, fuel costs can be higher, and larger vehicles might be challenging to drive and park. Remember to pack all the essentials for a stress-free road trip adventure in New Zealand!

»» Read our: Escape Campervans Review for an Adventure Family

Your New Zealand Campervan Itinerary (3 Weeks)

This 3 week New Zealand itinerary covers both the North Island and the South Island . The North and South islands are very different from one another. Both should definitely be included on a New Zealand campervan itinerary. It’s a one-way route designed to maximize time and avoid a costly return ticket on the inter-island ferry.

Week 1 : Auckland – Rotorua – Wellington

Fly into Auckland and explore New Zealand’s biggest city before picking up your campervan.

Drive 2 hours south to Hobbiton , the film set for The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies. Kids will love exploring the landscaped site with 44 Hobbit houses whether they have seen the movies or not!

Your next stop is the cave region of Waitomo. In Waitomo, you can take a family-friendly caving trip to see the glow worms . Seeing the glow worms is truly a magical experience.

Continue to Rotorua . The town is famous for its sulfurous smell and its geothermic features. You’ll see bubbling mud pools, geysers, and hot pools . Then, make a stop at Tamaki Maori Village to learn about Maori culture and enjoy a traditional Hangi dinner .

Finally, visit Lake Taupo before arriving in New Zealand’s capital, Wellington . You’ll want to make time for a tour of Te Papa . Te Papa is a fantastic and varied museum of New Zealand .

»» For a more detailed itinerary of New Zealand’s North Island, check out our New Zealand’s North Island 7-Days Road Trip Itinerary .

Week 2 : Wellington – Christchurch – Queenstown

Take the car ferry from Wellington to Picton to reach South Island. The ferry drive is about 3.5 hours. Drive to Kaikoura on the east coast, a town renowned for whale and dolphin spotting. Head south to Hanmer to enjoy hot springs before arriving in Christchurch .

Spend a day exploring this charming city which has some of the best city center playgrounds in New Zealand. Turning inland, Lake Tekapo is reputed to have the darkest skies in New Zealand. V

Then, visit the awe-inspiring Mt Cook and hike the family-friendly Hooker Valley Track . It’s a 5 kilometers trail perfect for families. From here, drive to Queenstown . Make sure to spend some time at stunning Wanaka en route.

Week 3 : Queenstown – Milford Sound- Christchurch

Explore bustling Queenstown and take a steamboat trip on Lake Wakatipu. You can also take part in one of Queenstown’s many adrenaline-pumping activities, such as jet boating. Visit nearby Arrowtown, where kids can hire gold panning equipment to pan for gold in the river.

Drive to Te Anau for an overnight stay before visiting Milford Sound . The driving time from Te Anau to Milford Sound is about 2.5 hours (according to the kilometers between both places). But it will take much longer as you’ll want to stop to savor the incredible views.

Take a boat trip on the 15-kilometer-long Milford Sound to fully appreciate its size, scale, and jaw-dropping scenery.  From here, it’s a full-day drive to reach Fox Glacier and its neighbor, the Franz Josef Glacier . There are family-friendly paths that wind through the valley to the base of the glacier. There are also numerous activities on offer, such as heli-hiking (age restrictions apply) or a helicopter ride.

It is now time to return to Queenstown to drop off your rental campervan. You can also decide to continue up the East Coast. If you do so, you’ll want to stop at the family-friendly Hokitika Gorge and Kahikatea Forest . Then, you can make your back across the stunning Arthurs Pass to Christchurch. 

FAQ New Zealand Campervan Itinerary (3 Weeks)

Can you sleep anywhere in a campervan in new zealand.

No, you can’t sleep anywhere in a campervan in New Zealand. This is because there are restrictions on where campervans can be parked overnight. But, there are many freedom camping sites where you can park for free or for a small fee. Freedom camping sites are designated areas where you can only stay overnight. They can be found in parks, beaches, and other recreational areas.

When is the Best Time to Visit New Zealand?

Long warm days will maximize sightseeing opportunities and your enjoyment of New Zealand’s outdoor attractions. However, New Zealand’s extended school summer holidays run from late November/December to early February .

If you choose to visit in summer , it’s the high season. Attractions will be busier. There will be more competition and demand for camping spots. And, of course, you’ll experience higher campervan rental fees and camping fees . 

Visiting New Zealand in Spring and Autumn will avoid this but be prepared for some cooler and wetter weather. 

A campervan trip in New Zealand in the winter will be cold , especially on the South Island . Ok, it may not be as cold as the winter in Canada, but it still can get cold. You may encounter poor driving conditions and multiple road closures in mountain regions. But it’s an ideal time to visit if you love winter sports and snowy landscapes. 

Where to Rent a Campervan in New Zealand

Major cities on the North Island and the South Island have a few campervan rental companies. such as Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown , are offering city center or airport depots for most campervan rental companies. 

Well-known campervan brands include:

• Euro Campers

You can also check Auto Europe to compare the different campervan options that are available in New Zealand.

How much money do I need for 3 weeks in New Zealand?

It depends on your budget and the activities you plan during your stay in New Zealand. You could get away with spending around $2,800-3000 for 3 weeks if you want to stick to budget-friendly activities and accommodations. Still, you might need more money if you plan on doing more expensive activities or staying in nicer accommodation.

Which New Zealand island is better to visit?

South Island is the better of the two New Zealand islands to visit. With its rugged coastlines, towering mountains, and breathtaking glaciers, it’s truly a sight to behold. Of course, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, from hiking and kayaking to skiing and exploring the various towns and cities. You’ll also find some of the country’s best food and wine there!

When can you see Aurora in New Zealand?

The best time to see Aurora in New Zealand is from March to September. The best chance of seeing the aurora can generally be found on nights with a clear sky and little light pollution, which are more common during this period.

Final Thoughts on New Zealand Campervan Itinerary (3 Weeks)

There are so many things to do and see around both the North and South Islands of New Zealand. You could spend months exploring New Zealand. With 3 weeks in a campervan, you’ll get a great overview of most must-see places.

Would you rather visit New Zealand in a campervan or in a rental car?

Related Articles

If you enjoyed this article, you might also like to read the following articles:

• Escape Campervans Review for an Adventure Family
• Camping With Toddlers Checklist So You Don’t Forget a Thing.
• TIPS FOR FAMILIES: How to Survive Long Road Trips?

Befreewithlee

Travelling New Zealand in a campervan: The best places to visit!

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New Zealand is an extraordinary place to explore in a campervan. There are endless beautiful vistas to enjoy in every direction you turn and travelling New Zealand in a campervan has been one of the best experiences of my life!

This article is a combination of advice from travel bloggers who have all experienced travelling New Zealand in a campervan. They have suggested some of the best spots to see throughout the country to ensure you have the ultimate New Zealand campervan trip! Let’s get stuck in. 

Travelling New Zealand in a campervan: What you need to know

Travelling New Zealand by campervan is one of the best things you could do. Outlined below is some helpful information for your New Zealand camper trip i ncluding freedom camping rules, accommodation options, renting a campervan, ferry crossing, where to find necessities, packing list and a few handy need to know tips!

Freedom camping rules

Freedom camping is not what it used to be in New Zealand. It used to be acceptable to pull off the side of the road almost anywhere and park up for the night. Now it is likely most spots you want to camp are restricted such as in central Wanaka for example.

Signage is really good in New Zealand and you will know if you are in a no-camping zone. I highly suggest downloading the app Campermate and learning how to use it to find legitimate camping spots!

Tip: If you are a self-contained vehicle you are able to camp at a lot more sites throughout New Zealand. If you are unsure what I am talking about, check out my article all about Self Containment requirements in NZ and how to get your van certified.

Accommodation options

There are lots of camping options available in New Zealand. In some places, you park up to a million-dollar view without the price tag. My favourite way of finding places to stay in a campervan is by the app Campermate. A safe option if you are looking at camping in towns and cities is top 10-holiday parks, most places in NZ have one and they are usually pretty affordable and comfortable.

Renting a campervan

There are so many campervan rental companies to choose from throughout New Zealand. If you are unsure who to go with or have no idea where to start I have you covered with a comprehensive article all about finding cheap campervan rentals in New Zealand!

My favourite option after doing a lot of research and picking a company to explore for myself is Spaceships campervan rentals! I love them for price, location and comfort. Check out their website and latest deals here! 

The Ferry Crossing

New Zealand campervan travel is incomplete without a ferry crossing (pack the sea-legs!). There are two Ferry companies running in New Zealand. Interislander and Bluebridge . Both companies are able to take your vehicle and are similar in price however, I have found Bluebridge to be slightly cheaper when booking in advance.

Just remember you will need to pay for your vehicle as well as yourself and if you have a pet they have to stay in the vehicle.

Campervan New Zealand tips: Finding Necessities

By necessities, I mean things like water, toilets, laundry, food, showers, gas and dump stations while on the road.

The best way to find all of the above is on the app Campermate (seriously I am obsessed, I use it every month when I need to find a water fountain or public toilets in a town I’m not familiar with). I filter for what I need and zoom in or out on my location to find how far away things are that I want. As a rule of thumb, most towns have supermarket/s and these are usually called Pak n Save, Countdown, New World, Four Square or Fresh Choice.

As for laundry. Lots of camping grounds have laundry options however there are quite a few laundry mats around (again, I find these on the Campermate app). Just don’t leave your washing unattended because you don’t know what could happen to it! (We brought a cheap clothes hanger from the Warehouse that goes over a door in your house, it worked a treat on our van door when we shut it- see below).

Toilets are well signposted in most towns and cities. (Also found on the Campermate app!).

Water was tricky to find to full up my tanks. Some dump stations have water. (Dump stations are in some towns usually at petrol stations, again the best way to find them is to filter for them on Campermate, or ask at a local garage). But not all dump stations provide clean drinking water. I recommend finding a public water fountain usually near public toilets or at a gas station.

Showers… Some public toilets have showers with them and some free campsites have cold showers! It’s best to try a dip in the sea or freshwater as you are never too far away from a water source in NZ! But my best tip is to pay to access a swimming pool and use their shower or just pay for a shower. The cost is usually between $2-$5. Swimming pools are found in most towns!

New Zealand campervan tips

Here are a few tips and things to keep in mind that I have found from my time on the road!

• New Zealand roads are windy and narrow at times. Extra care is needed d riving a campervan in New Zealand! E specially through tourist hot spots like Tekapo, Wanaka, Queenstown, Milford Sound and the Coromandel! Drive to the conditions and be careful of ONE LANED bridges, there are heaps of them!!!
• There is A LOT of driving involved. Take regular breaks!
• Wifi at camping grounds sucks. The best I found was at McDonald’s or a local cafe. Or 2 degrees mobile do a free 1 hour of data if you are on one of their plans!
• Parking a campervan is tricky. I suggest taking a block of wood or something similar to balance your van on uneven ground.
• Plan your petrol stops! There is nothing worse than running out of gas…
• Campervan life is not always easy. Be prepared for things to go wrong! And know that it is okay and part of the journey.

What to pack for Campervanning in New Zealand

I have a comprehensive article on everything to pack in your c ampervan holiday in New Zealand. Click through to read the post here. Or follow the form below and I will send you a copy of my packing list!

The form you have selected does not exist.

But quickly, just remember to pack light and compact. Space is limited in a campervan and you don’t want to be taking unnecessary items. If you are travelling for 2+ weeks only take enough clothes for 2 weeks. And remember to pack a rain jacket!

Travelling in a campervan in the North Island!

Outlined below are some awesome recommendations from travel bloggers about the best places to explore while travelling the North Island in a campervan!

Keep in mind this post contains affiliate links. If you purchase anything through them, I will get a small referral fee and you will be supporting me and my blog at no extra cost to you, so thank you! 

 The Coromandel Peninsula

Suggested by Cass from Cassie The Hag

The Coromandel Peninsula is a must-see destination due it’s unique natural attractions. The most famous of which, Cathedral Cove, is a giant cathedral-like arch that dominates the white sandy beach below. Impressive rock formations jut out from the cool blue sea, and snorkelling, boat trips and kayaking are all popular here in the Summer. Even in the Winter, the walk from Hahei Beach to Cathedral Cove is a wonderful way to take in this stunning coastline.

Other things to do in the Coromandel include hiking the Pinnacles, taking in the beauty of New Chum Beach and watching the sunset from the top of Mt Paku. The Paku Hill Summit Walk is only 45-minutes return and you get a fantastic, panoramic view for minimal effort.

Hot Water Beach is another must for your itinerary and it is known worldwide for its famous Dig It Yourself hot tubs – thermal water runs below the surface of the sand, so if you dig a hole and climb in you get your very own beachside spa. There are many campervan parks and campgrounds in the area to choose from, some with great holiday facilities, and other affordable sites right next to the beaches.

Have a look at the Coromandel top 10-holiday park here for the latest prices and deals.   Also, for another great option check out Oamaru Bay Tourist Park here for the latest prices and deals.

Suggested by Samantha from A Truthful Traveler

A campervan trip in New Zealand is not complete without a stop to the country’s geothermal sights. Located closer to Auckland than Wellington on the North Island, this area has a volcanic history that can still be experienced today.

The first stop is located off the main highway, up Tarawera Road. Blue and Green Lake are named for their colours that shimmer in the sunlight. With traditional Māori names of Lake Tikitapu and Lake Rotokākahi, these lakes that lie within a volcanic caldera are the perfect place to enjoy a break. There is a van accessible viewpoint halfway between the two, and the area is surrounded by beautiful trees that look like a palm/fern hybrid. Take note that Green Lake is sacred and the lake itself is inaccessible to the public.

Joining back to the main road and continuing South will take you to Wai-O-Tapu. New Zealand’s version of Yellowstone, this hotbed of continued geothermal activity means you can experience geysers and colourful pools up close. Park your campervan in the parking lot, and take a stroll through the park’s raised walkways. You will get up close with bubbling pools of different colours, a lake, craters and even a few caves. Don’t forget to schedule in time to visit nearby Lady Knox Geyser, which has scheduled eruptions throughout the day!

Rotorua is a tiny slice of North Island, but there is no shortage of things to do! This area is the perfect day trip on a campervan adventure!!

For accommodation options in the area try one of the following: All Seasons Holiday Park. Check out the prices and latest deals here. Other good options include: Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park- check out prices and deals here . And lastly, Rotorua Top 10 Holiday Park- check out the prices and latest deals here. 

Red Beach, Auckland

Suggested by Maureen Spencer from “So Many Places! So Little Time!” – Online travel inspiration.

Often you will pick up your campervan in one of the big cities and may need some time to get organized and check that you have everything you need for a hassle-free motorhome trip   and/or there are things you want to do or see in that city before you head off on your tour. It can be difficult to find campervan parking in the big cities.

We suggest that in Auckland you stay at the Red Beach Top 10 Holiday Park. It is a great stop off when you are heading north or returning from the north. It is located about 30 to 40 minutes’ drive north of the actual city or 45 minutes to an hour’s drive from Auckland Airport.

The very pretty Red Beach is a couple of minutes walk away and Orewa township, which has a great cafe hub, is about 10 minutes drive or a 30-minute walk and has an excellent beach and estuary boardwalk for either walking or biking (Bikes can be rented in Orewa).

There is an excellent express bus service from nearby Silverdale into the central city if you want to do some city sightseeing but don’t want the hassle of driving in the city and finding expensive parking.

Have a great trip!

Suggested by Nicholas from Rambling Feet

Hokianga is a place you ought not to miss on your way back to Auckland from Northland. The sea carves its way deep into the mainland in this region and over thousands of years, it has formed some spectacular landscapes.

Sitting at the top of my list of things to see in the area are the  Koutu Beach boulders .  These giant round boulders (up to three metres wide) dot the coastline beneath the pines and cabbage trees. It’s best accessed at low tide from the car park on Waione Road, which branches off from Koutu Loop Road; keep walking along the beach and you’ll find even more boulders, and at the end, you can walk back to the van along the road. If you can’t get to the beach at the right time and plan to stay the night, however, you can’t go wrong with the campsite at Wairere Boulders Reserve about an hour away.

The well-maintained trails take anywhere between one and three hours and along the way, there are surreal basalt formations and even a little swimming hole. It helps that the campsite owners are very hospitable too. Best of all, these sights are only a short drive from State Highway 12, yet you are less likely to rub shoulders with the coachloads of Auckland daytrippers. Despite it being the start of peak season, I never encountered more than a handful of fellow visitors. It makes taking the longer route instead of SH1 worthwhile.

Suggested by Alex from Weekend Getaways NZ

Thanks to its location, Northland makes for a great mini road trip from Auckland. It’s not only known to be mild year-round, but Northland also boasts some of the best beaches for strolls for days (and you could take this quite literal).

Three of my favourite Northland campsite are perfectly located for a tour around the peninsula. Starting off with the Uretiti Beach DOC campsite, just south of Whangarei. It couldn’t be easier to reach as it’s literally on Highway 1. It’s a big, grassy campsite with direct access to Uretiti Beach. Being a DOC campsite, there are no fancy amenities apart from toilets and hot showers but it’s a great spot for stargazing. The free Waipu glowworm caves are nearby, too, so don’t miss out on visiting them!

Up in the Bay of Islands, in the oldest town of new New Zealand, is Russell Top 10 holiday park ( check out the latest prices and deals ). Here, you get all the amenities you could think of, plus amazing views over the Bay of Islands right from your campervan! Russell was once known as the Hellhole of the Pacific and New Zealand’s first licensed pub can be found there, amongst other very picturesque historic houses. 

And last but not least, Trounson Kauri Park DOC campsite on the west side of the Northland peninsula. It’s a basic DOC campsite and quite small, so make sure to be there early. The campsite is located near Tane Mahuta, New Zealand’s largest known kauri tree. At night, you can go on a glowworm walk right from the campsite and when it’s quiet, you can sometimes hear the wild kiwi birds call. 

The Kapiti Coast

Less than an hour from Wellington is the Kapiti Coast, consisting of a few towns along the State Highway 1. The Kapiti Coast is a great spot to visit to spend time before leaving to catch the ferry to the South Island, or if you’ve just arrived in the north. The smaller towns make driving a campervan less stressful than in Wellington.

Heading north, Paekakariki is the first town on the Kapiti Coast with a couple of cafes on its main street. It’s home to the Paekakariki Escarpment Track, one of the marquees walks near Wellington. For the adrenaline junkies, there’s the Fly by Wire, an epic bungy jumping alternative. And you can park up at Queen Elizabeth Park for the night. With nice walking trails and backing onto the beachfront, it’s a great spot to relax.

Photo credit: Hannah Sutherland on Unsplash

Travelling the South Island in a campervan!

A New Zealand campervan tour is not complete without a trip to the South Island! Outlined below are some epic recommendations from travel bloggers about the best places to explore while travelling the South Island in a campervan!

Visit the Abel Tasman park & try kayaking! 

Suggested by Lotte from Phenomenal Globe Travel Blog

One of the highlights of our New Zealand itinerary   was kayaking in Abel Tasman park. This beautiful National Park is located in the Northwest of the South Island, about one hour driving from Nelson. There are two routes to get to the village of Marahau, where you can find the entrance to the Abel Tasman National Park.

Option 1: from Motueka, drive north on the SH60 until you see a road on the right (Riwaka – Kaiteriteri Road). Follow this scenic drive to Kaiteriteri, then continue on the winding road to Marahau.

Option 2: instead of taking a right to Kaiteriteri, you turn left and then take an immediate right onto Riwaka – Sandy Bay Road, this leads to Marahau as well.

Before setting out on your kayaking trip you’ll be given a thorough safety instruction. Be sure to bring some food and plenty of water with you, as well as sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. Also, keep in mind the wind can be quite strong so don’t be tempted to kayak too far with the wind in your back as you’ll have a hard time getting back.

Kayaking is one of the best things to do at Abel Tasman Park as you get to admire the park from different vantage points. If you are lucky and the sun is out, the ocean has a brilliant blue colour and the golden beaches look even more inviting. Don’t spend all your time in your kayak, also be sure to hike up to the top of Watering Cove to admire the beautiful view of the Astrolabe and the Northern part of the park.

The Catlins

Suggested by Mikaela from Voyageur Tripper

The Southern Scenic Route is a particularly beautiful drive and cuts right through The Catlins. Along the way, you’ll find stops for waterfalls, beaches, lighthouses and more. Some of my favourite stops include the beautiful lighthouse at Nugget Point, Cathedral Caves (sea caves you can walk inside) and the petrified forest at Curio Bay.

Other notable stops are Slope Point, the most southern tip of the South Island, and McLean Falls, a 22 m waterfall. The Catlins is also a great place to find wildlife: penguins, seals and sea lions roam numerous stops along the coast. (You can find more notable stops in this guide to The Catlins . )

The Catlins is best explored as a road trip, and there’s no better way to travel than by campervan. Nearly all of the stops have excellent parking with wide parking spots, which will be especially important if you are navigating New Zealand by campervan. In addition, there are several campsites (both privately owned and operated by the Department of Conservation) where you can safely camp overnight.

Have a look at Catlins NewHaven Holiday park near Surat Bay- check out the prices and deals here. Or try Thomas’s Catlins Lodge and Campground in Owaka (just a 20-minute drive from Purakanui Falls)- check out the prices and deals here. 

Suggested by Erin from Never Ending Voyage 

Nelson is a small city at the top of the South Island that’s well worth adding to your New Zealand campervan trip. It’s only a few hours from Picton where the ferry from Wellington arrives and you can stop at the famous Marlborough wine region on the way.

The city is most known as a gateway to the stunning Abel Tasman National Park (about an hour north), but there are plenty of other  things to do in Nelson . 

In the compact centre, you can sample craft beer, browse art galleries, buy locally made products at the Saturday market, or walk up to the Centre of New Zealand for a superb view of the city.

Beautiful nature is easily accessible and nearby you can stroll along the Maitai River, hike up the  Grampian hills,  and relax on Tahunanui Beach. Further afield there are wineries, breweries, berry farms (where you can pick your own berries in summer), many mountain biking trails, and the gorgeous Nelson Lakes National Park.

There are a number of holiday parks to stay whether you want to be by the beach or next to a nature reserve. For a quiet location, head to Cable Bay, a 20-minute drive from Nelson where you can hike, kayak, and swim.

Have a look at Nelson City top 10 Holiday park in the heart of Nelson-  check out the prices and deals here.  Or the beloved Tahuna Beach Kiwi Holiday Park and Motel located in the suburb of Tahunanui-  check out the prices and deals here. 

Peel Forest

Suggested by Lauren from Ponytail-Pretty. 

If you’re looking to get out in nature and off the beaten track, Peel Forest in the mid-Canterbury region is a great place to stop on your New Zealand campervan trip.  Only 15 minutes off the main road, this hidden gem is a lovely quiet spot and has 2 campgrounds, the Peel Forest campground and Clarke Flat, so there is plenty of room.

The Peel Forest campground has 35 powered sites and 47 tent sites with access to cooking facilities, toilets, showers and safe drinking water.  The sound of the nearby Rangitata River is so peaceful and sets the perfect ambience for a relaxing evening.  Note that the Peel Forest campground is closed May to mid-September but basic campsites at Clarke Flat are open for use year-round. 

The village isn’t huge but it has a cafe and it is easy to drive around in the area. Along with activities like kayaking, rafting and horseback riding, there are plenty of trails to explore from easy walks to day hikes.  One of the most popular walking tracks is the Big Tree walk which takes about 40 minutes to complete.  This walk features incredible massive 1000-year-old Totora trees which are really a sight to see. 

Peel forest also has one of the best day hikes in the mid-Canterbury region , Little Mt Peel. If you’re up for a challenge, this hike is well worth the effort with epic views over the Canterbury plains and out to the Southern Alps.

Suggested by Leah from Officer Travels

No New Zealand road trip is complete without a trip to Wanaka. Just an hour away from Queenstown, this stunning lakeside town is a bustling mix of kiwi’s and international visitors, all wanting to get a slice of its beauty. Lake Wanaka is surrounded by the southern alps, it’s so beautiful here that you’ll probably find really hard to leave once you arrive – I know we did!

Popular things to do in Wanaka include completing the 6-hour return hike up Roys Peak is at the top of most visitors to-do list, as is snapping a photo of the insta-famous Wanaka Tree. Once you’ve done this we highly suggest visiting the Lavender Farm, taking a tour to Mou Wahu Island (An island with a lake, that’s in a lake on an island…) and watching a film in the quirky Paradiso Cinema for a unique look at a different side of Wanaka.

Wanaka is a really outdoorsy kind of place; in winter there are several ski fields nearby and in summer you’ll find everyone either cycling the nearby tracks or hanging out on the lake. Grab a paddleboard, hire a kayak and join them!

It’s worth noting that freedom camping in town is strictly prohibited but there are some really nice campsites on the outskirts of town that I’m sure will fit your budget. Our favourites include Albert Town and Lake Outlet Holiday Park. Both of these are dirt cheap with stunning views of the lake or river and border some local walks.

Milford Sound

Milford Sound on the South Island of New Zealand (near Queenstown ) is a fantastic destination for a camper van road trip as there are long windy roads and breathtaking views around every corner.

The drive along the Te Anau – Milford Highway could be done in two hours but if you plan to take it slow and enjoy the journey then don’t be surprised if it takes you at least 6-8 hours. There are so many places along the way that are worth you pulling over and spending time to explore.

You can take a short easy walk through the forest to Lake Mistletoe or stop off and see the beautiful Mirror Lakes where on a breeze free day the mountains behind are reflected perfectly in the mirror like surface.

If you are looking for something more challenging then the Key Summit Alpine Walk will take you about 90 minutes to hike from The Divide carpark. You will be rewarded for your efforts with stunning panoramic views of the Hollyford Valley.

Monkey Creek is a popular place to stop for a photo as the creek meanders its way through a beautiful little valley with snow-capped mountains. Whatever you do, don’t leave your possessions unattended as the native Kea bird is curious and mischievous!

As you wait in the queue to travel through the Homer Tunnel you can get out your camper van and admire the Mt Talbot Glacier which dwarves all who approach it. When you finally reach your destination you will be rewarded with the best view of them all, the stunning Milford Sound….which actually isn’t a sound but a fiord!

There is no camping in Milford Sound but there are plenty of DOC campsites along the road. Check them out here . Or try staying in Te Anau at the Top 10 Holiday Park and Motels- check out the latest prices and deals here. 

Lake Tekapo

Suggested by Jennifer Parkes from Backyard Travel Family: Active Family Travel Specialists in New Zealand

Lake Tekapo is an amazing glacial lake, about halfway on your road trip between Christchurch and Queenstown. It is an absolute must stop as I am sure you will never believe the lake really is this colour.

You cannot freedom camp in the central Lake Tekapo area, but there is a campsite with the most amazing lakeviews that will set your heart alive.  Lake Tekapo Motels and Holiday Park is also right next to Tekapo Springs.  It is a great place to visit for the whole family, with hot pools all year round and some great seasonal activities.

In winter you can ice skate and snow tube, and in the summer they have a huge water slide and inflatable play area.  It really is a lot of fun for young and old.  They also run stargazing tours at night, after the hot pools have closed, so you will get a private soak and gaze at the Dark Sky Reserve.

If you are after views, then take the Mt John Summit track, a 1-2 hour walk up to a beautiful viewpoint over Lake Tekapo .  You must see the lake from above, as it really intensifies the colour.  While you are up here, pop over to the Observatory cafe for a coffee with a view.

Maruia Valley

Suggested by Anna from Anna Meanders

The Maruia valley is the perfect stopover if you’re venturing out to or from the West Coast. It’s an easy and extraordinarily scenic three-hour drive from Christchurch , tucked away in the Lewis Pass that runs through the Southern Alps of the South Island, east to west.

In the Māori language, Maruia means a place of shelter and is where those gathering the sacred Pounamu greenstone from the West Coast would stop to rest in the bubbling hot springs on their long journey back across the island. Many years have passed since those days, but Maruia is still a popular stopping point to relax in the natural thermal waters and explore the long meandering trails of old growth beech forest, abundant with native New Zealand birdlife, secret waterfalls and misty mountain views.

Maruia is a pretty wonderful choice for a camper van stop thanks to an abundance of places to stop and spend a night or two along the way. The Boyle campsite in the Kānuka forest, Marble Hill campsite and the Deer Valley Conservation campsite are all Department of Conservation campsites in the area providing campervan access with numerous hiking trails nearby to each, and if you’d like a touch of luxury for the night then the Maruia Hot Springs sell self-contained camping (unpowered) sites that come with 24 hr access to their ultra relaxing sauna and hot springs bathing area. 

The Maruia valley area is a haven for rare wildlife and is surrounded by hiking trails, ranging from quick twenty minute loops through to the magnificent 66km St James Walkway which takes five days to walk. A perfect stop for nature lovers, hikers, or just those who love a good soak and retreat!

Suggested by Holly from Globeblogging

Nestled on the Otago Peninsula by the picturesque harbour, the second-largest city on New Zealand’s South Island may seem slightly out of place. Settled by the Scottish in 1848, the name Dunedin is derived from the Gaelic for Edinburgh, and much of the city is still reminiscent of the old-world style brought by its Scottish settlers. Both Highway 1 and Highway 87 pass through Dunedin, making it a great place to stop by on a road trip.

While it’s definitely worth taking a stroll through the city itself, particularly the grand old train station, one of the best things to do in Dunedin is undoubtedly paying a visit to Larnach Castle .

Modelled after a country homestead in Sussex, the architecture of the finished building also included gothic and Australian colonial influences still evident today. After falling into disrepair it has been painstakingly restored to its original glory, even featuring the original furnishings and woodwork when they have been found. While you cannot stay in the castle itself, you are able to book an amazing three-course dinner in the ballroom and accommodation is available on the grounds, including in the original stables.

Even without staying the night, it is worth the visit to stroll through the beautiful old building and the grounds overlooking the Otago Harbour, and the view from the castle tower is worth the climb.

As for places to stay have a look at Portobello Village Tourist Park on the stunning Otago Peninsular- check out the latest prices and deals here . Or try the Dunedin Holiday Park in the heart of Dunedin- latest prices and deals here. 

Suggested by Caroline from CK Travels

Mount Cook National Park  has some of the south island’s most incredible landscapes and is also home to New Zealand’s highest mountain. The area has several scenic walks/hikes and is a great spot to park up your campervan for a few days.

Mount Cook village is the main place to base yourself and is located a short drive off Highway 8 (approximately halfway between Queenstown and Christchurch). There are many walks are of varying lengths but the  Hooker Valley Track  is the most popular short walking track due to its easy access along the Hooker River and it’s incredible mountain and lake scenery. The trail is approximately 5 kilometres long (around 3-4 hours return) and suitable for all levels of fitness.

Fun activities you can book whilst in Mount Cook include  heli hiking –  where you take a short helicopter ride up to the top of the Tasman glacier for the ultimate hiking experience. Alternatively, you take a  Tasman Glacier lake boat trip , which takes you up  close and personal to some large icebergs in the Tasman lake.

Glentanner Park Centre  has 60 spacious powered sites that you can book online, whilst the  White Horse Hill Campground offers 60 non-powered sites for campervans on a first-come-first-serve basis (the site does not take reservations).

Suggested by Nadine from Le Long Weekend

Akaroa is a small town on the South Island with a unique and intriguing history. Originally discovered by French sailor Jean François, it later became an English settlement after the Treaty of Waitangi. However, the French settlers decided to stay in town, and to this day, Akaroa still carries a distinctive French flair in the way of its street names and architecture. Getting there is an easy detour or day trip from Christchurch, taking just over an hour to reach from the Southern city.

The drive is spectacular, if somewhat slow going around the twisty road. Visit for the French culture, the beaches, and the unique attractions. Among its other accomplishments, it is the only place you can take a tour to  swim with New Zealand’s native Hector’s dolphins . They take refuge in the nearby marine reserve and the harbour is home to a resident population.

After spending the day at the beach, swimming in the harbour, or hiking in the hills, be sure to grab a meal at one of the trendy cafes that line the waterfront. And if you’re visiting in October, check out the annual French Fest to take part in the Festivities. It’s a celebration that lasts all weekend! Definitely add this location to your New Zealand campervan route!

For accommodation try the Akaroa top 10-holiday park for incredible views and its location- check out the prices and deals here.  

Moeraki Boulders

By Sinead from Map Made Memories

The Moeraki Boulders on Koekohe Beach in the South Island make a great stop on a campervan road trip around New Zealand . The unusual, perfectly spherical boulders are easily accessed off State Highway 1 and make a great stop on a journey along the east coast to or from Christchurch.

The boulders are concretions, formed from mud, silt and clay that became cemented in calcite during the Palaeocene era. The boulders took as long as 4 – 5 million years to grow to their large shape and their hard exterior has protected them from erosion. There are still boulders that lie undiscovered amongst the eroding coastal cliffs around this area.

The long, sandy Koekohe Beach is littered with around 50 of these unusual formations which my son likened to the Death Star in Star Wars! Some of the legally protected boulders are perfectly intact, like enormous sentinel marbles, whilst other boulders are fractured or broken allowing visitors to observe the marine life that has made their home amongst the boulder’s rubble. A visit to the Moeraki Boulders will only take one hour but the lovely unspoilt beach makes an ideal picnic spot and offers the chance to stretch your legs after your campervan journey.

Loved this post on travelling New Zealand in a campervan? Be sure to pin the images below for later! 

Other articles you might like: 

• The ultimate South Island road trip guide 
• 3 of the best campervan sink ideas for beginners 

Related posts:

July 25, 2020 at 1:20 pm

Great post Lee-Ann. Thanks for inviting me to collaborate 🙂

July 30, 2020 at 9:52 pm

You’re very welcome! It is so nice to collaborate with fellow travel bloggers! Thank you!

August 17, 2020 at 6:42 pm

Thanks for inviting me to take part in the post. What a great NZ Bucket List 🙂

August 21, 2020 at 12:33 pm

So many goodies to add to the list 🙂

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Exploring New Zealand by campervan: an all-you-need-to-know guide

• Lake Tekapo

By Audley specialist James

If there was ever a country that seemed custom-made for the campervan, New Zealand is it. I’ve camped right on the perimeter of a shingle beach on the shores of glassy Lake Wanaka. In Orewa, North Island, I found a pitch so close to the ocean I could practically walk straight out of my van and dip my toes in the Pacific. And then there’s the sense of being immersed in the outdoors that you just don’t experience in a hotel — the morning I opened the van door to a field of squawking pukekos (swamphens) springs to mind.

At the right time of year, a campervan gives you greater flexibility, allowing you to follow your nose and reach places you simply wouldn’t stay in otherwise. So whether you’re a seasoned camper or a curious first-timer, here’s my take on how to really make the most of renting a campervan in New Zealand.

Getting started with campervan hire in New Zealand

Vehicle size.

I’d only ever hire a van that was under two years old, with as few miles as possible on the clock. In terms of size, I prefer the two-berth options: they’re more like an extended van than a motorhome, and you’ll find they’re more malleable on New Zealand’s sometimes snaking roads. They have a built-in toilet and shower, as well as a cafetière, microwave, toaster, barbecue, bedding and towels. The only inconvenience is having to make up and dismantle your bed daily.

Four-berths are obviously more spacious. If there are only two of you, you can keep the bed over the cab made up and not have to dual purpose the living room/sitting area for sleeping. But these vehicles are necessarily chunkier, which can be a hindrance if you’re trying to squeeze into narrow parking spots.

New Zealand’s roads

Notoriously winding, New Zealand’s roads are mostly single lane only. On the plus side, they’ve very clear signage, and surface conditions are excellent.

Campervans in New Zealand are all automatic and they do drive well, but I’ve found they don’t generally pull away quickly, so progress can be especially slow if you’re chugging up hills. It’s always best to pull over and allow any impatient tailgaters to pass.

When to pick up your campervan

Don’t be tempted to hit the road straight after a long international flight. I’d always advise spending one night in a hotel to catch breath before collecting your camper as early as opening hours permit the next day. Depots in the major cities of Queenstown , Christchurch  and Auckland tend to get busy: I’ve arrived at 8:30 am in the past, just half an hour after opening, to an already long line.

Our video guide to campervanning in New Zealand

Video guide to campervanning in New Zealand

Our video guide to campervanning in New Zealand.

Where to park up: some of the best (non-obvious) pitches in New Zealand

North island, orewa and mangawhai heads.

One area I’d previously overlooked that campervanning opened up to me were the beaches just north of Auckland. The Coromandel Peninsula and the Bay of Islands usually receive most acclaim for their beaches. But if you take the coastal road north from Auckland, you’ll come to two spots that now rank high on my personal list of New Zealand’s best vistas. Best of all, hardly anyone goes there.

I found them by accident. I was in the North Island during the Queen’s Birthday weekend, a long weekend when Aucklanders traditionally decamp to the coast. All of my first-choice campsites (often called ‘holiday parks’ in New Zealand) in the Coromandel and the Bay of Islands  were full, so I drove north out of the city, wondering where I was going to stop for the night.

By the time I pulled up in Orewa it was dark, so I didn’t see the serendipity of where I’d ended up till the next day. An unassuming town, it’s fronted by 3 km (1.8 miles) of caramel-hued sand, delightfully squidgy and strewn with spume in some places, dense enough to jog on in others.

The campsite ends at the line of wide-spreading pohutukawa trees fronting the beach, so I could sit drinking my morning coffee with nothing between me and the long, empty sands.

There’s also a scenic reserve nearby, its wooden boardwalks shaded by nikau palms, which gives you views over the water. At night, sections of its bush are stippled with glow-worms.

Then, farther north, you come to Mangawhai Heads, a town that sits on an estuary. I was able to park up a stone’s throw from a floury-sand beach overlooking a sand dune, and watch the surfers.

If your heart’s set on campervanning in the Bay of Islands (three and a half hours north of Auckland ), I’d skip staying in Paihia, the de facto capital, and book in advance to get a space in Russell .

This small seaside town was a rum-doused whalers’ port in the 19th century, but the brothels and drinking holes have long since been replaced with waterside cafés and snug clapboard houses with English cottage-style gardens.

The campsite is located on a hill, a five-minute walk from the old town. Premium spaces sit on an even higher incline, where you’re able to look right out across the town and the bay to Paihia  twinkling across the water.

And, if you tire of Russell, you can easily catch the ferry across to Paihia. It’s busier, but there’s a greater choice of restaurants, and you have a good chance of seeing dusky dolphins leaping in the ferry’s bow waves on the journeys there and back.

Tongariro National Park

This area is a honeypot for visitors to New Zealand, its blasted, ash-choked surrounds leading to a cluster of volcanoes that are immensely sacred to the local Māori , the Tuwharetoa.

There are very few hotel options within the park, save the Chateau Tongariro, an imposing Agatha-Christie-type relic from the 1920s. Luckily for campers, New Zealand’s Department of Conservation (DOC) has a site with good facilities right in the heart of it all, set in a quiet area of native bush.

Okay, you don’t have views of the volcanoes and, as on all DOC sites, facilities are minimal (clue: drop toilets). But the broad-girthed, snow-smeared crater of Mount Ruapehu and the cindery cone of Ngauruhoe (the body double for Peter Jackson’s Mount Doom in The Lord of the Rings ) loom into view as soon as you head out on a bicycle ride, or on one of the area’s many walking tracks.

South Island

This lakeside town girded by mountain ranges and foothills is already a peaceful spot to stay. But you can go one better and reserve a space at the Glendhu Bay Motor Camp, a long grassy site stretched out in one of the lake’s (even) quieter inlets.

You pass by Rippon Vineyard, its rows of vines neatly braiding the hillside all the way down to the lake (drop in for a tasting of their pinot noir and osteiner), and Mount Roy, whose arrowhead summit can be reached on a day walk.

There’s nothing save the campsite at Glendhu Bay itself, and you need to reserve ahead to book a waterside pitch no matter what time of year you’re visiting. But it’s all worth it for the uninterrupted views over Lake Wanaka and the mountains of Mount Aspiring National Park.

Sites near Queenstown

Another site administered by the DOC, Twelve Mile Delta is set on a sprawling, stony river delta at the mouth of Twelve Mile Creek. Many pitches are close to the shores of Lake Wakatipu , a vast S-shaped glacial lake.

Crouch down by the water’s edge and wait patiently, and you might observe the phenomenon of the seiche. This is a standing wave that raises Wakatipu’s water levels slightly every half hour or so: a long-dead giant’s heart still beating, according to Māori legend.

On a clear day, you can look south from the delta and see The Remarkables mountain range, which runs due north to south. I think there’s little that beats poking your head outside first thing in the morning and seeing the summits covered with fresh snowfall, or smudged with great wisps of cloud.

If you hug the side of Lake Wakatipu and keep driving north, you reach the lake’s northernmost tip, the township (though ‘town’ is pushing it a bit) of Glenorchy . It seems impossibly dwarfed by the schist mountains that soar either side, snowy Mount Earnslaw dominating to the north.

Down at eye level, the road takes you along the banks of the Dart, a braided river, into tussocky grassland peppered with spiky matagouri trees, then through ancient red beech forest.

Mrs Woolly’s Campground, located almost at the entrance of Glenorchy, is the best site in the area. It has a general store serving organic food and is only a three-minute walk to activities such as Dart River jet boating , which many visitors assume can only be accessed from Queenstown . It’s also the starting point for many walking trails, from the three-day Routeburn Track , one of New Zealand’s Great Walks , as well as low-level ambles around wetland areas.

Winery stays

Lovers of fine vintages as well as non-orthodox pitches would enjoy staying overnight in a vineyard. Yes, there are boutique wineries all over the country, from the Coromandel Peninsula to Central Otago, where you can camp right among rows of carefully tended vines.

You’ll be the only vehicle permitted in that particular spot, so there’s nothing and no one to disturb you. As the sun sets, you’re left in total privacy to enjoy a gourmet picnic hamper (and, of course, a bottle of straight from the cellar door, be it a pinot noir or a classic New Zealand sauvignon blanc).

Common myths about campervan travel in New Zealand

Myth one: it makes taking part in activities and day tours a little trickier.

In my experience, staying in a campervan is no barrier to this. Often — and especially when it comes to smaller, locally run companies — guides will pick you up directly from your campsite. In fact, my guide for the Twilight Encounter in Waipoua Forest went one better and met me at the local fish and chip shop, where I was picking up a late dinner.

As dusk fell, she led me around this hushed kauri forest as her young granddaughter sang Māori prayers to the trees. She explained the legends surrounding the forest’s oldest and most holy residents, Tane Mahuta (‘Lord of the Forest’) and Te Matua Ngahere (‘Father of the Forest’), which have been rooted there since the Bronze Age.

Myth two: You lose out on interaction with local residents

It’s true that some of the best places to stay in New Zealand are locally owned B&Bs and lodges. Their proprietors will happily chat and share their insider view of the area — everything from where to eat, to known glow-worm hangouts.

While you may lose this contact to some extent if you’re in a campervan, I’ve met some extremely friendly and wonderfully garrulous campsite owners who’ll share all their local knowledge with you, if you ask.

Myth three: It’s much, much cheaper than staying in hotels

In New Zealand, by the time you factor in van hire and campsite fees, I’ve found that there’s not that much difference in price. Although you may save some money by self-catering, ultimately, campervanning here is more about accessing the outdoors and being able to sit warming yourself with the embers of your barbecue on a lazy evening.

In some ways, however, it can be a more cost-effective option. You would often pay a lot more for a hotel with direct lakeside or mountainscape views than you would for the same exclusive vista in a campsite — especially in more basic, DOC-administered sites.

Myth four: You’ll get a comprehensive introduction to how to use and run your campervan

Not necessarily, but the hire company I like to use provides each van with a tablet (which also acts as your Wi-Fi hotspot). It’s ready loaded with useful videos explaining how everything works, from the hook-up and gas to emptying the chemical toilet.

The best time to visit New Zealand by campervan

March is the optimum month. You won’t need to book most sites in advance, as it’s far less busy than in December, January and February — these are the summer months, when New Zealanders tend to travel a lot domestically. But the weather will still be pleasantly warm, with the evenings just slightly cooler.

Practicalities and tips:what I’ve learned from my time on the road

• Be compact with your packing: I suggest taking soft-sided bags (and certainly no more than one suitcase) that you can store away easily once they’re unpacked.
• Don’t be surprised if you’re asked to reverse your campervan onto the Interislander Ferry, right alongside a goods train wagon (yes, you read that right — a train). It can feel a little hairy, but just take your time.
• Forget about campsites in Wellington , as the good ones are located too far out of the city. To avoid having to commute back and forth, I’d opt to stay in a centrally located hotel.
• City parking is generally easy to find, with the exception of Queenstown : here, stick to the backstreets.
• A note on ‘freedom camping’ or ‘wild camping’ (camping anywhere that isn’t an officially designated site): this is legal in New Zealand, except where indicated by signage (such as in central Wanaka). However, you should adopt a strict ‘leave no trace’ policy.
• Payment at all DOC sites is via an honesty box system, although weekly passes are available: please speak to your specialist, who’ll arrange this for you.

Start planning your campervan trip to New Zealand

Highlights of New Zealand self-drive tour

15 days from $8,290pp

Cultural New Zealand self-drive tour

20 days from $9,935pp

New Zealand's wildlife self-drive tour

22 days from $10,860pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They're just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• Driving vacations in New Zealand: 3 great routes
• What to do in New Zealand: our highlights guide
• 7 experiences to try on your outdoor activity vacation in New Zealand
• Family vacations in New Zealand
• Self-drive trip ideas with Audley

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