campervan tour of new zealand

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Planning a Campervan Trip in New Zealand: Ultimate Guide

Home » Blog » Campervan » Planning a Campervan Trip in New Zealand: Ultimate Guide

This comprehensive guide has literally everything you need to know about planning a campervan trip in New Zealand; from how much it costs, to how to shower while living in a campervan, to the magic trick you need to know to find campsites. Any questions you have about renting a campervan in New Zealand, we answer them here!

If you’re considering traveling around New Zealand in a campervan, I want to first take a moment to say this: Don’t debate it any longer.

You will have the adventure of a lifetime, and it will likely be one of your very favorite trips. EVER.

Traveling in a campervan is without a doubt the best way to see New Zealand.  That’s a fact. Okay, well I suppose it’s our opinion… But trust us, you will not regret it.

I know you might be feeling a bit anxious or overwhelmed as you start plan and research campervan trips. Especially with all the  things to do in New Zealand , it’s hard to know where to start looking. We’ve been there. We know you have a lot of questions (we did too).

But don’t worry; we are going to answer each and every one of them and make sure you are super prepared for an epic campervan trip in New Zealand.

This comprehensive guide has  literally everything  you need to know about planning a campervan trip to New Zealand; from how much it costs, to  how to find the best campervan companies , to how to shower while living in a campervan, to the magic trick you need to know to find campsites.

New Zealand Campervan Trip Planning Guide

We’ve broken this article into sections, so feel free to jump around to get to what you’re looking for:

Getting Started:

Our campervan story

• Why campervan in New Zealand

Seasons in New Zealand

• Best time to visit
• How much time you need
• Best campervan route
• Renting the best campervan
• Campervan trip costs
• Budget tips for your campervan trip

On the road:

Campgrounds in New Zealand

How to use dump stations.

• How to find bathrooms

Showering on a campervan trip

Laundry on a campervan trip.

• Internet service
• Cell service

Cooking in a campervan

• Packing for a campervan trip

Driving in New Zealand

• Road trip tips

Cook Strait Ferry

• Stores around New Zealand

Want to save time and energy on planning?

We spent 5 weeks traveling around New Zealand in a campervan, and we’ve been lucky enough to explore a lot of what this country has to offer!

We took our 5-week travels and condensed it down to 30 days (because so many people wanted a 1-month route) that hits the top destinations on both the North and South Islands. 

We’ll send you our complete 1 month itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your  30-day New Zealand road trip itinerary  today!

Why should you trust our campervan advice?  Well, not only did we do a month-long campervan trip in New Zealand, but we have even more experience under our belts…

If you’ve been following our blog for a while, you may remember that we actually  built our own campervan  a couple of years ago and lived in it for 3 months while exploring the west coast of the United States. It was one of the best summers of our lives, and we owe a lot of that to “Vinny” (that’s what we named our campervan!).

Prior to that summer, neither of us had ever spent a night in a campervan, let alone 3 months. But  we quickly fell in love with #vanlife  and the simplicity and freedom that comes with it. (So much so that we even built a second campervan!)

So after 3 months in our beloved “Vinny”, we made a list of places around the world we thought would make great campervan adventures because we knew we just  had  to do it again.

Do you want to take a guess at which country topped our list?

That’s right: New Zealand!

Why a campervan is the best way to see New Zealand

With epic landscapes, good roads and unspoiled wilderness, New Zealand is the  absolute  perfect place for a campervan adventure.

Still not convinced about the whole campervan thing? Well, let us explain what makes this mode of travel oh so good:

• Adventure:  You’ll be able to wake up next to some of the most epic landscapes and have an adventure of a lifetime: One you can’t get by staying exclusively in hotels.
• Save Money:  While renting a campervan in New Zealand isn’t necessarily cheap, it will give you the opportunity to save money in other ways: like cooking your own meals and finding free campsites.
• Simplify:  Campervan travel is more simple than staying in hotels and requires less planning. Unless you are staying in or around a major city during busy season, you won’t need to reserve your campsite in advance, so you can simply see how far you get each day and find a place to sleep. You can make meals when you get hungry instead of trying to find restaurants. And you don’t need to lug your suitcase into a hotel each night and repack in the morning.
• See More:  There are some off-the-beaten-path places you can’t easily get to without spending the night. And you’ll have the opportunity to camp near trailheads to get a start early in the morning before the “hotel crowds” arrive.
• It’s Easy:  New Zealand is very well set up for campervans. There are campgrounds and freedom camping sites throughout the entire country, making it simple to find a place to sleep, shower, and fill up your water tank. There are few places in the world where campervan travel is as easy as in New Zealand.
• Try Something New:  Get out of your comfort zone, learn new things and discover a way of travel you might actually fall in love with.

Now that we have you on board, let’s start planning a trip you will be talking about for years to come!

New Zealand enjoys 4 distinct seasons, and each has its own draws and beauty. You’ll find the seasons and temperatures much more mild in the North Island, whereas the South Island’s weather is more drastic and temperatures can get cold any time of year, especially in higher elevations.

Remember:  New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are the opposite of what all us folks from the north are used to! January and February are typically the hottest months and July is when you’ll get the coldest temperatures.

Spring  (September – November)

Weather can vary from very nice (and hot!) to cold and rainy. Spring is when you’ll find the stunning lupin flowers around much of the South Island. Prices and crowds are average at this time of year.

Summer  (December – February)

While weather in New Zealand is always unpredictable, this time of year offers the best chance of good forecasts. That said, high season means crowds and higher prices.

Fall  (March – May)

Weather is typically nice, and summer temperature are starting to drop. Like springtime, prices and crowds are average at this time of year.

Winter  (June – August)

Weather, especially in the South Island, can be quite cold. That said, you’ll find few crowds and low prices. Additionally, the South Island has many spots that are renowned for skiing, so if you’re into winter sports, this might be the perfect time of year for you.

Best Time to Visit New Zealand

The “best” time to visit depends quite a bit on your personal preference.

Read the statements below and pay attention to which one sounds most like you.

a) “I want the absolute best chance at good weather and I don’t mind crowds. I would rather pay a bit extra if I have a better chance at good weather.”

Summer will be your best bet. Great summer weather means you will be sharing the roads and popular sites with lots of other travelers, as this is peak tourist season. It is also during this time that prices for campervans are at their highest.

It is worth noting that summer is a popular time for Kiwis to travel, as kids are on school holiday. So you will likely run into lots of New Zealanders traveling within their own country. Be sure to ask them for their best tips!

b) “I’m not a huge fan of crowds, but I know I don’t want to travel in the winter time. I just can’t handle the snow, and I would be disappointed if some attractions are closed.”

“Shoulder Season” is a good option for you. This means you could travel before summer (spring!) or after summer (fall!). Both are great options. It comes down to which months are more convenient for you to travel and whether you’d rather see the beautiful flowers in spring, or trees changing colors in the fall.

When possible, traveling during shoulder season is our top choice no matter where we are in the world. Not only will we likely still have good weather, but we’ll miss the biggest crowds and super inflated prices.

c) “I despise crowds and I want an adventure. I don’t mind cold weather and won’t be bothered if some of the sites are closed.”

Winter could be a great time for you to visit New Zealand. You’ll have a good chance of finding a great deal on a campervan, but beware that temperatures (especially on the South Island) can be quite frigid, so be prepared and pack lots (and lots!) of layers.

Also, there will be some roads, trails and sites that are closed at this time of year. It could be just the perfect adventure though. Plus, New Zealand has some pretty epic places to ski, so if you’re into winter activities you might be in heaven!

For a more detailed breakdown of the seasons in New Zealand, check out our complete guide to the  best time to visit New Zealand .

How much time do you need for a campervan trip?

How much time do you have?! But really…

You could easily spend a year traveling New Zealand by campervan (a popular thing for those on Working Holiday Visas) and still not see everything. If you have the time, but all means, go for it! (And buy a campervan instead of renting one!)

But let’s be real. Most people don’t have a year to frolic around in a van. So here are some more realistic time frames:

• 2 weeks or less  in New Zealand will be very rushed and you will have to choose your destinations very carefully. We’d also recommend visiting just one island if you’re this pressed for time. (And we have a  2-week South Island Itinerary  all ready for you!)
• 1 month  allows you to be able to see a lot of the “big sites” on both the North and South Islands, as well as some places off the typical tourist path. (We spent about 5 weeks traveling the country and compiled our experiences into the  perfect 1 month road trip itinerary .)
• 6 weeks  would allow you to explore some of the more remote areas of the country with a little time for relaxation.
• If you have more than 6 weeks,  you’ll still have no problem filling your days with things to do.

Our experience:  We had 5 weeks in total, and had a fantastic time. But 6 weeks would have been even better!

What is the best campervan route for New Zealand?

Lucky for you, we’ve created a perfect campervan itinerary for New Zealand . We spent an embarrassing amount of time doing research, comparing dozens of itineraries, and asking locals for advice to come up with a kickass route that we used for our own campervan trip!

Since our trip, we’ve thought about all the things we would have done differently… And we altered our own route to create the absolute best route out there.

You can pour hours and hours into doing the research yourself, or you can take our word for it and spend your newfound free time doing something more fun than staring at a computer screen. It’s up to you.

If you want to see our tried and true campervan route, here is everything you need:

Only Have time for One Island?

If you only have time to explore one island, we would absolutely, without question say you should travel around the  South Island . The North Island is wonderful in its own right, but it is nowhere near as epic or perfectly suited to campervan life as the South.

We have itineraries for both in case you want to compare:

• North Island Itinerary
• South Island Itinerary

Should I start in the North Island or South Island?

There really is no right or wrong answer to this question. We started on the South Island because that’s where my brother was living while doing his Working Holiday Visa , and we wanted to be with him over Thanksgiving.

But if you’re trying to decide where to start your New Zealand road trip, here are 2 things to consider:

• Find the cheapest flight.  You might want to see which city — Auckland or Christchurch — is most affordable to fly into and go from there.
• Think about the weather.  The North Island tends to have milder weather, so if you’re arriving at the tail end of winter, it will be more moderate than the temperatures in the South Island. And by the time you get down south, the temps should be a bit more comfortable. And the opposite would be true if you are arriving in the fall: Explore the South Island before winter sets in.

If you still can’t decide, here’s a thought…  The South Island is unarguably more epic. We arrived on the South Island and every single sight made our jaws drop.

But as we headed north, the scenery was still beautiful, just less…  impressive.

Gone were the snowcapped peaks and fjords and drives with hours between towns. Sure, there were beaches and mountains, but there was more traffic and more developed cities, like you’d find elsewhere in the world.

We’ve said that if we arrived in the  North Island , we would have been impressed right away, and we would’ve continued to fall deeper in love as we drove south and the scenery got even better.

So if you really can’t choose, starting in the North Island and heading south would be the more “epic” way to explore New Zealand, which is exactly how we’ve laid out the experience in our  perfect New Zealand 1-month itinerary .

Should I buy a campervan or rent? 

For most travelers, renting is going to be a better option. If you have more than 2 months in New Zealand, you may want to consider buying a vehicle instead. But here is an important thing to consider:

What season will you be leaving New Zealand and trying to sell your vehicle?

If you will be leaving at the end of the summer or in the fall, you will likely have a very difficult time selling your campervan and you may be forced to take a hefty price cut. However, if you plan to leave and sell your vehicle in spring or early to mid-summer, it shouldn’t be too difficult to find a buyer (as long as the vehicle is in good condition).

Unless you timing works out just right, it’s likely you’ll be renting a campervan, which we’re covering in the next section…

Renting the best campervan in New Zealand

As soon as you start to research campervan trips in New Zealand, you’ll see there is no shortage of rental companies to choose from.

It’s damn near overwhelming.

We’ve written an entire article that goes over some of the  best campervan rental companies  in New Zealand, including which one we chose (and why).

If you are traveling New Zealand in a campervan, you’ll need to know a thing or two about campgrounds, like where to find them and what type of campground is best for you.

How to find campgrounds in New Zealand

The best way to find campgrounds is to download a New Zealand campground app. The 2 most popular are:

Both apps show all types of campgrounds – from free camping to holiday parks. They also show reviews so you know what to expect. You can use filters to find the price range or type of campground you are looking for.

Helpful Tip:  Whichever app suits you best, be sure to download the offline version of the map so you have access even if you are not in cell signal (it happens a lot in New Zealand!)

Types of Campgrounds in New Zealand

There are a handful of different types of campsites you’ll find in this country, and it can be confusing at first.

• What’s the difference between a Holiday Park and a regular campground?
• How does Freedom Camping work?
• And what the heck is a DOC site?

Don’t worry, we’ve got the answers to all your questions. We even made a quick video showing all the different types of campgrounds in New Zealand:

Let’s start by going over the differences of each type of campground:

Note:  In this article, we are only focusing on campsites that are accessible by campervans (not backcountry sites or Great Walks campgrounds). We put together an entire round up of the  best New Zealand campsites  according to our experience and the experience of fellow travel bloggers to get your started.

1. Holiday Parks in New Zealand 

Holiday Parks are the “resorts of campgrounds”. They come with all the amenities you can imagine:

• flush toilets
• hot showers (most are free, while some are coin operated)
• laundry machines (coin operated)
• kitchens equipped with gas stoves and sinks (you typically provide the cookware and utensils, though sometimes it is provided)
• powered site options
• water fill up and dump stations
• garbage facilities

While you can typically expect Holiday Parks to have the amenities above, they do vary in quality. Our best advice is to check the reviews on Rankers or CamperMate to see what recent guests have to say.

And some holiday parks go above and beyond. We’ve seen all the following at Holiday Parks:

• playgrounds
• common areas with couches
• communal vegetable gardens
• food trucks
• trampolines

How much do Holiday Parks Cost?

These are the most expensive type of campground and they run anywhere from $15 to $26 NZD per person per night.

A popular brand of Holiday Park is “Top 10”. We had pretty good experience with all the Top 10’s we stayed at, however, they tend to be on the more expensive end. (Unlike the name suggests, there are more than 10 of these in the country!)

You can usually book Holiday Parks in advance if you’d like, but unless you’re near a big city or traveling during the busiest time of year, you can usually turn up and find a spot. Just make sure you arrive before the office closes, or you’ll be out of luck. (If you know you’ll arrive late, you can all ahead and reserve your spot.)

2. Private Campgrounds

This is essentially when a landowner makes it possible for people to camp on their property. Privately owned campgrounds vary quite a bit in quality and price.

They will have less amenities than the Holiday Parks, but they are also less expensive. 

We stayed at one private campground that was in a lovely location on the beach and cost $5 per person, but they only had drop toilets (aka outhouses). Some have a sheltered kitchen area, flush toilets and other amenities.

How much do private campgrounds cost?

They can range from $5 to $15 NZD. If they cost much more than that, they probably have all the same amenities you’d find at a Holiday Park.

3. DOC Campsites

The Department of Conservation (DOC) has a large network of campgrounds (more than 200!) around the country. There are  different types of DOC sites , including very basic free sites which we will discuss in #4.

The Standard or Scenic DOC campgrounds are typically simple but tend to be in nice locations (many are in or around National Parks).

They should have toilet facilities and water supplies. Sometimes there are rubbish bins, but it varies.

How much do DOC campsites cost?

DOC campsites range in price depending on the type of site, however the most common price we found was $13 NZD per adult and $6.50 NZD for children 5 – 17 years old.

At most DOC sites, you can not make a reservation in advance, and you will need to pay in cash. You will fill out your information on an envelope in which you will deposit your exact payment. Park Rangers do come around to check this, so be sure to do this as soon as you arrive.

DOC Campground Pass

There is a weekly pass you can purchase for $25 NZD per person that allows you to stay at select DOC campsites for free. It is valid for 7 consecutive days. If you stay at 2 participating DOC sites in the week, the pass will pay for itself. And if you stay at more DOC sites, you’ll save some money!

You can purchase the physical pass through some campervan rental companies or  online . 

But read this carefully:  Not all DOC sites are covered in this pass. We were under the impression that this pass covered all DOC sites, but were approached by a (very friendly) ranger who told us this was not the case. He gave us a  list of all the sites covered in the pass , and as it turns out, some regions don’t have many options. So before going ahead and buying the pass, look at your route and make sure there are enough approved DOC sites that the pass makes sense.

4. Free Campgrounds 

There are plenty of free campgrounds around New Zealand too (most are run by the DOC). And these sites are not just for self-contained vehicles.

Free campgrounds are typically very basic and only have bathroom facilities. We stayed at some free sites that had clean and well-maintained flush toilets, and others where the outhouses were questionable (to put it kindly)…

Also, Free Campsites can get quite crowded depending on the location. We stayed at a few that seemed to be the local party spot, while others were pretty empty.

You can find free campsites by searching Rankers or CamperMate and using the filter to find only those that are free. You can use the app to check reviews and ensure there are toilet facilities.

Important: If there are no toilet facilities, the campsite will fall into the category below…

5. Freedom Camping in New Zealand

Your final option for campsites is freedom camping. But there are some important things you need to know before you set up camp.

What exactly is Freedom Camping,  you ask?

It essentially means you are spending the night on a piece of public land that has not been set up as a campground (there are NO toilet facilities).

IMPORTANT: Freedom camping is only allowed in designated areas and is only for vehicles that are certified self-contained (a.k.a. has a toilet and a grey water tank). It is illegal to spend the night in areas that are not designated for Freedom Camping, and you can be fined. Same goes for vehicles that are not certified self-contained.

Related:  Read more about  Self-Contained Vehicles  to decide if it is necessary for you.

When you are freedom camping, you will not find any toilet facilities, and it’s important that you do your business inside your vehicle.

Also, please collect your waste and don’t leave any rubbish behind. Because, duh.

Freedom camping is becoming more and more restricted throughout New Zealand, as many people are not respecting the rules. Don’t be  that  person.

Additional Reading:  If you plan to do some freedom camping in New Zealand, please familiarize yourself with the  Leave No Trace principles .

Note for our American & Canadian friends:

If you’re used to  camping in the USA  or Canada, it is worth noting that campgrounds in New Zealand are quite different than in North America. You likely won’t have your own secluded site with a picnic table and fire ring, as is customary in much of the US and Canada.

Most of the camping in New Zealand is more or less a field where campervans have space to park. Some are more secluded than others, but it’s good to go in with realistic expectations.

Depending on the specific campground and the time of year, you might be quite close to other vehicles (which can be annoying or an opportunity to make a new friend!).  

If this is your first time in a campervan, this will be new for you! The good thing is using a dump station is quite easy and intuitive. And if you rent a vehicle through a reputable company, they should walk you through how to use a dump station.

If your campervan is self-contained, this means that not only does it have a toilet, but a “grey water” tank as well. After brushing your teeth or scrubbing grime off potatoes, the water you used doesn’t just magically disappear like it does at home… Nope, that water sits in a grey water tank, and it must be emptied. Or you’ll have a big problem.

Tip: You’ll start to get a feel for how often you need to dump your water tank, but in the beginning, dump before your grey water tank gets full.

Your campervan will have 2 latches somewhere on the outside of the vehicle (similar to a gas tank). Be sure you know which is which, because one is for filling with clean water, and the other is for dumping the dirty stuff.

Your vehicle will come with 2 hoses; one designated for clean water and the other for dirty (don’t mix them up!). Simply attach the hose to the correct spout and follow the instructions below:

• Dump Grey Water:  Attach the hose to the spout, and put the other end over the designated dumping area (often a grate on the ground). Let gravity do its work. If the tank is full, it will come out more quickly than if it is nearly empty.
• Fill Water Tank:  Attach one end of the hose to the spout on your van and the other end to the water spigot. Turn on the water and fill until it starts to leak out the side.

Where to find fill and dump stations

All Holiday Parks should have fill and dump stations, as well as some private campgrounds and some DOC sites. Apps like Rankers and CamperMate will show whether or not a campground has these facilities.

You can also find fill and dump stations at some DOC offices, i-Sites and other Visitors Centers around the country. We even filled our water tank at a couple gas stations.

How to find toilets in New Zealand

When we lived in our homemade campervan, the most common thing people asked us was not “What was your favorite place?” or “What campervan meal is your go-to?”…

Instead, all people seemed to want to know is: “How do you go to the bathroom?”

In that campervan in the U.S., we had no toilet. We went to the bathroom at campgrounds, cafes, rest stops, parks, gas stations, and when the situation proved dire – the woods. But really it wasn’t too much of an issue. And it was even less of an issue in New Zealand because there are public toilets everywhere!

You can find toilets easily at the following places:

• most cities and towns have free public toilets
• cafes and coffee shops (be sure to buy a drink or snack)
• i-Sites, Visitors Centers and DOC offices
• gas stations
• tour offices

Plus, when choosing campsites, you can always ensure that it has a toilet by checking the details on Rankers or CamperMate. 

Tip: CamperMate even has a feature where you can search the map for the nearest public toilet.

Another thing you may be wondering: How do I shower in a campervan? Well, unless you rent one of those big motorhomes, you probably won’t be showering  inside  your campervan.

Holiday parks always have showers, and many private campgrounds do too. All of the campgrounds we stayed at (with the exception of one) had ample hot water. The facilities range in comfort, but there weren’t any that stand out in my mind as being terrible. (Again, be sure to look at the campsite reviews on Rankers or CamperMate to help you choose quality places.)

But unless you want to pay top dollar for nightly Holiday Parks, you probably won’t be showering every day. This is a campervan trip, folks, not a luxury resort in the Maldives.

We typically planned out which days we needed showers (a.k.a. after long hikes or on days when the temps were sweltering). And as a general rule of thumb, we tried to stay at a campground with a shower every third day or so.

And in between those showers, dry shampoo and baby wipes go a long way, baby. Trust me.

If you find yourself in dire need of a rinse but prefer free sites to those that are paid, you can find showers at some but not all i-Sites (visitors centers).

Campervan shower essentials

• Solid shampoo bar :  Lasts longer than regular shampoo, packs up small and doens’t count toward your liquids.
• bar of soap:  Lasts longer than body wash & packs better
• Dr. Bronners :  If you really want to simplify your packing, this can serve the purpose of shampoo, body wash, dish soap and laundry detergent. There are solid bars and liquid soap.
• Korean scrubbing cloth :  smaller than a loofah and dries quicker than a washcloth
• Leave-in conditioner spray :  Keep your hair feeling soft and smelling nice (even if you haven’t showered).
• Hanging toiletry case :  Organizes your toiletries and can be hung on the shower door.
• Microfiber towel  or Turkish towel:  Both dry quickly and pack up small (check to see if your campervan rental includes towels — ours did)
• Flip flops :  Don’t go barefoot in public showers! Yuck!
• Dry shampoo  & baby wipes:  Use these to freshen up when you don’t have access to a shower!

Just like showers, all Holiday Parks (and some private campgrounds) should have laundry facilities. Some have just one washer and dryer and people are lined up to use them. Other campgrounds have a whole room full of machines and big tubs for hand washing.

During our 5.5-week trip, we did laundry twice (about once every 2 weeks).

Laundry typically costs $3-4 NZD per load for the washer and same for the dryer.

We packed these  portable laundry detergent tabs . You can also purchase a box of detergent at the start of your trip, or many campgrounds sell a single use detergent packet for $1 NZD.  

Internet service in New Zealand

Internet in New Zealand is awful. Surprised? Yeah, we were too. But at least you know  before  your trip (unlike us!).

Here’s the deal:  Free Internet is difficult to find. And when you do find it, you will almost always be limited to a certain amount of data (for instance 250 megabytes). This is what you’ll find at most campgrounds, hotels, cafes and libraries that advertise “free Internet”.

Even when Wi-Fi is advertised, it doesn’t always work. I’d say that about half the time, we weren’t even able to connect.

And when you are able to connect, expect the speeds to be slooooow.

Even if you have purchased Internet time at a cafe or campground, you will likely be dealing with the same slow speeds and a limited amount of data.

Between the two islands, Internet is faster and easier to find in the North Island . But it’s still not great.

You’ll be able to post to Instagram, check your email and get directions on Google Maps. But don’t plan to do too much more than that.

We learned the hard way when we had a deadline to upload a video to YouTube for a client. We tried again and again on all different connections, and in the end wasted roughly 10 hours hunting (unsuccessfully) for Internet.

If you know about New Zealand’s Internet situation in advance, it’s not too big of a deal. There is so much to do besides surfing the web, and it can be refreshing to disconnect. But for those of you (like us) who need the Internet for work, just be prepared.

Portable Hotspot

You might also want to consider bringing a portable hotspot for the times when you can barely connect to your campground Wi-Fi (it WILL happen). Our  Skyroam Solis hotspot  saved the day on more than one occasion.

It works about as well as the cell service in your current area. So if you’re in the middle of the mountains and have no service on your cell phone, the hotspot won’t be able to find a signal either.

But if you’re in a city with decent cell signal, you can create a hotspot for up to 5 devices without using your cell data.

Again, you are limited to a certain amount of data (depending on which service you choose), and when you reach that amount, your speeds will drop significantly. So again, we weren’t able to upload our video to YouTube no matter how hard we tried.

Cell service in New Zealand

As you might expect, cell phone service is hit or miss in New Zealand . You will likely have 4G service in and around the major cities, but there are many dead spots in between.

While traveling through the National Parks and mountainous parts of the South Island, it’s unlikely you’ll have even a spot of cell signal.

Tip: Since you’ll be in and out of service, be sure to download the offline version of Google Maps as well as Rankers or CamperMate. That way you can still get directions and see your current GPS location, even if you’re in the middle of No Man’s Land.

We’d definitely recommend having cell service, as it is super helpful for getting GPS directions and making calls if you have any issues on the road.

So unless you have a phone plan with international coverage or plan to use an eSIM , you will need to get a SIM card as soon as you arrive in New Zealand.

How to get a local SIM in New Zealand

It’s super easy and pretty affordable to get a local data plan in New Zealand, no matter how long of a trip you have planned.

There are 3 service providers: Spark, Vodaphone and 2Degrees, each of which has spin-off networks. And you’ll be able to find at least one of these booths in the airport when you land in New Zealand.

We got a plan with Spark for no reason other than we saw their booth first in the arrivals section of the airport. But we were happy with our service with them, however, we’d imagine the service through the other networks would be similar.

• With Spark, SIM plans start at $29 NZD for the month (1GB). We paid $54 NZD for 8 GB (there is a $45 package for 4GB, but we figured the extra $9 would be worth it).
• Spark also has hotspots around the country, which are weirdly enough set up inside bright pink phone booths. All Spark users get 1GB of data from these hotspots per day (in addition to their plan). We didn’t actually use this feature because we often needed data when we weren’t near a phone booth. Go figure. But it was nice knowing we had the option.

Eating at restaurants in New Zealand can be quite expensive, and healthy options can be hard to come by. There is something really satisfying about making your own meals in your home on wheels.

If you’re used to cooking over a backpacking stove or a fire, you’ll have no problem adjusting to the spacious 2-burner gas stoves most vans come with. However, if you’ve never cooked a camp meal, there might be a bit of a learning curve.

Here are some helpful tips for campervan cooking: 

• Cook inside:  First off, holiday parks and some private campgrounds have kitchens. So if you aren’t quite up to cooking inside your campervan, you don’t have to.
• Go vegetarian:  Keeping meat cool in a campervan can be tricky. Then, think about keeping your surfaces sanitary in your tiny kitchen. Meat is just not necessary (at least for every meal). Plus, meat is quite expensive in New Zealand, so cooking veggie meals instead will help you stay on top of your budget.
• Master 1-pot meals:  We’ve got some  great campervan meal ideas  just for you! Less work and less dishes!

Kiwi Words to know for the Supermarket

In New Zealand, they use a lot of the British words for vegetables. If you’re not familiar with these terms you might be a bit confused in the produce section. Here are some of the most common:

• Capsicum  = bell pepper
• Aubergine  = eggplant
• Courgette  = zucchini
• Coriander  = cilantro
• Kumara  = sweet potato
• Rocket  = arugula

Packing for a New Zealand Campervan trip

Packing for a campervan trip  is quite a bit different than what you’d bring on any other type of trip. We’re sharing some advice as well as some of our favorite items to help you avoid the mistakes we’ve made.

Campervan packing tips

• Less is More:  Overpacking is always something we try to avoid. But it is especially important to pack light for a campervan trip, as you will be living in a tiny space. Every square inch counts, and you will be living in clutter if you don’t pack light. When traveling in a campervan, you’re going to be wearing the same outfits over and over again. Trust us.
• Keep it Casual:  New Zealand isn’t really the place to bring your fancy clothes. (Unless you’re an Instagram model. In which case, teach me how to be pose, pretty please!)
• Bring Layers:  Weather in New Zealand is highly changeable, and you may encounter snow, rain and humid sunshine all in the same day. Pack layers and a rain jacket to be prepared for it all!
• Packing Cubes :  Having a place for everything in a campervan will make your life exponentially easier. We use packing cubes no matter what type of trip we’re on (umm, they compress AND organize!). But they are especially helpful in organizing clothes and toiletries in a campervan.
• Baby wipes &  dry shampoo :  As we already mentioned in our “showering section”, these items work wonders between showers. Your travel partner will thank you!
• Don’t worry if you forget something:  Most toiletries and clothing items are easy to pick up in New Zealand. For the cheapest prices and biggest selection, we’d recommend going to The Warehouse. 

Campervan packing list

We created an entire campervan packing list that is packed full of tips and lists out everything we packed for New Zealand (plus those things we wished we would have brought!).

You can download this 7-page PDF totally free. No catch. Just give us the best email to send it to.

Before you get behind the wheel in New Zealand, make sure you have done a little research on how driving there is different from your home country. For us being from the U.S. there were a lot of things that were different:

• Driving on the left side of the road:  This one was a bit tricky for the first few days. There are big arrows painted on the road to help you, but remember to take wide right turns and short left turns. The weirdest part is having the driver sit on the right side of the campervan.
• One-Lane bridges:  These are very common throughout New Zealand. Make sure to yield when you approach and follow the signs on who should go across first.
• Roundabouts:  Just like driving on the left side, these can take a little getting used to. Slow down as you drive up to them and yield to the cars coming from the right.
• Speed Limits:  Suprisingly, there are really only 2 speed limits in the entire country: 100 km/hr on the highways and 50 km/hr in the cities and towns. You might see other signs posted every once in a while, but these are the most common.
• Kiwi Road Rage:  For the most part, people from New Zealand are lovely. However, there were a few times where we had people dangerously tailgating us on the highway, making hand guestures and honking horns. I guess I would get annoyed with all the tourists driving around me too.

New Zealand road trip tips

Podcasts and Audio Books are lifesavers when you just can’t take another minute of your travel companion’s voice… only kidding… or am I?

In all seriousness, radio signal cuts in and out throughout New Zealand, especially in the South Island, so you’ll definitely want to fill your phone with playlists, books and podcasts. We’re even going to share a few of our favorites that keep us entertained on the road (or in planes).

• Science Vs.:  One of our all-time favorite podcasts, “Science Vs.” discusses “hot topic” issues like gun control, immigration and essential oils and discusses the facts and science by interviewing experts on both sides. It’s super entertaining and easy to listen to!
• Dirtbag Diaries:  This is a podcast where people share their adventure stories — from epic hikes gone wrong, to how the outdoors saved a young man from getting involved with gangs. We discovered this one in New Zealand, and loved hearing about other people’s adventures while being on an adventure of our own!
• Criminal:  Each episode discusses a real crime — some are creepy (like murders!) while others are funny (they interviewed the “original pot brownie lady” and a man who has streaked at hundreds of sporting events). This one is super entertaining!
• Up First:  This podcast is from NPR and delivers that day’s top news stories in under 15 minutes so you can stay up-to-date even on your vacation! (Note: This tends to be American news, and because of the time difference, you will need to listen to the previous day’s episode.)
• How I Built This:  If you want to be inspired, the host of this podcast interviews some of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs — like the CEO of Patagonia and the founder of Cliff Bars — and shares the story of how they built their business.

Audible  (Audio books by amazon)

• “ Lord of the Rings ”:  Listen to the story unfold as you drive through the #RealMiddleEarth
• “ A Walk in the Woods ”:  One of our favorite adventure books, this story documents one man’s hike through the Appalachian Trail. Bill Bryson is a captivating and hilarious author!
• “ Glass Castle ”:  This memoir documents one woman’s absolutely crazy and interesting childhood as her family moved many times across the US. It will have you crying and laughing out loud.
• “ A Heart in a Body in the World ”:  We listened to this Audible on our New Zealand road trip and loved it. The narrator does a fantastic job telling this story of a young girl who decides to run across the United States after she experiences a tragedy.
• Not ready to commit? Try the  Audible Trial Offer .

The Cook Strait Ferry operates between the North and South Islands in New Zealand, connecting the cities of Wellington and Picton.

The ferry service provides both passenger and vehicle transportation, making it a vital link for travelers exploring both islands. If you are planning to visit both islands on your campervan road trip, you’ll likely make use of this service.

Not only is it an efficient way to get from one island to the other (especially if you are traveling by campervan or car), the ferry is an iconic journey across the Cook Strait with incredible views. Many people believe it’s the most scenic ferry crossing in the world! 

Stores to know around New Zealand

As soon as you arrive in New Zealand, there are some things you’ll need to stock up on: food, for one. But the last thing you want to do is to drive in circles looking for a grocery store, or to over pay at a department store for something you could have found a ton cheaper elsewhere.

We’re going to save you time and share the 2 stores you need to know for your campervan trip to New Zealand.

• Pak’nSave:  Discount grocery store with the lowest prices on food in New Zealand.
• The Warehouse:  Similar to Walmart, this discount store has just about everything you need under one roof. Camp chairs:  Check.  Baby Wipes:  Check.  Dry Shampoo:  Check.  Propane:  Check.

How much will a campervan trip cost in New Zealand?

 The total cost of your campervan trip will depend a lot on YOU.

• How well do you budget?
• Do you mind roughing it, or do you prefer comfort?
• What time of year are you traveling?
• How long will you be traveling?

But the biggest factor will come down to the type of campervan you rent, as they can range from pretty cheap to damn right expensive.

On the low end, you can expect to spend around $75 USD per day for 2 people.  This means you will need to rent the cheapest van, stay mostly in free campgrounds, limit your driving to save gas, cook most of your meals and rely on free activities for entertainment.

On the higher end, you could be spending upwards of $350 USD per day for 2 people.  You’ll need a budget like this if you rent a more expensive vehicle, stay exclusively at Holiday Parks and regularly splurge on tours and restaurants.

Most people (ourselves included!) will fall somewhere in between. We have a entire article showing you our  top picks for campervan companies  and how much they cost in peak and low seasons.

Our daily average was around $185 USD for two people.  We went with a budget-friendly campervan, but not the very cheapest one. We cooked most of our meals, but ate out every so often. We splurged on tours like bungee jumping and swimming with dolphins, and we stayed at a mix of free sites as well as Holiday Parks.

We chose Mad Campers because we liked the company and they were a good budget option. They are actually giving all our readers a 5% discount on their campervan rentals.

Just use the promo code: TWOWANDERINGSOLES . Check them out and  book now here .

Find out where you fall and multiply it by how many days you plan to be in New Zealand. We broke down all our travel expenses and helpful money-saving tips in our  New Zealand travel budget article . You’ll also need to take into consideration flight prices as well as  travel insurance .

Related Reading:  Our Top Tips for Finding Cheap Flights

Budget tips for your New Zealand campervan trip

New Zealand is an expensive country overall, but there are many ways you can travel cheaply. Especially if you’re in a campervan! We’ve written an entire article with  money-saving tips for New Zealand , but here are a few that will come in especially handy:

• Try to camp in free campgrounds as often as possible.  Holiday Parks are great every once in a while for hot showers, but limit it to every few days if you’re on a budget.
• Apply for a relocation rental.  Many campervan companies need their vehicles moved from the South Island to the North (or vice versa). If you’re on a super tight budget, consider applying for a “relocation rental”, which means you will be allotted a certain number of days to get the vehicle where it needs to go. You will be able to use the vehicle free of charge on those days and will likely be given a free ferry ticket.
• Cook as much as possible.  Eating out in New Zealand ain’t cheap, unless you’re at a fast food joint. And who really wants to do that on vacation?! We’ve got some healthy and easy campervan meal ideas for you!
• Know how much things cost.  Having an idea of average prices in New Zealand will help you create a realistic budget and stick to it. We’ve broken down the typical prices for common things like gas, groceries and activities.

Are you planning a trip to New Zealand?

We have TONS of resources on travel in New Zealand and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate New Zealand Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Best New Zealand Campsites: Ultimate Guide + Free Map!
• Things to know before traveling to New Zealand
• New Zealand on a Budget: Money Saving Tips
• Ultimate New Zealand 1-month Road Trip Itinerary

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We want to hear from you!

What additional questions do you have about planning a campervan trip to New Zealand? What are you most nervous about? What excites you most?

We truly want to help you plan the best trip possible, and we’re here to equip you with knowledge and make you feel confident about traveling New Zealand in a campervan. So ask away. We’re here to help!

Comments (24) on “ Planning a Campervan Trip in New Zealand: Ultimate Guide ”

Hi, thanks for sharing these details. Indeed, your blog has every detail I am looking for. In case of emergency, how to communicate, when we are in the mid of mountains and very low signal?

We recommend carrying a GPS satellite device like a Garmin inReach to send out SOS information.

Join now wabs Talk for Spoken English Course

Hello, my husband and I will be renting a camper van and spending a little over a month traveling in New Zealand. Thanks for all the great information, very helpful! I have a few questions.. Did you get the bedding package when you rented the van? Or is bedding something you can buy cheaper when we arrive? Also did you feel comfortable traveling with your lap top? I’m sure I have many more questions at some point but for now that all !

Hey, I really love your content, the amount of detail and information you have provided is incredible. Also if you are a avid traveller and looking for best price for your hotels and flight tickets. Then check us out on and start your journey today.

I am working on my plans for a NZ campervan trip later this year. I wondered how difficult is it to get around towns and some tourist sites in mid-size campervans? We’re older and want to be able to stand in the van, but won’t rent be renting a huge RV. Is it easy to find parking when you want to just stop and walk around?

This blog is really helpful and answered all my doubt. I would like to have the packing list. Please send me on the email

Very helpful information. Will be over there for October. Looking forward to using your tips.

pls suggest place to rent a car in north for a good price.

Your post is very good and very different. Your post will be very useful for me because I like these articles very much, I am thankful that I found this post.

This is so awesome! Thanks for sharing!

I will be traveling solo to New Zealand and have been scouting out campsites along my route. I have noticed that some Holiday Parks, especially those in popular areas, have a 2 person minimum and charge accordingly. Is this going to be true when showing up without a reservation or is this just an online thing? Paying over $50 for a camping spot for a single seems outrageous.

Oh we would love to travel around New Zealand in a campervan! Trying van life out this summer for the first time with a 10-day road trip at home in the UK. Can’t wait!

Great post with extensive and up to date information and so many tips! I have wanted to travel around New Zealand like this for ages. Hopefully when the borders open.

Great post, great info! Since you were visiting your brother during Thanksgiving, it sounds like you were travelling in Nov/Dec. My wife and I want to rent a campervan for a month from mid-Nov to Mid-Dec, but I am worried I will have trouble sleeping at night because I tend to run hot. How was sleeping in the campervan during that time?

Hi there, do you have any article for buying a campervan in NZ? Do you know any that you can recommend? I found this one http://www.travelcarsnz.com but they are only in Auckland, I’m flying to Christchurch first. Thanks in advance and congrats for your blog!

Hi, I just come back from a van trip in NZ. The rental agency robbed me 3000$ for a small accident unless i was covered by an expensive all inclusive insurance. I really do not recommand this Spaceships rentals company. Be carefull about there methods.

Great information you have shared!! I would love to travel in New Zealand as I believe that it is the most incredible place in the world to spend quality time with family or friends. Will go soon. Thanks for sharing!

Great info and lovely way to inform us! Congrats and thanks for your help

Awesome tips thanks for posting it really helps me lot so much thank you 🙂

First, thank you, greatly for helping me plan my campervan trip to the 2 islands of NZ! I will be 8 nights on each island. I know, I wish it was more!

Also, thank you for the Mad Camper discount! Very much appreciated.

My question is this, I tripled checked and my cc covers insurance for campervan rentals in NZ. I really do not want to spend extra $$$ on insurance that covers traveling on non sealed roads. Would I regret this decision? I would rather put the $$$ saved toward purchasing gas.

Thank you for your input and ALL your wonderful knowledge and wisdom.

Hi! So huge amount of information! Do you have any tips for buying a campervan? We were checking few places, one of them was http://www.travelcarsnz.com

Do you recommend them? We can’t afford renting a car for 8 months.

Thank you and I follow you now in Instagram 🙂

Hey Marie. Wow, 8 months! I’m not sure about that site, it could be good, I just don’t know. But Katie’s brother found his car on Trade Me when he did his working holiday visa. Hope that helps.

Wow…makes for a great read for those who are planning to caravaning in New Zealand. Wish I had this when I was planning my caravan trip to the North Island back in 2014. Could have save me lot of time and money.

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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.

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…

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.

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 $1400-1800 USD.

When you start venturing into the realm of self-contained campervans the price is more like $3500-5000 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!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Updated by Louisa Smith, June 2022.

Chris Lininger

Share or save this post

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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South Island Campervan Itinerary: 10 Days 🚐 [2024]

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

January 23, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link.

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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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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OUR TOURS ARE CURRENTLY ON HOLD UNTIL 2024/25 SUMMER

Due to an overwhelming demand for campervan rentals, we can no longer hold our group allocations. Then, once our preferred rental companies build up their vehicle inventory, we’ll be back on the road again.

In the meantime, if you have a group of 8 to 14 who would still like to experience our tours, we would love to do a customised departure for you. Please enquire.

Carefully crafted high quality Campervan Tours – offering you exclusive access and opportunities to stay and engage with locals in Farm stays, Maraes, and other unique locations. Offering daily flexible itineraries and security of travelling with a group of like-minded people.

WHY OUR TOURS, YOU MAY ASK?

Established in 2020, Roving Kiwi is a boutique campervan tour company that offers carefully crafted tours. We get you off the beaten track while experiencing local hospitality. These are not convoy tours!

Enjoy the camaraderie of a group tour, while having the flexibility to travel independently during the day and see the sights that interest you, with the help of our comprehensive itinerary.

Newly established Roving Kiwi is a boutique motorhome tour company that offers carefully crafted tours. We get you off the beaten track while experiencing local hospitality. These are not convoy tours!

Enjoy the camaraderie of a group tour, while having the flexibility to travel independently during the day and see the sights that interest you.

NEW ZEALAND TOURS

Your motorhome awaits....

Our 3 and 4 Berth campervans are certified, modern & fully self-contained along with a solar panel for longer freedom camping time. There is 24 hour AA roadside assistance. And FREE of charge – GPS, outdoor dining gear, plus fully inclusive of zero excess insurance and road miles.

YOUR CAMPERVAN AWAITS...

Testimonials.

We really want to say how much we both enjoyed our Roving Southern Explorer tour. We already knew that with you involved it was going to be a most enjoyable tour – but were blown away with the content of the itinerary, and the inclusions – a hearty congratulations to you and the Roving Kiwi team.

Excellent Concept

The concept, we believe is excellent in that it gives flexibility, but has a structure to follow.  By joining the group, we were able to enjoy so many places/sights that we may not have found had we been travelling independently.   This is particularly true regarding staying at the stations in the high country.  A highlight for us was the jet boat on the Waitoto River – such local knowledge.  Too many highlights to mention all – Obviously, we recommend your Roving Kiwi Trip, and cannot wait to do another. Ralph and Bev Faulkner

No improvement necessary

The concept of the trip was a very good idea. No improvement necessary and we would recommend this tour to others. For first time campvaners we thoroughly enjoyed our trip and the itinerary was well thought out. We would strongly recommend this to anyone who was thinking of doing a campervaning holiday with Roving kiwi. – Bob & Shirley Jukes

The whole trip was excellent!

We had an outstanding trip – thank you, we really enjoyed your first roving kiwi tour.

We just want to let you know how much we enjoyed our ROVING KIWI campervan tour through the high country of Otago and the West Coast. Every day was a new adventure with new discoveries.  It was very exciting to learn first hand from the owner of a high country sheep station about their daily challenges and to join them at the dinner table for a delicious home cooked meal.

Having our own motorhome, gave us the flexibility and freedom to spend the day at our leisure to visit the points of interest as described in the itinerary. At the end of the day, we caught up again with our fellow travellers, enjoying a good glass of wine and nibbles and discussed the highlights of the day.

We felt very privileged to be part of this tour group and we can’t thank you enough for the time and effort you spend in organizing and putting together this complete and exciting itinerary.  Wishing you all the best with your future tours!

Kind regards – Herman Van Cingel

A tour with Roving Kiwi is a bucket list must! Sign-up with our newsletter and we will let you know what tours are happening and when, so that you don't miss an amazing opportunity.

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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 , Oceania · April 26, 2020

Two-week North Island New Zealand Campervan Road Trip

We were fortunate enough to spend two years living in New Zealand and took advantage of every opportunity that we had to explore the north and south islands.

We have always wanted to take an RV road trip and were excited to rent a campervan and embark on a two-week north island road trip adventure.

We loved being able to explore and camp in remote regions, it also gave us flexibility in our itinerary without being tied down to hotel reservations. We also saved money with the option to cook our own meals instead of eating out, which can get pretty expensive with a family of six.

We loved it so much that the next year we rented another campervan and took a 14-day road trip around Australia . Since returning back to the US, we also rented an RV and camped on the shores of Lake Powell .

We have talked about one day buying a motorhome and taking an epic US road trip, spending months traveling around visiting national parks, discovering the best fishing lakes , and exploring new cities.

Hopefully, that dream will one day become a reality, but for now, I am excited to share our favorite stops on our North Island New Zealand Campervan Road Trip!

Best places to visit on a North Island New Zealand campervan road trip

1. wellington.

Top things to do in Wellington New Zealand:

• Visit the free Te Papa National Museum
• Take the Wellington Cable Car to the top of Mount Victoria then walk back down through the botanic gardens
• Kayak at Oriental Bay
• Tour the Lord of the Rings Weta Workshop

Tip: See our guide 6 Fun Things to do with Kids in Wellington New Zealand for more information and recommendations

2. New Plymouth

Top things to do in and around New Plymouth New Zealand:

• See the Three Sisters and Elephant Rock formations and sea caves at low tide in Tongaporutu
• Hike Paritutu Rock for an incredible lookout in New Plymouth
• Explore the magical Goblin Forest at Edgemont National Park
• Rent bikes and ride around the picturesque Pukekura Park
• Visit the Cape Egmont Lighthouse

Top things to do in Taupo New Zealand:

• Take a white water rafting tour at Huka Falls, or just observe the powerful rapids and crystal blue water from the bridge
• Take a boat tour on Lake Taupo to the Maori rock carvings
• Visit Aratiatia Dam and watch the gorge fill up with water as the dam is released
• Soak in the free hot springs at the Spa Thermal Park
• Pick up some local organic honey at the Huka Honey Hive

Top things to do in Rotorua New Zealand:

• Hike the trails at the Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest
• Visit the geothermal pools and geysers at Wai-o-tapu
• Hang with the locals at the geothermal Kerosene creek
• Hike Rainbow Mountain for stunning views over the steaming blue geothermal lake
• Visit Kuirau Park, a free public park packed with geothermal wonders
• Ride the Skyline Luge down the mountain

Tip: Visit our guide, 8 Unforgettable Things to do in Rotorua New Zealand for more details and recommendations!

5. Waikato Region

Top things to do in and around the Waikato region:

• See the glow worms at the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves
• Visit Marokopa Falls
• Walk the loop trail to see the Mangapohue Natural bridge
• Soak in a thermal hot pool at Kawhia hot water beach
• Tour the set of Hobbiton from the Lord of the Rings

6. Coromandel Peninsula

Top things to do on the Coromandel Peninsula:

• See the rock arch at Cathedral Cove beach
• When hiking to Cathedral Cove, take a detour to see stingrays at Stingray Bay
• Walk the trails through mining tunnels at Karangahake Gorge
• Dig a thermal pool and relax on the shores of Hot Water Beach at low tide
• Explore New Chum’s beach, voted one of the top 10 beaches in the world
• Take a narrow gauge train ride through native bush on the Driving Creek Railway

7. Auckland

Top things to do in and around Auckland New Zealand:

• Take a short hike to visit the 6-tiered Kitekite Falls
• Lay on the black sand shores of the beautiful Piha Beach
• Go sandboarding down the black sand dunes and play in the streams at Lake Wainamu
• Explore old military tunnels and gun emplacements at Devonport North Head
• See the ocean wildlife at Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium
• See the views from a dormant volcano at One Tree Hill
• Stroll along the waterfront and grab a bite to eat at the Viaduct Harbour

8. Northland

Top things to do in the Northland Region of New Zealand:

• Enjoy a secluded white sand beach at Smugglers Cove near Whangarei
• Take a ferry to Russell Island in the Bay of Islands
• Spend a day at Action World, an acrobatic themed park in Paihia
• Take the short trail to the incredible Rainbow Falls in Kerikeri
• Play at the sand dunes and white sand beaches at Karikari Beach
• Go sandboarding at the towering Te Paki Sand Dunes
• Visit 90 Mile Beach, an official road where 4WD vehicles are allowed to drive along the beach
• Visit the Cape Reinga Lighthouse, the northernmost tip of the island, and see where the Tasman Sea collides with the Pacific Ocean
• Stroll through the Waipoua Forest and see the Tane Mahuta, the largest known living Kauri tree
• See our guide 9 Incredible Places to Visit in Northland New Zealand for all the details!

We hope this helps as you map out and plan your epic north island New Zealand campervan road trip!

Other posts you might like:

• 8 Unforgettable Things to do in Rotorua New Zealand
• 17 Underrated Spots on New Zealand’s South Island
• 11 Things to See on New Zealand’s West Coast

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About Jamie

Family travel expert and content creator who has been inpsiring millions with her travel guides since 2018.

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The Ultimate New Zealand Campervan Trip for Surfers

Thinking about a New Zealand campervan trip? There are many unique traits that attract travelers from all over the world to the Pacific island country of New Zealand. The breathtaking landscape, gorgeous mountains, and surf-worthy swell are just a few.  

One of the best ways to experience the country is with a campervan. Even better, you can tour the country in a campervan, following the best swell as a guide to the route.  

New Zealand is one of a few highly recommended surfer van destinations around the world. Read more in our blog here!

Let’s dive into some practical tips on hiring a campervan or RV in New Zealand, and determining the best route to travel with your board.  

* Just to let you know that this article may contain affiliate links. If you click on them we might receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

Best RV and Campervan Hire New Zealand Has to Offer

Are you stuck between deciding on an RV or campervan for your trip? New Zealand offers both options, each with its own pros and cons.  

New Zealand Campervan

Campervans are a dime a dozen in New Zealand, and for good reason. A campervan is a nifty way to experience the coastline.  

Benefits of campervanning in New Zealand

What’s not to love about zooming around the beautiful country with everything that you need at your fingertips? The smaller size of a campervan is compact and convenient, allowing you to move from one spot to another in a fuel-efficient and easy way. Just keep in mind that it might be worth getting roof racks for your boards!

Where to rent a campervan in New Zealand

There’s a selection of outlets that rent campervans for surf trips. Whatever your budget, there will be an outlet to suit your needs. A great place to start your search is Share a Camper , a local rental agency that understands the itch to surf, and how a campervan can be the perfect vehicle for the trip.  

New Zealand Motorhome

Motorhomes are also readily available in New Zealand and can often be hired from the same rental sites as campervans.  

Benefits of a motor home in New Zealand

If you’re traveling in a larger group, then a motorhome may be a better option. More people can fit inside, and there’s a bit more space (and amenities). An RV is also a great option if planning a long trip, as you won’t be as cramped.  

Where to rent a motorhome / RV in New Zealand

You’ll have a choice of convenient, affordable, and quality places to rent an RV in New Zealand. One of the best places to start your search is with Maui which encourages makes travelers to “feel at home. Wherever you roam.”

Five-Stop Surfing Itinerary for Campervanning in New Zealand

If you’re planning a surf trip in New Zealand, then you most certainly won’t be the first. In fact, Surf Highway 45 that extends across the Taranaki region is a hotspot for surfing road trips! Here are five epic spots to add to your route (although there are many more).  

1. Fitzroy Beach

Fitzroy Beach is a well-known surf break in New Zealand and a fantastic place to start your trip. The exposed beach break barrels beautifully when the conditions are right and can size up when the swell works.  

Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park is the camping ground of choice in New Plymouth and has convenient amenities on the doorstep of the beach. It just doesn’t get any better!

If you’re traveling as a family or it’s your first time in the area, then you may want to spend a few extra days in the New Plymouth area. There is plenty to do. From visiting Pukekura Park to exploring Sugar Loaf Islands.

2. Ahu Ahu Road

What better way to continue your trip than with a choice of left or right point breaks on a sandy beach? The fast and hollow waves promise a good time for surfers of all levels. Whether you rip like a pro or prefer a gentle ride, Ahu Ahu has you sorted!

There’s a great spot to stay at Oakura Beach Holiday Park which promises a fun and relaxing break, with easy access to the sea.  

The closest town to Ahu Ahu is Oakura, an area known for being a creative hub and offering access to world-class surf. If you have free time out of the water then you can enjoy a guided fly fishing experience or enjoy a schnitzel tour!

3. Stent Road

Stent Road is a stone’s throw away from Ahu Ahu but deserves a spot on the list because the waves are just too good to pass up. The spot features an exposed reef point break that is dependable throughout the year.

When choosing where to stay, it’s worth considering keeping your spot at Oakura Beach Holiday Park. This will make the experience more convenient, but it is a bit of a drive.  

Once again, Oakura is a great spot to visit when not in the water. If you have the time to venture further north, then New Plymouth isn’t too far away, with all of its attractions such as art galleries, and the Coastal Walkway.

4. Weld Road

Weld Road is a must-stop spot if you’re looking for cruisy rides on longer boards. It’s an easy wave that allows you to enjoy the ride without worrying about too many technicalities. Just lookout for the rocky bottom!

Once again, you won’t have to travel too far to rest your head at night. Oakura Beach Holiday Park is still your spot to be, and the nearby attractions are the same! Several of these spots are within close proximity to one another, but they each deserve a bit of your time!

5. Kumara Patch

Kumara Patch takes the cake for having the best left-hand point break in the area. If you catch it at the right time, you can enjoy an unbelievably long, cruisy ride. Depending on the conditions, intermediate surfers may even be able to catch a fast barrel!

Track your ride with the best surf tracking apps and watches on the market – read our blog here.

When your surfing is done and you want to rest up, then you can park your van at the nearby campsite and enjoy the amenities that they have to offer.

Discover the best places to surf throughout the year in our month-by-month guide!

Campervan New Zealand Tips for Surfers

You’ve rented your vehicle, mapped your route, and you’re ready to hit the road. But before you put your foot on the gas, make sure that you read the following tips for campervan trips in New Zealand.  

• Make sure that you have a phone with mobile data, or a portable wifi device to stay in contact with (especially if you’re working on the road)
• Assess your budget carefully, as petrol can be pricey, camping grounds aren’t free, and insurance costs can pinch
• Make sure that you fill up with petrol whenever you can
• Save offline maps for sections where the signal is patchy
• Check out the freedom camping website to find out where you can park your vehicle outside of official accommodation venues
• Pack bug spray!
• Follow the usual rules of the road – drive on the left-hand side, stick to the speed limit, and look out for animals

Catch You in the Froth

There’s so much more of New Zealand to explore, and we encourage you to go further than the few spots we’ve added to this list.  

If you’ve been bitten by the camping bug, then there are other destinations around the world that are waiting to be explored. Read about them here!

• Surf van road trip in California
• Van life in Australia with a surfboard
• A guide to motorhome touring in France (as a surfer)
• The ultimate surf trip in Portugal with a surf van

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Candice Boyers

Candice Land, aka Candi Land, aka The Captain, is a freelance writer, digital nomad and full-time globe trotter.

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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?

Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.

• Mighty Campers
• Britz Australia
• maui Motorhomes
• Britz Campervans
• Roadbear RV Rentals
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• Buy a Campervan
• Self Check-In

Ultimate 7 Day South Island Campervan Itinerary

A South Island road trip by campervan is at the top of many bucket lists, for tourists and New Zealand locals alike. With some of the best scenery in the world – from snow-capped mountains to charming townships – the South Island is a wonderland of beauty and adventure. And there’s no better way to enjoy it than with the freedom and flexibility of a Mighty campervan hire.

Whether you want to swim with dolphins, go jet boating, or indulge in a wine and beer tour, the South Island has it all. In fact, it has so much that it can be hard to know where to start and how to make the most of everything on offer. Don’t worry, we’ve done the hard work for you and have researched some of the best places to visit on a South Island road trip. We’ve put them all together in our ultimate 7-day South Island campervan itinerary.

This popular route starts in Queenstown and then takes you to Wānaka before heading across to the West Coast’s Franz Josef and Greymouth, and on to Nelson, Blenheim, and Kaikōura before finishing in Christchurch.

Pick up your Mighty campervan at our Queenstown branch , explore the South Island at your own pace, then drop off your campervan at our Christchurch branch . With international airports in both of these South Island cities, it couldn’t be easier!

A quick word on South Island safety 

New Zealand’s climate can be unpredictable. And in winter, the South Island can experience extremely cold temperatures, including heavy snowfalls. If you’re planning a South Island road trip during the months of June through August, it pays to check the weather forecast and road conditions daily.

Before setting off on your travels, take some time to familiarise yourself with everything you need to know about driving in New Zealand. Don’t forget to keep your mobile phone charged in case you need assistance as you travel, but note that, because of our mountainous landscape, phone reception can be patchy at times. Now that you’re prepared and ready to plan your South Island road trip, it’s time to get inspired!

Queenstown to Christchurch

Best Time of the Year

September to April

• Franz Josef Glacier
• Monteith’s Brewery, Hokitika
• Abel Tasman National Park, Nelson
• Blenheim wine tasting tour
• Whale watching in Kaikōura
• Christchurch Gondola

The Journey

Day 1 Queenstown to Wānaka

Distance 69km - driving time 1 hour 5 minutes.

Day one of your exciting 7-day South Island road trip starts at our Mighty Queenstown branch, where you’ll be greeted by our friendly team as you pick up your pre-booked campervan hire. We’ll get you set up and ready for the road with everything you need to know about your campervan.

Today’s drive is short but stunning as you head to the alpine village of Wānaka. Along the way, plan a stop at the quaint and characterful township of Arrowtown, where you can indulge in a spot of shopping. Our favourite pick is the Remarkable Sweet Shop , where you can stock up on all sorts of sweet goodies!

The township of Wānaka sits at the southern end of its namesake lake and is surrounded by some of New Zealand’s most captivating scenery. Make the most of your stay here by exploring some of the nearby walks and trails, enjoying the great eateries, or experiencing the thrill and adventure of an exhilarating jetboat ride .

Put your feet up for the night at the Wanaka Lakeview Holiday Park .

Day 2 Wānaka to Franz Josef

Distance 284km - driving time 3 hours 40 minutes.

Wake up bright and early on day two as you prepare to travel to one of the most spectacular New Zealand tourist attractions, Franz Josef.

Plan a stop on your way to walk along the Blue Pools Track , about 12 km past Makaroa on SH6. This easy, short walk takes you through lush forest and over a swing bridge to the pure glacial waters of the pristine Blue Pool.

Once you arrive in Franz Josef, take the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier with a helicopter tour . You’ll land on the glacier where you can see this natural wonder up close, breathe in the fresh alpine air, and marvel at the snowy scenery.

Enjoy a relaxing overnight stay at Franz Josef Caravan Park .

Day 3 Franz Josef to Greymouth

Distance 172km - driving time 2 hours 10 minutes.

Today you’ll travel a short but scenic drive along New Zealand’s rugged west coast as you head to the region’s largest town, Greymouth.

Along the way, you’ll pass through Hokitika. This tiny township was once a gold mining mecca and the backdrop for the novel and movie, The Luminaries. Plan a stop here to learn more about the town’s mining history at the Hokitika Museum or meet some of New Zealand’s living icons at the National Kiwi Centre .

Once you arrive in Greymouth, enjoy dinner and a good brew at Monteith’s Brewery before settling in for the night at Greymouth TOP 10 Holiday Park .

Day 4 Greymouth to Nelson

Distance 282km - driving time 3 hours 50 minutes.

Day four of your amazing South Island road trip takes you from the wild and woolly West Coast up to one of New Zealand’s sunniest cities – Nelson.

About halfway along your journey, stop at the Buller Gorge Springbridge . Here you can walk the heights of New Zealand’s longest swing bridge, pan for gold, enjoy a nature walk, and take in more of the South Island’s unique scenery.

As you arrive in Nelson, you’re at the gateway to one of the best places to visit in New Zealand – Abel Tasman National Park . With its golden beaches and world-famous coastal track, you may decide to add an extra day here to make the most of everything on offer!

Take in the best of Nelson’s beachside vibe with an overnight stay at the scenic Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park .

Day 5 Nelson to Blenheim

Distance 123km - driving time 1 hour 50 minutes.

You’ve no doubt heard that the Marlborough region of New Zealand is famous for its fantastic vineyards and wines… and today’s the day to get a first-hand taste as you head to Blenheim.

Whet your appetite along the way with a stop in Havelock where you can enjoy a Greenshell Mussel Cruise . Take in the natural beauty of the Marlborough sounds as you tuck into freshly steamed mussels matched with a glass of the region’s famous sauvignon blanc.

As you arrive in Blenheim, park up your campervan and take a half-day beer and wine tour . Taste wine straight from the barrel, learn more about the fascinating process of winemaking, and meet some of the region’s wine and beer making experts.

After all that indulgence, you’ll be ready to hit the hay in comfort at the Blenheim Bridges Holiday Park .

Day 6 Blenheim to Kaikōura

Distance 128km - driving time 1 hour 40 minutes.

From winemaking to whales – today’s section of your South Island road trip takes you to Kaikōura, famous for its abundant ocean life and sublime scenery.

New Zealand is well known for its vibrant blue lakes and rivers, but you may not have heard about our pink ponds! Here’s your chance to see some up close with a stop along your road trip at the Lake Grassmere Saltworks. This alienesque landscape results from natural salt production as seawater from the Pacific Ocean is pumped into Lake Grassmere . Definitely one for your Instagram!

Once you arrive in Kaikōura, don’t miss the opportunity to see whales, dolphins, and seals on a whale watching tour. Cruise out into New Zealand’s deepest marine reserve frequented by humpbacks, sperm whales, blue whales, southern right whales and more. Chances are you’ll also see some pods of playful dusky dolphins out on the water too!

Park up for the night at Alpine Pacific Motels & Holiday Park Kaikoura .

Day 7 Kaikōura to Christchurch

Distance 180km - driving time 2 hours 25 minutes.

It’s day 7 already, and almost time to hit the road on the final leg of your journey. But before you head to Christchurch, make the most of your morning in Kaikōura with a relaxing beachside breakfast at Café Encounter and a visit to the Kaikōura Museum .

Christchurch is New Zealand’s ‘Garden City’, with beautiful botanic gardens that span 21 hectares.

For the best views of the city, head to the top of the Port Hills on the Christchurch Gondola Ride . Take in spectacular 360-degree views that encompass the Southern Alps, Canterbury Plains, and the Pacific Ocean.

Enjoy a final night in your campervan at the South Brighton Holiday Park before dropping it off at our Mighty Christchurch branch.

Time to book your own South Island escape? 

What an incredible 7 days! From tasty mussels and world-renowned wine to deep blue pools and snowy glaciers – the South Island really does have it all.

With your Mighty campervan hire, you can enjoy it all at your own pace. And if you like a particular spot and want to explore it more, then you’ve got the freedom and flexibility to adjust your itinerary to suit.

Take the next step toward your ultimate 7-day South Island road trip and book your Mighty campervan online now.

With branches in Auckland, Queenstown, and Christchurch you can pick up your campervan at one branch and drop it off at another. So easy!

For extra ideas on some of the best places to visit in New Zealand, check out more of our inspirational blogs and itineraries:

• Christchurch to Kaikōura road trip ideas
• Road trip around the South Island
• Best South Island campgrounds
• Questions? Talk to us now

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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

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

16 days from £6,080pp

Cultural New Zealand self-drive tour

23 days from £8,485pp

New Zealand's wildlife self-drive tour

25 days from £9,725pp

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

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

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Self Drive Holidays 22 Day New Zealand Motorhome Self Drive

Discover New Zealand best sights and attractions from your very own motorhome

Travel Time ~41 hrs

Distance 3,154 kms

Start Auckland

Finish Christchurch

22 Day New Zealand Motorhome Self Drive

Discover the "Land of the Long White Cloud" and all the best sights and attractions the country has to offer on a 21 Day New Zealand Motorhome Self Drive package, all from the comfort of your very own RV or campervan rental.  Hop on board a cruise of the breathtaking Bay of Islands, visit the Waitomo Caves that are home to thousands of glowworms, tour the Hobbiton movie set, encounter true Maori culture and geothermal wonders at Rotorua, and make a stop in New Zealand's capital of cool – Wellington.  Take a self-guided walk to Franz Josef Glacier's terminal face, enjoy an exciting ride on the Shotover Jet, explore the magnificent Milford Sound on a nature cruise, tour Larnach Castle and Gardens, visit Lake Tekapo for some stargazing and visit the fascinating International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch – the 'Garden City'.

Itineraries

All itineraries can be amended or combined with other itineraries. Please advise amendments when requesting a quote.

Read more about this tour

Auckland - Waitomo - Rotorua - Napier - Wellington - Kaikoura - Christchurch - Greymouth - Fox Glacier - Queenstown - Te Anau - Milford Sound - Dunedin - Lake Tekapo - Christchurch

Arrive Auckland

Auckland - Waitomo - Rotorua

Travel Time: 4 hrs 10 mins

Distance: 329 kms

Rotorua - Taupo

Travel Time: 1 hr

Distance: 80 kms

Taupo - Napier

Travel Time: 1 hr 35 mins

Distance: 139 kms

Napier - Wellington

Travel Time: 3 hrs 55 mins

Distance: 430 kms

Wellington - Picton - Blenheim

Travel Time: 3 hrs 30 mins

Distance: 25 kms

Blenheim - Nelson

Distance: 115 km

Abel Tasman National Park

Distance: 108 kms

Nelson - Punakaiki

Travel Time: 3 hrs 10 mins

Distance: 264 kms

Punakaiki - Franz Josef or Fox Glacier

Travel Time: 2 hrs 15 mins

Distance: 217 kms

Franz Josef or Fox Glacier - Wanaka

Travel Time: 3 hrs 50 mins

Distance: 284 kms

Wanaka - Queenstown

Travel Time: 1 hr 5 mins

Distance: 69 kms

Queenstown - Te Anau

Travel Time: 2 hrs 30 mins

Distance: 172 kms

Milford Sound

Travel Time: 4 hrs 30 mins

Distance: 236 kms

Te Anau - Dunedin

Travel Time: 4 hrs

Distance: 290 kms

Dunedin - Christchurch

Travel Time: 4 hrs 45 mins

Distance: 396 kms

Depart Christchurch

Upon arrival in Auckland, you will make your way to the vehicle depot to collect your motorhome rental.

Leave Auckland this morning and make your way south to the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Here you will have the pleasure of enjoying a close up view of some amazing ancient limestone formations and caverns as well as the twinkling lights of the glowworms.

After lunch depart Waitomo and head east to Rotorua, renowned for the geothermal hot springs, Maori culture and a great choice of family attracions, and soft adventure activities.

Stay 2 nights Rotorua

Today you could visit Waimangu Volcanic Valley, the world’s youngest geothermal valley, and the final resting place of the Pink and White Terraces at Lake Rotomahana, after the eruption of Mt Tarawera in 1886. Here you can explore the walking trails at your own pace, and see the world’s largest hot springs, volcanic craters, and the bright blue Inferno Crater. Afterwards take a boat cruise on Lake Rotomahana.

Afterwards relax at Polynesian Spa in one of five Deluxe Lake Spas (included) looking over Lake Rotorua and gardens. With four shallow alkaline mineral hot pools from Rachel Spring; and a further one acidic mineral pool from Priest Spring; as well as a cold plunge pool; you can alternate by bathing in pools of different temperatures for the best hot-cold hydrotherapy detox. 

Tonight enjoy a night of traditional culture and entertainment at the award winning Te Pa Tu (included), before experiencing a Maori hangi (feast), with a selection of foods cooked the traditional Maori way underground, amongst the surroundings of an authentic village.

It’s only an hour’s drive to reach Taupō which is home to Lake Taupo and is New Zealand’s largest lake located at the heart of the Central North Island.

You could take a visit to the spectacular Huka Falls by jet boat. From your unique vantage point on the jet boat you will have the best water level view of Huka Falls. Later on that day perhaps take a cruise on the lake to see the renowned Maori rock carvings with Chris Jolly Cruises.

Stay 1 night in Taupo

Travel across the central plateau to the Hawkes Bay region and Napier, the Art Deco capital of New Zealand, and take some time to appreciate the superb architecture that makes this city so special.

Napier and Hawkes Bay, famous for its wineries and beautiful vineyards. The region is recognised world wide for the quality of it's reds. The wines are typically Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. The sunny, warm climate of the Bay also produces some of New Zealand's best Chardonnays.  You could visit New Zealand's oldest winery, Mission Estate and enjoying the tasting and knowledge of wine makers from other wineries. 

Stay 1 night Napier

Depart early and set off south to Martinborough and the Wairarapa region, famous for its wineries and beautiful vineyards. Sample some of the premium local wines; before driving the short distance to New Zealand's capital city, Wellington. Wellington is compact, cultured and full of character; sprawled over the hills surrounding Wellington Harbour. A vibrant city, filled with cafes, restaurants, museums, theatre and all kinds of shops. In your spare time don't miss out on visiting Te Papa- Museum of New Zealand and take a cable car for great views over the city and harbour..

Stay 2 nights Wellington

Recently named the ‘coolest little capital in the world’ by Lonely Planet, Wellington is nestled between a sparkling harbour and rolling green hills and is renowned for its arts, heritage, culture and native beauty. A visit to Te Papa National Museum, a ride on the famous Cable Car or a visit to Weta Workshop is highly recommended. If you like action-packed adventure activities, Wellington has it all along with beautiful walks around the harbour and surrounding hills.

Discover Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary, a predator proof oasis inside Wellington city, where rare and endangered native birds such as the Hihi, Tieke, Kaka, Tui, Karariki and Koromiko (Bellbird); as well as native flora flourish. You can take a Zealandia by Day tour to explore the park; or in the evening take a Zealandia by Night tour, and listen to the evening chorus, or possibly see one of the 130 little spotted kiwi who inhabit the park.

The 92 km journey between Wellington and Picton takes around 3 hours and has been described as 'one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world'.

Picton to Blenheim Only short 30 minute drive, you’ll follow the valley south to arrive in Blenheim, located in the heart of Marlborough - New Zealand’s largest wine producing region. Go through acres of leafy green vines and marvel at the magnificent ‘dry hills’ of Marlborough in the distance.

Stay: 1 night Blenheim

After leaving Blenheim, you will travel through the beautiful Marlborough wine region. You could board a Scenic Mussel Cruise at Havelock, known as the Greenshell Mussel Capital of the World.

Afterwards journey west to Nelson. On arrival into Nelson, a town known for its local art, you may wish to visit local art galleries. This town is a magnet for creative folk, with more than 350 working artists and craftspeople, or head to one of the golden beaches. Nelson is also the gateway to the small but perfectly formed Abel Tasman National Park, crystal clear waters and bird-filled native bush.

Stay 2 nights Nelson

Included today is an Abel Tasman National Park Cruise and walk trip. Drive out to Kaiteriteri and cruise the length of the spectacular Abel Tasman coastline to Totaranui, viewing the fascinating Seal Colony at Tonga Island Marine Reserve along the way. You could walk along the coast track, with spectacular views over Tasman Bay. The track winds through sunny Kanuka forest with hidden fern grottos and crystal mountain streams.

Leave our sunniest region and make your way south to Punakaiki, home of the pancake rocks. Thirty million years in the making, nature has carved the rock into fantastical shapes and turned it into a percussion of thundering, thumping, and roaring, with plumes of salt water hissing from the blowholes.

Stay 1 night Punakaiki

Spend some time in Hokitika on your way down the coast, a town noted for its pounamu (New Zealand jade) and wild west gold mining history. Maybe you would like to see the world from a bird’s viewpoint, and walk high above the ground through the ancient rimu and kamahi tree canopy on the West Coast Treetop Walkway. This afternoon at Franz Josef Glacier, avail yourself of one of the many ways to see the ancient ice valley – from a moderate self-guided walk to the terminal face to a professionally guided adventure that will take you onto the ice itself, a truly unforgettable experience.

Stay 1 night Franz Josef or Fox Glacier

Travel down the rugged West Coat, before heading over Haast Pass through the southern Alps. There are scores of places to stop at the roadside in the pass, for short walks to stunning waterfalls and blue pools or simply to admire the verdant landscape.

In Wanaka pay a visit to weird and wonderful Puzzling World (included), an entertaining activity for young and old alike with a mix of bizarre buildings, the world-famous Great Maze, and rooms of illusion.

Stay 1 night Wanaka

The shortest route to Wanaka is over the Crown Range Road. It's a challenging drive, but the views are amazing and you'll probably encounter friendly keas (mountain parrots). More conservative drivers can take the route that runs beside the Cluthar River, Lake Dunstan and the Shotover River. The vineyards of the Gibbston area and bungy jumpers at the Kawarau River Bridge are interesting distractions along the way. This afternoon is at leisure to explore Queenstown.

Stay 2 nights Queenstown

This morning you could kick start your day with the famously thrilling jet boating trip on the Shotover River.  The rest of the day is completely up to you and you can explore this fun loving town at your own pace.  We recommend that you take a ride on the Skyline Gondola and enjoy the amazing views of the area.

Drive along the southern shores of the beautiful Lake Wakatipu and travel across the rural farmlands that lead to Te Anau. While you're there, why not make the most of it by enjoying a scenic cruise across the lake and discover the underground wonders of the glowworm caves?

Travel along the Milford Road and venture through the Homer Tunnel before hopping on board for a nature cruise around Milford Sound. Prepare to be amazed by the world famous natural wonder as you cruise past waterfalls and rock walls.  Return to Te Anau where you will spend the evening.

Make your way across the river plains that pass through Gore on the way to Dunedin – the 'Edinburgh of the South'. Visit historic Olveston House or Larnach Castle with its gardens rated by the New Zealand Gardens Trust as a Garden of International Significance.  An absolute must for nature lovers is a visit to some of the wildlife attractions of Otago Peninsula including the Yellow-Eyed Penguin Reserve, Monarch Wildlife Cruise and Albatross Sanctuary.

Stay 2 nights Dunedin

Today explore Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula, famous for its eco tourism and wildlife and there are a variety of tours and cruises showing all the best of the Dunedin region. Visit the Royal Albatross Centre . 

Take a Monarch Wildlife Cruise from Wellers Rock for a one hour cruise along the rocky Taiaroa Head, home to the world’s only mainland Royal Albatross colony. Be amazed as the albatross soar and glide over the ocean with their huge 3 metre wingspans

Take time to explore Larnach Castle and learn about its scandalous history. You might also want to visit Baldwin Street, the world's steepest residential address. End the day with a tour of the 125 year old Speights Brewery, finishing with a tasting of their range of world class beers. Dunedin is memorable for its historical architecture. 

Be sure to check out the unique geological formations known as the Moeraki Boulders located 70km's north of Dunedin. At historic Oamaru home of the Little Blue Penguins, carry on towards the Canterbury Plains.

From Timaru take the scenic route through Geraldine, before passing Methven to Christchurch.

Stay 1 night Christchurch

Make your way to the vehicle depot to return your motorhome before heading back home.

Day 1, Arrive Auckland

Day 2, Auckland - Waitomo - Rotorua

Day 3, Rotorua

Day 4, Rotorua - Taupo

Day 5, Taupo - Napier

Day 6, Napier - Wellington

Day 7, Wellington

Day 8, Wellington - Picton - Blenheim

Day 9, Blenheim - Nelson

Day 10, Abel Tasman National Park

Day 11, Nelson - Punakaiki

Day 12, Punakaiki - Franz Josef or Fox Glacier

Day 13, Franz Josef or Fox Glacier - Wanaka

Day 14, Wanaka - Queenstown

Day 15, Queenstown

Day 16, Queenstown - Te Anau

Day 17, Milford Sound

Day 18, Te Anau - Dunedin

Day 19, Dunedin

Day 20, Dunedin - Christchurch

Day 21, Depart Christchurch

Additional Information

Cost per person.

May to September 2023

Standard Britz: From NZ$4,576* per person

Superior Maui: From NZ$5,445* per person

* PLEASE NOTE *

Prices quoted are based on a 2 berth Motorhome, with 2 people sharing. Please contact us for rates for 2 or more people sharing a 4 or 6 Berth Motorhome.

Prices are estimates only, and are subject to availability and exchange rates when booking, seasonal or holiday price surcharges (such as Christmas/New Year and Easter); as well as special events that may be on. Please forward a request and we will be happy to forward a quote.

• Road User Recovery Fee - Charged on ALL motorhomes at time of Drop off at an average of $6.62 per 100km they travel. (Diesel Tax basically)

Inclusive Rates – This has a NIL Excess

Inclusions are:

• Liability Reduction Option (liability reduced to Nil)
• Single vehicle rollover cover
• WiFi, including 1GB of data
• Extra Driver Fees
• Linen exchange
• Picnic table
• Picnic chairs (chairs per person travelling)
• Baby / Booster seat - on request (cannot be fitted in some vehicle categories)
• Snow chains if required
• Portable fan heater if required
• A one way fee of NZ$280 applies between 01 Oct & 31 Mar (or NZ$170 between 01 Apr & 30 Sep) and is charged upon vehicle collection.
• Deposit: 10% at the time of booking
• Full Payment: 90 Days before travel
• Airfares (if applicable): Paid in full no more than 6 days after booking

Cancellation Charges

• Cancellation Fees up to 100% can apply after booking. Extra deposits or full payment may be requested to cover these charges prior to booking.

22 days 2 berth motorhome hire with shower/toilet

Choose from 2 standards of motorhome hire:

• Standard option: Britz Venturer, 2 Berth Auto
• Superior option: Maui Ultima, 2 Berth Auto

Both vehicles are 2 berth automatic motorhomes, with an onboard shower & toilet, full kitchen, outdoor slide-out BBQ and a double bed which can be split into 2 single beds.

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour

Te Pa Tu Cultural Hangi & Concert

Polynesian Spa: Deluxe Lake Spa

Interislander Ferry Crossing

Abel Tasman National Park Cruise and Walk

Puzzling World Wanaka

Shotover Jet Boat Ride

Aj hackett zipride, milford sound nature cruise.

Monarch Wildlife Cruise

• 1 night Auckland
• 2 nights Bay of Islands
• 1 night Waitomo
• 2 nights Rotorua
• 1 night Napier, Hawkes Bay
• 1 night Wellington
• 1 night Kaikoura
• 2 nights Christchurch
• 1 night Greymouth
• 1 night Franz Josef or Fox Glacier
• 2 nights Queenstown
• 2 nights Te Anau
• 1 night Dunedin
• 1 night Lake tekapo
• 1 night Christchurch

Travel Insurance

If you are going overseas, then travel insurance is a necessity. 

International flights can be included from Australia for all Australian residents.

Discover a truly amazing underground labyrinth of ancient limestone caverns & formations and marvel at a galaxy of tiny living lights in the famed Glowworm Grotto. The highlight of your tour is an unrivalled boat trip with your way lit by a myriad of tiny glowworm lights.

Te Pā Tū Maori Village Hangi & Concert

Step into a traditional forest Pā (Maori Village) set within a Tawa forest. View & participate in 4 hours of Hākari ( feasting),  Māori song and dance including the Haka, poi, warrior training, carving & tattooing. The feasting starts with forest horotai (canapes), followed by a sumptuous 3 course fusion banquet; which changes depending on the maramataka (Maori lunar calendar). Each year Te Pā Tū selects a renowned Maori chef to design a new seasonal kai menu in conjunction with our Kaitunu Kai (executive chef). Gluten free and vegetarian requirements can be catered for, but not vegan and some other requests.

Relax in one of five Deluxe Lake Spas looking over Lake Rotorua and gardens. With four shallow alkaline mineral hot pools from Rachel Spring; and a further one acidic mineral pool from Priest Spring; as well as a cold plunge pool; you can alternate by bathing in pools of different temperatures for the best hot-cold hydrotherapy detox. The Deluxe Lake Spa also has geothermally heated pool recliners, with premium changing rooms.

Cruise the length of the spectacular Abel Tasman coastline to Totaranui, viewing the fascinating Seal Colony at Tonga Island Marine Reserve along the way. You will return to the golden expanse of Anchorage Beach to walk 3hrs 30mins (11.5kms, 7 miles) along the easiest section of the coast track, with spectacular views over Tasman Bay. The track winds through sunny Kanuka forest with hidden fern grottos and crystal mountain streams. 

Puzzling World, Wanaka

Ideal for all the family, Puzzling World has entertained children, teenagers and adults alike ever since it opened in 1973. Make sure you visit the Illusion rooms where reality is challenged by shrinking rooms, holograms and gravity defying sculptures. Explore the world first 3D maze, or have your mind stretched by the brain-teasers in the huge Puzzle Café.

New Zealand's most iconic & popular activity. Take a unique, breathtaking & adrenalin filled ride through dramatic & narrow canyons, and hold on tight as for exhilarating 360 degree spins.

Do you want to raise the level of fun, then this zipline allows you to ride upside down or backwards. Suitable for all the family, AJ Hackett Ziprides has 3 parallel ziplines that allows up to 6 family members from 8 years of age upwards to experience the ride at one time. 8 & 9 year olds must ride tandem with an adult.

Get up close & personal with Milford Sound on this leisurely nature cruise. Experience the spray of a waterfall as you cruise close to sheer rock faces or watch out for dolphins, seals and in season, the rare Fiordland blue crested penguins.

Nature’s Wonders Argo Wildlife Tour

Take a unique wildlife adventure to view Yellow-eyed Penguins, Blue Penguins and New Zealand fur seals in their breeding habitat, travelling on an Argo 8 wheel drive all-terrain vehicle on the Reid family farm. Get up close and personal with nature, whilst taking in the spectacular coastal views, private beaches.

Entry into the International Antarctic Centre

An award-winning attraction, packed with interactive & fun exhibits for everyone! Play in 'Antarctica' - the Snow & Ice experience, survive an Antarctic Storm, ride the Hagglund & see Little Blue Penguins.

Book this self drive tour below

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New Zealand motorhome holidays & tours

Escorted and independent caravan and motorhome holidays

Speak to an expert or call us on 01342 488 060

• Worldwide holidays
• Worldwide tours
• New Zealand caravan and motorhome tours

Explore the 'land of the long white cloud' from £5,899pp

Hike like Frodo Baggins to Mordor (Tongariro National Park) for incredible views of snow-capped mountains or walk along the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers. Exploring New Zealand on a tour means that you can experience as much of the island as possible in one trip!

Don’t miss Lake Taupo’s postcard views or try a glass (or two) of Sauvignon from the Marlborough Vineyards. Did you know, that there are more sheep in New Zealand than there are people? You'll never be far from nature on a New Zealand motorhome tour!

Our escorted and independent tours

Passage through New Zealand

32 day independent motorhome tour from £7,599pp*.

Travel all year round in 2024 and 2025

Experience the best that New Zealand has to offer on this independent rail and road tour.

New Zealand Discovery

36 day escorted motorhome tour from £8,799pp*.

Travel on selected dates in 2024 and 2025

Discover snow-capped mountains, volcanoes and stunning coastlines - explore the unique Maori culture on this escorted tour.

Ultimate New Zealand

56 day escorted motorhome tour from £15,999pp*.

Tour departs 1 February 2025

Explore everything New Zealand has to offer on this once-in-a-lifetime tour

Grand New Zealand

38 day independent caravan tour from £6,999pp*.

Experience otherworldly landscapes and get to know the real Middle-earth on this epic journey through New Zealand.

Wonders of New Zealand

23 day independent motorhome tour from £5,899pp*.

Travel all year round 2024

From Auckland to Christchurch - explore the Wonders of New Zealand on this independent motorhome adventure.

South Island Discovery

32 day independent motorhome tour from £7,299pp*.

Explore the best of New Zealand’s South Island on this 32 day independent tour around the Island.

North Island Discovery

31 day independent motorhome tour from £7,699pp*.

Travel all year round 2024 and 2025

Experience the very best that New Zealand’s North Island has to offer on this 31 day independent motorhome tour that starts and finishes in Auckland.

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Our in-house team of travel experts have got the knowledge and expertise to help you build your perfect holiday. Find out more about our fantastic team.

Tailor make your holiday

We can tailor make your holiday with flights, excursions and stopovers, to name a few! Take a look at your options for a personalised holiday.

Information

Top tip:  You can only park in the direction of traffic on your side of the road; if you’re caught parallel parking on the wrong side of the road you can be fined, or worse – towed!  Read more New Zealand travelling tips .

The holidays to New Zealand are provided by Alan Rogers Travel Ltd, a subsidiary of the Caravan and Motorhome Club. ATOL No.11309

Tips and advice for touring all year

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We've partnered with motorhome hire companies in our tour destinations to make sure you have comfortable, stress-free accommodation.

Everything you’ll want to pack for your campervan trip in New Zealand

Many people love to travel by campervan in Aotearoa New Zealand.

They provide great flexibility, allow you to enjoy our world-renowned scenery and can be super convenient.

Though hire campers tend to come with bedding, towels, basic cooking supplies, cutlery and a heater, you’ll feel much more comfortable by adding a few affordable supplies to your stash.

What should you pack for your campervan rental though?

We recently asked the members of our Facebook community to share their tried-and-tested packing tips, and we’re pleased to share these with you.

Did you know? Though a campervan is a converted van and a motorhome is a custom-built van (that’s often larger), we tend to use the term campervan, camper and motorhome interchangeably in New Zealand. This article relates to them all … portable accommodation and transport combined.

Table of contents

Campervan packing list

The following items are recommended by people who travel frequently in motorhomes.

We suggest you look through the list and pick and choose the items that you feel you’ll make good use of.

When you book through our links, you’ll often get a discount and we may earn a commission. Your support also allows us to run our Facebook community and create helpful content at no cost to you. Thank you!

• soft-shell bags (not hardshell suitcases) as they’re easier to store
• packing cells to transfer your gear into campervan storage
• pegs to hang clothes (and also close food packets and pull curtains together)
• travel clothesline (many don’t even need pegs)
• mesh bag for dirty clothes
• laundry liquid
• bar of laundry soap (for quick handwashing)
• $1 and $2 coins for washers/dryers

Bedding & manchester

• airbed or mattress topper to make your bed more comfortable
• comfortable pillows, blankets etc (optional as these are generally supplied)
• small towels for the floor – perfect for after a shower and to keep the entrance dry/clean
• microfibre/ Turkish cotton towels – perfect for swimming and they dry quickly
• reusable plastic containers for leftovers
• ziplock bags and/or gladwrap
• rubbish bags
• salt, pepper, oil and spices
• coffee plunger or machine
• dishwashing liquid
• paper towels and/or tea towels (to stop things sliding when driving)
• non-stick frying pan (the ones supplied often aren’t very good)
• sharp knifes
• rubber gloves

Electronics

• power board, allowing you to charge multiple devices quickly
• extension cord
• 12v cigarette lighter charger
• phone holder for driving

Camper-friendly clothing

• slip-on shoes like jandals or crocs – great for wearing around the campground and in communal showers
• warm socks/slippers

Optional extras

• chamois cloth for wiping moisture off windows when it gets really cold outside – especially in the winter
• insect repellent
• scented candles/air fresheners
• fairy lights
• torch/flashlight/headlamp
• pen/pencil/paper
• supermarket shopping bags
• mini sewing kit
• mini first-aid kit (including plasters, paracetamol, burn cream)
• playing cards
• camping chairs
• extra toilet paper
• hot water bottle
• 2-3L bottles (to fill with drinkable water at dump sites if freedom camping)
• large plastic container/dish pan
• disposable gloves for dumping grey water and waste
• brush and shovel set
• lumbar support roll if anyone gets a sore back while driving

Also, check that your camper comes with:

• a good gas or diesel heater
• toilet chemicals.

Where to purchase your campervan gear

If you’re travelling from within New Zealand, you’ll likely have a lot of this equipment at home already – lucky you!

If you’re coming from overseas, you’ll probably want to pick up some of these items locally.

Remember though, this list is not designed as a complete must-have collection – don’t race out and buy everything on it.

Think about what you will actually use and what will make your life easier/better on the road – those are the things that are worth picking up.

We recommend checking out the following stores for affordable gear:

• The Warehouse
• Mitre 10/Mitre 10 MEGA
• Hammer Hardware (more common on smaller towns)
• One of our supermarkets
• Costco (if you’re in Auckland and you’re happy to buy in bulk)
• Op-shops/second-hand stores (like SPCA Op Shop and Dove Hospice Shop)
• You could also check Trademe and Facebook marketplace for second-hand equipment.

Keen to hire a motorhome in New Zealand?

You’ll want to read this!

Founder of one of Aotearoa's most popular and helpful Facebook travel planning groups, Sarah shares reliable information and discounts around New Zealand. As an experienced tour guide, travel writer and airline reservations consultant, she enjoys bringing you the best of New Zealand.

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When is the Best Time to Tour New Zealand in A Camper Van?

22nd January 2020 Leanne Edwards -->

One of the all-important parts of any holiday planning is thinking about the weather.  When it comes to planning your camper van holiday in New Zealand, when is the best time to hit the road?

Well, to a certain extent it depends on what you want to see and what you want to do.  Oh, and what temperatures you want to be hitting on your road trip.  One of the best times to travel around New Zealand is from early November to late April – this is largely because the temperatures are warmer then.

Peak Season in New Zealand

December to February is summer time in New Zealand, and therefore is the high season for holidays on the islands.  Of course, with the warm weather and festival season in full swing, it will also be pretty busy around lots of tourist spots so make sure you plan your itinerary and be prepared to get up early!

Average maximum temperature ranges between 20 – 30 degrees Celsius, so perfect weather for soaking up the sun, and maybe having a go at learning to surf.

Off Season in New Zealand

Autumn and spring are less busy months, and are also still pretty warm, especially in March and April.

In the autumn, both islands experience some of the most settled weather of the entire year.  Temperatures range from 7 to 21 degrees Celsius, which is perfect for getting stuck into some serious outdoor adventure sports like hiking, cycling, or kayaking.

Orca whales and dolphins visit  Wellington’s  coast during the autumn months, so we recommend taking your camper van to the waterfront and keep a look out!

Winter Fun!

June to August is winter in New Zealand, and one of the great benefits is that the roads and attractions are much, much quieter.  It might be chiller in your campervan, but some of our quirky campers have heaters or log burners to keep you super toasty.  

The South Island is less rainy in the winter, but temperatures are likely to be less than 10 degrees.  You might be warmer in the North Island at around 15 degrees, but you will likely experience more wet weather.

Of course, with winter comes snow, so this is the perfect time to try out snowboarding or skiing; both the North and the South Islands have great terrain for everyone from beginners to more seasoned skiers!  

An alternative winter activity is doing some whale spotting.  June and July, the very peak of winter in New Zealand, is when whales are at the peak of their migration period, and your chances of spotting them are really high.  

In short, we don’t think there’s a bad time come visit us in New Zealand – the best season will just depend on what activities you like do and what kind of holiday you want to have. Summer at the beach in the north or winter on the slopes in the south?  What we do know, is that if you’re in a camper van, you’ll be having an absolutely awesome road trip, whatever time of year you travel around!

Ready to start planning your New Zealand campervan road trip? Take a look at our campervans for hire .

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