New Zealand is a dream destination for travellers who love open roads, dramatic landscapes, and the freedom to explore at their own pace. From the snow-capped peaks of the South Island to the subtropical beaches of the north, New Zealand is perfect for campervan adventures.
Today, we’re looking into everything you need to know about making the most of a road trip through New Zealand, no matter whether you’re planning a short getaway or an epic cross-country expedition.
Few countries are as perfectly designed for campervan travel as New Zealand. The distances are manageable, the highways are well-maintained and easy to drive along, and the campsites are abundant. With so many natural wonders close together, a campervan lets you pivot your plans within a second - one night you can wake up by a beach, the next you’ll be in the shadow of a glacier.
Campervanning is also a cost-effective way to travel. Accommodation in cities like Queenstown or Auckland can be pricey, but with a campervan, your accommodation and transport are rolled into one. This makes it a popular choice for backpackers, families, and couples alike.
New Zealand is a wonderfully wide country with plenty of routes to choose from. Some of the most popular campervan routes include:
Start in Auckland and head south to Rotorua, where geothermal activity bubbles all around and the Māori culture comes to life. Travel even further south and explore the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park, which are famous for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This is one of the world’s best day hikes, so make the most of it! Don’t skip Wellington, either, which is New Zealand’s vibrant capital, before catching the ferry across the Cook Strait.
From Picton, journey down the rural west coast, where you’ll find an abundance of rainforests and glaciers. Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences, from guided walks to helicopter tours. Continue south to Queenstown, where bungy jumping, skydiving, and jet boating are all offered. There’s a reason why it’s called the adrenaline capital! End your journey in Fiordland National Park, cruising along the majestic Milford Sound.
If you’ve got extra time, head north from Auckland to the Bay of Islands. This is a subtropical paradise with over 140 islands to explore, so no matter how much time you’ve got, you won’t run out of places to explore! On the South Island, the Catlins region offers gorgeous windswept coastlines, hidden waterfalls, and a slower pace compared to the more popular tourist routes.
When planning your New Zealand road trip, there are several things you should consider to make sure your trip is smooth sailing, stress-free, and (most importantly) enjoyable. These include:
Here are our practical tips for exploring the world for the first time in a campervan:
Now you know some tips and tricks to help you get started on your New Zealand road trip, it’s time to start planning and getting excited! Find cheap rates on campervan rentals across NZ and get your itinerary ready - the Great Outdoors is waiting for you.
