Packed full of breath taking scenery and exhilarating activities, New Zealand promises a memorable travelling experience. There is no better way to explore all that this remarkable country has to offer than by campervan.
Travelling around New Zealand by campervan gives you the freedom to tailor-make your trip. You may want to plan a detailed itinerary before you arrive or you may have a more relaxed approach and go wherever the road takes you! A week on the North Island would give you time to enjoy the popular route from Taupo to the Bay of Islands, taking in geological wonders, stunning beaches and the vibrant city of Auckland. In a similar number of days on the South Island, you could tour Christchurch, Mount Cook and Queenstown – combining spectacular mountains, coast and adventure sports.
Remember that you’re not restricted to one island. You can take your campervan across Cook Strait, between the North and South Islands, on the ferry. The route operates between Wellington on the North Island and Picton on the South Island. The 92 kilometre journey takes three hours and offers some fantastic scenery.
In every town and along major routes, you’ll find holiday parks and camping grounds that will provide everything from a power supply to laundry facilities. In the thermal areas such as Rotorua, many sites even have their own spas! When you rent your campervan, pick up a map with campsite listings. Outside of towns and cities freedom camping is generally permitted, meaning you can park overnight on public conservation land. Signs will inform you if camping is prohibited.
New Zealand is famous for the range of adventure sports on offer. If you’re looking for an adrenalin rush, you’ll find skydiving, bungee jumping, ziplining, and quad-biking operators across the country. Queenstown and Taupo are hot-spots for extreme sports.
The beaches of New Zealand are renowned for their beauty and variety. If you’re visiting the Coromandel Peninsula, check out Hot Water Beach. Dig a hole to feel the thermally heated water bubbling through the sand. Piha beach is the country’s surfing Mecca and for simply stunning views, Ninety Mile Beach can’t be beaten.
Foodies and wine buffs travelling by campervan should also keep their eyes peeled. Look out for signs along your route as many local food producers welcome visitors. From macadamia orchards to geothermal prawn farms, there are fantastic places to pick up some fresh food to cook in your campervan. Many of New Zealand’s vineyards offer wine tasting, tours, and restaurants. Make sure you park up for the night before sampling too much of the produce!
Whatever you choose to do, campervan hire NZ ensures that you never need to worry about your accommodation. Choosing to travel by campervan gives you flexibility to experience this beautiful country in your own way.