Auckland

Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, is a hub of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Nestled between two stunning harbours, the city is also referred to as ‘The City of Sails’. From swimming and surfing to cruises and kayaking, it’s the place to be for fun on the water. But there are plenty of great things to do in Auckland for land lovers too, with fantastic hikes and bush walks, beautiful gardens, and plenty of shopping and sightseeing.

At the heart of Auckland’s appeal is its unique blend of urban and natural attractions. Take a stroll through the picturesque Viaduct Harbour, visit the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views, or immerse yourself in the rich Māori heritage at the Auckland Museum. Auckland combines city excitement with stunning natural landscapes, offering an unforgettable experience for every traveller. So, get ready to explore, discover, and create lasting memories in this remarkable city.

With your Apollo campervan, you can easily extend your city explorations and head out on one of the many Auckland day trips to discover pristine beaches, lush forests, and scenic vineyards. Drive to the black sand beaches of Piha, surround yourself in birdsong and native bush in the Waitākere Ranges, or take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day of wine tasting and relaxation.

Why explore Auckland by campervan?

Exploring Auckland by campervan is a fantastic way to see the best of the region at your own pace. With an Apollo campervan, you have everything you need for the journey right there with you. No more unpacking and repacking at every stop – just hop in and go! You can start your day with a coffee by the beach, then head off for a spot of shopping or explore more Auckland attractions. The next day, you may like to discover the stunning black sand beaches of the west coast, hike the trails in the Waitākere Ranges, or enjoy a leisurely picnic in a quiet park. With a campervan, you can simply wake up and decide which awesome Auckland attractions you’ll tick off your list today!

Apollo’s campervans are designed with comfort and convenience in mind, so you can rest assured that you’ll have everything you need for a smooth journey. Motorhome travel also means you can fully embrace the spontaneity and adventure of an Auckland campervan holiday. Whether you’re exploring the city shops or heading out on a day trip, a campervan gives you the flexibility to make the most of your trip.

Things to do in Auckland

Auckland offers loads of fun activities and attractions, making it an excellent destination for campervan travellers. Start your journey at the iconic Sky Tower, where you can take in the panoramic views of the city and beyond. For a cultural experience, visit the Auckland Museum to learn more about New Zealand’s history and Māori heritage. Explore the hot spots in the city, such as the stylish cafes and boutiques in Ponsonby or Britomart. For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Mission Bay, where you can walk along the beach and dine at waterfront restaurants. For family-friendly Auckland tourist attractions, the Auckland Zoo and SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium are must-visits.

Outdoor adventurers will find plenty of things to do in Auckland. Explore the rugged beauty of the Hunua Ranges with its scenic hiking trails and waterfalls, or head to the east coast beaches like Tāwharanui for a day of swimming and sunbathing. For a unique experience, take a ferry to Rangitoto Island and hike to the summit of this iconic volcanic cone for stunning views of the city and beyond. The island's unique lava fields and native forest provide a fascinating landscape for exploration.

Alyssa Tresider / Saturday, 20 January 2024

/ Categories: NZ blog

The best campgrounds in Queenstown

Queenstown is an absolute must-do destination for anyone exploring New Zealand by motorhome rental. And with Apollo’s South Island campervan branch located in Christchurch, it’s also the ideal destination for a South Island road trip.

If you’re planning to explore New Zealand’s ‘adventure capital’, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance. To help you get started, we’ve put together this handy guide to the best camping grounds and holiday parks in Queenstown.

What’s Queenstown known for?

Nestled on the shores of the crystal-clear Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps, Queenstown's landscape is a playground for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

The town is a magnet for adrenaline junkies with activities like bungy jumping, jet boating, mountain biking, paragliding, skydiving, and more, all on offer. There’s plenty for those who enjoy a more relaxed pace too, including lake cruises, hiking, scenic flights, lakeside lunches, and family fun.

Queenstown also offers a rich cultural scene, with a bustling town centre that boasts an array of boutique shops, world-class restaurants, and cosy cafes. The town's unique blend of natural beauty, adventure sports, and lively culture make for an unforgettable New Zealand travel itinerary.

What’s the best way to explore Queenstown?

The most exciting way to discover Queenstown’s stunning beauty and awesome attractions is by exploring in an Apollo campervan. Whether you're chasing the adventure seeking the time out and tranquillity, a campervan provides the freedom and flexibility to tailor your journey to your personal tastes and your own pace.

With a campervan hire from Apollo, you can seamlessly transition from an exhilarating day out on the water to a peaceful evening under the stars by Lake Wakatipu. All while having a comfortable and convenient home on wheels.

Campervan rental is all about creating a personalised New Zealand itinerary that suits your pace and preferences. Wake up to the breathtaking views of Queenstown's lakeside each morning or find a secluded spot to watch the sunset over the mountains.

With a motorhome, you have the luxury of making spontaneous decisions, whether it’s stopping at a hidden gem off the beaten track or extending your stay to fully immerse yourself in the local culture.

Apollo’s range of motorhomes and campervans are equipped with all the essentials, ensuring your adventures in Queenstown are as comfortable as they are memorable.

Image: Miles Holden

The best camping grounds in Queenstown

When it comes to finding the perfect spot to park your campervan or motorhome, Queenstown has some excellent options. Here are our top picks:

1. Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park

Located in the heart of Queenstown, Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park offers a prime spot for those exploring the area by campervan. This holiday park is a perfect blend of convenience and scenic beauty, located just a short walk from the bustling town centre while offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Wakatipu.

For campervan travellers, Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park has everything you need including barbecue facilities, a communal kitchen, and laundry facilities. Plus, the park’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring Queenstown's numerous attractions. And if you fancy dinner out, you're just a stone's throw away from a great selection of restaurants and cafes.

2. Creeksyde Holiday Park

Just a five-minute walk from the centre of town, Creeksyde Holiday Park is the perfect spot to park up. Tucked beside the charming Horne Creek, it's a little oasis of calm right next to all the action. You get the best of both worlds here – a peaceful garden setting to chill out in and all the excitement of Queenstown just around the corner.

The park is kitted out with excellent facilities for campervan travellers. Think well-equipped communal kitchens for when you fancy cooking up a storm, and handy laundry facilities – a real bonus when you're on the road for a while.

You’ll also find Wi-Fi coverage across the park, perfect for planning your adventures or just catching up online. After a day out, the spa bath and sauna are there to help you relax and recharge.

3. Arrowtown Holiday Park

Tucked away in the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown, Arrowtown Holiday Park is a gem for campervan travellers looking for a blend of history and natural beauty.

Just a short 20-minute drive from Queenstown, this park offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle, allowing you to immerse yourself in the charm and character of Arrowtown.

Surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery and with the Arrow River nearby, it's a spot that captures the essence of the South Island's picturesque landscapes.

Arrowtown Holiday Park is all about making you feel right at home – only better! Make use of the barbecue and kitchen facilities, laundry, tennis court, and bike hire.

Stepping out of the holiday park, you'll find yourself in the heart of Arrowtown, a town rich in history and charm. Stroll down the tree-lined streets, explore the quaint shops, and soak up the town's gold rush heritage. You're also nice and handy to stunning walking and cycling trails, perfect for experiencing the natural beauty of the region.

4. Kingston TOP 10 Holiday Park

Sitting at the southern end of Lake Wakatipu, Kingston TOP 10 Holiday Park is a popular spot for campervan travellers seeking lakeside serenity with easy access to Queenstown's adventures.

This award-winning holiday park, recognised for its commitment to hospitality excellence, stands out with its traveller-friendly amenities. The heart of the park is the log kitchen/TV lounge, a fully equipped communal space where you can cook, dine, and relax. After preparing your meal, you can unwind on the comfy couches and catch up on some TV.

For outdoor dining and socialising, the log barbecue area is perfect. It offers three large barbecues with free gas and an outdoor flare fireplace. The park also caters to kids with a dedicated area in the corner of the kitchen and a trampoline for them to enjoy. Additionally, there are two children’s playgrounds just outside the park.

The township of Kingston offers its own set of charms, including leisurely walks along the lake and the historic Kingston Flyer steam train. For cycling enthusiasts, the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail is a must-do.

5. Queenstown TOP 10 Holiday Park

Queenstown TOP 10 Holiday Park, located in the picturesque Arthurs Point, is a mere seven minutes drive from the centre of Queenstown. This family-friendly holiday park is set in a stunning alpine environment, offering a peaceful yet convenient base for exploring the region.

It’s also handy for popular activities like the Shotover Jet and the Shotover Canyon Swing. And with the added convenience of free shuttles into town, it's an ideal location for those wanting to experience the best of Queenstown.

Whether you're looking to relax in the natural beauty of the area or seeking the thrills of Queenstown's adventure activities, Queenstown TOP 10 Holiday Park is perfectly positioned to offer the best of both worlds.

6. Mrs Woolley’s Campground

Take a drive along one of New Zealand’s most scenic stretches of road to Mrs Woolley’s Campground. Here, you’ll find a unique camping experience in the heart of Glenorchy, surrounded by magnificent mountains and scenery.

This campground, part of The Headwaters Group and deeply integrated into the Glenorchy community, is conveniently located and just a short walk from the lakefront and the lagoon boardwalk. And because the campground is right next door to Mrs Woolly’s General Store, you’ll also have easy access to delicious coffee, food, ice-creams, and essential supplies.

The campground boasts a range of sites, including unpowered and powered options for campervans, set against one of the most stunning backdrops in New Zealand. The facilities at Mrs Woolley’s are modern and clean, ensuring a comfortable stay. Campers can enjoy hot showers, a full kitchen, and a kids' playground, all maintained to a high standard.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Looking for things to do in Queenstown?

Whether you're seeking heart-pumping excitement or some well-earned R&R, Queenstown's diverse offerings ensure your visit will be unforgettable. Here are a few top picks worth adding to your New Zealand itinerary:

For stunning views, take the Skyline gondola up Bob's Peak. The panoramic vistas of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkables are breathtaking. Don't forget to try the luge ride at the top for a bit of fun!
No visit to Queenstown is complete without a meal at Fergburger, a local icon known for serving up some of the best burgers in New Zealand. Be prepared for a queue, but it's worth the wait!
Explore the stunning landscapes of Queenstown on foot. With a range of walks and hikes suitable for all fitness levels, you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
Enjoy a day visiting local vineyards and tasting some of the region's exquisite wines. It's a perfect way to experience the scenic countryside and discover the flavours of the local terroir.
For a unique experience, visit the Queenstown Ice Bar. It's a cool way to enjoy some drinks and chill out in a bar made entirely of ice, offering a truly unique atmosphere and experience.

Need more ideas? Check out our handy guide to some of the best things to do in Queenstown. And if you need more inspiration for your South Island travels, here are a few great itineraries worth checking out:

Ready to explore Queenstown?

Whether it's wandering through Queenstown's lively town centre, packed with unique shops and eateries, or embracing the great outdoors with activities like bungee jumping, skiing, or cruising on Lake Wakatipu, your ultimate Queenstown experience awaits!

Keen to dive into the excitement and beauty that Queenstown has to offer? Kick off your awesome New Zealand road trip by booking your Apollo campervan online.

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Popular Auckland day trips & itineraries

The City of Sails is the perfect starting point for some unforgettable Auckland day trips. With an Apollo campervan, you have the freedom to explore whenever the mood strikes. How about a visit to the charming town of Matakana with its boutique vineyards and local markets? Or, head south to the iconic Hobbiton for a magical experience in the heart of Middle-earth. For an adventure underground, the Waitomo Caves offer stunning glowworm displays and limestone formations. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a longer journey, our itineraries will help you make the most of your campervan holiday in New Zealand. Check out our suggested routes and start planning your journey today!