5 things I thought I'd hate about campervan travel (and what actually happened)
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Dunedin & Central Otago

A New Zealand campervan holiday to Dunedin and Central Otago offers a truly unique travel experience. Situated on the southeastern coast of the South Island, Dunedin is known for its Scottish heritage and Victorian and Edwardian architecture, while Central Otago, a short drive inland, offers dramatic landscapes characterised by rugged mountains, rolling plains, and crystal-clear lakes. Dunedin is a city that prides itself on its educational and cultural richness, home to the prestigious University of Otago and an array of museums and galleries. Dunedin’s weather can be cooler than other parts of New Zealand, with crisp, clear days perfect for exploring the historic streets or nearby natural attractions.

Central Otago offers a stark contrast with its semi-arid terrain, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as biking along the Otago Central Rail Trail and wine tasting at some of New Zealand's highest altitude vineyards. The region's dry climate and dramatic seasonal changes serve as a stunning backdrop for adventure and relaxation alike. Park up overnight in a Dunedin holiday park or find a secluded spot near one of Central Otago's picturesque lakes. With the convenience of your campervan, you can comfortably switch between urban exploration in Dunedin and remote escapes in the wilds of Otago. Whether you're drawn to Dunedin's cultural scene or the rugged beauty of Otago’s outdoors, this region promises a memorable experience.

 

Why explore Dunedin & Central Otago by campervan

Exploring Dunedin and Central Otago by campervan is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the region's unique blend of cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. With a campervan, you dictate the pace and path of your journey. In Dunedin, you can easily navigate from the bustling shopping centre to quiet, windswept beaches along the Otago Peninsula. In Central Otago, the freedom to roam allows you to discover hidden gems, from secluded vineyards to historic gold mining towns, all at your own pace. The ability to spontaneously decide where to go next, from a morning exploring Dunedin’s architectural marvels to an afternoon tasting pinot noirs amidst the hills of Central Otago, is a true luxury.

Travelling by campervan not only offers all the comforts of home, including your own kitchen, bed, and living space but also saves you the hassle of packing and unpacking at each new destination. Plus, having your own facilities means you’re never far from a homecooked meal or a comfortable bed, even if you find yourself in the remote reaches of the region.

 

Things to do in Dunedin & Central Otago

Dunedin and Central Otago abound with diverse attractions, blending rich history with exhilarating outdoor pursuits and gourmet experiences. In Dunedin, discover the opulence of Larnach Castle or engage with local history at the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum. For wildlife lovers, the area offers close encounters with unique species like the yellow-eyed penguin. Moving inland to Central Otago, you can hit the scenic cycle trails, savour exquisite pinot noirs at local vineyards, or try gold panning in Cromwell. Activities like water sports on Lake Dunstan also offer plenty of thrills, ensuring every traveller finds something to cherish.

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: NZ blog

5 things I thought I'd hate about campervan travel (and what actually happened)

Katie Hurst has spent years exploring New Zealand by campervan and knows that first-time campervan road trips come with plenty of questions. In this blog, she reflects on her own early doubts – from driving worries to sleeping in a small space – and shares what actually happened once she hit the road. If you're on the fence about hiring a campervan, her honest take might just give you the nudge you need. 

I’ll admit it – when I booked my first campervan hire, I was curious but cautious. I loved the idea of the open road, waking up beside lakes and beaches, and setting my own pace. But I also had questions. Was I really going to be comfortable living out of a compact mobile space for a week? Would I sleep well? Would I even be able to drive the thing? 

Social media makes van life look effortlessly idyllic – morning coffee with mountain views, perfectly parked vans in remote bays, and people who somehow look fresh after days without a proper bathroom. It’s inspiring, but it also sets the bar high. 

So I went into that first trip with a mix of excitement and hesitation. And what I found was that the things I worried about most weren’t problems at all. Here are five things I thought I’d struggle with – and the unexpected ways they turned out to be highlights. 

 

I thought I'd hate the lack of space and privacy

Expectation: 
Before the trip, I was genuinely unsure how two people (plus all our stuff) were going to live comfortably in a campervan for a week. I imagined it feeling cramped and chaotic – like sharing a tent, but with a fridge and wheels. I worried about bumping into each other constantly, having no personal space, and nowhere to retreat when I needed a moment alone. The idea of always being ‘on’ didn’t sound very relaxing. 

Reality: 
The reality was completely different. I was surprised by how cleverly designed our campervan was – everything had its place, and the layout made it feel much more spacious than I expected. Comfy seats, smart storage, and even the option to set up an awning outside gave us flexibility and room to breathe. We naturally fell into a rhythm: outside during the day, winding down inside in the evenings. New Zealand’s incredible landscapes quickly became our lounge, dining room, and reading nook all in one. 

Having our own bathroom on board made a huge difference too – not just for comfort, but for privacy. Most Apollo vehicles in New Zealand come with a bathroom, which means no dashing across a campsite in the middle of the night or awkwardly queueing in jandals. And for downtime? Curtains or window coverings helped us feel like we had our own little sanctuary, even when parked near others. 

Top tip: 
If you’re travelling with someone, build in little pockets of solo time – like taking a walk while the other cooks dinner, or listening to music with headphones while parked up for the night. It’s amazing how even 20 minutes of ‘me time’ makes the shared space feel easier. 

 

I thought driving a big vehicle would be stressful

Expectation: 
Before the trip, I was more nervous about the driving than I wanted to admit. I hadn’t driven anything bigger than a hatchback, so the idea of handling a campervan – especially on narrow rural roads or in busy towns – felt pretty intimidating. I worried about scraping it on something, holding up traffic, or just feeling completely out of my depth behind the wheel. And then there was the thought of long stretches of highway driving and how tiring that might be. 

Reality: 
Turns out, campervans are much easier to drive than I expected. After a quick practice run around the block, I felt surprisingly confident. Most Apollo rentals include a full walkthrough before you hit the road, with tips on how to manage the size, use the mirrors, and reverse safely (mine even had a reverse camera – lifesaver). 

Outside of major cities, New Zealand roads are generally quiet – especially midweek or outside peak season – and we found the slower pace actually made the whole trip feel more relaxed. There were heaps of places to pull over, take breaks, and snap photos, which broke up the driving nicely. 

Auto-transmission also helped keep things simple, and before long, I wasn’t even thinking about the size of the vehicle anymore. The road trip became less about the logistics and more about the journey (that one use of the word – promise!). 

READ MORE: Is it hard to drive a campervan in NZ? 

 

I was dreading finding overnight parking

Expectation: 
Before the trip, I pictured myself aimlessly driving around at dusk, tired and hangry, desperately trying to find a legal and safe spot to park. I’d heard all the cautionary tales – fines for parking in the wrong place, being moved on in the middle of the night, or ending up squished in a carpark next to a noisy highway. I assumed overnight parking would be one of the most stressful parts of the whole campervan experience. 

Reality: 
It turned out to be one of the easiest. Between Apollo’s helpful guides and using the thl Roadtrip app, I had plenty of options at my fingertips – from well-equipped holiday parks to peaceful DOC campgrounds, and even some free campsites with million-dollar views. 

In peak season, I’d book a night or two in advance, especially in popular areas, but outside the busy periods, we were able to stay flexible and plan as we went. It actually became something I looked forward to each afternoon – checking the app, choosing a spot that suited our mood (beach? forest? lakefront?), and knowing we had everything we needed with us. 

 

I expected to sleep poorly and miss the comforts of home 

Expectation: 
I’ll be honest – I didn’t have high hopes for sleep. I pictured a thin, fold-out mattress, strange campsite noises, light pouring in at sunrise, and a general sense of discomfort. I expected to miss my bed, my couch, even my kitchen. Basically, all the familiar little things that make home feel like home. 

Reality: 
I was genuinely surprised by how comfortable the bed was. Many motorhomes – including ours – come with proper mattresses and blackout blinds, which made a big difference. I slept better than I expected, often lulled to sleep by the sounds of a nearby river or waves in the distance. 

It helped that we brought a few creature comforts – a soft blanket from home, cosy PJs, and my favourite pillow. Those small touches turned the camper into something that felt more personal and relaxing. Evenings were slower and simpler – a book, a chat, maybe some stargazing – and without all the usual distractions, I actually found I slept more deeply than I had in weeks. 

Top tip: 
Pack like you’re going on a comfy weekend away – not a survival mission. A couple of familiar items from home can go a long way in making your camper feel like your own little retreat on wheels. Bonus: nothing beats making your morning coffee with a lake view. 

 

I thought I’d struggle with keeping the temperature comfortable

Expectation: 
This was a big one for me. I was sure I’d be freezing at night or overheating during the day – maybe both in the same 24 hours. I imagined a stuffy little space that held onto heat in summer and turned icy as soon as the sun disappeared. I’d heard stories of condensation dripping from the ceiling and waking up with cold feet and a foggy camper. 

Reality: 
What I didn’t realise was how well-equipped modern campervans actually are. Ours had a built-in diesel heater that kept things toasty, even during a frosty morning in the mountains. And on warmer days, we opened the windows for airflow and used the insect screens to keep things fresh without letting the bugs in. Some campervans also come with a shade awning, which makes a huge difference on sunny afternoons. 

We also picked a season that worked for us – spring – which meant mild days and crisp, clear nights. Layering clothes, parking in the right spot, and taking advantage of campsite amenities (hello hot showers and shared kitchens) made it all feel easy and comfortable. 

Top tip: 
If you’re worried about temperature, check whether your camper comes with heating and good ventilation before you book. A few smart adjustments – and knowing when to throw on an extra layer – made the whole experience much more enjoyable and helped us settle into the natural rhythm of life on the road. 

 

The final verdict

Looking back, most of the things I was worried about never really happened – or if they did, they were far less of a big deal than I’d imagined. The space felt comfortable, driving wasn’t stressful, and I slept better than I do at home some nights. What I thought would be challenges ended up being part of what made the trip so memorable. 

Hiring a campervan turned out to be one of the best travel decisions I’ve made. It gave me a new sense of confidence, connected me with nature in a way that no hotel ever could, and created the kind of memories that stick with you long after the trip ends – early morning swims, quiet evenings under the stars, and the joy of changing plans on a whim. 

If you’re on the fence about giving campervan travel a go, I say do it. Whether it’s a weekend escape or a full-blown New Zealand road trip, the flexibility is part of the magic. The route might change, the weather might surprise you, but the journey? Always worth it. 

 

Ready to give it a go?

If you’ve been wondering whether campervan travel is really for you, hopefully this has shown that it’s not just doable – it’s one of the most rewarding ways to see New Zealand. Whether you're planning a short escape or a longer road trip, it gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, stay closer to nature, and make the journey just as memorable as the destination. Book your Apollo campervan online today and start planning your own roadie – you might be surprised by how quickly the open road wins you over. 

 

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Popular Dunedin & Central Otago road trips & itineraries

Dunedin and Central Otago, situated in the southern part of New Zealand's South Island, are regions steeped in natural beauty and cultural richness. Travelling by campervan allows you to freely explore the varied landscapes – from Dunedin’s rugged coastline to Central Otago’s golden hills – and discover a network of routes dotted with historical sites, quaint towns, and scenic camping spots. Whether cruising through Dunedin’s architectural marvels or winding through the vineyard-clad valleys of Central Otago, each journey is an invitation to delve deeper into the heart of the south. 

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Great savings on your New Zealand road trip

Apollo offers a fantastic selection of deals and specials for those looking to explore New Zealand by campervan. From hot deals and last-minute discounts to long-term hire benefits, you’re sure to find a deal designed to help you make the most of your campervan adventure. 

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Long Hire Offer

Do you love road trips across New Zealand as much as we do? You're in luck with our Long Hire Offer! If you are travelling for more than 21 days, you will receive 5% off daily vehicle rates, if...
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Apollo Campervan branches

Christchurch

Setting out from Apollo's Christchurch branch, the road trip through the Canterbury Plains and alongside the Southern Alps is breathtaking, with stops like Lake Tekapo and the historic town of Oamaru enriching your travel experience. 

Queenstown

Departing from Apollo's Queenstown branch, you're perfectly positioned to explore both the adventurous heart of the South Island and the tranquil beauty of Central Otago before reaching Dunedin. 

Auckland

From Apollo Auckland, the multi-day trip to Dunedin and Central Otago – we suggest 10-14 days – offers a comprehensive tour of the North and South Islands, including crossing the Cook Strait by ferry

Auckland City Skyline

Auckland

New Zealand’s multi-cultural hub of food, music, arts and culture.

 

Christchurch City, New Zealand

Christchurch

 One of the world’s most unique destinations.

 

Queenstown

Breathtaking scenery and adrenaline-pumping adventure activities.

 

Helpful tips for visiting Dunedin & Central Otago

 

Climate and seasons in Dunedin & Central Otago

Dunedin and Central Otago offer distinct climate experiences that reflect the diverse landscapes of the southern part of New Zealand’s South Island.

Dunedin enjoys a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters, tempered by its coastal position.

  • Summer (December to February) are generally mild, with temperatures hovering around 15°C to 22°C, ideal for enjoying outdoor activities along the city’s beaches and exploring the lush Otago Peninsula.

  • Autumn (March to May) sees cooler temperatures and is a great time to witness the changing colours of the city's abundant foliage.

  • Winter (June to August) in Dunedin can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to 5°C to 10°C, but the city’s historical and cultural sites continue to draw visitors.

  • Spring (September to November) rejuvenates the city with mild weather and blossoming gardens, perfect for outdoor adventures before the colder months set in.

Central Otago contrasts sharply with a more continental climate, characterised by hot dry summers and cold winters.

  • Summers see temperatures that can climb above 25°C, making it an excellent time for exploring the region’s famous vineyards and outdoor recreational activities.
  • Autumn brings a dramatic change in landscape colour, particularly vivid in the vineyard areas, with cooler but still pleasant temperatures.
  • Winter sees temperatures often falling below freezing, blanketing the region in snow, which transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland, popular for photography and winter sports.
  • Spring slowly warms up the land, thawing lakes and rivers, and ushering in a season of growth and renewal.

 

 

 

What to pack

Preparing for your campervan adventure in Dunedin and Central Otago requires thoughtful packing to accommodate the varying climates and activities these regions offer. Here’s what to consider bringing along to make the most of your trip:

  • Outdoor gear: Given the diverse environments in Dunedin and Central Otago, versatile outdoor gear is essential. For Dunedin's coastal walks and city explorations, lightweight, breathable clothing will serve you well, complemented by a waterproof jacket for unpredictable showers. Central Otago's more extreme temperatures call for sun hats and high SPF sunscreen in summer, and warm, insulating layers in winter, especially if you plan to engage in snow sports or explore the frosty landscapes.

  • Campervan add-ons: Enhancing your campervan with a few extras can significantly improve your comfort and convenience. A portable heater might be necessary for chilly Central Otago nights, while a fan can keep you cool during the dry summer heat. Additionally, outdoor chairs and a table will expand your living space, perfect for enjoying the scenic views at your leisure.

  • Sun protection: Sun protection is crucial year-round due to New Zealand’s strong UV rays, particularly in the exposed and high-altitude areas of Central Otago. Pack broad-spectrum sunscreen, UV-protective sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. Insect repellent will also be useful, especially in the warmer months when sandflies and mosquitoes are more prevalent.

For more helpful ideas, check out our guide to what to pack for your campervan road trip.

 

 

Nearby attractions and day trips from Dunedin & Central Otago

 

  • The Otago Peninsula tretching along the southern edge of the Otago Harbour, is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery and incredible wildlife. This area is a haven for nature lovers, offering opportunities to see rare yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals, and the only mainland breeding colony of royal albatross in the world. The peninsula’s rolling hills and rugged cliffs provide perfect vantage points for breathtaking views and photography.
  • Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle, offers a glimpse into the country’s colonial past, set against the backdrop of expansive gardens and the scenic Otago Peninsula. Built in 1871 by William Larnach, a merchant and politician, the castle features beautifully restored Victorian-era rooms and a unique collection of New Zealand antiques. The gardens are a highlight, recognised as a Garden of International Significance, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
  • Baldwin Street in Dunedin is famous for being the world's steepest residential street, attracting visitors from all over the globe. The street offers a challenging but quirky walk, rising significantly over its short 350-metre length.
  • Dunedin Railway Station is a stunning architectural marvel, known as the ‘Gingerbread House’ because of its ornate Flemish Renaissance style. Completed in 1906, the station is one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand. Visitors can admire its detailed mosaic floors, stained glass windows, and grand booking hall. The station also serves as the departure point for scenic railway journeys that explore the spectacular landscapes surrounding Dunedin.
  • Tunnel Beach, just south of Dunedin, offers dramatic coastal scenery with sandstone cliffs, arches, and headlands. Accessible through a short walk that includes a tunnel down to the beach – hand-carved in the 1870s – this spot is perfect for those looking to explore a more secluded part of the coastline. The beach is particularly striking at sunset and is a popular location for romantic walks and picnics.
  • Otago Harbour is a long, narrow inlet associated with the bustling city life of Dunedin and the tranquil beauty of the Otago Peninsula. It's a hub for water activities, including sailing, fishing, and kayaking. The harbour is also a vital part of the local ecosystem, supporting a variety of birdlife and marine species, making it an excellent spot for wildlife watching.
  • Moeraki Boulders, located on Koekohe Beach along the Otago coast, are huge, almost perfectly spherical stones. These natural wonders were created by the cementation of mudstone over millions of years, with some over two metres in diameter.
  • The Catlins Coast, stretching between Balclutha and Invercargill, offers a remote and rugged landscape with a wealth of natural attractions. Visitors can explore dense rainforests and meet unique wildlife. Highlights include Nugget Point with its iconic lighthouse and the dramatic Purakaunui Falls.

For more inspiration, check out our guide to family friendly things to do in Dunedin.

 

Where to stay in Dunedin & Central Otago with a campervan

When it comes to finding the perfect spot to park and rest in Dunedin & Central Otago, there's no shortage of picturesque, comfy campgrounds. Here are a few worth checking out:

Dunedin

 

 

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