Auckland to New Plymouth Road Trip | Apollo NZ
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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.

15 Must Do's in New Zealand’s South Island 15 Must Do's in New Zealand’s South Island

15 Must Do's in New Zealand’s South Island

    An Apollo campervan offers you the freedom to create your own travel itinerary. From whale watching in Kaikoura to southern...
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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. 

Auckland to New Plymouth Road Trip
Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: NZ Itineraries, North Island, 5-7 Days, Iconic Road Trips, Family Friendly, Pet Friendly, Food & Drinks, Natural Wonders, Beaches & Surf, Outdoor Activities

Auckland to New Plymouth Road Trip.

Looking for the best New Zealand road trip route? One that packs plenty of punch without having to drive too far, for too long? For those wanting to book a campervan hire in Auckland, this one is simply unbeatable. The drive from Auckland to New Plymouth takes just a few hours. But you’ll want to plan a full week to make the most of all the great highlights along the way. 

There’s simply no better way to make the most of this awesome roadie than to travel by campervan. With an Apollo campervan hire, there’s no need to book motels, plan where to eat, or worry about check-out times. All you need to do is choose from Apollo’s great range of campervans and you’re all set. Create your favourite home-cooked meals in your motorhome kitchen. Forget about public loos, you’ve got your own on board! Need a nap? No worries, climb into your comfy bed for a snooze whenever you need to. 

To make it even easier to get started, we’ve put together this Auckland to New Plymouth travel itinerary packed full of fun and adventure for the whole family.

 

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

Day 1: Auckland

Ready to get started on an awesome Auckland to New Plymouth road trip? The first item on your travel itinerary is to pick up your pre-booked campervan hire from Apollo’s Auckland branch in Manu Tapu Drive, Mangere. It’s super handy to the airport if you’re flying in.

Today is all about exploring the City of Sails. And there are plenty of great activities to do and sights to see. 

See Auckland from a great height with a trip up the Sky Tower. This Auckland must-do was recently awarded the #1 Attraction in Auckland by Tripadvisor.
The 338-metre-high tower offers 360-degree views up to 80 km in every direction. It’s a must for any visitor to this beautiful city. 

Shop til you drop at Britomart. You’ll find plenty of well-known Kiwi designs including Trelise Cooper, WORLD, and Zambesi. After perusing the shops, treat yourself to a special lunch. Sample the local seafood at kingi and follow up with a decadent dessert from Miann.

Discover Auckland’s rich culture and fascinating history. Auckland Museum is regarded as one of the best in the Southern Hemisphere. Learn the story of New Zealand and its rich Māori heritage. It’s easy to spend at least half a day wandering the exhibitions.

Tonight, park up your Apollo camper beachside at the popular Takapuna Beach Holiday Park. Just 20 minutes from central Auckland, this lovely campground is a beautiful spot to rest and prepare for the next leg of your journey. 

 

Day 2: Auckland to Waitomo

Travel time: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Distance: 200 km

Today, you’ll be heading out of the big smoke and travelling through New Zealand’s rural heartland. Along the way, plan a stop in the city of Hamilton, where you can visit the award-winning Hamilton Gardens. These incredible gardens are also another Tripadvisor winner for 2023, having been recognised as the Traveller’s Choice Best of the Best award winner. 

Once you’ve stopped to smell the roses, it’s time to continue on to the unmissable Waitomo Caves. Illuminated by thousands of tiny glowworms, the cave system was carved from ancient limestone into caverns and passageways filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and other peculiar formations. For a truly unique experience, take a Legendary Black Water Rafting trip through the caves. You can also take a short walking tour to see the galaxies of glowworms and other subterranean highlights. 

Top your day off with an unforgettable walk through a forested gorge on the Ruakuri Walk. This 1 km loop tracks follows a stream and then winds around a network of limestone outcrops before descending to the Ruakuri Natural Bridge viewing platform.  

Park your Apollo camper at Waitomo Caves TOP 10 Holiday Park – it’s just 600 metres up the road from the caves. And if you’re looking for a good spot to enjoy the flavours of New Zealand, head next door to the Huhu Café.

 

Day 3: Waitomo to New Plymouth

Travel time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Distance: 170 km

Sitting on the far reaches of the North Island’s west coast, beneath the majestic beauty of Mt Egmont / Taranaki is the vibrant town of New Plymouth. Plan a stop at the halfway point of picturesque Mokau Beach, known for its stunning coastal views and rock formations.

Once you reach New Plymouth, you won’t have to look too far for fun things to do and see. Fancy a walk? New Plymouth’s Coastal Walkway spans 13.2 km, offering the perfect opportunity to enjoy the scenery while getting some fresh sea air. The path runs between Port Taranaki and the eastern end side of Bell Block Beach. A highlight along the way is the captivating Te Rewa Rewa Bridge which resembles a crashing wave.

Be sure to set aside some time to explore the Pukeiti park. This botanical gem is nestled at the foot of Mount Taranaki and is home to one of the world’s biggest and most diverse collections of rhododendrons. You’ll also find a great range of rainforest walking tracks ranging from 0.7 km to 1.9 km. 

Another must for garden enthusiasts is Pukekura Park. This park covers 52 hectares in the middle of the city. Wander through the fernery and display houses, see the water lily lake, and the Kunming Garden. You may even want to time your visit to take advantage of the Taranaki Garden Festival in late October / early November.  

Tonight, book yourself into the Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park. This great holiday park has excellent facilities and is located right on the beachfront.

 

Day 4: Explore New Plymouth

Make the most of your day today to explore more of New Plymouth. 

If you’re keen to soak up some culture and history, you’re in luck. New Plymouth has some excellent museums and galleries worth a visit. Top of the list is the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, New Zealand's contemporary art museum and home to The Len Lye Centre. Located on New Plymouth’s Queen Street, it’s hard to miss this amazing art gallery. The unusual curved stainless-steel exterior makes for some fun photography opportunities. 

Another great museum, although a little further out in Hawera (about an hour’s drive from New Plymouth), is Tawhiti Museum. This innovative museum features thousands of life-sized exhibits and scale models. 

If you’ve got a Holden fan in the family, you won’t want to miss the Hillsborough Holden Museum. The museum has an enviable collection of Holden's ranging from early to late models as well as memorabilia. There’s also a luge, mini golf, and café. 

For those who love a good hike, the Pouākai Crossing is an excellent choice. This fantastic trail offers a 7.5-hour journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Mt Taranaki's lower slopes. 

Enjoy another night beside the beach at Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park.

 

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

Day 5: New Plymouth to Raglan

Travel time: 3 hours, 30 minutes
Distance: 263 km

Before you head off on day five of your New Zealand road trip, enjoy a hearty breakfast at Monica’s Eatery on the corner of King and Queen Streets. 

Well rested and fed, it’s time to hit the road again and head to New Zealand’s surfing mecca, Raglan. Along the way, you’ll drive through Otorohanga – the 'Kiwiana capital of NZ'. Plan a stop to stretch your legs along the Ed Hillary Walkway. This fun, interactive walk includes 26 exhibits that offer a tribute to some of New Zealand’s national icons. You might also like to visit the Otorohanga Kiwi House where you can meet New Zealand's national feathered icon.

Once you reach Raglan, it’s time to kick back and make the most of your last night in your Apollo camper. Unwind with an evening of fish and chips on the beach or explore some of the boutique shops. There are also some great walks to enjoy in Raglan. One of the most popular is the 10-minute walk to the top of Bridal Veil Falls.

Tonight, relax and enjoy the peace and quiet at the Raglan Holiday Park. 

 

Day 6: Raglan to Auckland

Travel time: 2 hours
Distance: 155 km

It’s day six already, and time for your final leg back to Auckland. Take your time this morning and enjoy a home-cooked campervan breakfast. Or, if you’re after a good brekkie out, head to The Shack and indulge in some great coffee and tasty food.

As you drive back to Auckland, you’ve still got time for a stop along the way though. We suggest calling into the Pōkeno Whisky Company, New Zealand’s largest single malt distillery. Located on Gateway Park Drive, Pōkeno, the distillery is open for tours and tastings on Saturdays, but you’ll need to book ahead.  

The last stop on your seven-day road trip is to drop off your campervan at Apollo Auckland. Before you leave, you may like to have a chat with the friendly team about planning your next New Zealand road trip itinerary – there are plenty more to be had!

 

Ready to explore New Plymouth?

Have we got you excited to plan an Auckland to New Plymouth road trip? Don’t put it off any longer! Book your Apollo campervan online today and get ready for the holiday of a lifetime. 

 

 

 

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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 Australia & 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...
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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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