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Fiordland & Southern Lakes

Tucked away in the southwestern corner of New Zealand's South Island, Fiordland and the Southern Lakes regions are a magnet for travellers planning a New Zealand campervan holiday. Known for their dramatic landscapes, including deep fiords, towering mountains, and pristine lakes, these regions offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country.  Spanning 1.2 million hectares, Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the crown jewel of the region. It’s home to the famous Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, where waterfalls cascade from sheer cliffs into tranquil waters below.

The Southern Lakes area, encompassing Queenstown, Wānaka, and Te Anau, is renowned for its outdoor activities and vibrant towns. Queenstown, often called the adventure capital of the world, offers everything from Bungy jumping and skydiving to skiing and jet boating. Wānaka provides a slightly more relaxed vibe with its beautiful lake, hiking trails, and wineries. Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland, is the perfect base for exploring the stunning fiords and the enchanting Te Anau Glowworm Caves.

A New Zealand campervan holiday in these regions allows you to experience their diverse landscapes at your own pace. Travel through lush rainforests, along breathtaking mountain roads, and by sparkling lakes, all from the comfort of your campervan. Whether you're keen on hiking the world-famous Milford Track, taking a scenic cruise through the fiords, or exploring the must-do Queenstown attractions, Fiordland and the Southern Lakes region offer an unforgettable campervan holiday in New Zealand.

 

Why explore Fiordland & Southern Lakes by campervan

There’s simply no better way to explore Fiordland and the Southern Lakes than by Apollo campervan. With a campervan, you have the freedom to travel through the heart of these breathtaking landscapes at your own pace, stopping whenever and wherever the scenery inspires you.

A campervan really is the perfect combination of comfort and convenience, allowing you to carry everything you need with you as you explore. This means you can easily access remote and beautiful locations without the need for back-and-forth trips to a fixed accommodation. One of the best aspects of travelling by campervan is the ability to be spontaneous. Whether you decide to spend an extra day hiking a scenic trail, take a detour to visit a local winery, or simply enjoy a quiet evening by a lake, your campervan gives you the flexibility to make the most of every moment. 

 

Things to do in Fiordland & Southern Lakes

If you’re looking for things to do in Fiordland and the Southern Lakes, you’ll be pleased to know there’s loads to choose from. Start your adventure in Fiordland National Park with a hike on the Milford or Kepler Track, both offering breathtaking views and lush forests. For a unique experience, kayak the mirror-like waters of Lake Manapouri.

Queenstown, the adventure capital, is perfect for thrill-seekers with activities like mountain biking on the Queenstown Trail or taking a jet boat ride on Lake Wakatipu. For a more laid-back day, enjoy the local vineyards with a wine-tasting tour or explore the vibrant arts scene in town. In Wānaka, visit the Rippon Vineyard for some of the best wines and stunning views, or take a scenic flight over Mount Aspiring National Park. The Wānaka Lavender Farm is a great spot for a relaxing afternoon, and that Wānaka Tree is a must-see for photographers.

For a truly magical experience, head to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland, and explore the famous Te Anau Glowworm Caves. To get there, you’ll take a boat ride across Lake Te Anau. You’ll then cruise through a quiet glowworm grotto where the cave walls glitter in a stunning luminous display that is simply breathtaking. Te Anau is also the perfect base for exploring the remote Doubtful Sound by kayak or cruise.

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Popular Fiordland & Southern Lakes road trips & itineraries

Exploring Fiordland and the Southern Lakes by campervan offers a variety of fantastic road trips. Start in Queenstown, soaking up its lively atmosphere before heading to Te Anau. From there, venture into Fiordland National Park for a day of discovery. Continue to Wānaka for stunning lake views and mountain hikes. Don’t miss the scenic drive through Haast Pass for breathtaking landscapes. Each stop on your journey promises unique adventures and spectacular scenery, making your campervan holiday in New Zealand truly unforgettable.

North Island | Auckland to Christchurch Road Trip Itinerary
Alyssa Tresider

North Island | Auckland to Christchurch Road Trip Itinerary

The New Zealand road trip from Auckland to Christchurch is a must-do drive for campervan travellers. Stretching over 1000 km from the City of Sails’ sparkling harbours to the Canterbury Plains, this camper cruise offers one unforgettable experience after another. 

There’s no better way to enjoy the Auckland to Christchurch road trip than with an Apollo campervan hire. Relax in the luxury, privacy, and convenience of travelling with all your home comforts on board. Create home-cooked meals in your own kitchen, use the bathroom anytime, and take a nap whenever you need to in your own comfy bed!

This awesome 8-day road trip starts with an exploration of Auckland’s must-see attractions before heading south through the heartland of Aotearoa. Take in views of spectacular landscapes, explore fascinating heritage sites, and discover some natural wonders. Ready to hit the road? Let’s get started!

 

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

Day 1: Auckland

Your exciting Auckland to Christchurch road trip begins when you pick up your pre-booked Apollo campervan from our Auckland branch on Manu Tapu Drive. It’s just minutes from Auckland Airport which makes it super easy if you’re flying in. 

Spend your first day exploring the sights and sounds of New Zealand’s biggest city. For the best vantage point, head into the CBD and up the Sky Tower. Take in 360-degree views of the city below, and if you’re feeling brave, you can try the Skyjump or Skywalk.

If you’re a keen wildlife fan, be sure to visit the Auckland Zoo. The zoo is home to over 144 species of animals with the largest diversity of wildlife in the country.  

Take some time to stop and smell the roses at Auckland Botanic Gardens. Spanning over 64 hectares, the gardens are a haven of horticultural splendour with over 10,000 plants from around the world. 

Tonight, enjoy a beachside stay at the beautiful Takapuna Beach Holiday Park.

 

Day 2: Auckland to Rotorua

Travel time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Distance: 225 km

It’s day two and time to head to Rotorua, New Zealand’s geothermal capital. Be sure to plan your route to allow a stop at Hobbiton along the way. Even if you’ve never seen a single Lord of The Rings or Hobbit movie, a visit to Hobbiton is an unmissable attraction. Take a fully guided tour around the 12-acre set where these epic movies were made. 

When you arrive in Rotorua, enjoy a relaxing soak in the therapeutic thermal mud at Hell’s Gate. The healing properties of the geothermal mud and sulphur mineral water have been used by local Māori for over 800 years. 

To experience awesome geothermal activity combined with captivating Māori culture, head to Te Puia or Whakarewarewa Thermal Village. The two neighbouring attractions offer tours, concerts, and short walks around geysers, silica terraces, and steamy pools. 

Another must-do, while you’re in Rotorua, is a walk through the Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest. The forest is renowned for its extensive network of superb mountain biking and walking tracks among magnificent Californian redwoods. You may even like to see the forest from above with a Redwoods Treewalk. This award-winning eco-tourism walk spans 28 suspension bridges and 27 platforms across a 700-metre treetop walk. 

Make the most of your time in Rotorua with a stay at the Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park.

 

Day 3: Rotorua to Taupo

Travel time: 1 hour
Distance: 79 km

Enjoy a sleep-in this morning, today you have a nice short drive to beautiful Lake Taupo. 

One of the top things to do in Taupō is a visit to the incredible Huka Falls. Witness the power and beauty of more than 220,000 litres of water per second crashing over an 11-metre-high waterfall! Stand on the footbridge overlooking the falls. If you’re keen on a closer look, try a jet boat ride or river cruise. 

While you’re in Taupō, discover the alien landscape of the Craters of the Moon. This geothermal attraction formed in the 1950s when a large area north of Taupō suddenly began to emit steam and create craters of boiling mud. 

Another top spot worth exploring is Wai-o-tapu. This colourful, diverse landscape offers up one incredible natural wonder after another. If possible, time your visit to watch the Lady Knox Geyser erupt at 10.15 am. 

Park your motorhome up for the night at the Taupo TOP 10 Holiday Park. Be sure to make use of the park’s thermal water plunge pool. 

 

Day 4: Taupo to Napier

Travel time: 2 hours 6 minutes
Distance: 143 km

Today you’ll be driving across to the North Island’s east coast to visit New Zealand’s Art Deco capital, Napier. There’s plenty to see and do in this picturesque coastal township. 

A great way to explore the city is with a Napier Art Deco Guided Walk. Hear the dramatic story of the 1931 earthquake and learn about the city’s Art Deco buildings. 

While you’re in town, make the most of the great food and wine on offer. We recommend booking yourself into a wine tour and tasting

For something just a little different, take a self-guided audio tour of the old Napier Prison. Hear the stories of the prison’s fascinating past as you wander the abandoned buildings and spooky corridors. 

Plan a night’s stay in the peaceful setting of the Napier Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park.

 

Day 5: Napier to Palmerston North

Travel time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Distance: 181 km

From one cool Kiwi city to another, today you’re off to Palmerston North. Along the way, make some time to explore Hastings. The city has some fun and fascinating public artworks worth a look including a collection of Māori carvings in Clive Square.

Once you reach Palmerston North, plan a visit to the New Zealand Rugby Museum. See some of rugby’s greatest treasures including a 1905 ‘Originals’ rugby jersey. You’ll also have the opportunity to test out your rugby skills in the Have-a-Go area. 

For history of a different kind, visit the Te Manawa museum and art gallery. Afterwards, take a wander through Victoria Esplanade. If you’ve got kids on board, they’ll love taking a ride on the mini railway. And if you visit in summer, they can cool off with a splash in the paddling pool.

Tonight, enjoy a stay at Palmerston North Holiday Park.

 

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

Day 6: Palmerston North to Wellington

Travel time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Distance: 142 km

Day six of your travel itinerary takes you to the capital city, Wellington. One of the great things to do in Wellington is a visit to the Museum of New Zealand, Te Papa. It’s easy to spend a day here checking out all the exhibitions and activities. 

For those with an interest in New Zealand’s parliamentary process, book into a guided tour of the Parliament Buildings, including the iconic ‘Beehive’. Wellington is also a great place to see some of New Zealand’s precious native wildlife. Located just minutes from the central city, Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne is the world’s first fully fenced, predator-proof ecosanctuary.

Don’t leave Wellington before you’ve had a chance to visit the Weta Workshops. Learn about how some of New Zealand’s big movies such as Lord of the Rings were made. Create your own keepsake at a creative workshop and explore the Weta Cave retail store.  

You’ll be ready for a good sleep tonight at Wellington TOP 10 Holiday Park.

 

Day 7: Wellington to Picton

Travel time: 4 hours (including ferry crossing)

Distance: 100 km

It’s a big day today as you travel from the North Island to the South! Book your tickets aboard the InterIslander Ferry because you’ll be crossing the Cook Strait with your campervan. Relax on board and enjoy lunch as you take in the stunning scenery from Wellington Harbour to the Marlborough Sounds. 

Picton may be small, but there’s plenty to do on an overnight stay. We recommend a visit to the Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary. Here, you can meet many of New Zealand’s native birds including kererū (our huge and colourful wood pigeons!), tūī, New Zealand falcons, little blue penguins and more. You might also spot a native wētā or gecko. 

Another top spot is the Picton Heritage and Whaling Museum where you can see displays of Maori artefacts and learn about the history of whaling in Cook Strait. 

Treat yourself to some tasty fish and chips on the waterfront before settling in for the night at Picton Campervan Park

 

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

Day 8: Picton to Christchurch

Travel time: 4 hours, 20 minutes

Distance: 336 km

It’s the last day of your epic Auckland to Christchurch road trip. Today, you’ll be driving down the east coast through Kaikōura. You may like to plan a lunch stop to enjoy the stunning scenery and browse the artisan shops in the main street. 

The last item on your travel itinerary is to drop off your camper at Apollo’s Christchurch branch. But if you’ve got time, check out the highlights of the city. A great way to pack in lots of sights and activities in a short time is with a ride on the Christchurch Tram. Highlights include the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, the Riverside Market, Arts Centre, and New Regent Street. 

 

Ready to explore?

Feeling excited about booking an Auckland to Christchurch road trip to experience these must-see destinations for yourself? Make it happen and book your Apollo campervan today. Follow our great road trip itinerary planner or create your own. 

Choose from our great range of different campervans. You might even find a great bargain on a campervan hire so don’t forget to check out our current deals.

 

 

 

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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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Apollo Campervan branches

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 Fiordland & Southern Lakes

Climate and seasons in Fiordland & Southern Lakes

Summer: (December to February) are mild and pleasant, with temperatures typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This is the ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking the Milford Track, exploring Lake Wānaka, or enjoying the vibrant energy of Queenstown. The long daylight hours provide ample time to soak in the stunning scenery and partake in adventure sports.

Autumn: (March to May) brings cooler temperatures, averaging between 10°C and 20°C. The fall foliage adds a beautiful touch to the landscapes, making it a great season for scenic drives and photography. This is also a wonderful time for wine tours in the Southern Lakes area, with the vineyards surrounded by autumn hues.

Winter: (June to August) are colder, especially in the higher altitudes. Temperatures range from 0°C to 10°C, with Queenstown and Wānaka transforming into bustling ski resorts. Fiordland’s weather can be unpredictable during winter, but the snow-capped peaks and quiet trails offer a unique and serene experience.

Spring: (September to November) sees a gradual warming, with temperatures climbing from 5°C to 15°C. The melting snow creates impressive waterfalls, particularly in Fiordland National Park. Spring is perfect for seeing new growth in the forests and exploring the area’s many hiking trails as they come back to life.

What to pack

Preparing for your campervan holiday in Fiordland and the Southern Lakes means packing smartly to ensure you’re ready for all the activities and weather conditions this diverse region offers. Here’s a guide to help you pack:

  • Layered clothing: The weather can change quickly, so pack layers to stay comfortable. Include thermal tops, fleece jackets, and a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Don't forget a warm hat and gloves for the cooler evenings, especially if you’re visiting during winter or spring.
  • Sturdy footwear: Good quality hiking boots are essential for the many trails you'll encounter, from the Milford Track to casual walks around Lake Wānaka. Bring comfortable shoes for around the campsite and exploring towns.
  • Outdoor gear: Pack a lightweight, foldable daypack for your hikes and day trips. Include a reusable water bottle, a multi-tool, and a first aid kit. A headlamp or flashlight is handy for early morning starts or late-night campsite activities.
  • Sun and rain protection: Fiordland is known for its rainfall, so bring a durable rain jacket and waterproof trousers. For sunnier days, pack high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect against the strong UV rays.
  • Camping extras: Dial up your campervan experience with camping chairs and a portable table for outdoor meals. A portable barbecue can add variety to your meals, and don’t forget to bring along your favourite condiments for adding extra flavour.

Nearby attractions and day trips from Fiordland & Southern Lakes

  • Milford Sound: Often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world, Milford Sound offers breathtaking fiords, towering cliffs, and stunning waterfalls. Take a scenic cruise or kayak to get up close to the dramatic landscapes and spot wildlife like seals, dolphins, and penguins. The Milford Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks, provides an unforgettable hiking experience through lush forests and along pristine rivers.
  • Te Anau: Nestled on the shores of Lake Te Anau, this charming town is the perfect base for exploring Fiordland National Park. From here, you can head off on adventures to the famous Milford and Doubtful Sounds. Check out the fascinating glowworm caves Te Anau is known for or hike the stunning Kepler Track. With cosy cafes, restaurants, and plenty of accommodation options, Te Anau is a great spot to relax and plan your next adventure.
  • Arrowtown: This historic gold-mining town, just a short drive from Queenstown, feels like a step back in time. Stroll through preserved 19th-century buildings and vibrant streets, especially stunning in autumn. Visit the Lakes District Museum, explore the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement, and enjoy boutique shopping and cafes. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the nearby Arrow River trails and the picturesque Arrowtown Golf Club.
  • Wānaka: Nestled on the shores of Lake Wānaka, this town is known for its incredible natural beauty and endless outdoor activities. Hike in Mount Aspiring National Park, ski at Treble Cone, or kayak on the serene lake. Don’t miss the quirky Puzzling World and a visit to the Wānaka Lavender Farm. With a vibrant food and wine scene, Wānaka is a must-visit destination.
  • Queenstown: Taking prime position on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is a hub of excitement and outdoor activities. Whether you’re into mountain biking, jet boating, or more relaxed pursuits like wine tours and scenic lake cruises, there’s loads of Queenstown activities to choose from. The town also boasts a lively dining and nightlife scene, ensuring there’s always something to do. Surrounded by stunning mountains and crystal-clear lakes, Queenstown offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Where to stay in Fiordland & Southern Lakes with a campervan

  • Fiordland:
    • Freedom camping areas
    • Fiordland Great Views Holiday Park
    • Te Anau TOP 10 Holiday Park
  • Southern Lakes:
    • Freedom camping areas
    • Queenstown TOP 10 Holiday Park
    • Wanaka TOP 10 Holiday Park
    • Glendhu Bay Holiday Park
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