15 Reasons to take a New Zealand Campervan Trip
What’s New Zealand known for?
Where to start? From stunning movie-set scenery to fascinating Māori culture and heritage, New Zealand offers a unique experience unlike anywhere else in the world.
Also known as Aotearoa, or the ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’, this southern gem is dotted with natural wonders. Soak away the day in a geothermal hot spring in the north. Explore the ‘eighth wonder of the world’ at the South Island’s Milford Sound. Go off the beaten track and enjoy seclusion or immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of the cities.
Adventure or R&R. Food and wine or hikes and trails. Rivers and lakes or native forests. It’s all here waiting – and best of all, you can combine them all when you travel by campervan. Let’s take a closer look at why exploring New Zealand by camper is so popular…
What’s the best way to travel New Zealand?
Clearly, we’re biased. But with good reason! Travelling New Zealand by campervan is simply unbeatable. For some, it’s a long weekend away in a special spot. For others, an extended holiday that takes in all the highlights. And there’s no better option than an Apollo camper. Whether you’re going solo, or with the whole family, Apollo campers have a motorhome to suit every type of traveller.
Whatever you decide, don’t miss the opportunity to experience a campervan road trip at least once in your lifetime. Need a little more convincing? Read on!
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Image: Tourism New Zealand
15 reasons to take a campervan trip in New Zealand
We could give you hundreds of reasons, but here are our top 15…
Enjoy flexibility and freedom
Travelling by campervan gives you the keys to unrivalled travel freedom. You're not tethered to hotel check-ins or tour schedules. Instead, the open road awaits, and you get to set the pace.
Fancy a spontaneous detour? No problem. That intriguing side road might just lead to a tranquil beach or a cosy café unknown to most tourists. With an Apollo campervan, you get the flexibility to craft your own New Zealand story, uncovering hidden gems beyond the usual spots.
Discover scenic drives
As you drive New Zealand in your Apollo campervan, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in some of the best scenery in the world. Whether you’re in the North or South Island, the scenic drives on offer are simply breathtaking.
Among the best, you have the winding routes of the Coromandel Peninsula revealing secluded beaches and lush rainforests. The mysterious Forgotten World Highway is another must-see in the North Island. Then there’s the famed Milford Road, taking you through the heart of Fiordland’s dramatic peaks and mirror-like waters. You can even drive to Paradise (yep, it’s a real place!) when you take the spectacular road from Queenstown to Glenorchy.
Save on affordable accommodation
Campervan travel is a savvy choice for those who prefer to avoid hefty motel costs. With your trusty bed on wheels, you can sidestep expensive accommodation bills without sacrificing comfort and convenience.
New Zealand is dotted with fantastic campgrounds and holiday parks, so you're never far from a great spot to rest up. For those keen on a deeper nature connection, give freedom camping a go. It's an up-close and personal way to experience Aotearoa's beauty, all while keeping a lid on the costs. Please note that freedom camping requires you to be staying in a certified self-contained vehicle.
Get close to nature
Rolling out of bed and straight into nature’s embrace is one of the true joys of travelling by campervan. Those stunning morning vistas, with a fresh cuppa in hand, really do set the tone for the day. Swapping noisy motel car parks for nature's grandeur not only rejuvenates the soul but also brings a sense of tranquillity that's hard to match.
See the stars
New Zealand's clear night skies are truly a celestial treat. Park up your campervan in a secluded spot, away from the city lights, and you've got front-row seats to nature's starry spectacle. It's a chance to switch off your devices and instead, tune into the universe's own late-night show. For the best experience, park up in one of New Zealand’s Dark Sky Sanctuaries.
Cook your own meals
A New Zealand road trip by campervan isn't just about the views outside; it's also about the tasty adventures inside. With your Apollo kitchenette, you can whip up your own meals using fresh produce picked up from local markets or roadside stalls. Stop anytime you get hungry and whip up a snack or drink. Enjoy a cooked breakfast while you’re still in your PJs. Not only that, but you’ll also save money on eating out. Win!
Connect with locals
Travelling New Zealand by campervan offers more than just scenic beauty; it's also a great way to make genuine Kiwi connections. Pull up at any camping ground or holiday park, and you're bound to cross paths with like-minded travellers and friendly locals, all keen to share their travel highlights and hidden gems.
The motorhoming community in Aotearoa is a welcoming one. So, whether you're stopping for some sightseeing or parking up for the night, don't be surprised if a friendly face stops by for a yarn. It's these chance encounters and shared stories that often become the highlights of the journey.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Uncover adventure
Here in New Zealand, there's no shortage of heart-pumping attractions and activities. Fancy a hike through ancient forests or a mountain bike ride down winding trails? Maybe you’re keen to feel the thrill of being out on the water in a jet boat. Or perhaps it’s a bucket list item to leap off a bridge with just a Bungy cord attached. Whatever gets your adrenaline going, travelling by campervan makes it easy to access the best adventures New Zealand has to offer.
Go from north to south
Exploring New Zealand in a campervan offers a seamless journey between the North and South Islands. On the North Island, you're treated to vibrant cities, lush forests, and geothermal wonders. Hop on a ferry across the Cook Strait where, the South Island welcomes you with majestic mountains, beautiful lakes, and southern hospitality. And the best thing? With your home on wheels, there's no need to rush. It's the best way to truly appreciate the contrasting charms of New Zealand’s north and south.
Explore parks and reserves
New Zealand is a treasure trove of national parks and reserves, each with something unique on offer. Travelling in a campervan gives unmatched access to these natural wonders. From ancient kauri forests to alpine landscapes, each park has its own story to tell. The Department of Conservation (DOC) has more than 200 campsites within parks and reserves throughout the country. Park up beside a serene lake, a sandy beach, or within a peaceful forest. It's a chance to wake up in the heart of Aotearoa's most pristine environments – we can’t think of anything better!
Discover secluded beaches
One of the true joys of a campervan road trip in New Zealand is stumbling upon secluded beaches, away from the usual tourist spots. With your home on wheels, you've got the perfect ticket to find these hidden slices of paradise. Whether it's a golden east coast stretch or a rugged rocky bay, there's a special kind of magic in having a beach all to yourself. So, as you cruise the coastal roads of Aotearoa, be on the lookout for unexpected detours that lead to the ocean's hidden gems.
Learn about Māori culture
While exploring New Zealand, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to learn about the history and traditions of Māori culture. As you visit historical sites, the stories of Aotearoa come alive with cultural artefacts and fascinating legends. Travelling by campervan is a great way to engage with local communities and gain genuine insights into the country’s history. From hāngi feasts to the world-famous haka, you won’t have to go far to find an unforgettable experience.
Capture epic photos
The beauty of a campervan road trip is the freedom to pause whenever a scenic view takes your breath away. New Zealand serves up those moments by the bucketload. From snow capped mountain ranges to beautiful, braided rivers, every twist and turn presents another photo opportunity. Feel the urge to capture a misty morning over the lakes? Pull over, snap away, and give your Instagram followers some travel inspiration. With no rush and a relaxed itinerary, you have all the time you need to fill your camera roll with epic memories of Aotearoa.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Bring the whole family
Campervan trips aren't just for solo travellers or couples; they're a family affair. And there's an Apollo campervan option to fit every kind of family. Whether you’re travelling with littlies or teenagers, you’ll have the convenience and comfort of a home on wheels. Long drives become easier when snacks, naps, and bathroom stops are always at hand. Plus, if your family includes a furry friend, they’re welcome too. Apollo campers are pet-friendly, which means the dog can be part of your New Zealand adventure too. Everyone’s invited!
Make lifetime memories
There's something special about hitting the open road in a campervan. From watching the sunset on a beach to sharing stories under starry nights, every moment becomes a cherished memory. And it's not just about the destinations. It’s also the late-night chats, the unexpected discoveries, the spontaneous stops, and the bonding that happens along the way.
Ready to explore New Zealand with Apollo?
Have we got you excited about taking a campervan road trip? Don’t put it off any longer, book your Apollo campervan today and discover why so many travellers are embracing this unbeatable way to explore New Zealand.