​​Seasoned campervan travellers Francis and Adam have mastered the art of creating the perfect New Zealand travel itinerary. In this blog, Francis shares her top tips... 

 

There’s something truly special about exploring New Zealand by campervan.  

From braided blue rivers to ancient forests, the sheer variety of what you can experience is astounding. In this guide, I’m going to share my tried-and-tested tips for creating the perfect New Zealand travel itinerary. Whether you’re planning your first trip or looking to explore more in-depth, I’ll help you map out your ideal New Zealand road trip.  

 

Why New Zealand is perfect for a campervan adventure

When it comes to road trips, New Zealand is a dream destination for so many reasons. For starters, the country’s compact size means you can pack a lot into a short period, but without feeling rushed. Whether you’re navigating the picturesque roads of the South Island or cruising through tiny townships in the North Island, there’s always something spectacular around the corner.  

The best part? Travelling by campervan hire gives you unbeatable flexibility. With a camper, you’re not tied to strict schedules or specific destinations. Want to spend an extra night by a lakeside or take an unplanned detour to a hidden waterfall? No problem, it’s so easy! Plus, New Zealand’s well-established network of campgrounds – from beachside DOC sites to fully equipped holiday parks – makes it incredibly easy to find a cosy spot for the night. With your own little home on wheels, you can experience the country at your own pace, in total comfort. 

 

How to start planning your New Zealand itinerary

Planning a New Zealand road trip can feel a little overwhelming, but with the right approach, it’s easy to create a travel itinerary that suits your style and pace. Here’s how we’ve done it on our travels. 

 

1. Define your interests

The best way to start is by figuring out what you really want to get out of the trip. For Adam and me, it’s always been a blend of outdoor exploration, sampling local wines, and discovering hidden beaches. But your list might look completely different, and that’s the beauty of New Zealand – it offers something for every kind of traveller. 

Are you after thrilling adventures like Bungy jumping or white-water rafting? Or are you more drawn to cultural experiences, like visiting Māori villages or soaking in natural hot springs? The North Island is a hub for geothermal wonders and cultural highlights, while the South Island is renowned for its incredible hikes and wildlife. Once you’ve got a sense of your must-see activities, planning your route will start to fall into place.  

INSIDER TIP: The thl Roadtrip app is a fantastic tool to help you find points of interest, attractions, and campgrounds, all in one place. 

Image: Instagram - @scotthowes

 

2. Determine your timeframe 

One of the first things we learned on our early trips was just how important time is. Our first trip was 10 days in New Zealand’s South Island. while we had an amazing time, we quickly realised we’d only scratched the surface. The landscapes are so varied, and the distances between places can sometimes be deceiving. 

If you’ve got the flexibility, I recommend giving yourself at least three weeks to explore both islands. This will give you enough breathing room to take in the major sights, like Fiordland and Rotorua, while also allowing for those spontaneous detours that make road trips so special. Of course, if you’re shorter on time, you can always focus on one island and save the other for next time. 

 

3. Choose your route

Mapping out your route is where the fun really begins. It’s tempting to want to see everything, but I’ve found that breaking the country down into regions makes it easier to plan. For instance, on one of our trips, we focused on the North Island, exploring the vast Central Plateau and the beaches of Coromandel and Mt Maunganui. On another, we dedicated our time to the South Island, getting lost in the beauty of Abel Tasman and sipping wine in Marlborough. 

One of our all-time favourite routes was the road trip from Auckland to Queenstown. You can plan stops in Rotorua with its bubbling geysers, take in the alpine beauty of Tongariro National Park, and stay a night or two in the dramatic landscapes of Fiordland. It’s a brilliant mix of famous sights and hidden treasures.  

One tip I swear by is leaving some space in your New Zealand itinerary for spontaneity. Some of the best memories Adam and I have are from those unplanned stops. One time we were feeling a bit tired so we parked up early at a little-known campsite we found on a travel app. As it happened, it had its own natural hot pools. We sat and soaked under the stars with barely anyone else around. It was magic! 

APOLLO INSPIRATION: Plan your next road trip the easy way with the help of these ready-made travel itineraries:  

• Auckland to Christchurch Road Trip 

• Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip 

 

Tips for crafting a balanced itinerary

When we first started planning our New Zealand road trips, we made the classic mistake of trying to see everything in one go. We packed our schedule so tightly that we barely had time to catch our breath. It didn’t take long for us to realise that the key to a great trip is balance. Here’s what we’ve learned along the way to create a New Zealand itinerary that’s both enjoyable and memorable. 

 

Mix popular spots with hidden gems

It’s easy to focus solely on the iconic destinations everyone talks about – places like Milford Sound, Rotorua, and Queenstown, to name a few. But if there’s one thing we’ve discovered, it’s that New Zealand is full of quieter, less touristy spots that are just as magical. For every famous stop, we try to balance it with something a little off the beaten path. 

For example, after marvelling at the beauty of Milford Sound, we decided to head south and explore The Catlins. This rugged coastal region is often overlooked by travellers, but it became one of the highlights of our trip. We found ourselves surrounded by dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and wildlife we hadn’t seen anywhere else. Mixing in these lesser-known gems gives your trip more variety and a sense of discovery that’s hard to replicate when you’re only hitting the big spots. 

 

Allow for downtime

One of the biggest lessons we’ve learned is that it’s important to pace yourself. New Zealand may not seem large on a map, but some roads can be windy and narrow which can slow things down. Plus, the landscapes are so beautiful that you’ll constantly want to stop for photos or a quick walk. Cramming too much into your schedule can leave you feeling rushed and exhausted. 

That’s why we always build in rest days where we can slow down, stay in one spot, and just enjoy the campervan lifestyle. On our last trip, we spent a couple of lazy days by Lake Wānaka, letting ourselves relax and soak in the scenery. Sometimes, the best part of a New Zealand road trip isn’t ticking off another sight, but simply being still – whether that’s enjoying a picnic by the lake, reading a book, or cooking dinner in the camper. These moments give you time to recharge and appreciate your surroundings in a deeper way. 

Image: Instagram - @scotthowes

 

Be weather-wise

One thing you can count on when you’re travelling in New Zealand is that the weather will surprise you. In the South Island especially, it’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a day. While we always have a rough plan in place, we’ve learned to keep things flexible and check the weather regularly, adjusting our New Zealand itinerary as needed. 

On one of our trips, we had to completely change our route when a storm swept through the South Island, closing the roads we had planned to take. At first, we were disappointed, but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. We rerouted to the sunny Marlborough region and spent our time wine tasting and exploring vineyards – a completely different experience from what we had planned, but one that we’ll never forget. The key is to stay adaptable, embrace the unexpected, and let the weather lead you to new adventures. 

 

Recommended campervan-friendly destinations

Over the years, Adam and I have discovered some truly unforgettable places that are perfect for a campervan holiday. These destinations not only offer stunning scenery but also excellent campgrounds that make the experience that much better. 

 

The Coromandel Peninsula

This area holds a special place in our hearts, and it’s one we return to often. The Coromandel Peninsula offers a perfect blend of pristine beaches, dense forests, and laid-back coastal towns. If you’re looking to slow down and soak in some sun, this is the place to be. 

Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove are iconic spots that you can’t miss – digging your own hot pool on the beach or walking through the dramatic limestone arch is an experience like no other. But if you’re after something quieter, we recommend taking a detour to  Opoutere Beach. This hidden gem offers long stretches of sand, hardly a crowd in sight, and an opportunity to really relax. It’s the perfect place to escape the busier tourist spots and unwind by the sea. 

INSIDER TIP: Stay at the Shelly Beach TOP  10 Holiday Park. This is a beautiful campground nestled right on the water, with fantastic facilities and a great base for exploring the Coromandel. 

 

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

There’s something awe-inspiring about driving into Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. The first time we approached Mount Cook Village, we were completely mesmerised by the sight of Aoraki towering over the landscape. The road in is flanked by snow-capped peaks, and on a clear day, the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki only add to the drama. 

The Hooker Valley Track is a must-do here. It’s a relatively easy walk but rewards you with incredible views of Aoraki and the Hooker Glacier. We’ve done this hike a few times, and it never fails to take our breath away. If you’re a fan of stargazing, this area is part of a Dark Sky Reserve, meaning the night skies are some of the clearest in the world. 

INSIDER TIP: For the best stargazing experience, stay at the White Horse Hill Campground. It’s a simple DOC campground, but its location right at the foot of the mountains makes it unbeatable. On a clear night, you’ll be treated to a dazzling display of stars, with Aoraki standing as a majestic silhouette in the background. 

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

Abel Tasman National Park

Even after several trips, Abel Tasman National Park remains one of our all-time favourite spots in New Zealand. This coastal paradise is where golden sandy beaches meet lush green forests, offering the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. It’s a place where you can truly unwind but also jump into activities like hiking, kayaking, or exploring the coastline by boat. 

The Abel Tasman Coast Track is a fantastic walk, winding its way along the shore with stunning views around every corner. But if you’re looking for a different perspective, we highly recommend renting a kayak and exploring the bays from the water. Paddling through the clear, calm waters, you’ll feel a deep connection with nature that’s hard to match. If you’re lucky, you might even spot seals lounging on the rocks. 

INSIDER TIP: For a comfy and convenient base, park up at the Kaiteriteri Reserve Campground. It’s close to the park entrance, and with its beachfront location, it’s a great place to relax after a day of exploring. 

 

Final tips from the road

Here are a few extra tricks to help make your motorhome travels smoother and more enjoyable. 

 

Pack smart but light

When you’re living out of a campervan, space is everything. It’s tempting to pack for every possible scenario, but we’ve learned the hard way that overpacking can quickly make your space feel cramped and cluttered. The trick is to stick to the essentials and focus on items that can serve more than one purpose. Think lightweight clothing layers that you can mix and match, and don’t forget compact outdoor gear like a foldable chair or a small picnic blanket that you can use for lounging by the lake or on the beach. 

We’ve found that packing in soft duffel bags or backpacks is much easier than using hard suitcases. They fit better into the campervan storage and can be tucked away in awkward spaces, giving you more room to move around. 

 

Embrace the campervan community

One of the unexpected joys of campervan travel is the community you become part of. Whether it’s at a remote DOC campsite or a bustling holiday park, there’s a special camaraderie among fellow travellers. We’ve met so many interesting people on the road, and their tips and stories have added so much to our own experiences. 

I remember one night at a small campsite in the South Island, we started chatting with a couple who recommended a hidden waterfall that wasn’t on any of our maps. We decided to check it out the next day, and it ended up being one of the highlights of our trip – completely unplanned and completely unforgettable. That’s the beauty of connecting with other travellers: they often have local knowledge and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that can transform your trip in the best possible way. 

 

Document your journey 

We’ve always made a point to document our travels, whether it’s through photos, a travel journal, or even just keeping a collection of small mementos. There’s something so rewarding about looking back on your New Zealand road trip and reliving the special moments. Plus, it’s a great way to keep track of places you’ve been, tips you’ve picked up, and spots you might want to revisit. 

For us, our travel journal has become a bit of a tradition. It’s filled with everything from quick sketches of a mountain view to pressed flowers from a hike, to notes about the best meals we’ve cooked in the camper. It’s not just a log of our adventures; it’s a keepsake that brings back all the memories. And who knows, it might even inspire your next trip! 

 

Ready to explore New Zealand in a campervan?

If you’re ready to start planning your own New Zealand road trip, now’s the perfect time. With the flexibility to explore at your own pace and the comfort of a motorhome or campervan hire, your next adventure is just around the corner. Whether it’s your first time in New Zealand or you’re coming back for more, there’s always something new to discover. 

So, what are you waiting for? Start mapping out your New Zealand itinerary, pack your bags, and hit the road. Book your Apollo campervan today... your New Zealand adventure is waiting!