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Apollo motorhome driving nearby Auckland, New Zealand

Motorhome and Campervan Hire Auckland

There is no better place to start your New Zealand road trip adventure than in Auckland, the country’s largest city and the gateway to the North Island. Though it’s known as the entrance to many of the North island’s destinations, this metropolis is a popular destination all on its own. Explore Auckland with visits to the museums for Māori cultural performances, to the Auckland Zoo to get in touch with the local wildlife, and to many other landmarks, all perfect for a day out with the family. Whether visiting Waiheke Island in the Hauraki Gulf to bask in the scenic beauty, or venturing up to the Sky Tower for a heart-stopping bungee jump, there are many activities to enjoy on your Auckland campervan holiday.

 

Auckland Transfer Information:

Shuttle transfers are available to and from the Airport:

If you’re flying into Auckland airport, Domestic Terminal: Pick up is opposite the Jetstar end of the Terminal. Once you have your luggage, head left and exit through doors 9 or 10. Walk straight ahead, across the pedestrian crossing, towards the big white control tower, to the shuttle pick-up point. Once there, you will need to request a pickup on the Aeroparks shuttle by calling through to Aeroparks. Let them know you need to be collected from the Domestic Terminal. Refer to the attached map and follow the pink line. Phone number for Aeroparks is 0800 237 672 or +64 27 414 4712. Pick-up is between 8am and 4pm daily.

If you’re flying into Auckland airport, International Terminal: Once you clear customs, exit the terminal from door 4 or door 8 and make your way across the pedestrian crossing, beside the Novotel Hotel. It’s just a short 5-7 minutes’ walk under the covered canopy walkway. Refer to the attached map and follow the pink line from door 8 (or door 4), making your way to shuttle pick-up zone*. Once there, you will need to request a pickup on the Aeroparks shuttle by calling through to Aeroparks. Let them know you need to be collected from the International Terminal. Phone number for Aeroparks is 0800 237 672 or +64 27 414 4712. Pick-up is between 8am and 4pm daily.

If you are travelling by car: You can book secure parking with Aeroparks by calling 0800 237 672 or +64 27 414 4712. thl customers receive a 25% discount off the rate of the day. Please ensure you let staff know you are a thl customer and that you require to be picked up and dropped off at the Auckland branch location on Manu Tapu Drive. If you are at our branch and require a pick-up, please contact the shuttle request number on +64 27 213 2880.

Alternatively, there are many other secure local car parking options available near our Auckland branch, but there is no shuttle available from these locations.

 

Looking for campervan rental in Auckland?

For the campervans Auckland travellers love, choose Apollo! Leave Auckland from any direction in your campervan, and you will find more of what the North Island has to offer! Visiting Northland and the Bay of Islands will provide splendid opportunities to see dolphins up close. The relaxing beaches and spas of The Coromandel are truly worth the scenic road trip, as are Hamilton and Waikato, with stunning beaches, nature reserves and the famous Hobbiton; the movie set where the Lord of the Rings trilogy was shot. While you’re there, don't miss the thermal mud pools of Rotorua, and Lake Taupo, which offers beautiful clear waters and stunning stargazing by night.

Explore ethereal landscapes and majestic scenery, and be immersed in unique Māori and modern culture with a self-drive adventure in a campervan or motorhome hired from Apollo Motorhome Holidays. If you’re visiting from the South Island, we have a branch there too. Apollo has you covered for campervan hire from Auckland to Christchurch.

Campervan hire Auckland Airport: Guests will need to arrange their own way to and from the airport to our branches in Auckland and Christchurch.

Auckland Branch

  • Address:
    13 Manu Tapu Drive, Auckland Airport, Auckland 2022, New Zealand
  • Opening Hours:
    Monday – Sunday: 8am – 4:30pm
  • Telephone:
    0800 845 222
  • Distance from City:
    21 Kilometres / 13 Miles
  • Taxi Fare City:
    NZD $95 Approx
  • Distance from Airport:
    4.5 Kilometres / 2.8 Miles
  • Taxi Fare Airport:
    NZD $25 Approx
  • Closed Days:

    All branches are closed on Christmas Day (25 Dec). 

What to do on your campervan road trip?

 

The beautiful legends of New Zealand and the inception of its two main islands are told as part of the traditional Māori people, who settled in the country long before the Europeans first arrived. According to the Māori, the North Islands were formed after the brothers of Māui, a demigod, fought over a great fish that he pulled from the sea. The fish was chopped into pieces, creating what is now known to be Te Ika-a-Māui, the traditional name of the island group. Though the tales may only be myth, the breathtaking beauty of the North Island is definitely not.

Auckland City

The North Island of New Zealand has endless opportunities for adventure, beauty and wonder. However, we think the perfect place to start is Auckland, where you’ll be picking up your Apollo motorhome or campervan. Although surrounded by the natural beauty of the North Island, Auckland itself has an array of fantastic tourist activities sure to keep everyone entertained, from food and music to art and culture. So, after setting off from our Auckland branch location, why not stop in at a few of the city's best sites and attractions.

Sky Tower

Piercing Auckland’s skyline, the Sky Tower is known for its panoramic views of the city, bay area and surrounding landscape. Standing at 300 metres high, it is the highest structure in the Southern Hemisphere. As well as stunning views, the Sky Tower also offers gift shops, world-class restaurants and a heart-stopping bungee jump which starts at 192m above the streets below. 

Auckland Museum

Step back in time and discover the rich history of Maori and Pacific Islander culture. With extensive cultural, military and natural history collections, the Auckland Museum is the perfect place to immerse yourself in New Zealand’s story. Located within a historical building and surrounded by tranquil parkland, it’s the perfect day trip for the whole family. 

Mount Eden

Walk up Auckland’s highest volcanic peak for stunning views of the Auckland CBD and harbour. You can observe the crater in the centre of the mountain, which is now covered in grass. 

Tapapakanga Regional Park

Operated by the Auckland City Council, the Tapapakanga Regional Park is a scenic coastal farm park about an hour’s drive east of Auckland. Perfect for a relaxing start to your NZ road trip, park up at your beach-side campsite, and watch the sunset over the rolling landscape behind you. 

Touring the North Island

Travelling out of Auckland in your Apollo campervan, you are spoiled for choice. From forests, beaches, rolling hills, and wild rivers, which area of natural beauty should you visit first? 

The Northern Tip

Travelling north of the city, you will reach the world-renowned Bay of Islands. From there, drive as far as you can to arrive at Cape Reinga, the northernmost point on mainland New Zealand. Along the way you will encounter cute little towns, rural charm and gorgeous coastal scenes.

Heading South

South of Auckland, there are many different paths you can take. If you’re feeling in need of some sea air, make a beeline for the Bay of Plenty or Coromandel Peninsula. A trip inland will likely guide you to lakes and thermal environments of Taupo and Rotorua.

Wild West Coast

If dramatic, rugged scenes are what you crave, the west coast of the North Island is perfect for you. Let the wind whip through your hair as you stand over the craggy cliffs or paddle out on one of the many surf beaches. Dotted with national parks, limestone caves and even a volcanic mountain, let the west coast captivate you with its natural beauty.

East Coast Adventure

Known as the ‘Sunshine Capital’, Napier and surrounding regions are home to world-class vineyards and a wonderful collection of art-deco architecture. Get a bit of culture in you and stroll the streets of Napier on a self-guided ‘Art-Deco walk’, designed by the Art-Deco Trust. 

Things to do in Auckland

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: NZ blog

Family-friendly campsites in New Zealand

But first, a quick word about non-powered sites

It's recommended that you plug your campervan into mains power at least every second night. Driving for a few hours each day will help recharge the motorhome’s battery. However, bear in mind that staying multiple days at a non-powered site could drain your camper’s house battery, affecting the functionality of onboard appliances such as the fridge. 

 

Kai Iwi Lakes Campground, Kaipara

Situated in the Kaipara District in Northland, around three hours from Auckland, the Kai Iwi Lakes Campground is a fresh-water oasis for families. The 538-hectare site boasts three spectacular lakes, each providing an array of water-based activities and beautiful picnic spots. There is a choice of two campgrounds located on the lake foreshore, each offering a fabulous camping experience for families. Pine Beach Campground has powered and non-powered sites with flush toilets, hot showers, and washing basins. Promenade Point offers a more natural camping experience with non-powered sites and a unisex toilet block.

The surrounding pine forests offer plenty of walking and mountain bike trails for those seeking land-based exploration. Nearby, Dargaville township has an intriguing museum as well as shops and cafés.  

 

Image: Miles Holden

 

Awana Beach Campground, Great Barrier Island, Auckland

A slice of coastal paradise awaits your family on the northeastern edge of Great Barrier Island at Awana Beach Campground. Great Barrier Island is located in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf, and the journey there is an adventure in itself. Drive your campervan onboard the SeaLink ferry at Auckland's Wynyard Quarter for a relaxing four-hour voyage across the Hauraki Gulf. 

This campsite offers 60 non-powered sites and caters to family needs with a cooking shelter, toilet facilities, and cold showers. And when the sun sets, prepare for a spectacular celestial show. As a Dark Sky Sanctuary, the island's night sky offers one of the best stargazing opportunities in the world. 

 

Ambury Campground, Auckland

Just 10 minutes’ drive from Auckland Airport, the Ambury Campground in Auckland’s Ambury Regional Park offers a delightful blend of coastal views and rural charm. The kids will love the onsite farm, where they can see and interact with farm animals including chickens, sheep, cows, and horses. 

Amenities include toilet and shower facilities, barbecue spots, and open spaces for recreational activities. Sites are non-powered, and bookings must be made in advance. 

Beyond the campsite, you can enjoy a family outing to the nearby Butterfly Creek, which is home to one of the largest tropical butterfly houses in New Zealand. It also has farm animals, saltwater crocodiles, a dinosaur kingdom, and more. 

 

Whakapapa Holiday Park, Tongariro National Park

For families yearning for a bit of adventure, Whakapapa Holiday Park located in the Tongariro National Park is an excellent choice. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers numerous walks amidst an otherworldly volcanic landscape. The most popular is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. There’s plenty more to do and see in the vicinity too including snow fun during winter, white water rafting, kayaking, and mountain biking.  

The holiday park is furnished with a comfortable lounge room, a communal kitchen, and a dining area, perfect for winding down after a day of exploration. The park is also adjacent to the Whakapapa Visitor Centre, a hub of information about the national park. There’s a small shop onsite with snacks, drinks, and ice creams. 

 

Lake Waikaremoana Holiday Park, Te Urewera

In the heart of Te Urewera lies the enchanting Lake Waikaremoana Holiday Park, a paradise for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The lake provides loads of fun water activities, from boating and fishing to swimming. The park is equipped with barbecue areas, making it an ideal spot for a family cookout while enjoying the lake views. You can spend your days hiking the Lake Waikaremoana Track. This Great Walk of New Zealand is known for its stunning vistas and enchanting native forest. The nearby visitor centre is packed with information about the local flora and fauna, as well as the rich Māori history of the area. If you want to explore New Zealand's natural beauty, this location is a must-visit on your family camping checklist.

 

Port Motueka Beach Reserve Campsite, Tasman

Just a stone's throw from the lively township of Motueka, the Port Motueka Beach Reserve Campsite offers an idyllic coastal getaway. The beachfront location is a dream for families, with sandy expanses perfect for castle building and calm waters inviting a refreshing dip. 

Handy amenities including toilets, water supply, and picnic areas ensure a comfortable stay. Nearby, you'll find the Motueka Sunday Market, a haven of fresh local produce, crafts, and delectable food stalls. The Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park is also a short drive away, offering thrilling trails for adventurous families. Your New Zealand road trip wouldn't be complete without a stop at this picturesque site.

 

No More Pines, Tasman

Located at the southern end of Lake Pukaki in Tasman Bay, No More Pines is a spacious campsite perfect for a relaxed family holiday. What’s more, the views are simply breathtaking. Park up right next to the lake and enjoy views of Aoraki Mt Cook.

With cooking areas, shower facilities, and plenty of room for beach games, it's a location that caters to both comfort and fun. The bay's calm waters are ideal for paddleboarding and other water activities. 

Venturing beyond the campsite, you can explore the Tasman Great Taste Trail, a cycle trail offering stunning views of beaches, orchards, and art galleries. There are also charming eateries nearby like The Mussel Inn for a satisfying meal. 

 

Image: Miles Holden

 

Curioscape, Southland

Located in the heart of the South Island’s Catlins region, Curio Bay Campground is a family camping gem with 20 powered and 100 non-powered sites. Lucky campers may spot rare Hector’s dolphins and New Zealand sea lions at the nearby beach. The campsite has an amenities building housing a full kitchen and dining space, laundry facilities, and showers. If you need to stock up on essentials, just pop into the campground's onsite shop. 

There’s plenty to do and see nearby too including a visit to stunning waterfalls like McLean and Purakaunui Falls. The Curio Bay Natural Heritage Centre is a treasure trove of regional information, perfect for families keen to learn about the area's unique wildlife and geology. 

 

Mavora Lakes Campsite, Southland

Tucked away amidst the vast landscapes of Southland, Mavora Lakes Campsite offers an unforgettable family camping experience. Its pristine lakes provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking, ensuring an exciting stay for the entire family. The campsite offers essential facilities including toilets and picnic tables. While there are no shops or cafes nearby, the sense of remoteness and connection with nature is part of the allure. 

Nearby, keen cyclists can explore the Te Araroa trail, promising stunning views of the everchanging Southland scenery. For Lord of the Rings fans, North Mavora Lake was a filming location for the epic series, adding an extra dash of excitement to your New Zealand road trip.

 

Honourable mentions

While the campsites listed above are truly exceptional, a couple of other spots also deserve a nod. 

Lake Tutira Campsite, nestled on the shores of Hawke’s Bay’s tranquil Lake Tutira, offers a soothing environment for family camping. The site offers picnic tables and barbecue pits, ensuring a lovely place for a family gathering amidst nature.

Equally enchanting is Otamure Bay (Whananaki) Campsite, located on Northland's east coast. Here, you'll find well-maintained facilities including a playground, showers, and kitchen facilities, catering to all the basic needs of a family on a campervan road trip. Its proximity to a stunning white sandy beach promises countless hours of fun for the little ones.

 

Ready to Explore New Zealand?

Exploring New Zealand's stunning landscapes and diverse regions via campervan is a brilliant way to create lasting memories with your family. Each campsite offers a unique set of attractions, from vibrant wildlife to breathtaking views, fostering a sense of adventure and curiosity in your family travels.

Ready to discover some of these fantastic campsites for yourself? Take the first step and book your Apollo campervan online today. Pick up your camper from your nearest Apollo branch and get ready for the New Zealand road trip of a lifetime. We can't wait to see where your adventure takes you.

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Tags: Apollo Camper Family Friendly New Zealand Campsites camping travel tips where to stay

Where to stay in Auckland with your campervan

 

The Auckland region and surrounding North Island are perfect for your motorhome or campervan journey. The area is packed full of motorhome-friendly holiday parks that can provide power and security while offering amazing views. There will often be a holiday park close to popular towns and tourist spots so you can enjoy everything Auckland has to offer.

Holiday parks can supply powered and non-powered sites for campervans and motorhomes, as well as tents and caravans. They may offer multiple recreational amenities like heated swimming pools, trampolines and barbeque facilities. 

For inspiration, check out these world-class tourist areas which cater to motorhomes and campervans:

The Shakespear Regional Park - Situated north of Auckland, this beautiful spot offers beautiful views of Te Haruhi Bay, with three main walking tracks for you to enjoy.

Whatuwhiwhi Holiday Park - Perfect for a beach-side getaway, this spot is great for accessing the pristine Perihepe Beach. Enjoy an array of activities in the area, like fishing, snorkelling, kayaking and paddle boarding. 

Kauri Coast Holiday Park - Located on two hectares of stunning native parkland, the Kauri Coast is a great launching point for seeing the natural wonders of the west coast. Visit the nearby Waipoua Forest, Kauri Park or stroll along the beaches at Maunganui Bluff.

New Zealand is also a free camping nation which means you can park and stay the night in designated areas, as long as you're respectful of others and the environment. Freedom camping is a great option for cheap campervan hire, but it is only allowed for certified self-contained vehicles. This means it must have an on-board toilet, shower and waste disposal facilities.

For more information about free camping in your campervan rental, Auckland City Council has provided detailed rules and regulations for staying in the city.

Why choose Apollo for campervan and motorhome hire in Auckland?

 

Apollo has been a leading brand for premium quality motorhome and campervan rentals since 1985. Our entire campervan fleet is designed and custom built by expert RV manufacturers, who understand New Zealand’s unique climate and terrain. Fitted with quality appliances and furnishings, we can ensure you all the comforts from home when you’re on the road.

Contact our Apollo Motorhomes Reservations team and speak to one of our dedicated team members today. You can also browse through our range of campervans and motorhomes online now and start planning your ultimate Auckland road trip.

Nearest Campsite

TAKAPUNA BEACH HOLIDAY PARK

22 The Promenade, Takapuna,
Auckland 0622

Apollo campervan filling up at petrol station

Nearest Fuel Station

WAITOMO MANGERE

33 Richard Pearse Drive, Mangere,
Auckland 2022

Family cooking in Apollo motorhome

Nearest Supermarket

PAK'N'SAVE

Corner of Bader Drive & Orly Avenue, Mangere, Auckland, 2022

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