What to do on your Christchurch campervan road trip?

With Apollo’s campervan and motorhome hire in Christchurch, you can explore every corner of New Zealand’s spectacular South Island.

Head north, to Hanmer Springs and Kaikoura, where the stunning scenery and friendly locals combine with fresh seafood and the famous Marlborough wineries. Further on you’ll be able to explore the Marlborough Sounds and the golden sands of the Tasman National Park.

To the west coast, the photo opportunities are endless. There's so much on offer including tramping, mountain biking, the glaciers of the wild West Coast and the local beers and whitebait patties. Yum!

And of course the famous southern scenic route, including the Southern Lakes, Aoraki Mt Cook, Queenstown and Milford Sound, where every bend in the road will take your breath away. Literally millions of people come from all over the world to see our back garden, why not you!

Discover Christchurch City

Welcome to Christchurch, the doorway to the South Island. On your journey, you will discover endless natural beauty in this uniquely New Zealand setting, from snow-capped mountain ranges to lake-side vistas. However, now that you’re here, why not check out what the city of Christchurch has to offer first?

After you set off from our branch just outside the airport, cruise on into the CBD and enjoy the cultural delights of New Zealand’s oldest city. From restaurants and heritage architecture, to street art and the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra concerts in Hagley Park, feast your senses on all Christchurch has to offer.

Botanic Gardens

As one of the city’s most popular attractions, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens feature the most extensive collection of local and exotic plantlife throughout New Zealand. With over 1.1 million patrons each year, these epic botanic gardens are a place of ever-evolving natural beauty. There's something new to see with every season.

Christchurch Gondola

For the best view in town, ride the Christchurch Gondola to the top of the Port Hills. This experience offers a stunning outlook over the city, the Southern Alps, Lyttelton Harbour and the Canterbury Plains. At the summit, you can enjoy a variety of activities, including shopping, the Time Tunnel Ride or a beverage and snack at the Red Rock cafe.

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Want to see a Kiwi bird in its natural habitat? How about with no glass between you? At the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, you can get close to many of New Zealand’s native icons, as well as other local and introduced species. Walk around the park at your own pace and let the animals eat out of your hand, then stay for a Maori cultural demonstration or walk through the gift shop.

Your South Island campervan adventure

Ready to see the Lord of the Rings in real life? After exploring what Christchurch has to offer, it’s time for the main event. With the dazzling scenery in every direction, we lay out what the South Island has to offer, place by place. Read on to discover where our campervan hire can take you.

Lake Tekapo

Regardless of the season, Lake Tekapo is a sight to behold. Fed from a nearby glacier, bask in the reflection of the crystal clear waters, or visit one of the local cafes to gaze across this great blue expanse. When the sun sets, prepare yourself for a dazzling night time display. Known for its stargazing, local tours operate from Wednesday to Sunday, taking you to the perfect spots to witness our vast milky way.

Aoraki Mount Cook

Standing at 3724 m above sea level, Aoraki Mount Cook is the tallest mountain in New Zealand. On a clear day, it stands magnificently against the sky - a memorable sight for anyone to behold. For day trips to Mt Cook, we highly recommend the Hooker Valley Track. At an easy 3 hour return time, the Hooker Valley Track offers stunning views of Hooker Lake, the Mueller Glacier and, of course, Aoraki Mount Cook.

Hanmer Springs

Unlike most places, Hanmer Springs is ideal for both thrill seekers and chill seekers. The thermal springs are the perfect place to unwind after a long day’s driving, with temperatures reaching up to 36C in some pools. However, for those who are a little more restless, Hanmer Springs Attractions offers a whole host of high-octane fun. From jet boating to river rafting, to quad bike tours and bungy jumping, they have it all. The best part is, they operate from one location, making it possible to do multiple tours in a single day.

Marlborough Sounds

With over 50 conservation reserves, 1500 km of coastline and many hidden bays and quiet beaches, the Marlborough Sounds are a place to find your own piece of paradise. The perfect setting for an island hopper cruise, float between islands and coves as you drink in some of NZ’s most picturesque coastline. With the best south island wineries located in this region, the Sounds are also the ideal place to please your palate, as well as your soul.

Things to do in Christchurch

Alyssa Tresider / Wednesday, 1 May 2024

/ Categories: AU Blog

Best Things To Do In Robe, South Australia

Robe, South Australia is a charming coastal town that offers visitors a wide variety of activities to enjoy. From stunning beaches to delicious culinary delights, there’s something for everyone. This blog aims to give you our 11 of the best things to see and do in Robe, as well as places to stay in Robe, the best time to visit SA and what makes Robe such a great destination to visit. Plus, with Apollo Campers locations ideally located in Adelaide and Melbourne, as well as a great range of vehicles to choose from, campervan travel has never been so easy.

Where is Robe, South Australia?

Robe is a historic seaside town located to the south-east of Adelaide, on the Limestone Coast, between Melbourne and Adelaide. It's about 4 hours drive from Adelaide and 6 hours from Melbourne, making it a great road trip destination in a campervan or motorhome. On top of its easy-to-get-to location, the town is also home to some of South Australia's most breathtaking natural wonders; picturesque landscapes, historic buildings, and beautiful beaches.

Why Robe is worth visiting

Robe is an ideal destination for campervan travellers as there are some great Robe attractions and experiences to enjoy. There is something for every traveller, from its rich history, great fishing and stunning Robe beaches, to the incredible food and wine scene, especially the local Robe seafood. Whether you’re travelling as a couple or as a family, this place has so much to offer, making it a must-visit destination to add to your travel itinerary.

When to visit Robe

The best time to visit Robe in South Australia is in the warmer months from November to April, especially if you love to fish and enjoy the beach. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, you can still find plenty to do in the cooler off-season, including enjoying the incredible wineries and exploring national park walks.

Getting to Robe

Getting to Robe is easy, especially when you hire an Apollo Camper. You can choose to pick up your camper from the Apollo Adelaide branch, then drive along the Murray River or Fleurieu Peninsula, taking your time in your Apollo camper and stopping to take in the scenery along the way. Alternatively, you can pick up your camper from the Apollo Melbourne branch, and then drive the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne and take a few days to make your way there. Whichever way you decide on, we’re sure you’ll be in awe of the beauty of this region.

Where to stay in Robe

If you're planning a trip to Robe in South Australia, you'll be happy to know that there are plenty of accommodation options for those travelling in a campervan hire on a road trip. What’s more is the town is known for being very welcoming to campervan travellers, and there are some excellent holiday parks and campsites to choose from. Whether you're looking for a holiday park with excellent facilities or a caravan park with direct access to the beach, you're sure to find something that suits your needs and budget.

Image: SATC Media Gallery

Robe Holiday Park

One of the most popular holiday parks in Robe is the Robe Holiday Park. This park is located just a short walk from the town's main street and offers a range of facilities to make your stay comfortable. These include a swimming pool, camp kitchen, BBQ area and laundry facilities.

Robe Discovery Park

Another great option for those looking for a holiday park in Robe is the Robe Discovery Park. This park is also located just a few minutes' walk from the town centre and has a great range of facilities to keep the whole family entertained, as well as spacious powered and unpowered campsites to choose from.

Sea Vu Caravan Park

If you're looking for a caravan park in Robe with stunning sea views, the Sea Vu Caravan Park is the perfect choice. This park is located right on the beachfront and offers direct access to Robe Beach. With a camp kitchen, BBQ area and laundry facilities on offer, as well as great campsites for your campervan hire, the Sea Vu Caravan Park is a fantastic option when exploring Robe.

11 of the best things to see and do in Robe, South Australia

1. Head to Long Beach for a paddle

Long Beach is one of the most popular attractions in Robe, and for good reason. It is a breathtaking beach that stretches for kilometres and offers visitors a chance to enjoy a walk along the gorgeous coastline. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, surfing, kayaking, and paddle boarding, while the sandy shores are ideal for sunbathing, fishing and building sandcastles. You can even pack a picnic lunch to enjoy the stunning views.

2. Take in the view from Cape Dombey Oblisk

Cape Dombey Obelisk is another must-visit attraction in Robe. Here you can take in the stunning views of the town from the top of the obelisk and learn about the history of the area. The obelisk is also home to the Robe Lighthouse, which has been guiding ships into the harbour since 1972. Visitors can still climb to the top for a panoramic view of the town and surrounding ocean, a must-do experience.

3. Sample the culinary delights on offer

Robe is known for its culinary delights. For seafood lovers, we highly recommend heading to Sails restaurant for some delicious lobster, or to Robe Seafood & Takeaway for a quick bite. For those with a sweet tooth, the Robe Store serves the best coffee while Robe Ice-Cream & Lolly Shop is a must-visit. To enjoy a good range of local delicacies, you can take the Robe Tasting Trail as the trail takes you on a journey through some of the best food and drink establishments in the town, including wineries, breweries, and cafes.

4. Visit Little Dip Conservation Park

Little Dip Conservation Park is a great place to explore the native flora and fauna, whilst also taking in the stunning views of the rugged coastline and Southern Ocean. The park is located just outside Robe and is home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, and a range of bird species. It is a perfect spot for everyone from nature lovers to walkers visiting Robe.

5. Enjoy a brew at Robe Town Brewery

Beer lovers are going to want to stop in at Robe Town Brewery. This is a great place to visit for a taste of local craft beer and a tour of the brewery. The brewery produces a range of beers that are made using local ingredients, and visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the brewing process. There is also a tasting room where you can sample the delicious beers and enjoy some local food.

6. Take a walk around Robe’s historical sight

Take a walk around Robe’s historical sites with a self-guided walking tour. You can explore the town's history and heritage, including the historic buildings that line the main street and the old customs house that now houses the Robe Visitor Centre. The tour takes visitors on a journey through the town's past, including the whaling and sealing industry that once thrived in the area.

7. Get out on the water and enjoy some fishing

If you’re feeling like casting a line and trying your hand at fishing, then Robe is a great place to try. You can fish off the Jetty with your own gear or take a fishing charter to catch whiting, salmon, garfish, flathead, mulloway, and crayfish. The waters around Robe are teeming with fish, making it a popular destination for all skill levels.

Image: Instagram - @_letsescapetogether_

8. Sample local wine by calling into wineries and cellar doors

Wine lovers visiting the area must sample the incredible array of local wines by calling into the wineries and cellar doors. Our favourites are Cape Jaffa Wines and Ralph Fowler Wines for their exceptional range of wines on offer. Another great option is Karatta Wines, which is an excellent cellar door on the main street. Here visitors can enjoy a tasting of the local wines and learn about the winemaking process.

9. Visit Robe Historical Museum

A visit to the Robe Historical Museum invites you to learn about the town's rich maritime and agricultural history. The museum is housed in a historic building that was once the town's gaol. While here you can explore the exhibits that tell the story of Robe's past, including the whaling and sealing industry, the town's role in the wool trade, and the lives of the early settlers.

10. Take a 4WD adventure tour along Robe’s coastline

Take a 4WD adventure tour along Robe’s coastline to explore the stunning coast and embrace your adventurous side. The tour takes visitors on a journey through some of the most rugged and remote areas of the coast, including beaches, sand dunes, and coastal cliffs. You’ll be safe knowing the tour is guided by experienced drivers who know the area well and can provide you with insights into the local area and natural habitat. An unforgettable Robe activity to enjoy on your road trip.

11. Head to Factory Bay Glass Beach

The final spot on our list is one not to be missed. The Factory Bay Glass Beach is the perfect spot to experience sand that’s more sea glass than stone. The beach is located just outside of Robe and is a popular destination for those looking for a unique souvenir and experience. Visitors can collect the sea glass that washes up on the shore and keep it as a memento of a wonderful campervan road trip.

See the best of Robe with Apollo

Overall, Robe, South Australia is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a relaxing coastal getaway with plenty of activities and attractions to enjoy on a road trip. Whether you're looking to enjoy the stunning beaches, sample the local food and drink, or explore the town's rich history, Robe has something to offer everyone. Book your Apollo Camper now, and hit the road!

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Where to stay in Christchurch

The Canterbury region is ideal for motorhome and campervan journeys with excellent holiday parks located close to all the popular tourist attractions and towns. These areas are well equipped for road trippers, as they have everything from kitchen and bathroom facilities to powered sites specifically for campervan rentals. Some holiday parks also offer various recreational facilities like barbeque areas, swimming pools, biking and walking trails, and small stores for basic goods.

For inspiration, check out these fantastic holiday parks which cater to motorhomes and campervans:

Tasman Holiday Park, Christchurch - Only 15 minutes from the Christchurch CBD, the Tasman Holiday Park is the perfect place to begin your holiday on New Zealand’s South Island.

Leithfield Beach Holiday Park - North of Christchurch, stop here on your way to the Marlborough Sounds and enjoy beach-side accommodation for a fraction of the price.

The Lake Tekapo Holiday Park - Stay at the top of Lake Tekapo while remaining within walking distance of the town centre, the lake’s edge and local hot springs.

For the more adventurous Christchurch campervan travellers, you can also free camp in certain places throughout the South Island. Freedom camping is a great way to explore New Zealand on a budget, but it comes with strict rules and regulations. You must have a certified self-contained vehicle with your own toilet, shower and waste disposal facilities on board. If you’re planning to free camp in your motorhome rental, Christchurch City Council has rules and regulations about where you can stay.

Why choose Apollo for campervan and motorhome hire in Christchurch?

Apollo is New Zealand’s leading provider of premium quality motorhome and campervan rentals. Designed and built by expert RV manufacturers, our entire fleet is custom-made for New Zealand’s unique climate and terrain. Whether you are looking for your next adventure or want to enjoy a relaxing scenic drive, the best way to explore Christchurch is with an Apollo campervan.

We offer a wide range of campervan and motorhomes to suit any budget and group size. Each vehicle is kitted out with quality appliances and furnishings so you can have all the comforts of home on your road trip. For great Christchurch campervan deals, contact our friendly team at Apollo and start planning your dream holiday.

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