Easy family-friendly camping meals to make on the road
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campervan for hire driving nearby Christchurch

Motorhome and Campervan Hire Christchurch

 

Haere mai, welcome to Christchurch.

Christchurch, the garden city, is the start of your South Island adventure. Whether you are an intrepid explorer, an adrenaline junkie, or prefer a more sedate pace and all the comforts of home, your motorhome is the ideal way to explore our world famous scenery and attractions at your own pace.

Looking for Christchurch campervan rental?

Your Apollo motorhome is your home away from home while you explore the stunning South Island. Unpack once, stop where you like and stay as long as you like. From Christchurch the options are endless. Explore the city with its art and history museums, shopping options and the food scene. Christchurch has continued to rebuild with new dining and entertainment precincts that will rival its larger city competitors. For the best campervan rental Christchurch has to offer, get in touch with Apollo today!

 

Christchurch Airport Transfer Information

We offer a shuttle service to and from the airport between 8am to 4pm.

The shuttle runs every hour: Branch to the airport on the hour and airport to branch at quarter past the hour.

We will also run additional shuttles when the number of guests is more than the shuttle capacity.

The shuttle area is outside gates 1 and 2 in the domestic area.

There is no customer parking available inside the grounds of our branch, but there is a wide range of safe, secure, convenient and affordable parking options situated close by. We recommend using Parkopedia to research options.

Christchurch Branch

  • Address:
    159 Orchard Road, Christchurch Airport, 8053
  • Opening Hours:
    Monday – Sunday: 8am – 4:30pm
  • Telephone:
    0800 845 222
  • Distance from City:
    10.7 Kilometres / 6.6 Miles
  • Taxi Fare City:
    NZD $59 Approx
  • Distance from Airport:
    2.7 Kilometres / 1.6 Miles
  • Taxi Fare Airport:
    NZD $25 Approx
  • Closed Days:

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

 

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
/ Categories: NZ blog

Easy family-friendly camping meals to make on the road

One of the best parts of a campervan holiday? You’re in control of the menu. No need to rely on takeaway or track down the nearest café – with a few basic ingredients and a bit of prep, you can whip up meals the whole family will enjoy, wherever you’ve parked for the night. 

Campervan cooking doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, the most enjoyable meals on the road are usually the simplest – fast to make, easy to clean up, and filling enough to keep everyone happy until the next stop. 

In this helpful guide, we’ll share meal ideas that tick all the right boxes: minimal ingredients, no fancy equipment, and prep that won’t eat into your holiday time. From make-ahead breakfasts to one-pan dinners, it’s all about keeping things easy – and delicious – while you explore New Zealand with the family. 

 

Tips for cooking while camping

Cooking on the road is all about working smarter, not harder. With limited space and gear, the best approach is to keep things simple, do a bit of prep before you leave, and pack only what you need. These tips will help make mealtimes quicker, cleaner, and more relaxed – so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time making memories. 

READ MORE: Check out our ultimate guide to cooking in a campervan 

 

Meal prepping at home

Getting a few things sorted before you leave can save you time and hassle once you're on the road – especially after a long day of driving or exploring. Doing some basic prep at home means fewer ingredients to juggle and less work at dinnertime. 

  • Chop vegetables in advance and store them in containers or zip-lock bags. 

  • Pre-mix pancake batter or marinate proteins so they’re ready to cook when needed. 

  • Freeze meals like soups or stews for easy heat-and-eat dinners for your first night. 

  • Use stackable containers to make the most of limited fridge and cupboard space. 

 

Pack smart

Apollo campervan kitchens are compact but well-equipped – so there’s no need to overpack. Take a moment to check what’s already included in your Apollo camper’s kitchen, then build your grocery list around that. Packing strategically helps you avoid food waste, saves money, and keeps things organised. 

  • Bring small quantities of pantry staples like oil, salt, pepper, dried herbs, and tinned goods. 

  • Choose non-perishables that are easy to store and cook – think pasta, rice, wraps, long-life milk. 

  • Stock up on fresh produce that lasts a few days without spoiling – apples, carrots, and cheese are reliable options. 

 

Use multi-purpose equipment

Your Apollo camper comes with the essentials – pots, pans, utensils, and a gas cooker – so the trick is making the most of what’s already there. With just a few basic tools, you can cook a wide range of meals without needing extra gear. 

  • Use one pan for multiple steps – sauté veggies, cook protein, then toss in pre-cooked rice or pasta. 

  • Repurpose your pot for boiling, simmering, or reheating pre-made meals 

  • Foil is a handy add-on – use it to wrap ingredients for the grill or to cover leftovers. 

  • Skewers are great if you’re cooking over a shared BBQ or open flame – they’re simple, fast, and easy to clean. 

 

Minimise cleanup

Washing dishes is no one’s idea of a holiday highlight – and with a few smart choices, you can keep the mess to a minimum. Stick to meals that use fewer pots and pans, and get the whole family involved to keep things moving. 

  • Choose one-pot or foil-wrapped meals that keep cleanup simple. 

  • Bring biodegradable plates and cutlery to cut down on washing. 

  • Let kids help with easy prep jobs like mixing, wrapping, or setting the table – it keeps them busy and lightens the load. 

READ MORE: Travelling with kids? Why campervans make family road trips easier and more fun 

 

Quick & easy camping breakfast ideas

Breakfast sets the tone for the day – especially when you’ve got a full travel itinerary ahead. The key is to keep it simple, filling, and fast to prepare.  

Whether you’re up early to hit the road or taking it slow at the campground, these breakfast ideas are designed to save time without skimping on flavour. Most can be prepped in advance, use minimal ingredients, and require very little cleanup – ideal for campervan cooking. 

 

Make-ahead overnight oats

Overnight oats are a great grab-and-go option for busy mornings. They take just minutes to prep and keep well in the campervan fridge or chilly bin. 

  • Combine rolled oats, milk or a plant-based alternative, yoghurt and a drizzle of honey in a jar or sealed container. 

  • Add toppings like sliced fruit, a spoonful of peanut butter, nuts or seeds for texture and flavour. 

  • Make a batch before you hit the road – they’ll be ready to eat straight from the fridge the next morning. 

 

Campfire breakfast wraps

These wraps are a solid choice when you need something hot, quick and customisable. They’re easy to throw together and work just as well cooked on a stovetop or over a grill. 

  • Scramble eggs with grated cheese and diced ham (or swap in mushrooms or baked beans for a veggie version). 

  • Wrap the filling in tortillas with extras like spinach or avocado. 

  • Cook in a frying pan or wrap in foil and heat over a grill or BBQ – no plates required. 

 

One-pan pancakes with bananas

Pancakes feel like a treat but are surprisingly easy to manage in a campervan. Make your batter before the trip or whip it up on the spot – either way, all you need is one pan and a bit of patience. 

  • Mix your pancake batter at home and store it in a sealed container in the fridge. 

  • Cook in a non-stick pan over low heat and top with sliced bananas, maple syrup or Nutella. 

  • For a no-mix version, try banana pancakes made with just mashed banana, eggs and oats – great for younger kids and quick to cook. 

 

Simple lunch ideas for families on the road

Lunchtime on a campervan trip doesn’t need to slow you down. Whether you're parked at a lookout or pulling over for a roadside break, the goal is simple: feed the family fast, with minimal effort and mess. These lunch ideas are designed to be fuss-free, flexible, and easy to adapt based on what you’ve got in the fridge or pantry. 

 

No-cook picnic platter

Perfect for those days when the weather’s good and you’ve found the ideal spot to stop. No cooking required – just lay it all out and let everyone graze. 

  • Pack cheese, crackers, hummus, cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber and deli meats. 

  • Add extras like boiled eggs, olives or dried fruit for variety. 

  • Use containers or a chopping board as your serving base – easy to set up and even easier to clean up. 

 

DIY wraps or sandwiches

Wraps and sandwiches are always a win with kids and can be made in minutes. The trick is to prep the fillings in advance so everyone can assemble their own. 

  • Bring pre-cooked chicken, salad greens, cheese, and spreads like mayo or hummus. 

  • Use wraps, bread rolls or pita pockets – whatever stores well in your campervan. 

  • For a kid-friendly option, try peanut butter and banana wraps or even a simple cheese toastie if you’ve got time to heat the pan. 

 

One-pot mac & cheese

Hot lunch on a cooler day? Mac and cheese is a go-to that’s easy to pull together with pantry basics – and you only need one pot. 

  • Boil pasta, drain, then stir through grated cheese, a knob of butter and a splash of milk until creamy. 

  • Add extras like frozen peas, cooked bacon, or a tin of corn for a bit of variety. 

  • Serve straight from the pot or into bowls – less washing up, more time to relax. 

 

Easy family dinners at the campsite 

After a full day of exploring, the last thing you want is a complicated dinner. These camper-friendly meals are low on prep, cook quickly, and don’t leave a trail of dirty dishes behind. Whether you’re using your campervan cooker, a portable gas stove or the campground kitchen, these recipes are designed to keep dinner stress-free and the family satisfied. 

 

Campfire sausage and veggie foil packets 

Foil packets are a campsite classic – no pans, no fuss, and loads of flavour. 

  • Slice sausages, potatoes, capsicum and onions. 

  • Drizzle with oil, season with salt and pepper, then wrap in foil. 

  • Cook over a grill or in a campground oven until everything’s cooked through. 

  • Mix it up with chicken, tofu, or whatever protein you’ve got on hand. 

 

One-pan stir fry with rice

Stir fry is a great way to use up leftover veg and turns out reliably good every time. 

  • Sauté chopped vegetables and your choice of meat or tofu in a pan. 

  • Add pre-cooked rice or instant rice for a quick finish. 

  • Flavour with soy sauce, garlic, ginger or chilli flakes – whatever you’ve got on hand. 

 

Quick campfire tacos

Tacos are always a crowd-pleaser and come together quickly with just a few ingredients. 

  • Brown mince or heat up a can of beans in a frying pan. 

  • Serve in taco shells or wraps with cheese, avocado, lettuce and salsa. 

  • Pre-cook the filling at home and just reheat at camp for an even faster option. 

 

Simple campervan pasta with tomato sauce 

Pasta is a go-to campervan dinner – quick to cook, filling, and easy to customise. 

  • Boil pasta, drain, then stir through a jar of tomato-based pasta sauce. 

  • Add canned tuna, cooked chicken, or a handful of frozen veg for extra substance. 

  • Top with grated cheese and, if you’ve got it, a sprinkle of fresh basil. 

 

Delicious campfire desserts & snacks

These easy treats are perfect for satisfying the after-dinner sweet tooth or turning a regular night at camp into something a little more fun. No fancy tools or complicated steps – just simple, tasty snacks the whole family can enjoy. 

 

Campfire banana boats

An easy dessert that feels a bit like a campfire ritual – messy, fun, and always a hit with kids. 

  • Slice a banana down the middle (leave the skin on), and stuff it with chocolate pieces and marshmallows. 

  • Wrap it in foil and place on a hot grill or campfire embers until everything’s melted and gooey. 

  • Eat with a spoon straight from the foil – zero plates, zero stress. 

 

No-bake energy balls

Great for road trip snack breaks or something to nibble on between meals, these are easy to prep in advance and keep well for days. 

  • Mix rolled oats, chopped nuts or seeds, peanut butter, honey, and a few chocolate chips. 

  • Roll into bite-sized balls and store in a container in the fridge or chilly bin. 

  • Add extras like dried fruit or coconut if you want to mix it up. 

 

Simple s’mores

A classic camping treat that never goes out of style – especially if there’s a campfire nearby. 

  • Sandwich a marshmallow and a piece of chocolate between two plain biscuits. 

  • Heat gently over a grill, BBQ, or in the campground oven until the marshmallow softens. 

  • No campfire? Use a pan or wrap them in foil and warm them up on the stove. 

Enjoy your campfire desserts under the stars! Check out our guide to the best stargazing spots in New Zealand.  

 

Meal planning for a 3-day family camping trip

To make life even easier, here’s how all those recipes can fit into a simple 3-day meal plan. Having a rough plan before you hit the road means fewer last-minute supermarket stops, less food waste, and more time to enjoy the trip. This sample menu includes make-ahead options, one-pot meals and quick-assembly snacks – all designed for campervan kitchens and campground cooking. 

 

Day 1

Breakfast: Overnight oats 
Lunch: DIY wraps 
Dinner: Campfire sausage and veggie foil packets 
Dessert: Campfire banana boats 

 

Day 2

Breakfast: Pancakes with bananas 
Lunch: Picnic platter 
Dinner: One-pan stir fry with rice 
Dessert: S’mores 

 

Day 3

Breakfast: Scrambled egg wraps 
Lunch: Mac & cheese 
Dinner: Quick campfire tacos 
Snack: No-bake energy balls 

 

Ready to plan a tasty road trip with Apollo?

With a few easy meals up your sleeve, campervan cooking becomes one less thing to think about – leaving more time to enjoy the trip. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a longer family holiday, the right meals can make all the difference. Book your Apollo campervan hire online today and start planning a road trip that’s as easy to eat your way through as it is to enjoy. 

 

FAQs

What are some delicious and easy camping meal ideas?

One-pot pasta, veggie stir-fries, wraps, lentil curry, and foil-packet dinners are all tasty, low-fuss options that work well in a campervan or at a campground. 

What to cook for camping with kids?

Go for familiar, simple meals like pancakes, mac and cheese, DIY tacos, or toasties. Let kids help with prep to keep them involved and make mealtimes more fun. 

What are classic camping meals for families?

Classic choices include spaghetti, sausage and veggie skewers, scrambled eggs and wraps, baked beans on toast, and campfire potatoes with cheese or beans. 

What are the quick easy meals for caravans?

Wraps, noodle bowls, veggie fried rice, pre-made soups, and stir-fries with frozen veg are quick to cook, easy to clean up, and ideal for small caravan kitchens. 

 

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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.

New Zealand camping site

Nearest Campsite

North South Holiday Park

530 Sawyers Arms Road, Harewood, Christchurch 8051

+64 3359 5993

Filling up Apollo campervan in New Zealand

Nearest Fuel Station

Z - Sawyers Arms - Service Station

Sawyers Arms Road, Harewood, Christchurch 8053

+64 3359 8448

Family cooking in Apollo motorhome

Nearest Supermarket

Countdown

530/546A Memorial Avenue, Harewood, Christchurch, 8053

(03) 357 0450

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