What to do on your Queenstown campervan road trip?

There are few places in the world that are quite as spectacular as Queenstown. Situated on the edge of the crystal clear Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps, Queenstown is known for its four distinct seasons, natural scenery and thrilling attractions. From the moment you arrive in your campervan, you’ll see just why Queenstown is New Zealand’s leading visitor destination.

Discover the ultimate adventure

Queenstown has forged an enduring reputation as the adventure capital of the world with more than 200 different adrenaline-pumping activities on offer. Experience some of Aotearoa's most beautiful scenery in thrilling style with skydiving, river surfing, ziplining, white water rafting, and mountain biking – just to name a few!

Queentown’s dramatic alpine ranges are perfect for jet boating and bungee jumping – both of which were pioneered in New Zealand. The iconic Shotover Jet provides you with a world-class jet boating experience as you weave in and out of canyons at breathtaking speed while your pilot pulls 360 degree “jet spins” to keep you on the edge of your seat! Kawarau Bungy Centre is home to the world's first ever bungee jump. Plummet straight down so close to the river below that you can reach out and touch it for the ultimate adrenaline rush.

Winter is all about skiing and snowboarding with four excellent ski fields in the Queenstown area. The closest is Coronet Peak, which has been the premier winter playground since 1947 when the first rope lift in New Zealand was installed there. Queenstown's local ski area offers epic views over the Wakatipu basin while the huge variety of mountain terrain caters for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Coronet Peak is also home to the night ski for a unique snow sports experience.

Relax with serene cultural delights

If thrill seeking isn’t your style, there is still so much to experience in Queenstown. Take a stroll through the beautiful and tranquil Queenstown Gardens, relax aboard a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu, or enjoy dinner at the top of the Skyline Gondola with a bird's eye view of Queenstown's unique surroundings. After all that sightseeing, you’ll have earned a soak in the Onsen Hot Pools. Heal your body and mind with the soothing benefits of pure water and panoramic views of the Shotover River.

Queenstown is celebrated for its delicious food, spectacular wines, and vibrant nightlife. The city’s restaurants offer a gastronomic adventure with a wide range of cuisines using the freshest local produce. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal after a day of exploring or a fine dining restaurant, you’ll find something to satisfy every taste and every mood in New Zealand’s ultimate foodie destination.

Explore the stunning South Island

The fun and adventure doesn’t stop at Queenstown with plenty of nearby tours and day trips featuring gorgeous landscapes, calm blue waters and walking trails to explore. Embark on the scenic drive to Glenorchy before visiting the Kiwi Bird Life Park where you can meet New Zealand's beloved animals up close! During the warmer months, travel through the Gibbston Valley which is home to New Zealand’s most famous wine regions. Known as the Valley of Vines, you can enjoy some of the world’s best Pinot Noir at over 75 boutique wineries along with perfectly paired cheeses.

Driving to the top of the Remarkables mountain range and taking the 40-minute hike up to the picturesque, snow-fed Lake Alta is also well worth the trip during summer. Enjoy a romantic picnic by the lake nestled amongst the rugged backdrop of the Remarkables and, if you are feeling brave, a refreshing dip in the icy green waters.

The South Island road trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound is considered one the most scenic drives in the world. Located on the Wild West Coast about a 4-hour drive from Queenstown, Milford Sound is an awe-inspiring destination with its rugged cliffs, snow-capped peaks, lush green rainforests and cascading waterfalls that dissolve into mist. You can experience this majestic scenery from helicopter flights, guided kayaking tours, or the popular Milford hiking track.

Whatever you want to do and whatever your style is, Queenstown will feed your imagination, fuel your passions and revitalise your spirit.

Things to do in Queenstown

Alyssa Tresider / Sunday, 16 June 2024

/ Categories: NZ blog

Where to see kea in New Zealand

New Zealand is home to some pretty special wildlife, and one that truly stands out is the kea. The world's only alpine parrot, the kea bird is renowned for its intelligence, curiosity, and playful nature. These fascinating birds can be found in various locations across the South Island, and spotting one in the wild is a memorable experience. If you're planning a New Zealand road trip by campervan hire, it’s worth knowing where to spot kea so you can keep your eyes peeled. To make it easy, we’ve put together this handy guide to finding the kea parrot in New Zealand.

What is a kea?

The kea is a remarkable bird native to New Zealand, known for its distinctive olive-green feathers, orange underwings, and large, curved beak. This alpine parrot is not just visually striking; it’s also incredibly intelligent and curious, earning itself the nickname ‘the clown of the mountains.’

Kea (Nestor notabilis) are found in the South Island's alpine regions, particularly in and around the Southern Alps. They’re also highly social birds, often seen in groups, and famous for their playful and inquisitive nature. Kea have been observed using tools, solving puzzles, and even working together to achieve their goals. This cleverness is essential for their survival in the harsh alpine environment, where they forage for a wide variety of foods, including fruits, leaves, and insects.

Things to keep in mind when trying to spot kea

Spotting a kea in the wild is a highlight of any New Zealand road trip, but there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and the birds.

First and foremost, remember that kea are a protected species. It's important to observe them from a distance and avoid any interaction that might disturb their natural behaviour. Feeding kea is strictly prohibited as it can harm their health and alter their natural foraging habits. Keep your food and belongings secure, as these curious birds are known for their tendency to investigate and sometimes damage objects left unattended.

When planning your New Zealand itinerary, consider the best times and places to see kea. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the most active times for these birds. Always check local guidelines and advice on where to see kea, as their presence can vary seasonally and due to environmental factors.

While kea are known for their playful nature, it's important to respect their space. Approach quietly and avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that could startle them. Bring a pair of binoculars or a camera with a good zoom lens to enjoy watching these birds without getting too close.

The best way to go kea spotting

Kea spotting is an adventure that’s best enjoyed in the comfort of an Apollo campervan. Travelling in a campervan means you can easily reach remote and scenic spots where kea are often found, like Arthur's Pass, Milford Road, and Mount Cook.

When you travel by Apollo campervan hire, you’ve got the freedom to go at your own pace and truly immerse yourself in the experience. Make spontaneous stops, take diversions off the beaten path, and meet other like-minded travellers along the way.

Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with family, Apollo has a campervan or motorhome to suit. You’ve also got plenty of space for all your must-haves, and there’s no need to pack and unpack as you move between destinations. And of course, if you opt for a camper with a kitchen, you can make your favourite home-cooked meals on the go. What’s not to love!

The best places to see kea in New Zealand

Keen to plan a New Zealand travel itinerary that takes in the best places to see kea? Here are our top suggestions:

1. Arthur's Pass National Park

Located in the heart of the Southern Alps, Arthur's Pass National Park is a prime spot for seeing kea. This stunning area is known for its dramatic landscapes, featuring towering mountains, deep gorges, and lush forests. The kea can often be seen near the village of Arthur's Pass, particularly around the car parks and picnic areas where they come to investigate and play. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon will increase your chances of spotting these curious birds as they are most active during these times.

While exploring the park, take the time to hike one of the many trails, such as the popular Bealey Spur Track or the Devil's Punchbowl Waterfall Walk. Both offer breathtaking views and the chance to see kea in their natural habitat.

For a comfortable stay, you can’t go past Jackson’s Retreat Alpine Holiday Park. This well-equipped campground offers spacious sites, clean facilities, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s an excellent base for your adventures in Arthur's Pass National Park, providing the perfect blend of convenience and natural beauty.

2. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Home to New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park offers breathtaking alpine scenery with its snow-capped mountains, vast glaciers, and stunning valleys. Kea are frequently spotted around the car parks and visitor areas, especially near the Hooker Valley Track and the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint.

For the best chance of seeing kea, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. These intelligent birds are most active during these times, and you’ll likely catch them engaging in their curious and playful behaviours. In addition to kea, the park offers numerous hiking trails, such as the Hooker Valley Track and the Sealy Tarns Track, where you can immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscape and encounter other native wildlife.

To make the most of your visit, stay at Glentanner Park Centre, a well-appointed campground offering powered sites for campervans. With excellent facilities and panoramic views of Aoraki/Mount Cook, it’s the perfect base for your adventures.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

3. Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a prime location for spotting kea, especially around Milford Sound and the Milford Track. This expansive park is renowned for its dramatic landscapes with deep fiords, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests. The kea are often seen in the car parks and along the trails, where their curious nature brings them close to visitors.

While you're in the area, don’t miss the opportunity to hike the Milford Track or take a cruise through Milford Sound. Both experiences offer stunning views and the potential to see kea in their natural environment, as well as other unique wildlife.

For a great spot to stay, head to Fiordland National Park Lodge. This campground has powered sites perfect for campervans, offering all the comforts you need. With clean facilities and beautiful views, it's a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

4. The Remarkables Ski Area

The Remarkables Ski Area is a fantastic place to see kea during the ski season. These clever birds are often spotted around the base area, providing endless entertainment with their playful antics.

Since campers can't drive up the ski roads, it’s best to use the shuttle service available from Queenstown. This way, you can enjoy the journey up the mountain without any hassle. Once at The Remarkables, take some time to explore the base area as you keep your eye out for the kea. Beyond bird spotting, the ski area offers plenty of winter sports activities, and the stunning alpine views are a treat in themselves.

Park your motorhome at Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park, which offers powered sites and all the amenities you need. Its central location makes it a perfect base for exploring Queenstown and The Remarkables.

5. Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier

The areas around Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier are renowned habitats for kea. These stunning glaciers, located on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, provide a dramatic backdrop for spotting these playful alpine parrots.

While exploring the glaciers, take your time to enjoy the various walking tracks and viewpoints. The Kea Point Track at Fox Glacier and the Sentinel Rock Walk at Franz Josef Glacier offer excellent opportunities to see kea and soak in the breathtaking glacial landscapes.

For a comfy stay, park up at the Franz Josef TOP 10 Holiday Park. This campground provides spacious powered sites and modern facilities, making it an excellent base for your glacier adventures.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

6. Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a stunning destination, and the Rob Roy Track within the park is a great kea-spotting location. This track offers a fantastic hike through lush forests and alpine scenery, leading to breathtaking views of the Rob Roy Glacier. At the end of the track, where the glacier views are spectacular, you’re likely to spot kea as they often frequent this area, entertaining visitors with their inquisitive and cheeky nature.

The Rob Roy Glacier Track is not only great for kea spotting but also provides an excellent chance to enjoy the unique landscapes of Mount Aspiring National Park. Along the way, you'll encounter waterfalls, river crossings, and the stunning alpine environment that makes this park a must-visit.

For a comfortable place to stay, book into the Mount Aspiring Holiday Park. This campground offers powered sites with all the must-have facilities. After a day of hiking and kea spotting, you can relax at the holiday park and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

7. Craigieburn Forest Park

Another prime spot for seeing kea is Craigieburn Forest Park, especially around the ski areas and hiking tracks. This park, located in Canterbury, offers a variety of outdoor activities, from skiing in the winter to hiking and mountain biking during the warmer months.

To increase your chances of seeing kea, head to the ski areas or the more popular hiking tracks like the Craigieburn Valley Track. As you explore the park, you'll enjoy stunning views of alpine scenery, dense forests, and clear streams.

For a memorable stay, park up at Lake Pearson / Moana Rua Campsite. This campsite offers basic facilities so it’s ideal for feeling connected with nature. Located near the lake, it provides a peaceful setting to relax after a day of exploring. You might even hear or see kea around the campsite.

8. Milford Sound – Monkey Creek

Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking destinations, and Monkey Creek, located along Milford Road, is a hotspot for spotting kea. This pristine area offers stunning views and crystal-clear waters, with the cheeky and inquisitive kea often making an appearance. They are known to interact with visitors, especially around the parking areas and viewpoints.

The surrounding scenery, including the towering mountains and lush forest, adds to the magic of this spot. Take some time to explore the area, enjoy the picturesque environment, and keep an eye out for these entertaining birds.

A popular spot to stay nearby is the Te Anau Lakeview Kiwi Holiday Park. This campground provides excellent facilities including powered sites, modern amenities, and stunning lake views.

Ready to see some kea?

Exploring New Zealand's stunning landscapes and spotting the curious kea is an adventure you won't want to miss. Whether you're visiting the majestic Milford Sound or the trails of Mount Aspiring, an Apollo campervan offers the perfect blend of flexibility and comfort.

Start planning your unforgettable journey today. Book your Apollo campervan online today and get ready for the road trip of a lifetime through the breathtaking wilderness of New Zealand.

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Where to stay with your campervan in Queenstown?

There are plenty of accommodation options for campervan travellers in Queenstown with excellent holiday parks and camping grounds close to the town’s centre.

Queenstown Top 10 Holiday Park is located just 15 minutes from Coronet Peak and 15 minutes from the Queenstown CBD making it perfectly placed to enjoy the various adventure activities and spectacular scenic spots.

New Zealand is also a free camping nation which means you can park where you want and stay the night (unless signed otherwise). Freedom camping is a great way to see New Zealand on a budget, but it’s not for everyone and you need to ensure that you have a certified self-contained vehicle. This means it must have an on-board toilet, fresh water storage, waste water storage and a rubbish bin with a lid.

As you continue your South Island road trip, Glendhu Bay Motor Camp is an idyllic campsite nestled right on the edge of the beautiful Lake Wanaka – about an hour’s drive from Queenstown. It is conveniently located next to the Roys Peak track head along with the access road to Treble Cone ski fields (30 minutes) and only a short drive (1 hour) to the Cardrona resort.

Whether you choose to stay at a Queenstown holiday park or take advantage of freedom camping sites, a campervan road trip to New Zealand’s adventure capital is sure to provide a memorable experience.

Why choose Apollo for campervan rental in Queenstown?

You can depend on Apollo for the best campervan rentals in New Zealand. We offer a wide range of vehicles to suit any budget and group size, so you can hit the open road and explore Queenstown and the spectacular South Island.

Our premium quality rental campers are custom built for New Zealand's unique climate by leading RV manufacturers. With quality furnishings and appliances, our vehicles come with all the comforts of home.

Whether you are an intrepid explorer, an adrenaline junkie, or prefer a more sedate pace, you can enjoy absolute confidence travelling in a rental campervan from New Zealand's most modern fleet. Contact our friendly team at Apollo today!

Inspiration for your Queenstown campervan rental

From pure natural landscapes and adventure activities to world class wineries and abundant wildlife, the South Island is a must do for every New Zealand traveller. There is no better way to experience this awe-inspiring region than a road trip with an Apollo campervan! Start your holiday in Christchurch and explore everything the South Island has to offer, including the thrills and sights of Queenstown, with these tried and tested New Zealand campervan itineraries.

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