North to South for Adventure Lovers
Ready for the road trip of a lifetime? We love nothing more than packing up a campervan, grabbing some mates, and hitting the open roads of Aotearoa. If you’ve got two weeks to explore New Zealand, we’ve mapped out our favourite way to experience both the North and South Islands, packed with must-see stops, campervan-friendly stays, and epic adventures. Buckle up—this is the freedom you’ve been dreaming of!
Day 1-2: Auckland – Coromandel Peninsula
Pick up your campervan in Auckland and set the playlist for a classic Kiwi roadie! Take State Highway 25 east towards the Coromandel Peninsula (about 2.5 hours). Our favorite first stop? Hot Water Beach—dig your own natural spa at low tide. Stay the night at Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park, a perfect campervan spot with great facilities.
Day 3-4: Coromandel – Rotorua
Roll south towards Rotorua (3 hours), famous for bubbling geothermal wonders and Maori culture. Don’t miss Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and a soak in the Polynesian Spa. Camp up at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park—so close to the action, you can practically smell the sulphur!
Day 5-6: Rotorua – Taupō – Tongariro National Park
It’s a cruisy 1-hour drive to Taupō—snap a pic at Huka Falls and maybe try skydiving for an adrenaline rush. Continue south to Tongariro National Park (another 1.5 hours), where you can tackle the legendary Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Stay at Whakapapa Holiday Park, nestled right in the heart of the mountains.
Day 7: Tongariro – Wellington
Head south (about 4.5 hours) to New Zealand’s cool little capital, Wellington. Grab a coffee on Cuba Street and ride the famous Wellington Cable Car. Our pick for campervans: Wellington TOP 10 Holiday Park, with easy access to the city.
Day 8: Interislander Ferry to Picton – Marlborough
Board the Interislander ferry with your campervan (book in advance!), soaking up those jaw-dropping Marlborough Sounds views. Once in Picton, explore local vineyards or cruise the Queen Charlotte Track. Park up at Picton Campervan Park for a chill evening.
Day 9-10: Marlborough – Kaikoura – Christchurch
Head south along State Highway 1 to Kaikoura (2 hours), home to wild fur seals and epic whale-watching tours. Continue another 2.5 hours to Christchurch, stopping for a walk along the rugged coastline. Christchurch TOP 10 Holiday Park is super comfy for your stay.
Day 11: Christchurch – Lake Tekapo
Turn inland (3 hours) to the stunning blue waters of Lake Tekapo. Check out the Church of the Good Shepherd and stargaze in this Dark Sky Reserve. Park your wheels at Lake Tekapo Motels & Holiday Park—unreal views and the perfect spot for campervanners.
Day 12-13: Lake Tekapo – Queenstown
Hit the road for Queenstown (3 hours), the adventure capital of NZ. Bungy jump, jet boat, or just eat your weight in Fergburger (seriously, do it). Creeksyde Queenstown Holiday Park is our go-to for campervans and is super close to all the action.
Day 14: Queenstown – Milford Sound (Optional Overnight or Day Trip)
If you can squeeze it in, drive the scenic route to Milford Sound (about 4 hours). Cruise beneath towering cliffs and waterfalls—an absolute must-see! Stay at Milford Sound Lodge if you want to overnight, or return to Queenstown for your last night.
Pro Campervan Tips:
- Download the CamperMate app for free/cheap camp spots, dump stations, and handy travel info.
- Stock up on groceries in bigger towns—remote areas can be pricey.
- Take it slow, snap all the pics, and say hi to the locals. Kiwis are super friendly!
This itinerary is all about flexibility—one of the best things about having your own wheels. Whether you chase the next sunrise or stay longer at your favourite spot, you’re free to make this adventure your own.
Happy travels, legends! See you on the road.