Listing 10 of the best campervan road trips in New Zealand – on both the North and South Island. Also, highlighting the best campsites on each route!
Renting a campervan in New Zealand is an amazing adventure! It’s like having your own little home on wheels while you explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. I mean, just imagine waking up with a view of a bright blue lake or snow-capped mountain right outside your window. Plus, the flexibility it offers is unbeatable – you can change your plans on a whim and discover those hidden gems that you would likely miss when sticking to just hotels or hostels.
And the best part? You have all the comforts of home with you, like a kitchen to whip up your meals and a cozy space to crash after a day of adventures. It’s definitely a smart way to travel, especially if you’re keeping an eye on your budget. From the stunning Fiordland National Park on the South Island to the Tongariro National Park Circuit on the North Island there’s just so much to see and do.
In short, one of the best ways to experience the beauty of this country is by taking a campervan road trip, allowing you the freedom to explore at your own pace. From the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps to the pristine beaches of the North Island, below you will read about ten campervan road trips in New Zealand that promise a memorable vacation!
BEST Campervan Road Trips in New Zealand
New Zealand is paradise for a campervan road trip! One of the best is the South Island’s Southern Scenic Route, which stretches from Dunedin to Queenstown, passing through the stunning Catlins, with its rugged coastlines, waterfalls, and wildlife. Another must-see is the drive through the North Island’s Coromandel Peninsula, where you can explore pristine beaches, lush forests, and the famous Cathedral Cove.
Each of the below routes promises captivating scenery and unique experiences, making New Zealand a dream destination for campervan road trips.
1. Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park Circuit
- Distance: Approximately 400 kilometers
- Top sights along the way: Milford Sound, Routeburn Track, Te Anau
- How long to spend: Spend a minimum of 3 nights on this route
The allure of Milford Sound’s towering peaks and cascading waterfalls is best experienced by driving through this stunning region and waking up in the heart of Fiordland National Park. Campervans offer the flexibility to linger in this pristine wilderness, exploring remote areas like the Routeburn Track and Te Anau Glowworm Caves.
This route begins in Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland, and winds through lush rainforests, majestic mountains, and deep-blue lakes. The drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound is approximately 120 kilometers and is renowned for its dramatic scenery, including the picturesque Mirror Lakes and the cascading waterfalls of the Eglinton Valley. Along the way, you can also explore various hiking trails, such as the famous Key Summit Track, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains. When you eventually reach Milford Sound, your jaw will drop with the sight of the majestic fjord.
My top things to do along this route:
Here, you SHOULD take a Milford Sound cruise to witness the grandeur of Mitre Peak and the abundant wildlife like Fiordland penguins and seals. These cruises are typically around 3 hours long.
Elsewhere in Fiordland National Park, be sure to drive out to Manapouri to join a tour to see Doubtful Sound. This is in my opinion more impressive than Milford (it’s much bigger) and it’s quite a challenge to get here – which only adds to its appeal.
Best campsite here:
- Te Anau Top 10 Holiday Park: Close to Te Anau, offering a range of facilities and a convenient base for exploring Fiordland.
Related Read: While you’re in Milford, you definitely should also visit the iconic Milford Sound Swing!
2. Coromandel Peninsula Coastal Loop
- Distance: Around 220 kilometers
- What to see along the way: Cathedral Cove, Hot Water Beach
- How long to spend here: Stay around 4 nights
The Coromandel Peninsula is a treasure trove of hidden gems, from the iconic Cathedral Cove to the therapeutic Hot Water Beach. With a campervan, you can easily navigate this coastal loop, stopping at charming towns, cute North Island Cafes, and secluded beaches along the way.
You will set off from the charming town of Thames, and right away, you will be treated to breathtaking views of rugged coastlines and sparkling waters along the Firth of Thames. It’s postcard-worthy views at every turn!
As you head north, you’ll find yourself in the delightful town of Coromandel, bursting with quirkiness and mouthwatering seafood that will make your taste buds dance. The winding roads lead you to stunning spots like Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach, where you can soak in natural wonders and create unforgettable memories.
Don’t forget to stop by the peaceful towns of Tairua and Whitianga, each offering their own unique charm and local experiences.
Best campsites here:
- Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park: Located near Hot Water Beach, providing easy access to the famous thermal springs.
3. Bay of Islands Discovery Route
- Distance: Approximately 200 kilometers
- Best things to see: Paihia, Russell, Waitangi Treaty Grounds
- How many nights: Allow 3-4 nights here
Discover the magic of the Bay of Islands in Northland, hopping from one pristine beach to another. A campervan allows you to park near the famous Hole in the Rock, explore historic Russell, and soak in the warm weather with a beach day in Paihia. In fact, a road trip through ‘the winterless North’ is one of the best things you can do in Northland! This route features lush landscapes and coastal vistas and I’ve driven it many times as I lived in Kerikeri (close to Paihia) for over a year.
Start your drive in the charming town of Paihia, you can explore the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the founding document of modern New Zealand was signed. As I said, make sure to stop at Russell, a quaint town with a rich history as the first capital of New Zealand. The route is peppered with opportunities for outdoor activities, such as dolphin watching, kayaking, and hiking in the stunning surroundings. So, it’s perfect if you’re an outdoorsy type.
Best campsites along this route:
- Russell TOP 10 Holiday Park: Situated in Russell, offers a peaceful stay with access to the historic town and nearby attractions.
4. West Coast Wilderness Highway
- Distance: About 600 kilometers
- What to see here: Franz Josef, Fox Glacier, Punakaiki
- How many nights: Spend 3-4 nights here
This route is famous for its lush rainforests, dramatic coastline, and those stunning views of the Southern Alps will leave you in awe.
The West Coast is a wilderness enthusiast’s dream. With a campervan, you can immerse yourself in the rainforests of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, hike glaciers in Franz Josef and Fox, and marvel at the Pancake Rocks in Punakaiki.
As you make your way along the highway, be sure to stop by charming little towns like Hokitika and Greymouth. Here, you can dive into the local culture, explore unique crafts, and soak up some fascinating history. And as I said above, don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the incredible Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers – they’re a must-see!
My favorite campsite on this route:
- Franz Josef TOP 10 Holiday Park: Perfectly located for exploring Franz Josef Glacier and its surroundings.
5. Tongariro National Park Circuit
- Distance: Around 200 kilometers
- Must-do here: Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Tokaanu Thermal Pools
- How many nights: Spend 3 nights here
Tongariro National Park boasts volcanic landscapes and alpine beauty. Campervans allow you to base yourself near trailheads for iconic hikes like the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and get to the Tokaanu Thermal Pools.
This route has you driving through one of the country’s most iconic national parks. The circuit typically includes a drive around the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, which is a highlight of the park, although the crossing itself is a 19-km-long hiking trail. Along the way, you can witness the majestic peaks of Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Ruapehu, each offering breathtaking views. This drive gives access to various lookout points, walking trails, and picnic spots, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the park’s diverse environments.
Remember to check road conditions and weather forecasts before you set off, as the weather can change rapidly in a mountainous region like this.
Best campsite here:
- Tongariro Holiday Park: Positioned near Tongariro National Park, providing a comfortable setting for exploring the area.
6. Queenstown to Glenorchy via Lake Wakatipu
- Distance: Approximately 90 kilometers
- Best things to see: Queenstown, Glenorchy, Bob’s Cove
- How many nights: 4 nights
Renting a campervan is the perfect decision if you’re visiting Queenstown on a budget! That way, you can wake up to the majestic views of Lake Wakatipu on your first day in Queenstown and explore the natural beauty of Glenorchy the next day. Campervans offer the flexibility to chase the best spots for sunrise and sunset, creating a personalized adventure at your own pace.
The drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy generally takes 40 minutes to complete. However, given how unbelievably beautiful the scenery is, don’t be surprised if it takes you two or three times as long as that!
Along the way, you can stop at plenty of stunning viewpoints (our favorite is Bennett’s Bluff) and remote beaches like Bob’s Cove (which you’ll read more about below), where you can take Insta-worthy Queenstown photos and generally immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the area. Glenorchy is the home of many Lord of the Rings filming locations as you’ll read below.
Even if you’re not into Middle Earth, there is plenty to do in Glenorchy, including checking out its famous red shed – a former building for the NZ Railways Department. That’s oh-so-photogenic! From here, be sure to walk along the Glenorchy Walkway, a scenic and easy walk.
Make sure to stop in to Mrs Wooly’s General Store in Glenorchy for a coffee, it’s one of the cutest Cafes on the South Island!
Best campsite in Queenstown:
- Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park: Situated in Queenstown, offering stunning lake views and convenient access to the region’s attractions.
7. Napier to Gisborne via the Pacific Coast Highway
- Distance: Around 215 kilometers
- Highlights: Wine tasting in Hawkes Bay, Napier, Gisborne
- How long to spend: 3-4 nights
The Pacific Coast Highway between Napier and Gisborne on the North Island is where you can enjoy wine tastings in Hawke’s Bay, explore the cool city of Napier, and enjoy Gisborne’s surf beaches. Campervans give you the convenience of navigating these diverse experiences while having a comfortable base to lay your head each night.
Spanning approximately 215 kilometers (about 134 miles), the route is renowned for its lush vineyards, rolling hills, and picturesque coastline. As you depart from Napier, known for its Art Deco architecture and vibrant wine scene, you’ll travel through charming small towns and communities.
The journey also takes you past the stunning Mahia Peninsula, where you can enjoy the beaches and coastal walks. As you approach Gisborne, make sure to stop at the historic East Cape Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Gisborne itself is famous for being the first city in the world to see the sunrise each day, making it a fitting and memorable end to this beautiful coastal drive.
Best campsites here:
- Cape View Motel and Holiday Park: Located near Napier, it provides various accommodation options and is close to the coast.
8. Southern Scenic Route: Dunedin to Te Anau
- Distance: Approximately 610 kilometers
- Highlights: Catlins, Dunedin, Te Anau
- How long to spend: 4-5 nights
The Southern Scenic Route takes you through the wildlife-rich Otago Peninsula, the captivating Catlins, and the stunning fiords around Te Anau. With a campervan, you can camp in the heart of this scenic route, allowing for an immersive nature experience.
Starting in Dunedin, a lovely city, known for its rich Scottish heritage, this drive leads you to the Catlins, where you can explore hidden waterfalls, ancient forests, and perhaps spot the rare yellow-eyed penguin. My favorite places in the Catlins include Nugget Point Lighthouse, Cathedral Caves and Purakaunui Falls.
Continuing westward, the route passes through the charming town of Invercargill, offering a glimpse into city life in New Zealand’s southernmost city. As you approach Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park, the scenery transforms into majestic mountains and pristine lakes. In Te Anau you can visit the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves, swim in Lake Te Anau or hike the Kepler Track.
Best campsites here:
- Doc’s Campsite Purakaunui Falls: A DOC (Department of Conservation) campsite near Purakaunui Falls provides a rustic camping experience.
9. Aoraki/Mount Cook and Lake Pukaki Circuit
- Distance: Around 250 kilometers
- Highlights of this drive: Mount Cook, Lake Pukaki
- How long to allow: 4-5 nights
Park beneath the towering Aoraki/Mount Cook, gaze at the stars in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve and enjoy the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki on a road trip from Queenstown to Mount Cook.
And even though there are lots of hotels in Mount Cook Village, campervans offer the freedom to camp surrounded on all sides by epic alpine scenery.
Aoraki/Mount Cook is the highest peak in New Zealand (towering at 3,724 meters). This road trip begins by winding along the shores of the turquoise Lake Pukaki, whose striking color is due to glacial flour suspended in the water. Along the way into Mount Cook, you’ll find several lookout points perfect for snapping some wow-worthy photos.
The best photo spot along this route though is called Peter’s Lookout as you can see both Mount Cook and Lake Pukaki. There’s a car park on the right hand side as you drive into Mount Cook village, so you can safely pull off the road.
When you get to Mount Cook – be sure to spend a night or two in Aoraki/Mount Cook village. My favorite thing to do in Mt Cook is to walk the Hooker Valley Track, which is rated as easy and will take most people 3-hours to complete (return that is!) But, there are tougher hikes here like the Sealy Tarns Track and the Mueller Hut Track if you’re keen for a challenge.
Best campsite in Mount Cook:
- White Horse Hill Campground: Situated in the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
10. Rotorua Thermal Wonderland Tour
- Distance: Approximately 200 kilometers
- Route highlights: Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, Polynesian Spa, Te Puia
- How long to spend: 3 nights
Dive into the geothermal wonders of Rotorua’s Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, experience traditional Maori culture, and relax in the Polynesian Spa’s hot mineral pools. Campervans provide the flexibility to explore these attractions at your own pace.
Rotorua is New Zealand’s most geothermally active region. Situated in the heart of the North Island, here you will find bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and vibrant geothermal springs.
As I mentioned along this drive you can check out iconic sites such as Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, where you can marvel at the colorful Champagne Pool and the explosive Lady Knox Geyser. And Te Puia is another must-see. It offers a cultural experience to explore the rich Maori heritage of the area and the chance to witness the powerful Pohutu Geyser.
In short, driving through the scenic landscapes of Rotorua provides a chance to soak in the natural beauty while learning about the fascinating geothermal activity that shapes this remarkable region.
Best campsite in Rotorua:
- Rotorua Top 10 Holiday Park: Conveniently located for exploring Rotorua’s thermal attractions and offering a range of facilities.
What is Freedom Camping?
Freedom camping, also known as wild camping, is a wonderful way to connect with nature! It pretty much means that you pull over in your campervan anywhere in your campervan and park up for the night. It’s legal in most parts of New Zealand but we recommend parking in one of the over 500 responsible freedom camping locations in the country.
However, freedom camping here is sadly abused by some travelers. Therefore, it’s crucial you respect the environment and follow local regulations. This means being mindful of where you park your campervan or pitch your tent and ensuring that you leave the area as beautiful as you found it. Practicing ‘Leave No Trace’ principles is a great way to minimize your impact and help preserve the stunning spots you love.
Before setting out, familiarize yourself with local regulations and guidelines for freedom camping in each region. Respect the environment and adhere to the specific rules set by local authorities to ensure a positive experience for yourself and future travelers.
My top tips for Freedom Camping in New Zealand:
As I said, freedom camping refers to camping in non-designated areas, often amid nature, without the amenities of established campsites.
In my opinion, the self-contained campervan has the advantage when freedom camping! Because a self-contained campervan has the necessary facilities to minimize its environmental impact. These vehicles have certified toilets, wastewater storage, and rubbish disposal facilities, allowing travelers to enjoy the freedom of camping in more remote locations without leaving a trace.
1. Your campervan should be certified
Ensure that your campervan is certified as self-contained. This certification is crucial for legal freedom camping in many areas. Display the certification badge prominently, as authorities may check it.
2. Plan your waste management
Proper waste disposal is a crucial responsibility when freedom camping. Use designated facilities for emptying your toilet cassette and wastewater, and dispose of general waste in the appropriate bins. Leave no trace behind.
3. Conserve water
Self-contained campervans often come with limited water storage. Practice water conservation by using water-saving appliances, taking shorter showers, and being mindful of water consumption.
4. Respect wildlife and nature
Choose campsites that have minimal impact on the surrounding environment. Keep noise levels down, respect wildlife, and avoid disturbing the natural habitats you encounter.
5. Use designated freedom camping areas
Many regions have designated areas for freedom camping. Utilize these spots to enjoy the freedom camping experience while staying within the legal and environmental guidelines.
6. Be self-sufficient
While freedom camping provides a unique sense of freedom, it also requires a degree of self-sufficiency. Carry sufficient supplies, including food, water, and fuel, as you may only sometimes have immediate access to amenities.
7. Check local weather conditions
New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for changing conditions, especially camping in more remote areas. Check weather forecasts regularly and plan accordingly.
8. Respect private property
Avoid camping on private property unless you have explicit permission from the landowner. Respect the rights of others, and seek alternative sites where you are welcome.
9. Connect with the campervan community
Engage with local communities and fellow travelers. Share experiences, seek advice, and contribute to a positive camping culture. Being considerate and friendly enhances the overall freedom camping experience.
Final thoughts on the best campervan road trips in New Zealand!
These campervan road trips in New Zealand offer more than just a scenic drive – they promise a unique and immersive experience in the heart of the country’s natural wonders. With the flexibility to choose your route, stop where you please, and wake up to breathtaking vistas, a campervan journey is the perfect way to explore this enchanting country. So, fuel up, hit the road, and let the adventure unfold around every bend.
I really hope that reading this blog post has helped you narrow down which campervan road trips in New Zealand you should take!
Before you go! You may also enjoy some of my other most popular blog posts –
Living in Queenstown New Zealand- absolutely everything you should know
48 Hours in Queenstown (A Fun Two-Day Queenstown Itinerary)
19 Most Amazing Things to Do in Queenstown in the Summer (A Unique List)
Tips and tricks for moving to New Zealand
Last Updated on February 26, 2025 by snaphappytravel