Auckland

Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, is a hub of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Nestled between two stunning harbours, the city is also referred to as ‘The City of Sails’. From swimming and surfing to cruises and kayaking, it’s the place to be for fun on the water. But there are plenty of great things to do in Auckland for land lovers too, with fantastic hikes and bush walks, beautiful gardens, and plenty of shopping and sightseeing.

At the heart of Auckland’s appeal is its unique blend of urban and natural attractions. Take a stroll through the picturesque Viaduct Harbour, visit the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views, or immerse yourself in the rich Māori heritage at the Auckland Museum. Auckland combines city excitement with stunning natural landscapes, offering an unforgettable experience for every traveller. So, get ready to explore, discover, and create lasting memories in this remarkable city.

With your Apollo campervan, you can easily extend your city explorations and head out on one of the many Auckland day trips to discover pristine beaches, lush forests, and scenic vineyards. Drive to the black sand beaches of Piha, surround yourself in birdsong and native bush in the Waitākere Ranges, or take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day of wine tasting and relaxation.

Why explore Auckland by campervan?

Exploring Auckland by campervan is a fantastic way to see the best of the region at your own pace. With an Apollo campervan, you have everything you need for the journey right there with you. No more unpacking and repacking at every stop – just hop in and go! You can start your day with a coffee by the beach, then head off for a spot of shopping or explore more Auckland attractions. The next day, you may like to discover the stunning black sand beaches of the west coast, hike the trails in the Waitākere Ranges, or enjoy a leisurely picnic in a quiet park. With a campervan, you can simply wake up and decide which awesome Auckland attractions you’ll tick off your list today!

Apollo’s campervans are designed with comfort and convenience in mind, so you can rest assured that you’ll have everything you need for a smooth journey. Motorhome travel also means you can fully embrace the spontaneity and adventure of an Auckland campervan holiday. Whether you’re exploring the city shops or heading out on a day trip, a campervan gives you the flexibility to make the most of your trip.

Things to do in Auckland

Auckland offers loads of fun activities and attractions, making it an excellent destination for campervan travellers. Start your journey at the iconic Sky Tower, where you can take in the panoramic views of the city and beyond. For a cultural experience, visit the Auckland Museum to learn more about New Zealand’s history and Māori heritage. Explore the hot spots in the city, such as the stylish cafes and boutiques in Ponsonby or Britomart. For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Mission Bay, where you can walk along the beach and dine at waterfront restaurants. For family-friendly Auckland tourist attractions, the Auckland Zoo and SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium are must-visits.

Outdoor adventurers will find plenty of things to do in Auckland. Explore the rugged beauty of the Hunua Ranges with its scenic hiking trails and waterfalls, or head to the east coast beaches like Tāwharanui for a day of swimming and sunbathing. For a unique experience, take a ferry to Rangitoto Island and hike to the summit of this iconic volcanic cone for stunning views of the city and beyond. The island's unique lava fields and native forest provide a fascinating landscape for exploration.

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Popular Auckland day trips & itineraries

The City of Sails is the perfect starting point for some unforgettable Auckland day trips. With an Apollo campervan, you have the freedom to explore whenever the mood strikes. How about a visit to the charming town of Matakana with its boutique vineyards and local markets? Or, head south to the iconic Hobbiton for a magical experience in the heart of Middle-earth. For an adventure underground, the Waitomo Caves offer stunning glowworm displays and limestone formations. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a longer journey, our itineraries will help you make the most of your campervan holiday in New Zealand. Check out our suggested routes and start planning your journey today!

Alyssa Tresider / Sunday, 27 April 2025

/ Categories: NZ Itineraries

7-Day Family Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

Arrive at Auckland International Airport and pick up your vehicle from the Auckland branch. We recommend doing the following:

Auckland Museum: Set in the Auckland Domain, this museum offers a powerful introduction to New Zealand’s natural history, Māori culture, and military history.
Visit the Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city (SkyCity Auckland).
Auckland Art Gallery: A beautiful blend of historic and contemporary architecture, this gallery showcases national and international works across four levels.
All Blacks Experience: An interactive, high-energy journey into New Zealand’s rugby legacy – perfect for sports lovers, located at the SkyCity Precinct.
Wētā Workshop Unleashed: Dive behind the scenes of blockbuster film-making with this immersive creative experience from the makers of The Lord of the Rings and Avatar. Located at the SkyCity Precinct.

After exploring Auckland, take an evening Stroll and enjoy some dinner. Wander through Viaduct Harbour or Commercial Bay, both buzzing with waterfront energy. Enjoy dinner at one of the many vibrant restaurants or bars to toast the start of your trip.

Where to stay: Ambury Campground

Day 2: Auckland to Bay of Islands (Northland)

Today it’s time to drive to the Bay of Islands via the scenic Northland Journey, The Welcoming Coast. Stop at Kawakawa to see the iconic Hundertwasser Toilets and browse local Māori art at the Kings Theatre Gallery. The, arrive in Paihia, stretch your legs with a beach walk, and enjoy dinner at a family-friendly waterfront restaurant.

Where to stay: Paihia TOP 10 Holiday Park

Day 3: Bay of Islands Family Adventure

Take your time to explore today and visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds – one of New Zealand’s most important historic sites. Includes guided tour, Māori cultural performance, and a delicious lunch at Whare Waka Café. Take a Dolphin-Watching Cruise and explore the famous Hole in the Rock with Explore Group – an unforgettable marine wildlife experience.

Stay in Russell tonight, New Zealand’s first capital. For dinner, Russell has many harbourfront restaurants with a wide range of delicious options for all ages and budgets.

Where to stay: Russell TOP 10 Holiday Parks

Day 4: Bay of Islands to Rotorua

Today is a long, but very scenic drive from Paihia to Rotorua, take your time, there’s lots to see on the way! Stop in Whangarei to visit the Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Māori Art Gallery – a stunning building showcasing the visionary work of artist-architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser and the world’s first contemporary Māori art gallery. The rooftop garden, colourful design, and playful shapes are sure to wow kids and adults alike.

Carry on from Whangarei south to Auckland and stop at Eutopia Café in, a quirky, mosaiced café perfect for families. Arrive in Rotorua in time to check in to your campsite and relax before tomorrow’s fun.

Where to stay: Rotorua Blue Lake TOP 10 Holiday Park

Day 5: Rotorua Exploration

Take the time to explore Rotorua today and head to Agrodome Experience, a Rotorua favourite for families! Enjoy the Farm Show, where kids will love watching sheep shearing, sheepdogs at work, and even getting the chance to feed baby animals. Afterwards, hop on the Farm Tour—a tractor-pulled adventure through the working farm where you can hand-feed alpacas, deer, and other friendly farm animals.

In the afternoon, there’s an abundance of family-friendly activities to choose from, we recommend the following:

Paradise Valley Springs, a trout, bird and wildlife park, complete with a pride of lions! Top tip: Lion feeding takes place at 2.30pm daily.
aMAZEme: A classic hedge maze made from 1.4km of winding hedges—kids and adults can race to find the centre. There’s also a walk-in rabbit cage and old-school games to enjoy.
Wonderworld: This has an outdoor timber maze, optical illusions, and interactive puzzle zones—ideal for curious minds and families.
Redwoods Treewalk: Wander among towering Californian redwoods on a series of suspension bridges up to 20 metres high—this peaceful, family-friendly walk offers incredible forest views, birdsong, and a unique perspective on Rotorua’s natural beauty.

In the evening, relax and soak at Polynesian Spa, head to the family pools at this iconic lakefront spa for a relaxing soak in geothermally heated mineral water. A great way to unwind after a busy day on the road.

Where to stay: Rotorua Blue Lake TOP 10 Holiday Park

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Day 6: Rotorua Family Fun

Today we have some fun suggestions on how to spend the day for adventure-loving families, head to ZORB Rotorua for an unforgettable experience rolling downhill in a giant inflatable ball. Choose between straight or twisty tracks—great fun, totally unique, and 100% family-friendly.

If you are after a more relaxed start to the day, we recommend visiting the Rotorua 3D Trick Art Gallery, where kids and parents alike can step into clever optical illusion artworks and snap hilarious photos to remember the day.

Spend the afternoon at Skyline Rotorua and take the gondola ride up Mt Ngongotahā, offering fantastic views over Rotorua and Lake Rotorua. Once at the top, ride the Luge—a family must-do! With scenic and adventurous tracks to choose from, a minimum of three luge rides is recommended.

Stay at Skyline Rotorua and enjoy dinner at Stratosfare, for one of the best buffets in NZ. Enjoy stunning panoramic views and a wide variety of delicious dishes for all tastes.

Where to stay: Rotorua Blue Lake TOP 10 Holiday Park

Day 7: Rotorua to Hobbiton & Hamilton, Return to Auckland.

Today it is time to depart Rotorua, arriving mid-morning at Hobbiton Movie Set (Matamata). Step into the magical world of Middle-earth with a guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set. Wander past hobbit holes, gardens, and iconic film locations, and enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn. A must for movie-loving families! Keen to stay for lunch? Enjoy their on site café, or book the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour + Lunch Combo.

After Hobbiton, continue to Hamilton and visit Hamilton Gardens and discover 20+ themed gardens from around the world, including an Italian Renaissance Garden, a Tropical Garden, and a Tudor Garden—perfect for kids to explore and parents to enjoy.

Then its time to head back to the Auckland branch to drop off your Apollo camper.

Image: Tourism New Zealand