5 things I thought I'd hate about campervan travel (and what actually happened)
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Central North Island

The Central North Island of New Zealand is a region brimming with diverse landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling activities, making it a top spot for a New Zealand campervan holiday. Perfectly positioned between Auckland and Wellington, the Central North Island is perfect for campervan travellers looking to blend outdoor adventure with cultural experiences. It’s a short and scenic drive between some great Central North Island attractions including places like Raglan beach, Tongariro mountains, and Ohakune. From culture to adventure, it’s all right here! 

Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake, is a hub for water activities and geothermal attractions. Meanwhile, the magical world of Hobbiton in Matamata invites fans of Middle-earth to step into a real-life movie set. For those intrigued by natural formations, the Waitomo Caves offer a mesmerising glowworm display. And if you’re keen on experiencing some of New Zealand’s fascinating Māori culture, Rotorua is the place to be. 

 

Why explore the Central North Island by campervan

Exploring the Central North Island by campervan is the best way to soak up everything this amazing region has to offer. With a campervan, you have the freedom to choose your own adventure, making spontaneous stops whenever something catches your eye. Enjoy the unforgettable experience of waking up surrounded by nature, having breakfast by the lake, and setting off for a day of exploring. 

One day you might be hiking in Tongariro National Park, the next, marvelling at the glowworms in the Waitomo Caves. A campervan gives you the flexibility to do it all without the hassle of packing and unpacking at different accommodations. Plus, travelling in a campervan means you bring the comforts of home with you. You can cook your meals, have a cosy place to rest, and store your gear easily. And with plenty of scenic campgrounds and holiday parks in the region, finding a beautiful spot to spend the night is easy. Whether you're hiking, exploring, or just relaxing by the lake, your Apollo campervan is the perfect base for your adventures.

 

Things to do in the Central North Island

The Central North Island is packed with exciting activities and must-see attractions. For those who love a good hike, Tongariro National Park offers the renowned Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a trek that takes you through otherworldly landscapes featuring volcanic craters and vivid blue lakes. The Waitomo Caves are an underground wonder. Here, you can marvel at thousands of glowworms lighting up the caves like a natural planetarium or opt for an adventurous black water rafting tour through the cave's waterways.

At Hobbiton in Matamata, step into the fantastical world of hobbits. Explore the iconic Hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn on a Hobbiton tour, perfect for fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. For water-based fun, Lake Taupō offers everything from boating and fishing to relaxing in nearby natural hot springs. The geothermal activity in the area also means you can see unique geothermal landscapes and enjoy a soak in hot pools.

The city of Rotorua is another gem in the Central North Island, famous for its active geothermal sites and rich Māori culture. Visit geysers and bubbling mud pools, and immerse yourself in Māori traditions with cultural performances and traditional feasts. Ohakune, known for its quirky giant carrot statue, is a gateway to winter sports on Mount Ruapehu. In warmer months, it’s a great base for exploring scenic walking and biking trails that showcase the region’s natural beauty.

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: NZ blog

5 things I thought I'd hate about campervan travel (and what actually happened)

Katie Hurst has spent years exploring New Zealand by campervan and knows that first-time campervan road trips come with plenty of questions. In this blog, she reflects on her own early doubts – from driving worries to sleeping in a small space – and shares what actually happened once she hit the road. If you're on the fence about hiring a campervan, her honest take might just give you the nudge you need. 

I’ll admit it – when I booked my first campervan hire, I was curious but cautious. I loved the idea of the open road, waking up beside lakes and beaches, and setting my own pace. But I also had questions. Was I really going to be comfortable living out of a compact mobile space for a week? Would I sleep well? Would I even be able to drive the thing? 

Social media makes van life look effortlessly idyllic – morning coffee with mountain views, perfectly parked vans in remote bays, and people who somehow look fresh after days without a proper bathroom. It’s inspiring, but it also sets the bar high. 

So I went into that first trip with a mix of excitement and hesitation. And what I found was that the things I worried about most weren’t problems at all. Here are five things I thought I’d struggle with – and the unexpected ways they turned out to be highlights. 

 

I thought I'd hate the lack of space and privacy

Expectation: 
Before the trip, I was genuinely unsure how two people (plus all our stuff) were going to live comfortably in a campervan for a week. I imagined it feeling cramped and chaotic – like sharing a tent, but with a fridge and wheels. I worried about bumping into each other constantly, having no personal space, and nowhere to retreat when I needed a moment alone. The idea of always being ‘on’ didn’t sound very relaxing. 

Reality: 
The reality was completely different. I was surprised by how cleverly designed our campervan was – everything had its place, and the layout made it feel much more spacious than I expected. Comfy seats, smart storage, and even the option to set up an awning outside gave us flexibility and room to breathe. We naturally fell into a rhythm: outside during the day, winding down inside in the evenings. New Zealand’s incredible landscapes quickly became our lounge, dining room, and reading nook all in one. 

Having our own bathroom on board made a huge difference too – not just for comfort, but for privacy. Most Apollo vehicles in New Zealand come with a bathroom, which means no dashing across a campsite in the middle of the night or awkwardly queueing in jandals. And for downtime? Curtains or window coverings helped us feel like we had our own little sanctuary, even when parked near others. 

Top tip: 
If you’re travelling with someone, build in little pockets of solo time – like taking a walk while the other cooks dinner, or listening to music with headphones while parked up for the night. It’s amazing how even 20 minutes of ‘me time’ makes the shared space feel easier. 

 

I thought driving a big vehicle would be stressful

Expectation: 
Before the trip, I was more nervous about the driving than I wanted to admit. I hadn’t driven anything bigger than a hatchback, so the idea of handling a campervan – especially on narrow rural roads or in busy towns – felt pretty intimidating. I worried about scraping it on something, holding up traffic, or just feeling completely out of my depth behind the wheel. And then there was the thought of long stretches of highway driving and how tiring that might be. 

Reality: 
Turns out, campervans are much easier to drive than I expected. After a quick practice run around the block, I felt surprisingly confident. Most Apollo rentals include a full walkthrough before you hit the road, with tips on how to manage the size, use the mirrors, and reverse safely (mine even had a reverse camera – lifesaver). 

Outside of major cities, New Zealand roads are generally quiet – especially midweek or outside peak season – and we found the slower pace actually made the whole trip feel more relaxed. There were heaps of places to pull over, take breaks, and snap photos, which broke up the driving nicely. 

Auto-transmission also helped keep things simple, and before long, I wasn’t even thinking about the size of the vehicle anymore. The road trip became less about the logistics and more about the journey (that one use of the word – promise!). 

READ MORE: Is it hard to drive a campervan in NZ? 

 

I was dreading finding overnight parking

Expectation: 
Before the trip, I pictured myself aimlessly driving around at dusk, tired and hangry, desperately trying to find a legal and safe spot to park. I’d heard all the cautionary tales – fines for parking in the wrong place, being moved on in the middle of the night, or ending up squished in a carpark next to a noisy highway. I assumed overnight parking would be one of the most stressful parts of the whole campervan experience. 

Reality: 
It turned out to be one of the easiest. Between Apollo’s helpful guides and using the thl Roadtrip app, I had plenty of options at my fingertips – from well-equipped holiday parks to peaceful DOC campgrounds, and even some free campsites with million-dollar views. 

In peak season, I’d book a night or two in advance, especially in popular areas, but outside the busy periods, we were able to stay flexible and plan as we went. It actually became something I looked forward to each afternoon – checking the app, choosing a spot that suited our mood (beach? forest? lakefront?), and knowing we had everything we needed with us. 

 

I expected to sleep poorly and miss the comforts of home 

Expectation: 
I’ll be honest – I didn’t have high hopes for sleep. I pictured a thin, fold-out mattress, strange campsite noises, light pouring in at sunrise, and a general sense of discomfort. I expected to miss my bed, my couch, even my kitchen. Basically, all the familiar little things that make home feel like home. 

Reality: 
I was genuinely surprised by how comfortable the bed was. Many motorhomes – including ours – come with proper mattresses and blackout blinds, which made a big difference. I slept better than I expected, often lulled to sleep by the sounds of a nearby river or waves in the distance. 

It helped that we brought a few creature comforts – a soft blanket from home, cosy PJs, and my favourite pillow. Those small touches turned the camper into something that felt more personal and relaxing. Evenings were slower and simpler – a book, a chat, maybe some stargazing – and without all the usual distractions, I actually found I slept more deeply than I had in weeks. 

Top tip: 
Pack like you’re going on a comfy weekend away – not a survival mission. A couple of familiar items from home can go a long way in making your camper feel like your own little retreat on wheels. Bonus: nothing beats making your morning coffee with a lake view. 

 

I thought I’d struggle with keeping the temperature comfortable

Expectation: 
This was a big one for me. I was sure I’d be freezing at night or overheating during the day – maybe both in the same 24 hours. I imagined a stuffy little space that held onto heat in summer and turned icy as soon as the sun disappeared. I’d heard stories of condensation dripping from the ceiling and waking up with cold feet and a foggy camper. 

Reality: 
What I didn’t realise was how well-equipped modern campervans actually are. Ours had a built-in diesel heater that kept things toasty, even during a frosty morning in the mountains. And on warmer days, we opened the windows for airflow and used the insect screens to keep things fresh without letting the bugs in. Some campervans also come with a shade awning, which makes a huge difference on sunny afternoons. 

We also picked a season that worked for us – spring – which meant mild days and crisp, clear nights. Layering clothes, parking in the right spot, and taking advantage of campsite amenities (hello hot showers and shared kitchens) made it all feel easy and comfortable. 

Top tip: 
If you’re worried about temperature, check whether your camper comes with heating and good ventilation before you book. A few smart adjustments – and knowing when to throw on an extra layer – made the whole experience much more enjoyable and helped us settle into the natural rhythm of life on the road. 

 

The final verdict

Looking back, most of the things I was worried about never really happened – or if they did, they were far less of a big deal than I’d imagined. The space felt comfortable, driving wasn’t stressful, and I slept better than I do at home some nights. What I thought would be challenges ended up being part of what made the trip so memorable. 

Hiring a campervan turned out to be one of the best travel decisions I’ve made. It gave me a new sense of confidence, connected me with nature in a way that no hotel ever could, and created the kind of memories that stick with you long after the trip ends – early morning swims, quiet evenings under the stars, and the joy of changing plans on a whim. 

If you’re on the fence about giving campervan travel a go, I say do it. Whether it’s a weekend escape or a full-blown New Zealand road trip, the flexibility is part of the magic. The route might change, the weather might surprise you, but the journey? Always worth it. 

 

Ready to give it a go?

If you’ve been wondering whether campervan travel is really for you, hopefully this has shown that it’s not just doable – it’s one of the most rewarding ways to see New Zealand. Whether you're planning a short escape or a longer road trip, it gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, stay closer to nature, and make the journey just as memorable as the destination. Book your Apollo campervan online today and start planning your own roadie – you might be surprised by how quickly the open road wins you over. 

 

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Popular Central North Island road trips & itineraries

Exploring the Central North Island by campervan offers countless memorable road trips. Start in Rotorua to experience its geothermal wonders and rich Māori culture. Then head to Lake Taupō for water activities and breathtaking views. Continue to Tongariro National Park for hiking the iconic Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Don’t miss the magical Hobbiton in Matamata, and wrap up your journey with an adventure in the glowworm-lit Waitomo Caves. Each destination offers unique experiences, making a campervan holiday in New Zealand’s Central North Island unforgettable.

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Apollo offers a fantastic selection of deals and specials for those looking to explore New Zealand by campervan. From hot deals and last-minute discounts to long-term hire benefits, you’re sure to find a deal designed to help you make the most of your campervan adventure.

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Helpful Tips for Visiting the Central North Island

Summer: (December to February) are warm and ideal for outdoor activities. Temperatures typically range from 21°C to 26°C, perfect for enjoying water sports on Lake Taupō, exploring the geothermal sites in Rotorua, or hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

Autumn: (March to May) brings cooler temperatures, averaging between 10°C and 20°C. The fall foliage adds a beautiful touch to the landscapes, making it a great time for scenic drives and photography. It’s also an excellent season for wine tasting in the nearby vineyards.

Winter: (June to August) are cooler, especially in higher altitudes. Temperatures range from 0°C to 10°C. Mount Ruapehu becomes a bustling ski destination, while lower areas like Rotorua offer hot springs and geysers to warm you up.

Spring: (September to November) sees a gradual warming, with temperatures climbing from 10°C to 20°C. This season is perfect for witnessing blooming flowers, particularly in the Rotorua gardens, and for exploring the vibrant landscapes around Lake Taupō.

Preparing for a campervan adventure in the Central North Island means packing smart to ensure you’re ready for all the activities and varying weather conditions. Here’s a handy guide on what to bring:

  • Versatile clothing: The weather can change quickly, so pack a mix of lightweight clothing for warm days and layers for cooler evenings. Include thermal tops, a good fleece, and a waterproof jacket. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring and don’t forget a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
  • Outdoor essentials: Bring a daypack for your hikes and daily outings. A reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and insect repellent are must-haves. A good quality headlamp or flashlight is handy for evening activities or early morning starts.
  • Tech gear: Capture the stunning landscapes with a camera or a smartphone with plenty of storage. Don’t forget chargers and a power bank. And to help you find everything you need as you travel, consider downloading the thl Roadtrip app from the App Store or Google Play.
  • Camping extras: While Apollo provides all the must-haves, you may like to plan for some extras such as a portable barbecue for cooking outdoors, camping chairs for relaxing outside, and a small foldable table for picnics.
  • Food and cooking supplies: Stock up on easy-to-cook meals, snacks, and local produce. Don’t forget coffee or tea for those peaceful morning moments by the lake. You may like to bring along your favourite spices, sauces, and condiments to add some flavour to your cooking.

Waitomo Caves: Fancy an underground adventure? The Waitomo Caves are a must on any New Zealand travel itinerary. Here, you'll find magical glowworms lighting up the caves like stars. Hop on a guided boat tour to float beneath the twinkling lights or, for the thrill-seekers, try black water rafting through the underground rivers. This is one experience you won't want to miss in the Central North Island.

Hobbiton: If you're a fan of The Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit, a visit to Hobbiton in Matamata is a dream come true. Wander through the lush hills of the Shire, explore the charming hobbit holes, and enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn. A guided Hobbiton tour immerses you in the magic of Middle-earth, making it a must-do for movie buffs and families alike.

Rotorua: Known for its bubbling geothermal activity and rich Māori culture, Rotorua is a must-visit. Check out the geysers and mud pools, relax in the hot springs, and take in a traditional Māori performance. Whether you're zip-lining through the forest or learning about Māori heritage, Rotorua has a little bit of everything for everyone.

Lake Taupō: Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake, is a paradise for water sports and outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy sailing, fishing, and swimming in its clear waters. The surrounding geothermal features, including the dramatic Huka Falls, add to the area’s unique appeal. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Lake Taupō’s scenic beauty and activities offer something for everyone.

Tongariro Crossing: The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is an epic hike that features on many people’s bucket lists. Known for its stunning and varied landscapes, this challenging trek takes you through volcanic craters, over striking emerald lakes, and offers breathtaking panoramic views. Located in Tongariro National Park, this full-day hike is perfect for those looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Ohakune: Sitting pretty at the base of Mount Ruapehu, Ohakune is your go-to spot for outdoor fun. In winter, it’s all about skiing and snowboarding. When the snow melts, swap your skis for hiking boots or a mountain bike to explore the beautiful trails. With its friendly vibe and great community events, Ohakune is a year-round destination that’s sure to charm.

When it comes to finding the perfect spot to park and rest in the Central North Island, there's no shortage of picturesque, comfy campgrounds. Here are a few worth checking out:

  • Freedom camping areas
  • Waitomo TOP 10 Holiday Park
  • Rotorua TOP 10 Holiday Park
  • Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort
  • Whakapapa Holiday Park
  • Ohakune TOP 10 Holiday Park
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