Should you travel New Zealand in a campervan with an itinerary – or wing it?
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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

Should you travel New Zealand in a campervan with an itinerary – or wing it?

Ingrid Walker has explored Aotearoa from top to bottom in campervans of all shapes and sizes. She’s experienced both the joy of a perfectly planned itinerary and the freedom of making it up along the way. In this blog, she shares her honest take on what it’s like to travel New Zealand by campervan – with tips to help you find the right balance between structure and spontaneity. 

There’s something pretty special about hitting the open road in a campervan in New Zealand. Waking up to a new view each morning, pulling over when something catches your eye, and having everything you need right there with you – it’s a travel style that feels equal parts freeing and rewarding. 

But when it comes to planning the trip, there’s always that big question: should you map out every stop, or just see where the road takes you? I’ve done both – from tightly planned itineraries to completely winging it – and there are definitely pros and cons to each. 

If you’re planning your first campervan roadie, especially here in Aotearoa, this guide will help you figure out what kind of approach suits you best. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with the whole whānau, I’ve pulled together my top tips to help you find the right balance between structure and spontaneity. 

 

Why New Zealand is perfect for a campervan adventure

New Zealand was made for road trips. The scenery changes dramatically every couple of hours – one minute you’re driving through alpine passes, the next you’re winding along a rugged coastline or parked up beside a peaceful lake. Having a campervan means you can stop whenever you like, take the scenic route, and stay a little longer when a place surprises you (and trust me, that happens often). 

There’s also a great mix of freedom camping spots, DOC campsites, and well-equipped holiday parks dotted all over the country, so you’ve got options whether you’re after simplicity or all the bells and whistles. 

Driving in New Zealand is pretty straightforward too – distances are short, traffic outside the cities is light, and the locals are usually happy to help if you’re unsure of anything. Whether you’re a first-timer or you’ve road-tripped before, hiring a campervan in New Zealand just makes sense – it’s accessible, flexible, and hands-down one of the best ways to explore. 

 

The case for travelling with a set itinerary

I’ll admit, I’m a planner at heart – and when I did my first big campervan trip around New Zealand, having a set itinerary gave me a lot of peace of mind. Knowing where we were staying each night, having activities booked in, and not having to scramble for campsites made the whole experience feel more relaxed. It was especially helpful because we were travelling during summer, when things can book out fast – particularly in places like Queenstown, Rotorua, and along the West Coast. 

Having a schedule really paid off when we rolled into Queenstown late one afternoon. Every holiday park in town was packed, and we saw people being turned away at reception. Luckily, we’d booked ahead – we had a powered site waiting for us and didn’t have to worry about where we were going to sleep. 

A set itinerary is also great for making the most of your time, especially if you're on a shorter trip or travelling with kids. You can lock in must-see experiences like Hobbiton, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, or a Milford Sound cruise and build your route around them. 

The trade-off? There’s less room for spontaneity. You might drive past a waterfall or a quirky roadside café and not have time to stop. And if the weather suddenly turns, your plans may need to shift, which can be tricky if everything is pre-booked. 

READ MORE: Creating your perfect New Zealand itinerary: tip and recommendations from experienced travellers.  

 

The joy of winging it on a campervan road trip

There’s something pretty special about waking up, checking the weather, and deciding where to head next over your morning coffee. No rush, no firm plan – just the open road and a general sense of direction. On my second trip around New Zealand, I decided to take a looser approach, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had. 

One day, we were loosely headed south from Nelson and took a spontaneous turn toward Golden Bay. We ended up at Wainui Bay – a quiet, golden-sand beach tucked away at the edge of Abel Tasman National Park. We hadn’t planned to stop, but we ended up staying two nights. That kind of freedom to go where the mood takes you is hard to beat. 

This approach is perfect for longer trips or if you’ve already ticked off the big-ticket experiences. It gives you room to follow local tips, stay an extra night somewhere unexpectedly beautiful, or change plans entirely if the forecast isn’t in your favour. 

The downside? You might miss out on popular spots that need to be booked in advance, like guided glacier hikes or certain national park campsites. And during peak season, it can be harder to find last-minute spots at holiday parks. 

Top tip: If you’re travelling this way, download the thl Roadtrip app. It’s a game-changer for finding last-minute campsites, dump stations, and activities nearby – especially when you’re off the beaten track or changing plans on the go. 

How the seasons affect your travel style 

One thing I’ve learned is that the time of year can really influence whether planning ahead or winging it works better. 

In summer (December to February), it pays to book ahead – especially in popular spots like Queenstown, Abel Tasman, or around school holidays. Campsites, activities, and even some scenic DOC sites fill up fast, and having a plan helps avoid last-minute stress. 

Winter (June to August) is much quieter on the roads, but some freedom camping areas and attractions may be closed or harder to access. Planning ahead means you can make the most of shorter daylight hours and stay in places with good heating and facilities. 

Spring and autumn are my personal favourites. These shoulder seasons give you more flexibility with bookings, milder weather, and fewer crowds, making them perfect for a semi-planned approach where you book a few key stops and let the rest unfold. 

Top tip: If you’re not tied to travel during peak times, consider planning your roadie for shoulder season. It gives you the best of both worlds – a bit of structure and plenty of space to be spontaneous. 

 

Tips for balancing planning and spontaneity

After a few different road trips around New Zealand, I’ve figured out that I’m happiest somewhere between full-on planner and total free spirit. I like having a rough framework to follow – just enough to stay on track – while keeping things flexible enough to change direction if something better comes along. 

Here are a few tips that have worked well for me: 

  • Plan the framework, not every detail – I book popular spots like Franz Josef or Queenstown ahead of time, especially during busy periods, but I leave gaps in between to explore at my own pace. 

  • Use the thl Roadtrip app – It’s brilliant for finding last-minute campsites, dump stations, fuel stops, and local attractions when plans change on the fly. 

  • Be flexible with time, not your must-dos – If something’s a real priority, I lock it in early. Then I plan loosely around that, knowing the rest can shift if needed. 

  • Mix holiday parks with freedom camping – I love staying at a holiday park every few nights for a long hot shower and a laundry top-up, then using freedom camping in between to stay flexible and keep costs down. 

  • Keep an eye on the weather – NZ’s conditions can change quickly, especially in the mountains. I’ve switched coasts mid-trip to dodge a rain system, and it ended up being the best decision of the week. 

  • Build in buffer days – Giving myself an extra day or two in the itinerary means I can spend longer somewhere beautiful, wait out bad weather, or just take a slow day when needed, without throwing everything off. 

The beauty of a campervan trip is that it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. A bit of structure and a bit of spontaneity can make for the perfect balance. 

 

What type of traveller are you? 

It really comes down to knowing your travel style. If you love structure, get a thrill from ticking off your must-see list, or feel more relaxed knowing where you’ll be each night, then planning your itinerary in advance is probably the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer to follow your instincts, leave space for surprises, and don’t mind a little uncertainty, then letting the road lead you can be incredibly rewarding. 

Most of us fall somewhere in between – and that’s totally fine. Your ideal approach might depend on the season, how long you’re travelling for, or who you’re with. I’ve done more structured trips when I was short on time or travelling with others, and more relaxed ones when I had the freedom to go at my own pace. 

The best part about travelling New Zealand by campervan or motorhome is that there’s no one right way to do it. Whether you’ve got a colour-coded map or a vague idea and a full tank, this country is made for road trippers. So pick the style that works for you, stay open to the unexpected, and enjoy the ride. 

 

Ready to hit the road?

If you love a detailed itinerary or prefer to follow the road wherever it leads, travelling New Zealand by campervan gives you the freedom to explore on your terms. With stunning scenery around every corner, well-equipped campsites, and endless opportunities to explore, it’s the kind of trip you’ll be talking about for years. 

Book your Apollo campervan online today and start shaping your own version of the ultimate New Zealand roadie – planned, spontaneous, or somewhere perfectly in between. 

 

 

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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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