Coromandel & Bay of Plenty

Discover the magic of the Coromandel and Bay of Plenty, two of New Zealand’s most captivating regions, perfect for a New Zealand campervan holiday. Located on the North Island’s eastern coast, these regions boast stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and loads of awesome outdoor activities.

The Coromandel, known for its pristine beaches, lush forests, and charming towns, is a must-do for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. From the iconic Cathedral Cove to the inviting waters of Hot Water Beach, there’s no shortage of Coromandel attractions to explore. Take a walk along the coastal tracks, indulge in fresh seafood at local eateries, or head out on a scenic Coromandel boat tour to experience the region's rugged coastline. Kayaking around the Coromandel is another popular activity, offering unique perspectives of the area's natural beauty.

The Bay of Plenty, just south of the Coromandel, is renowned for its beautiful beaches, fertile orchards, and vibrant culture. This region is perfect for a campervan holiday New Zealand style, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure. Explore the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, enjoy the golden sands of Mount Maunganui, or visit the picturesque town of Whakatane. The Bay of Plenty is also a food lover's paradise, with an abundance of fresh produce and seafood to sample.

Travelling by campervan is the ultimate way to immerse yourself fully in these stunning regions. With the flexibility to set your own travel itinerary, you can wake up to ocean views, explore hidden gems, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you're soaking in the natural hot springs or hiking through ancient forests, a campervan adventure through the Coromandel and Bay of Plenty promises a truly enriching experience.

Why explore Coromandel & Bay of Plenty by campervan

Exploring the Coromandel and Bay of Plenty by campervan is the perfect way to experience these stunning regions. With a campervan, you have the freedom to set your own pace and discover hidden beaches, coastal walks, and vibrant towns without the constraints of fixed schedules.

You can easily spend an extra day kayaking around the Coromandel or exploring local markets in the Bay of Plenty. Having your kitchen, bed, and bathroom on board means you can cook fresh meals, sleep comfortably, and have all the amenities you need wherever you go. This is especially useful in regions where attractions are spread out and the natural beauty invites you to linger a little longer. Whether you're hiking, boating, or just relaxing on the beach, your Apollo campervan is the perfect base for your adventures.

Things to do in Coromandel & Bay of Plenty

The Coromandel and Bay of Plenty regions are brimming with activities that cater to all interests. In the Coromandel, explore the iconic Cathedral Cove, accessible by a scenic walk or a kayak tour, and enjoy the natural hot springs at Hot Water Beach. For a unique adventure, take a Coromandel boat tour to discover the rugged coastline and hidden coves. The Coromandel Peninsula also offers fantastic hiking and biking trails, providing stunning views of the lush forests and pristine beaches.

In the Bay of Plenty, head to Mount Maunganui for its famous beaches and vibrant cafe scene. The mountain itself offers a rewarding hike with panoramic views. Visit the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, where you can experience bubbling mud pools, geysers, and natural hot springs. For a bit of adventure, try white-water rafting or ziplining through native forests. The Bay of Plenty is also known for its excellent fishing and boating opportunities.

Both regions offer plenty of opportunities to relax, explore, and immerse yourself in nature. Whether you're into water sports, hiking, or simply enjoying the scenery, the Coromandel and Bay of Plenty have something for everyone.

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Popular Coromandel & Bay of Plenty road trips & itineraries

The Coromandel and Bay of Plenty, located on New Zealand's North Island, are perfect for scenic road trips. Easily accessible from Auckland, these regions offer stunning coastal routes and lush inland drives. Start your journey by exploring the Coromandel Peninsula's beaches and forests, then head south to the Bay of Plenty for its vibrant towns and geothermal wonders. With plenty of camping spots and attractions along the way, a campervan holiday in New Zealand through these regions promises a memorable adventure.

Alyssa Tresider / Sunday, 27 April 2025

/ Categories: NZ Itineraries, North Island

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