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.

Heather Schiller / Wednesday, 28 October 2020

/ Categories: NZ blog

10 Travel Tips For First Timers

New Zealand Travel Tips

There are so many reasons why New Zealand is in every traveller’s bucket list. The country is – hands down – one of the most beautiful in the world. From glaciers and hot springs to extreme sports and long scenic drives aboard your campervan , you won’t run out of things to see and do.

If you are currently planning a trip to New Zealand, here are 10 travel tips that will make your holiday in New Zealand more enjoyable:

1. Prepare For All Weather Types

The first thing to know about New Zealand is that the weather can go from warm to cold in one day. This is true if you are travelling the length of the country. So pack accordingly.

2. North To South Is The Way To Go

“Save the best for last” is always the way to go. So if want to travel the length of the country, start at the North Island to South Island. While the North Island is gorgeous, the mountains and fiords of South Island are far more dramatic.

3. Travel By Campervan Rental

The best way to see New Zealand’s attractions is by driving to them. A campervan hire not only gets you from point A to point B in comfort, it doubles as your home throughout your trip.

4. Hike!

Yep. Every tourist destination in New Zealand has a hiking trail waiting to be conquered. With a network of hiking trails, you can choose from quick day hikes to more challenging multi-day walks.

5. Must. Visit. Hobbiton

Seriously – who doesn’t want to see Hobbiton? Oh, and New Zealanders LOVE Lord Of The Rings. So much so that they changed the name of Wellington to Middle Earth for an entire day. So take a guided tour of the famous Hobbiton movie set. You can’t really say you’ve spent a holiday in New Zealand without doing so.

6. Stay Connected

While free wi-fi is not as widely available in New Zealand as it is in the U.S. for example, wi-fi connections are available in cafes and restaurants. Make sure you also get local prepaid sim cards so you can stay connected and make phone calls or send text messages while travelling around the country.

7. Go Bungy Jumping

Bungy jumping was invented in New Zealand (where else?) and the country has several places you can try this thrilling sport. The most popular and panic-inducing jump sites of course are located in Queenstown.

8. Long Drives Must Be Expected

In New Zealand, it takes longer to get to places. And this is not just because you WILL make a lot of stops along the way to take photos (you won’t be able to resist it. Trust us, we’ve tried and failed). New Zealand roads can be hilly and windy at times, and there are plenty of one way bridges. So plan your itinerary realistically.

9. Do Not Panic At The “Backwards Arrow”

Surprisingly, driving on the left side of the road is not what baffles many first time tourists in New Zealand. It is the backwards arrow signs that can be confusing for first time travellers. So if you see a backwards arrow pointing in the opposite direction to which you are driving, relax. You are in fact, going the right way.

10. Just Visit New Zealand

Stop putting off your travel plans. Just go and visit New Zealand. What’s not to love? The people are friendly, the country is breathtakingly beautiful, has a unique culture and fantastic food and wine. Seriously, the country’s choice, bro. What are you waiting for? Get a campervan and let’s go!

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Tags: Apollo Camper

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.