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Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki

A New Zealand campervan holiday through the Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki region offers an unforgettable experience. Rich in natural beauty and cultural significance, this special part of New Zealand offers travellers a unique blend of urban charm and rugged wilderness. If you love exploring arts and culture, you’ll be spoilt for choice in this region. You may even like to follow the Coastal Arts Trail which spans 300 km between New Plymouth to Palmerston North. The trail is peppered with galleries, sculptures, studios and more. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the mystical Bridge to Nowhere, accessible through the verdant Whanganui National Park, offering an unforgettable journey into New Zealand's remote backcountry. 

Transitioning westward, the landscape dramatically changes as you enter Taranaki, dominated by the iconic, conical shape of Mount Taranaki. This region is a magnet for adventurers and nature lovers alike, with New Plymouth at its heart – a coastal city known for its sunny climate, thriving arts community, and surf-friendly beaches. The coastal walkway stretching from Bell Block to Port Taranaki offers spectacular sea views, perfectly complementing the city’s dynamic cultural venues and eateries.

 

Why explore Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki by campervan

Exploring Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki by campervan offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heartland of New Zealand's North Island. It also makes it easy to change your itinerary on the fly. Whether it's spending an extra day enjoying the surf in New Plymouth, exploring the hiking trails around Mount Taranaki, or parking beside the scenic Whanganui River for a spontaneous picnic, the choice is yours. The ability to set your own pace and schedule makes a campervan ideal for discovering the hidden gems of these regions.

Travelling by campervan not only brings the comforts of home on the road, such as your own bed, kitchen, and living space, but also eliminates the hassles of constant packing and unpacking. This is especially valuable in regions like Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki, where attractions are spread out. Having your necessities with you means you're always ready for the next adventure. 

 

Things to do in Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki

Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki offer activities for all ages, from nature excursions to authentic cultural experiences. Explore Palmerston North's gardens and arts scene, Whanganui's historic riverboat cruise, or brave the surf at New Plymouth's beaches. Immerse yourself in the local culture with visits to museums, galleries, and artist studios. Whether it's outdoor excitement or cultural enrichment, this fascinating region provides something for everyone.

 

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Popular Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki road trips & itineraries

Stretching down the lower west coast of New Zealand’s North Island, Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki are prime destinations for road trippers seeking a mix of culture, nature, and adventure. Easily accessible from major urban centres like Wellington and Auckland, the drive itself showcases the dramatic shift from urban landscapes to the lush, green countryside of Manawatu and the striking volcanic features of Taranaki. These routes not only offer breathtaking views but are dotted with a variety of attractions, making every stop an opportunity for discovery. 

 

South Island | Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary

South Island | Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary

On this 27 day road trip you will enjoy the wildlife, massive mountains, subtropical rainforest and golden beaches.

Day 1: Christchurch Apollo Branch

Start your 27 day journey by picking up your selected campervan or motorhome from the Christchurch branch. Once you have picked up your camper, it’s time to explore Christchurch! Start by exploring the Christchurch Botanical Gardens, which is boasting the widest collection of both native and exotic plants in all of New Zealand.

 

Day 2: Christchurch to Dunedin

Distance: 360kms

Travel time: 4hrs 34min

Time to hit the road! On your first leg of the trip, don’t tire yourself out and stop at the pretty country town of Geraldine. Here you will find the local thriving business, Barker’s at Geraldine, famous for their chutneys and chocolate sauce. With a cafe attached, it’s a great place to stop and have a tea break before heading off on your final journey to Christchurch.

 

Day 3: Dunedin

Dunedin is a mix of heritage, wildlife and colourful nightlife. During your stay here explore some of the many popular museums as well as New Zealand’s only castle - Larnach Castle, which has been carefully restored to its original Victorian grandeur.

Larnach Castle, Dunedin Image via DunedinNZ

Day 4: Dunedin - Balclutha

Distance: 78kms

Travel time: 58mins

Balclutha is the ultimate gateway to explore The Catlins, a rugged coastline where you’ll find countless waterfalls, beaches, rare wildlife and lighthouses. If you’re keen to spend more time exploring The Catlins find a full itinerary here.

 

Day 5: Balclutha - Stewart Island (leave vehicle at Bluff)

Distance: 150kms

Travel time: 1hr 46min

Today you will be heading to Bluff, to take the ferry ride to Stewart Island. You will need to leave your campervan at Bluff as motorhomes are not permitted on the island. If you’re a seafood fan, make sure you try Bluff oysters before you hop on the ferry to Stewart Island.

 

Day 6: Stewart Island

Stewart Island has an area of 1,746 square kilometres and is the third-largest island of New Zealand. The island is heaven for bird watchers due to the absence of natural predators, birds have been able to form huge colonies including some special species.

Stewart Island, New Zealand Image via Miles Holden

Day 7: Stewart Island - Fiordland

Distance: 179kms

Travel time: 2hrs 7min

Head back on the ferry to Bluff to pick up your campervan and get back on the road heading east to Fiordland. On your way to Fiordland, stop in Winton and visit some of the best op-shops in the country and enjoy a tea or coffee at Magnolia Tree Cafe.

 

Day 8: Fiordland - Queenstown

Distance: 171kms

Travel time: 2hrs

Before heading north to Queenstown, spend the day exploring Milford Sound - one of New Zealand’s top visitor attractions. Rain or shine, it continues to captivate all types of travellers with its beautiful surroundings, ink-dark waters, gushing waterfalls and captivating views.

 

Day 9: Queenstown

Being the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown boasts a variety of activities for all sorts of people. Feeling adventurous? Give jet boating or bungy jumping a go! Not feeling that brave? A lake cruise enjoying the stunning mountain views might be more your speed.

 

jetboating in Queenstown Image via Miles Holden

 

Day 10: Queenstown - Lake Tekapo

Distance: 256kms

Travel time: 3hrs 3mins

While driving from Queenstown to Lake Tekapo, make a stop at Mt Cook - New Zealand’s highest mountain.To see the best view of the mountain and glacial scenery, book a helicopter ride. If you’d rather enjoy the view while enjoying a meal, there’s a number of restaurants at the top of the mountain with tasty food to enjoy the picturesque views from.

 

Day 11: Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo (a part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve), can be found in the heart of the Mackenzie Country. Here is the perfect place to unwind after 10 adventure-filled days to lie by the lake and admire the pristine blanket of sparkling stars where they burn brightly as though they were only close by.

 

Day 12: Lake Tekapo - Kaikoura

Distance: 400kms

Travel time: 5hrs 4mins

To break up the long 5 hour drive, stretch your legs at Rakaia Gorge Walkway. The whole track is 10.4 km return, however, if you just make your walk for 45 minutes you will find yourself at a good lookout point to enjoy the views from. Once arriving in Kaikoura, hire a surf board down at the beach to catch a few waves. 

 

Kaikoura Peketa Beach

 

Day 13: Kaikoura - Hanmer Springs

Distance: 130kms

Travel time: 1hr 52mins

Once arriving in Hanmer Springs, relax at the hot springs or one of the spas in town. If you’d rather not rest your feet, Hanmer Springs offers a range of outdoor activities like jet boating, horse trekking and bungy jumping.

 

Day 14: Hanmer Springs - Marlborough Sounds

Distance: 287kms

Travel time: 3hrs 56min

Ever wanted to know how the Maori live? In Marlborough Sounds you can spend a day with a local Maori family, who are storytellers & environmentalists and are more than happy to give you an insight into their way of life.

 

Day 15: Marlborough Sounds

There’s no point going to the South Island if you’re not spending a day or two in Marlborough Sounds. The sea-drowned valleys found in New Zealand’s north end in Picton are some of the most beautiful you’ll see in the island. Swim among friendly jellyfish, trek Queen Charlotte track or simply savour the majestic natural environment.

 

Marlborough Sounds

 

Day 16: Marlborough Sounds - Wellington

Distance: 99kms

Travel time: 4hrs 4min

It’s time to say goodbye to the South Island and hello to the North Island. Hop on the Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferry at Picton - book your ferry now!

 

Day 17: Wellington

There is plenty to do in New Zealand’s capital - Wellington. Start your day with a coffee at Flight Coffee where you can taste a variety of coffees. Then spend your day at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa learning about the history of New Zealand and the Maori culture.

 

Day 18: Wellington - Whanganui

Distance: 191kms

Driving time: 2hrs 36min

While in Whanganui, visit New Zealand’s only public underground elevator (unique for the Southern Hemisphere) taking you to 66 metres to see amazing panoramic views of the Tasman Sea, Mount Ruapehu and Mount Taranaki.

 

Day 19: Whanganui - New Plymouth

Distance: 161kms

Travel time: 2hrs 5mins

New Plymouth is situated in the Taranaki region, which is full of incredible waterways. The best way to see them up close and personal is a kayaking tour! Book yourself on a kayaking tour on the open sea heading to the Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Reserve. Make sure you have a waterproof camera as you’ll want to capture the seal colonies you come across.

 

Day 20: New Plymouth - Waitomo

Distance: 172kms

Travel time: 2hrs 29mins

On your way from New Plymouth to Waitomo, you’ll take the New Zealand State Highway 43 also called the Forgotten World Highway. This picturesque highway makes driving an absolute breeze. On your way you’ll also find a couple of ghost towns and the Moki Tunnel, better known as Hobbit’s Hole.

 

Forgotten World Highway, New Zealand

 

Day 21: Waitomo - Rotorua

Distance: 139kms

Travel time: 1hrs 48mins

Prior to heading off to Rotorua, spend the day exploring Waitomo. This area’s name comes from the Maori words wai (water) and tomo (hole) as underneath the green hills of Waitomo lies a maze of caves, sinkholes and underground rivers.

 

Day 22: Rotorua

Admire the views of stunning clouds of geothermal steams from the Inferno Crater at the Waimangu Volcanic Valley. If you're feeling adventurous, there are also great activities like hikes, walks, cruises, or a combination of all within the relaxing area of Lake Rotomahana.

 

Waimangu Volcanic Valley

 

Day 23: Rotorua - Auckland

Distance: 229kms

Travel time: 2hrs 45mins

Are you a Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit fan? On the drive between Rotorua and Auckland step into the enchanting village of Hobbiton movie set.

 

Day 24: Auckland - Waipoua Forest

Distance: 231kms

Travel time: 3hrs 10mins

Get in touch with nature at the legendary Waipoua Forest, one of the three major Kauri forests in New Zealand. Here you will find Tane Mahuta, also known as the “King of the Forest”, and Te Matua Ngahere which are said to be approximately over 2,000 years old.

 

Day 25: Waipoua Forest - Bay of Islands

Diatance: 131kms

Driving time: 2hrs 30mins

Once you arrive in the Bay of Islands, head to the Paihia Wharf and hit the water. There are a number of ways to enjoy the water and see some of the 144 islands dotted across the bay. Whether you’d like to hire a speed boat, take it easy on a sailing trip or even jump on a dolphin watching cruise - the options are endless!

 

Dolphin watching at Bay Of Islands Image via Fraser Clements

 

Day 26: Bay of Islands - Auckland

Distance: 235kms

Travel time: 3hrs 49mins

While driving south to Auckland, break up the journey by stopping at Whangarei Heads. Known as a natural playground with its beautiful coastal and harbour beaching along with volcanic peaks and forests.

 

Day 27: Auckland Apollo Branch

It’s the time you have been dreading - time to pack up and drop your beloved campervan at the Apollo Auckland Branch. We hope you had a great journey and hope to see you again for another trip soon!

 

Places to Stay

Kaikoura Peketa Beach Holiday

Park Picton Campervan Park

New Plymouth TOP 10 Holiday Park

Otorohanga Kiwi Holiday Park

Ready to explore?

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Great savings on your New Zealand road trip

Apollo offers a fantastic selection of deals and specials for those looking to explore Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki 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 road trip. 

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Long Hire Offer

Do you love road trips across New Zealand as much as we do? You're in luck with our Long Hire Offer! If you are travelling for more than 21 days, you will receive 5% off daily vehicle rates, if...
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Apollo Campervan branches

Christchurch

The drive from Apollo Christchurch to the Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki region sets you up for a scenic journey across the South Island, including the picturesque ferry crossing at the Cook Strait, and onto the North Island. 

Queenstown

Keen to make the most of your road trip and explore the South Island before heading north? Book your camper with our Queenstown branch and spend a few days taking in some of the great southern highlights before crossing the Cook Strait by ferry.

Auckland

Set off from Apollo Auckland and kick off your exploration of this region in New Plymouth – just a few hours drive away. Make your way down the west coast taking in the charming townships, rolling rural landscapes, and rugged coastline as you venture south.  

Auckland City Skyline

Auckland

New Zealand’s multi-cultural hub of food, music, arts and culture.

 

Christchurch City, New Zealand

Christchurch

 One of the world’s most unique destinations.

 

Queenstown

Breathtaking scenery and adrenaline-pumping adventure activities.

 

Helpful tips for visiting Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki

 

Climate and seasons in Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki

Stretching hundreds of kilometres, this expansive region offers distinct seasonal experiences, making it an attractive destination year-round for visitors looking to enjoy a variety of landscapes and activities.

Manawatu-Whanganui enjoys a mild, temperate climate with moderate rainfall, making it pleasant for travel most of the year.

  • Summers (December to February) are warm with temperatures averaging around 22°C, ideal for exploring the great outdoors and the region's rivers and parks.
  • Autumn (March to May) brings cooler temperatures and a beautiful change in foliage, particularly in the bush-clad hills, providing perfect conditions for hiking and photography.
  • Winter (June to August) can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C, but it is generally mild compared to other regions, with occasional frost in sheltered areas.
  • Spring (September to November) sees the landscape rejuvenate with bursts of flowers and greenery, making it a lovely time for visiting the many gardens and reserves.

Taranaki is known for its more dynamic weather patterns, due to the presence of Mount Taranaki, which can attract clouds and cause quick changes in weather.

  • Summers here are pleasant with temperatures similar to Manawatu-Whanganui but expect more frequent rain showers that keep the surroundings lush.
  • Autumn sees stable weather, ideal for outdoor activities as the forests display a vivid array of autumn colours.
  • Winter in Taranaki can be wet, with more pronounced rainfall, and the mountain often receives snowfall, offering spectacular views and winter sports.
  • Spring brings a rapid growth of new foliage and is particularly spectacular as rhododendrons and other blooms erupt around the mountain's base.

 

 

 

What to pack?

Preparing for your campervan journey through Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki requires thoughtful packing to make the most of the diverse climates and activities available in these regions. Here’s what you should consider bringing along:

  • Outdoor gear: given the varied terrain from river valleys to volcanic mountains, pack versatile outdoor gear. Lightweight, breathable clothing will serve you well during warmer months, while waterproof and windproof layers are essential for the unpredictable weather near Mount Taranaki. Sturdy hiking boots are a must for exploring the rugged landscapes and numerous walking trails. With the stunning natural beauty and wildlife in both regions, a good camera can help you capture memorable landscapes and native birds. Binoculars will also enhance your experience, especially when visiting coastal areas and bird sanctuaries.
  • Campervan add-ons: Enhancing your campervan experience can significantly improve your comfort during the trip. Consider including a portable heater for the cooler evenings, especially during winter months in Taranaki. A reliable GPS and physical maps can help navigate the more remote areas. Additional camping chairs and a table can also be handy for scenic stops along the coast or in forest parks.
  • Sun protection and rain gear: The regions' varying weather conditions call for both sun protection and rain gear. Pack a high-SPF sunscreen, UV-protection sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield against the strong New Zealand sun. Also, include a durable rain jacket and waterproof trousers to stay dry during sudden rain showers, particularly prevalent in Taranaki. For more helpful ideas, check out our guide to what to pack for your campervan road trip.

For more helpful ideas, check out our guide to what to pack for your campervan road trip.

 

 

Nearby attractions and day trips from Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki

Manawatu-Whanganui

Whanganui River cruise or kayak

Experience the tranquil beauty of the Whanganui River by taking a leisurely cruise or paddling a kayak. This historic river offers stunning views of lush landscapes and provides a quiet escape into nature, perfect for a relaxing day on the water.

Whanganui National Park

Home to native forests and scenic waterways, Whanganui National Park is popular with hikers and walkers. The park is also home to the Bridge to Nowhere Walk, a 3 km return (around 1.5 hours) easy walk popular with visitors to the area.

Forgotten World Highway

The Forgotten World Highway, running through remote, mystic landscapes, offers a journey back in time. This historic route passes through rugged terrain, dense forests, and small forgotten towns, making it a unique adventure for road-trippers.

Bushy Park

Bushy Park Ecological Sanctuary, near Whanganui, is known for its rich biodiversity and protected native forest. The 100-hectare reserve is home to some of the tallest and oldest trees in the region, including a 500-year-old rata. The park's predator-free status allows visitors to encounter rare and endangered birds such as the hihi and saddleback in their natural habitat.

Nearby attractions and day trips from Taranaki

Mount Taranaki

Dominating the landscape, Mount Taranaki offers challenging hikes and spectacular views from its summit. The symmetrical volcano is a striking feature of Egmont National Park, drawing climbers and photographers alike.

New Plymouth Coastal Walk

The New Plymouth Coastal Walkway is a spectacular 13-kilometre path that stretches from Ngamotu Beach to Bell Block, offering panoramic views of the Tasman Sea. This award-winning walkway is ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling featuring iconic landmarks like the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, which resembles a breaking wave or whale skeleton.

Pukekura Park

New Plymouth’s Pukekura Park is a beautifully landscaped garden featuring lakes, waterfalls, and exotic plants. It hosts the famous Festival of Lights, transforming into an enchanted evening wonderland.

Dawson Falls in Egmont National Park

Dawson Falls is a spectacular 18-metre waterfall located within Egmont National Park. The area around the falls offers picturesque walking tracks that wind through lush native bush, ideal for a short, scenic hike.

 

Where to stay in Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki with a campervan

When it comes to finding the perfect spot to park and rest in Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki, there's no shortage of picturesque, comfy campgrounds. Here are a few worth checking out:

Manawatu-Whanganui

Taranaki

 

 

 

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