What you need to know about fuel and power in your campervan
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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. 

 

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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. 

Long Hire Offer Long Hire Offer

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

 

 

 

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: NZ blog

What you need to know about fuel and power in your campervan

Planning a campervan road trip in New Zealand? Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned traveller, understanding how fuel and power work in your camper is the first step to a smooth and stress-free holiday. In this guide, we share some top campervan fuel tips so you can hit the road with confidence. Let’s dive in! 

 

Understanding your Apollo camper's fuel system

Fuel is a big part of any motorhome road trip, and knowing how it works in your Apollo campervan is important.  

 

Types of fuel

Most campervans and motorhomes in New Zealand, including Apollo campers, run on diesel – and there’s a good reason for that. Diesel engines are more fuel-efficient, especially for larger vehicles that need a bit more power to handle hills and longer road trips. This makes them ideal for motorhomes and campervans that often carry a lot of weight. 

Another advantage of diesel is that it’s usually cheaper at the pump compared to petrol. However, diesel vehicles in New Zealand are subject to a Road User Charge which helps cover the cost of maintaining the country’s roads. Apollo’s Road User Charge Recovery Fee is based on the distance you travel and will be calculated when you return your campervan. For more details, you can refer to Apollo’s terms and conditions or ask the team when picking up your campervan hire. 

 

Choosing a fuel-efficient campervan

Fuel economy matters – not just for your budget, but also for making the most of your road trip. Features like engine size, weight, and campervan design can all impact fuel efficiency. If minimising costs is a priority, consider renting a smaller, lighter model that’s built with fuel-saving in mind.  

For more details on picking the right campervan, take a look at our beginner’s guide to driving a campervan in New Zealand

 

Fuel economy tips

Running out of fuel is not something you want to experience on your road trip, especially in remote areas! Plan ahead by making sure you’re topped up before you head anywhere remote. A handy tip is to use apps like the thl Roadtrip app or  Gaspy to locate the nearest refuelling spots. Managing your driving habits can also go a long way – maintain steady speeds, avoid idling, and take it easy on the accelerator.  

 

Route planning for efficiency

Planning your route smartly can save you fuel and make your drive much easier. Tools like the New Zealand Journey Planner are great for finding direct routes, avoiding extra detours, and staying updated on road conditions. Whenever you can, stick to flatter roads instead of steep climbs – it’s kinder on your fuel tank and makes for a more relaxed drive. 

 

About your campervan battery

Understanding how your campervan’s battery works is key to keeping everything powered during your trip. Apollo campervans and motorhomes come equipped with two types of battery systems: mains power and an auxiliary battery, also known as a ‘house’ battery. 

The house battery powers essential internal appliances like lights, the television, and the water pump. When fully charged it can provide power for 12–20 hours, depending on how much you’re using it.  

Recharging your house battery straightforward – it charges when the campervan is plugged into mains power at a campsite or trickle-charges as you drive. Just keep in mind that idling the engine won’t generate enough power to recharge it. To keep everything running smoothly, we recommend plugging into mains power every second night. 

When connected to mains, the appliances in your campervan will automatically switch over to that power source. This is also when you’ll be able to use high-powered equipment like the microwave, heating (in some vehicles), and the power points. 

Some Apollo campervans even have a house battery monitor located near the control panel, so you can easily check how much charge you’ve got left. It’s a handy feature to stay on top of your power needs. 

 

Tips for managing power off-grid

Spending a night or two off-grid is a great way to experience New Zealand’s stunning remote locations, but it’s important to plan ahead when it comes to managing your campervan’s power supply. Here are some tips to make it work smoothly: 

  • Explore campsites: Plan your stops and find suitable campsites using the thl Roadtrip app – downloadable on the App Store or Google Play

  • Start with a full charge: Before heading off-grid, ensure your campervan’s house battery has been fully charged for at least 24 hours. 

  • Conserve power: Simple habits like turning off lights when not in use and unplugging devices once they’re charged can help stretch your battery life. 

  • Use energy-efficient options: Stick to energy-efficient lighting and appliances to make the most of your available power. 

  • Limit your off-grid time: To keep everything running smoothly, we recommend free camping for no more than one night at a time. Plugging in to mains power every second night is essential to recharge your house battery. 

Keep in mind that some features of your campervan, like the microwave, power outlets, and TV, only work when you’re connected to mains power.  

Once you’ve booked your campervan hire you’ll be able to watch Apollo’s how-to videos to learn about managing your campervan’s power supply.   

TOP TIP: Read more about where you can park your campervan in New Zealand

 

Appliances and power usage

Campervans are packed with handy appliances to keep your trip comfortable and easy. But knowing how much power they use can help you focus on the essentials and manage your energy smartly – especially if you’re spending a night or two off-grid. 

 

Tips for efficient appliance use

Making the most of your campervan’s power supply doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few simple strategies: 

  • Use appliances while plugged into mains power: High-energy appliances like microwaves and heaters work best (and without draining your battery) when connected to mains power. 

  • Charge devices while driving: Take advantage of the vehicle’s trickle charge to power up phones, laptops, and other devices. 

  • Turn off appliances and devices when not in use: Even small items can drain your battery over time, so be mindful of what’s left running. 

 

Make the most of campsite power

Powered campsites are a campervan traveller’s best friend. They let you connect to unlimited mains power for charging devices, running appliances, and even using high-energy equipment like heaters and TVs. Plus, many powered sites offer added amenities like water, Wi-Fi, and communal facilities. You can easily find powered campsites using the thl Roadtrip app, which also helps you compare options and plan your stops. 

Powered campsite fees are usually affordable, and booking ahead during peak travel times is recommended to secure your spot. 

 

Connecting to mains power

Connecting to mains power is simple. Every Apollo campervan comes with a 15 Amp extension lead with a large earth pin, which is compatible with all approved caravan park circuits rated at 15 amps. Once plugged in, your campervan automatically switches to mains power, giving you access to all appliances without using your auxiliary battery. Just ensure you follow the campsite’s guidelines for safe and proper connection. 

 

Power and safety

Staying safe while using electrical systems is important. In New Zealand, campervan power plugs are designed for local outlets, so overseas visitors may need adaptors for personal devices. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind: 

  • Always use the provided power cords and adapters. 

  • Avoid overloading circuits by connecting too many devices at once. 

  • Follow the campsite’s electrical guidelines to ensure proper connection. 

When it comes to fuel and power, it’s essential to follow New Zealand’s rules to avoid fines. For example, certain practices, such as running generators in restricted areas, are prohibited. Always check the local regulations at your campsite to stay compliant. 

 

Energy-efficient travel tips

Travelling in a campervan is all about enjoying the journey while making the most of your resources. By adopting a few energy-saving habits, you can keep your campervan running smoothly and minimise your environmental impact. 

 

Minimalist power usage

Keeping things simple is key to efficient travel. Here’s how to reduce your campervan’s power needs: 

  • Travel light: Reducing the weight of your campervan can improve fuel efficiency and reduce the strain on your vehicle’s power systems. 

  • Use natural lighting and ventilation: During the day, open your curtains and windows to let in light and fresh air instead of relying on artificial lighting and air conditioning. 

 

Alternatives to high-energy appliances

You don’t always need to rely on electricity to stay comfortable. Here are some low-energy alternatives: 

  • Solar lanterns: These are a great way to light up your space without draining your campervan’s battery. 

  • Outdoor barbecues: Perfect for cooking meals when you’re off-grid and trying to conserve power. 

  • Battery-powered fans: A simple and energy-efficient way to stay cool on warmer days without relying on your campervan’s power supply. 

 

Power management habits

Smart power management can keep everything running smoothly and help you avoid unexpected outages: 

  • Charge devices in bulk: When you’re plugged into mains power, it’s the perfect time to charge up all your devices at once. A good multi-port charger or power board can make this easy, but be sure not to overload it. Once your devices are fully charged, unplug them to save power and keep things running smoothly. 

  • Monitor energy usage: Keeping an eye on your campervan’s power levels can help you stay on top of recharging needs. 

  • Turn off appliances and devices when not in use: Even small appliances can drain power over time, so switch them off when you’re done. 

  • Use shared campground facilities: Many powered campsites offer communal kitchens and charging points, allowing you to save your campervan’s power for essentials. 

 

Discover New Zealand with Apollo

Exploring New Zealand in an Apollo campervan is the perfect way to travel – comfortable, flexible, and full of possibilities. With these tips on fuel and power, you’re all set for a hassle-free trip. Whether it’s a quick getaway or a longer escape, Apollo has the right campervan for you. 

Book your campervan now and get ready to enjoy the freedom of the open road – your next adventure starts here. 

 

FAQs 

How often do you need to power your campervan?

You’ll need to plug into mains power every couple of days to recharge the house battery and keep everything running smoothly. 

What do I need to power a camper?

All you need is a powered campsite and the 15 Amp extension lead provided with your campervan. Just plug in and you’re good to go. 

How does power work in a campervan?  

Campervans have two power systems: mains power and an auxiliary battery. Mains power is used when you’re plugged into a powered campsite, running high-energy appliances like the microwave, TV, and power outlets. The auxiliary battery powers essentials such as lights, the water pump, and the fridge when you’re off-grid. It’s separate from the engine battery, so you won’t drain the power needed to start the vehicle. The auxiliary battery recharges while you drive or when connected to mains power. 

How much power do I need for my campervan?

It depends on your usage. Essentials like lights and the fridge use less power, while appliances like heaters and microwaves need more. Plugging into mains power ensures you’ll have enough for everything. 

 

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