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Nelson & Marlborough

Craving artistic flair, golden beaches, and a taste of adventure? Look no further than the Nelson and Marlborough region. Sitting at the top of New Zealand's South Island, this area is packed full of natural beauty, culinary excellence, and cultural richness. It’s easy to see why it makes the perfect destination for a New Zealand campervan holiday. Nelson, often hailed as New Zealand’s ‘sunshine capital’, radiates a warm, inviting atmosphere complemented by its vibrant arts community, historic architecture, and bustling markets. Nearby, the tranquil Marlborough Sounds offers a playground for kayaking, fishing, and scenic cruises. Wine enthusiasts will relish visiting Marlborough's famed vineyards, where tasting world-class wines becomes a memorable part of the journey.

A road trip through Nelson and Marlborough in an Apollo campervan means every day is a new adventure, crafted just to your liking. With the flexibility to explore hidden gems, from the secluded coves of Golden Bay in Nelson to the enchanting Marlborough Sounds, your journey can be as laid-back or as action-packed as you desire. The convenience of travelling by campervan, complete with a kitchen, bed, and bathroom, means that the beauty of Nelson NZ and the Marlborough Sounds are yours to enjoy in your own time. Whether you're soaking up the sun on Nelson's beaches or sipping on exquisite sauvignon blanc in Marlborough, travelling by campervan offers a truly unforgettable experience. 

 

Why explore Nelson & Marlborough by campervan

Travelling in a campervan, especially through beautiful areas like Nelson and Marlborough, turns a simple holiday into a series of unforgettable experiences. It's your adventure, at your pace, surrounded by the comfort and convenience that only campervan travel can offer. With a campervan, you're not tied down. You can linger over a long lunch in a Nelson café or decide to spend an extra day tasting wines in Marlborough because you've fallen in love with the scenery.

The journey itself becomes part of the fun when you're in a campervan. It's about making spontaneous stops at breathtaking lookouts, enjoying your morning coffee in the middle of postcard-perfect views, and finding your own special spot to watch the stars. Stumbled upon a hidden gem in Golden Bay or found a hiking track in Marlborough you’d like to tackle? With a campervan, you have the freedom to explore it as much as you like.

 

Things to do in Nelson & Marlborough

Nelson and Marlborough are rich with activities and attractions, offering something special for every kind of traveller. For families on holiday, there are endless opportunities for fun, from exploring the sun-drenched beaches of Nelson to the interactive and educational experiences in the region's museums and galleries. Food enthusiasts will revel in the culinary journey through Nelson and Marlborough, from the fresh seafood of the coastal areas to the exquisite flavours of the region's renowned wineries. Whether you're indulging in a leisurely lunch at a vineyard in Marlborough or sampling local artisan produce at a Nelson market, your taste buds are in for a treat. Adventure seekers and nature lovers won't be left wanting either. With activities like kayaking through the Marlborough Sounds or hiking the trails of the Abel Tasman National Park, the great outdoors is your playground. And for those looking to unwind, the charming towns scattered throughout the region offer a peaceful retreat with their unique boutiques, cafes, and galleries.

15 Must Do's in New Zealand’s South Island 15 Must Do's in New Zealand’s South Island

15 Must Do's in New Zealand’s South Island

    An Apollo campervan offers you the freedom to create your own travel itinerary. From whale watching in Kaikoura to southern...
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Popular Nelson road trips & itineraries

Nestled at the top of New Zealand's South Island, Nelson and Marlborough are prime starting points for some of the most picturesque road trips in the country. Kicking off from Nelson, you can weave through the scenic drives that unveil the artistic townships, golden beaches, and lush national parks. Heading into Marlborough, the journey continues through rolling vineyards and along the majestic Marlborough Sounds. Whether you're venturing from the urban buzz of the North Island or the rugged landscapes of the South, these regions promise memorable campervan road trip adventures tailored to every interest. Here are a few worth checking out:

South Island | Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary

South Island | Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary

Get off the beaten track and enter the wilderness! Your journey takes you along the untouched, untamed east coast of the South Island

 
 
 
 

 

Day 1: Christchurch - Moeraki 

Travel time: 4hrs

Distance: 370km

Collect your motorhome from Apollo’s Christchurch branch located conveniently 10 minutes from the airport and near SH1 which you will follow all the way south until you reach the South Otago coast. Here you will find the blue penguin parade at Oamaru and your first chance, to see NZ fur seals, the amazing Moeraki boulders, historic lighthouses, coastal trails and of course arguably New Zealand's best sea food restaurant – Fleurs place, the restaurant Rick Stein picked as his favorite place in the world to be sent to!

Highlights

  • Pick up Christchurch Apollo

  • Moeraki boulders

  • Shag Point

  • Katiki Point

  • Fleurs for dinner

  • Watch the world's smallest penguins come home at the Oamaru penguin parade

Where to stay: Katiki Beach North Reserve stop, a free camping reserve right on the beach or at the Trotters Gorge DoC campsite. It’s a long day that you won’t want to end!

Apollo hint: Book in at Fleurs place to avoid missing out as this is one place where reservations are essential!

Visit the blue penguins in Oamaru

Day 2: Otago Peninsula and Catlins

Travel time: 4hrs

Distance: 250km

Sleep in to the sounds of waves on the beach or wake up early and watch the sun climb out of the ocean. Today you will be heading to Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula where you will find views fit for a castle (quite literally) at Larnach Castle and New Zealand's most photographed building - the stunning Dunedin Railway Station. You also have the chance to see the royal albatross, one of the largest sea birds in the world on its ONLY mainland colony. Enjoy all that Tairoa head has to offer before heading to roaring bay at nugget point. Make your way down the meandering track to the penguin hide where you may be lucky enough to see the yellow eyed penguins appear out of the water and make its way up the beach below to its nests.

Highlights

Where to stay: Kaka Point campsite or 20 minutes away at the free camping site in Owaka, ready for an early start the next morning. You won’t want to sleep in for this one!

Apollo hint: If you want to see nugget point at its best, set your alarm before bed to get their 20-30 minutes before sun rise is scheduled to get the best of the colors as you watch the sun rise out of the ocean.

The stunning Larnach Castle, Dunedin

Day 3: Explore the Catlins

Travel time: 2hrs

Distance: 100km

Start the morning with a short drive back to Nugget Point where, torch in hand, you take the short walk to the lighthouse. As the sun rises, the view will simply take your breath away. Take 1000 photos on the trail, the lighthouse and of the “nuggets”, the awesome rock formations reaching out of the ocean around the peninsula. After, head south and enjoy some family friendly short walks through native forests and nature trails to some beautiful waterfalls before stopping for the night at one of the most beautiful ocean view campsites in New Zealand.

Highlights

  • Nugget Point (sun rise at lighthouse)

  • Purakaunui falls

  • Cannibal Bay (Seal Lions)

  • Tunnel Hill walk (25 min)

  • Tea Pot Land • Purakanui Falls Walk (25 min)

  • Matai falls walk (25 min)

  • Tahakopa Bay

Where to stay: Purukanui Bay is an affordable DoC run campsite that is very affordable and offers amazing views of the coastline and a beautiful beach that often people have all to themselves!

Apollo hint: Don’t be in a rush to leave nugget point, take the short detour to the viewing platform on your right for your chance to see the amazing royal spoonbill colony below.

The amazing sunrise at Nugget Point

Day 4: Explore the Catlins

Travel time: 1hr 30mins

Distance: 80km

You are now in the real wilderness where reception and 4G coverage is hard to find. If you need to upload an amazing photo from the day before, you can do so on WIFI while you grab a coffee at the Lost Gypsy Gallery – a fantastic collection of ...everything! This day will be full of short walks before a small trek in and out to the Cathedral Caves. While steep in parts, it is a well-maintained track and fine for families. The walk is well worth the amazing opportunity to explore the phenomenal coastal cave systems of the Catlins coast and swim on a truly breathtaking beach. Finish the day with a picturesque drive to Curio bay where you can have a chance to swim with Hectors dolphins on one side of the bay and once again see the yellow eyed penguins on the other. All this on a prehistoric beach made up of a fossilized forest entombed in ash for eternity. Amazing.

Highlights

  • The lost Gypsy Gallery

  • Florence Hill Look out

  • Lake Wilkie

  • Mclean Falls

  • Cathedral Caves (Arrive 2 hours before low tide). Allow at least 2-3 hours

  • Curio Bay for petrified forest walk and yellow eyes penguin spotting

  • Porpoise Bay in the late morning and late afternoon to swim with hectors dolphins. Next to Curio cliffs is often the best spot.

Where to stay: Curio Bay campsite overlooking to ocean and wake up right next to the dolphins and penguins or at the free camping area just down the road at the Waikawa Recreation Reserve.

Apollo hint: Hectors dolphins are most active in the morning and late afternoons. If present, give them space (stay 50 meters away from them) and let them swim to you. This is one of the few places in the world you can beach swim with dolphins – respect them and their home.

Mclean falls, one of 3 amazing waterfalls to view in the Catlins.

Day 5: Catlins and Lakes District

Travel time: 3hrs 30mins

Distance: 300km

Here is your chance to do a morning swim with the dolphins or view the penguins before checking out slope point, the southernmost point of mainland New Zealand and the historic Waipapa lighthouse before waving goodbye to the coastal route as you head inland for an overnighter in Queenstown. While there, take in any of the marvelous activities the adventure capital of New Zealand has to offer, or just relax to a lovely meal with the wonderful lakeside views of Lake Wakatipu and visit the kiwis at the wildlife refuge and leave them to entertain you.

Highlights

  • Morning Swim with Dolphins

  • Slope Point

  • Waipapa Point Lighthouse

  • Explore Queenstown

  • Kiwi birdlife park

  • Take the scenic drive to Glenorchy

Where to stay: Queenstown Top 10 , or at the twenty-five-mile stream freedom camping site provide great base camps but with different feels for your stay in Queenstown

Apollo hint: Camping at twenty-five-mile stream puts you right on the road to Glenorchy, one of the most beautiful short drives anywhere in the world and a must do.

Curio bay is one of the few places you can beach swim with dolphins

Day 6: Lakes District and Mt Cook National Park

Travel time: 3hrs 15mins

Distance: 270kms

Stop off at the vineyards of the stunning Gibbston Valley for a gift for a friend (or yourself) before heading through the rest of the scenic lakes district to Canterbury where the amazing views continue. If air activities are more your thing, Twizel is home to some epic glacier flights and a ski dive that lets you take in Mt Cook and the glaciers along with the amazing glacial lakes of Pukaki, Ohau and Tekapo. Next, Mt Cook welcomes you with the family friendly hooker valley track, one of the best short walks anywhere in the world just around the corner. For the more experienced hikers, a day hike up the Mueller hut track is a must do. For a more relaxing end to your trip, why not try the soak and stars at Tekapo where you enjoy an astrology tour from the idyllic comfort of a thermal pool!

Highlights

Where to stay: Whitehorse Hill DoC campsite or head back out to The Pines freedom Camping Area at Lake Pukaki where you can find your own little piece of secluded paradise on the lake shore to call home for the night.

Apollo hint: Don’t be too early to bed, you are in the dark sky reserve (1 of only 16 in the world) where some of the clearest views of the night sky and Milkyway exist anywhere in the world making it an ideal place for stargazing and astro-photography.

The scenic Mt Cook, the gateway to New Zealand's hiking capital.

Day 7: Tekapo and Christchurch

Travel time: 4hrs 30mins

Distance: 331km 

On your final day, you can relax in the hot springs of Tekapo and enjoy one of the most photogenic places in New Zealand. In summer, wild lupins will dazzle you while in winter, the snow-covered alps provide a perfect backdrop to your final day on the road. The church of the good shepherd and a glacier fed lake are just some of the magical scenes that await you. On your way back to Christchurch, no trip is complete without stopping for a bite to eat at the Fairlie bakehouse, one of New Zealand's best bakeries and home to arguably its best pie!

Highlights

  • Explore Lake Tekapo

  • Soak in the hot pools

  • See the colorful Lupins (November – February)

  • Church of the good shepherd

  • Sheep dog monument

  • Late lunch at Fairlie bakehouse

  • Drop off Apollo Christchurch

Apollo hint: Get to the church of the good shepherd early to ensure you get it to yourself before the tour buses and 8am rental pickups from Christchurch arrive!

The stunning Church of the good shepherd at Lake Tekapo

Ready to explore?

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days7
kms1,500
stops20+
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Field4Amazing waterfalls

Great savings on your New Zealand road trip

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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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 Nelson takes you along some of the South Island’s most scenic coastline. There’s a fair bit to see and do along the way, so be sure to take your time and perhaps plan an overnight stay in Kaikoura. 

Queenstown

Keen to make the most of your road trip and explore more of the South Island? Book your camper with our Queenstown branch and spend a few days heading northward taking in some of the great southern highlights along the way. 

Auckland

The North Island is packed full of sights and experiences, so why not tick off a few with a road trip from Apollo Auckland to Nelson? This journey includes crossing the Cook Strait by ferry offering the opportunity to travel through the pristine Marlborough Sounds. 

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 Nelson & Marlborough

 

Climate and seasons in Nelson & Marlborough

Nelson and Marlborough are renowned for their inviting climates, making them year-round destinations for visitors. Nelson, often celebrated as the sunniest city in New Zealand, enjoys a mild maritime climate that complements its outdoor lifestyle and vibrant arts culture.

  • Summer (December to February) in Nelson are warm and sunny, with temperatures typically ranging from 20°C to 25°C, perfect for enjoying the region's stunning beaches and outdoor dining. In Marlborough, the warmth accentuates the beauty of the vineyards, making it an ideal time for wine tasting and scenic tours.

  • Autumn (March to May) in Nelson are warm and sunny, with temperatures typically ranging from 20°C to 25°C, perfect for enjoying the region's stunning beaches and outdoor dining. In Marlborough, the warmth accentuates the beauty of the vineyards, making it an ideal time for wine tasting and scenic tours.

  • Winter (June to August) brings cooler weather, with daytime temperatures hovering around 12°C to 15°C. It's a great time to enjoy the region's art galleries, museums, and cosy dining spots, with the occasional crisp, clear day perfect for outdoor adventures.

  • Spring (September to November) breathes new life into the regions, with blossoming gardens and warming temperatures. It's a beautiful time to witness the region's natural beauty, from the awakening vineyards in Marlborough to the blossoming landscapes in Nelson.

Both regions enjoy relatively low rainfall compared to other parts of New Zealand, though it's always wise to pack a light rain jacket just in case. The transitional seasons of autumn and spring offer a spectacular display of nature's beauty, making them particularly rewarding times to visit.

 

 

 

What to pack

Heading out for an adventure in Nelson and Marlborough with your campervan is an exciting prospect, and packing smart can enhance your experience. The region's welcoming climates and diverse outdoor activities mean you'll need a mix of gear to comfortably enjoy everything from sun-soaked beaches to leisurely vineyard tours. Here’s a rundown of what to bring along.

  • Outdoor gear: The stunning landscapes of Nelson and Marlborough are your playground, so come prepared with versatile outdoor gear. Lightweight, breathable clothing will keep you comfortable during the warm days, while a layer or two for the cooler evenings ensures you can enjoy those starlit nights by the campfire. Durable walking shoes are essential, whether you're hiking in Abel Tasman National Park or exploring the coastal trails.

  • Campervan add-ons: Enhance your campervan living with a few thoughtful extras. A portable barbecue can elevate your dining under the stars, while extra camping chairs and a table (these can be added to your campervan hire) can make your outdoor setup more comfortable.

  • Sun protection:The New Zealand sun, particularly in the Nelson region, known for its high sunshine hours, calls for diligent sun protection. Pack high-SPF sunscreen, a quality pair of sunglasses with UV protection, and a hat to shield you during those outdoor adventures. Remember, sun safety is key, even on overcast days.

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

 

 

Nearby attractions and day trips from Nelson

 

Farewell Spit

Farewell Spit is a striking natural feature located at the northern tip of the South Island, renowned for its extensive sandbar and rich birdlife. This area serves as a bird sanctuary where visitors can observe a variety of migratory birds in their natural setting. The iconic lighthouse at the spit's end also provides a picturesque backdrop for visitors exploring this unique and protected landscape.

Takaka

In the heart of Golden Bay, Takaka is a vibrant town known for its artistic community, quirky cafes, and nearby natural wonders like Te Waikoropupū Springs. A day trip to Takaka can be as relaxing or adventurous as you like, with options ranging from exploring local art galleries to hiking in the Abel Tasman National Park.

Rabbit Island

Just a short drive from Nelson, Rabbit Island offers vast sandy beaches, picnic spots, and cycling trails. It's an ideal place for a family day out, where you can enjoy swimming, beach games, or simply bask in the tranquil atmosphere of this coastal gem.

Lord of the Rings film locations

For fans of the Lord of the Rings series, the Nelson region offers the chance to visit some of the trilogy's filming locations. Take on a day trip to explore the diverse landscapes that were transformed into Middle-Earth, from the rolling hills to the lush forests, each offering a glimpse into the magical world of the films.

 

Where to stay in Nelson & Marlborough with a campervan

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

Nelson

Marlborough

 

 

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