What to do on your campervan road trip?

The beautiful legends of New Zealand and the inception of its two main islands are told as part of the traditional Māori people, who settled in the country long before the Europeans first arrived. According to the Māori, the North Islands were formed after the brothers of Māui, a demigod, fought over a great fish that he pulled from the sea. The fish was chopped into pieces, creating what is now known to be Te Ika-a-Māui, the traditional name of the island group. Though the tales may only be myth, the breathtaking beauty of the North Island is definitely not.

Auckland City

The North Island of New Zealand has endless opportunities for adventure, beauty and wonder. However, we think the perfect place to start is Auckland, where you’ll be picking up your Apollo motorhome or campervan. Although surrounded by the natural beauty of the North Island, Auckland itself has an array of fantastic tourist activities sure to keep everyone entertained, from food and music to art and culture. So, after setting off from our Auckland branch location, why not stop in at a few of the city's best sites and attractions.

Sky Tower

Piercing Auckland’s skyline, the Sky Tower is known for its panoramic views of the city, bay area and surrounding landscape. Standing at 300 metres high, it is the highest structure in the Southern Hemisphere. As well as stunning views, the Sky Tower also offers gift shops, world-class restaurants and a heart-stopping bungee jump which starts at 192m above the streets below.

Auckland Museum

Step back in time and discover the rich history of Maori and Pacific Islander culture. With extensive cultural, military and natural history collections, the Auckland Museum is the perfect place to immerse yourself in New Zealand’s story. Located within a historical building and surrounded by tranquil parkland, it’s the perfect day trip for the whole family.

Mount Eden

Walk up Auckland’s highest volcanic peak for stunning views of the Auckland CBD and harbour. You can observe the crater in the centre of the mountain, which is now covered in grass.

Tapapakanga Regional Park

Operated by the Auckland City Council, the Tapapakanga Regional Park is a scenic coastal farm park about an hour’s drive east of Auckland. Perfect for a relaxing start to your NZ road trip, park up at your beach-side campsite, and watch the sunset over the rolling landscape behind you.

Touring the North Island

Travelling out of Auckland in your Apollo campervan, you are spoiled for choice. From forests, beaches, rolling hills, and wild rivers, which area of natural beauty should you visit first?

The Northern Tip

Travelling north of the city, you will reach the world-renowned Bay of Islands. From there, drive as far as you can to arrive at Cape Reinga, the northernmost point on mainland New Zealand. Along the way you will encounter cute little towns, rural charm and gorgeous coastal scenes.

Heading South

South of Auckland, there are many different paths you can take. If you’re feeling in need of some sea air, make a beeline for the Bay of Plenty or Coromandel Peninsula. A trip inland will likely guide you to lakes and thermal environments of Taupo and Rotorua.

Wild West Coast

If dramatic, rugged scenes are what you crave, the west coast of the North Island is perfect for you. Let the wind whip through your hair as you stand over the craggy cliffs or paddle out on one of the many surf beaches. Dotted with national parks, limestone caves and even a volcanic mountain, let the west coast captivate you with its natural beauty.

East Coast Adventure

Known as the ‘Sunshine Capital’, Napier and surrounding regions are home to world-class vineyards and a wonderful collection of art-deco architecture. Get a bit of culture in you and stroll the streets of Napier on a self-guided ‘Art-Deco walk’, designed by the Art-Deco Trust.

Things to do in Auckland

Alyssa Tresider / Monday, 17 June 2024

/ Categories: NZ blog

Is it hard to drive a campervan in New Zealand?

Planning to book a campervan hire for a New Zealand road trip? Great idea! A New Zealand campervan holiday is all about freedom and adventure. One of the most common questions campervan travellers have is, ‘Is it hard to drive a campervan in New Zealand?’ In this helpful guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about driving a campervan in New Zealand. From understanding the roads and conditions to practical tips for a smooth journey, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started …

All you need to know about driving a campervan in New Zealand

Driving a campervan in New Zealand is an incredible way to see the country's diverse landscapes at your own pace. Here’s everything you need to know to make your New Zealand road trip safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable.

What licence do you need to drive in New Zealand?

To drive a campervan in New Zealand, you need a valid driver's licence from your home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP). You’ll need to make sure your licence is in English; if not, you'll need an accurate translation or an IDP. Before you hit the road, it’s essential to check the specific requirements based on your nationality.

In addition to your licence, keep in mind that New Zealand law requires you to carry your driver's licence with you at all times while driving. It’s also a good idea to familiarise yourself with local driving regulations to avoid any surprises and ensure a smooth journey. You can do this by taking a look at the New Zealand Road Code online. This handy resource details the must-know rules of the road, including those about passing other vehicles, speed limits, and giving way at intersections. To help reinforce your learning, you may like to test your knowledge with an online theory test.

What you need to know about New Zealand’s roads

New Zealand’s roads offer a mix of roads from well-maintained highways and city motorways to narrow, winding routes through stunning landscapes. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Drive on the left-hand side: This may be a big change for drivers accustomed to right-side driving, but keeping a few simple guidelines in mind will make the adjustment smooth:

Always check over your right shoulder for incoming traffic before merging or changing lanes.
At roundabouts, remember to give way to traffic coming from your right. This rule keeps the flow of traffic consistent and reduces confusion.
Stick to the left lane whenever possible. Other lanes should only be used for passing or making right turns.

Expect diverse road types: Be prepared for the road type to change frequently. Rural and scenic routes can be narrow and winding, demanding extra caution.

Check speed limits: Familiarise yourself with New Zealand's speed limits before setting out. These are strictly monitored and enforced.

No mobile phones: Using a mobile phone while you’re driving is illegal and can result in hefty fines. So, before making that call or sending a text, always pull over safely to the side of the road.

Watch the weather: New Zealand's weather can change rapidly, especially in mountainous areas. Check weather forecasts regularly and be prepared for conditions such as rain, fog, or even snow in some regions.

Follow at a distance: Keep a generous gap between your campervan and the vehicle in front, especially on narrow or winding roads. This gives you ample time to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic flow.

How to drive a campervan safely

Driving a campervan in New Zealand requires attentiveness and caution, especially on winding roads and in remote areas. Follow these safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey:

Get familiar with your campervan: Before setting off, take time to understand your campervan's size, height, and blind spots.

Use your rearview camera: If your motorhome is equipped with a rearview camera, use it to help with reversing and parking. This can provide a clearer view of what’s behind you.

Secure loose items: Before driving off after each stop, check to make sure all loose items are stowed away and cupboards and doors are secured.

Conserve battery power: Be mindful of your motorhome’s battery usage. Turn off lights and appliances when not in use to conserve power, especially when not connected to an external power source. Remember to fully charge up if you’re planning on freedom camping.

Stick to sealed roads: We want you to stay safe on your New Zealand road trip. With that in mind, it’s important that all 2WD campervans and motorhomes stay on sealed roads only, the only exception is a well-maintained access road less than 12 km leading to a recognised campground or national park. Vehicles are not permitted to drive on beaches.

Check overhead clearances: Always be aware of the height of your motorhome and watch out for low bridges, overhangs, and tree branches that could cause damage.

Practice parking: Spend some time practising parking your motorhome in different situations. This will help you become more comfortable with manoeuvring in tight spaces.

Monitor fuel levels: Keep an eye on your fuel gauge and plan refuelling stops ahead of time, especially when travelling through remote areas where petrol stations may be few and far between.

Choosing the right campervan for your adventure

Selecting the perfect campervan is key to a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Fortunately, Apollo offers a range of campervans and motorhomes to suit every traveller. Here are some considerations to help you choose the right vehicle:

Group size: Consider the number of people travelling with you. Apollo offers options from compact campervans for solo travellers or couples to larger motorhomes that can accommodate families or groups.

Comfort and amenities: Think about the amenities you’ll need. Do you prefer a vehicle with a fully equipped kitchen and onboard bathroom? Apollo’s fleet includes models with various levels of comfort and facilities.

Driving experience: If you’re new to driving larger vehicles, a smaller, more manoeuvrable campervan might be a better choice. More experienced drivers might opt for a larger motorhome for added space and comfort.

Budget: Determine your budget for the trip, including fuel, campsite fees, and any additional costs. Apollo offers a variety of options to fit different budgets, ensuring you can find a vehicle that meets your financial needs without compromising on comfort.

Other top tips for driving a campervan in New Zealand

To make your New Zealand campervan adventure smooth and enjoyable, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

Pack essentials

Stock up on essential supplies, including food, water, and emergency equipment, before setting out on your journey. It's also wise to carry a first aid kit and a spare tyre in case of emergencies. Make sure you have enough fuel for longer stretches between service stations, especially in more remote areas. Packing a toolkit, extra blankets, and a flashlight can also be very useful if you encounter any issues on the road.

Download the thl Roadtrip app

One of the best tools for your New Zealand campervan adventure is the thl Roadtrip app. This handy app provides real-time updates on road conditions, helps you find nearby campsites, and highlights points of interest along your route. It also offers valuable information on fuel stops, amenities, and any road closures you might encounter. By having the thl Roadtrip app at your fingertips, you can plan your journey more efficiently, avoid unexpected surprises, and make the most of your time on the road. The app is available at the App Store and on Google Play.

Plan your route

Research your route in advance and be prepared for variable driving conditions. Consider factors such as road closures, fuel availability, and driving times between destinations.

Respect freedom camping laws

While freedom camping offers the opportunity to camp in remote and scenic locations, it's essential to adhere to local regulations and leave no trace of your visit. Always camp in designated areas where freedom camping is permitted and follow guidelines to protect the environment. Dispose of waste properly, use public restrooms, and respect the natural beauty of the locations you visit. This ensures that these beautiful spots remain pristine for future travellers to enjoy.

Please note, by law, you can only freedom camp in a certified self-contained campervan. A self-contained campervan has all the necessary facilities, including a toilet and waste storage, to allow you to camp responsibly. Apollo's Euro Tourer, Euro Camper, and Euro Deluxe motorhome rentals are certified self-contained and ideal for freedom campers.

Take regular breaks

Driving long distances can be tiring, so schedule regular breaks to rest and recharge. Use rest areas and scenic viewpoints to stretch your legs and enjoy the stunning scenery along the way. New Zealand offers numerous picturesque spots where you can pause, take a breather, and snap some memorable photos. Regular breaks will help you stay alert and make your driving experience safer and more pleasant.

Stay connected

While New Zealand's remote landscapes offer a sense of escape, it's essential to stay connected in case of emergencies. Carry a mobile phone with a local SIM card and familiarise yourself with emergency contact numbers. Ensure your phone is fully charged and consider bringing a portable charger. It’s also a good idea to share your travel itinerary with a friend or family member so they know your whereabouts and can assist if needed.

Ready to explore New Zealand in a campervan?

Driving a campervan in New Zealand offers an extraordinary way to experience the country’s diverse and stunning landscapes. Remember to plan your route, respect freedom camping laws, pack essential supplies, take regular breaks, and stay connected during your travels. And of course, be sure to take your time, have fun, and enjoy every destination!

Ready to kick off your New Zealand road trip? Book your Apollo camper today and start your adventure!

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Where to stay in Auckland with your campervan

The Auckland region and surrounding North Island are perfect for your motorhome or campervan journey. The area is packed full of motorhome-friendly holiday parks that can provide power and security while offering amazing views. There will often be a holiday park close to popular towns and tourist spots so you can enjoy everything Auckland has to offer.

Holiday parks can supply powered and non-powered sites for campervans and motorhomes, as well as tents and caravans. They may offer multiple recreational amenities like heated swimming pools, trampolines and barbeque facilities.

For inspiration, check out these world-class tourist areas which cater to motorhomes and campervans:

The Shakespear Regional Park - Situated north of Auckland, this beautiful spot offers beautiful views of Te Haruhi Bay, with three main walking tracks for you to enjoy.

Whatuwhiwhi Holiday Park - Perfect for a beach-side getaway, this spot is great for accessing the pristine Perihepe Beach. Enjoy an array of activities in the area, like fishing, snorkelling, kayaking and paddle boarding.

Kauri Coast Holiday Park - Located on two hectares of stunning native parkland, the Kauri Coast is a great launching point for seeing the natural wonders of the west coast. Visit the nearby Waipoua Forest, Kauri Park or stroll along the beaches at Maunganui Bluff.

New Zealand is also a free camping nation which means you can park and stay the night in designated areas, as long as you're respectful of others and the environment. Freedom camping is a great option for cheap campervan hire, but it is only allowed for certified self-contained vehicles. This means it must have an on-board toilet, shower and waste disposal facilities.

For more information about free camping in your campervan rental, Auckland City Council has provided detailed rules and regulations for staying in the city.

Why choose Apollo for campervan and motorhome hire in Auckland?

Apollo has been a leading brand for premium quality motorhome and campervan rentals since 1985. Our entire campervan fleet is designed and custom built by expert RV manufacturers, who understand New Zealand’s unique climate and terrain. Fitted with quality appliances and furnishings, we can ensure you all the comforts from home when you’re on the road.

Contact our Apollo Motorhomes Reservations team and speak to one of our dedicated team members today. You can also browse through our range of campervans and motorhomes online now and start planning your ultimate Auckland road trip.

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