Should you travel New Zealand in a campervan with an itinerary – or wing it?
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Queenstown, New Zealand

Motorhome and Campervan Hire Queenstown NZ

 

Nestled among a stunning backdrop of natural wonders, Queenstown is home to a range of activities for everyone. Known as the adventure capital of the world, each season offers new experiences. In winter, it’s all about skiing and snowboarding while the summer months attract thrillseekers for bungee jumping, jet boating, white water rafting, canyon swings and more.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or simply want to relax in a beautiful setting, Queenstown is a must-see destination when travelling through New Zealand. And a motorhome or campervan rental is the ideal way to explore the iconic scenery and attractions of the Otago region at your own pace.

Looking for Queenstown campervan hire?

Experience the freedom of exploring Queenstown with Apollo campervans! If you are embarking on a South Island adventure, our campervans are your ticket to discovering New Zealand's stunning landscapes. From the adrenaline-fueled activities in Queenstown to the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound and the Remarkables, every corner of the South Island offers unforgettable experiences. With Apollo, picking up your campervan from Queenstown is just the beginning of an epic adventure through the unparalleled scenery of New Zealand's South Island.

For the campervans Queenstown travellers can trust, choose Apollo!

Getting to the Queenstown Branch

Our Queenstown shuttle operates from 8am to 4:00pm, Monday to Sunday. It is available on request and can fit up to eleven people.

On arrival at Queenstown Airport, head out of the main entrance, to the Commercial Transfers area, and use the Freephone located there to call us. You will see instructions to press 809. Once you dial, you’ll be given three options; press “Require Assistance” and this will put you directly through to the Branch for pick up. If you wait here, the white electric shuttle with our logos will be there to pick you up.

There is no customer parking available inside the grounds of our branch, but there is a wide range of safe, secure, convenient and affordable parking options situated close by.

Queenstown Branch

  • Address:
    50 Lucas Place, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
  • Opening Hours:
    Monday – Sunday: 8am – 4:30pm
  • Telephone:
    0800 845 444
  • Distance from City:
    8 Kilometres / 4.9 Miles
  • Taxi Fare City:
    NZD $40 Approx
  • Distance from Airport:
    0.9 Kilometres / 0.5 Miles
  • Taxi Fare Airport:
    NZD $20 Approx
  • Closed Days:

    All branches are closed on Christmas Day (25 Dec). 

What to do on your Queenstown campervan road trip?

 

There are few places in the world that are quite as spectacular as Queenstown. Situated on the edge of the crystal clear Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps, Queenstown is known for its four distinct seasons, natural scenery and thrilling attractions. From the moment you arrive in your campervan, you’ll see just why Queenstown is New Zealand’s leading visitor destination.

Discover the ultimate adventure

Queenstown has forged an enduring reputation as the adventure capital of the world with more than 200 different adrenaline-pumping activities on offer. Experience some of Aotearoa's most beautiful scenery in thrilling style with skydiving, river surfing, ziplining, white water rafting, and mountain biking – just to name a few!

Queentown’s dramatic alpine ranges are perfect for jet boating and bungee jumping – both of which were pioneered in New Zealand. The iconic Shotover Jet provides you with a world-class jet boating experience as you weave in and out of canyons at breathtaking speed while your pilot pulls 360 degree “jet spins” to keep you on the edge of your seat! Kawarau Bungy Centre is home to the world's first ever bungee jump. Plummet straight down so close to the river below that you can reach out and touch it for the ultimate adrenaline rush.

Winter is all about skiing and snowboarding with four excellent ski fields in the Queenstown area. The closest is Coronet Peak, which has been the premier winter playground since 1947 when the first rope lift in New Zealand was installed there. Queenstown's local ski area offers epic views over the Wakatipu basin while the huge variety of mountain terrain caters for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Coronet Peak is also home to the night ski for a unique snow sports experience.

Relax with serene cultural delights

If thrill seeking isn’t your style, there is still so much to experience in Queenstown. Take a stroll through the beautiful and tranquil Queenstown Gardens, relax aboard a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu, or enjoy dinner at the top of the Skyline Gondola with a bird's eye view of Queenstown's unique surroundings. After all that sightseeing, you’ll have earned a soak in the Onsen Hot Pools. Heal your body and mind with the soothing benefits of pure water and panoramic views of the Shotover River.

Queenstown is celebrated for its delicious food, spectacular wines, and vibrant nightlife. The city’s restaurants offer a gastronomic adventure with a wide range of cuisines using the freshest local produce. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal after a day of exploring or a fine dining restaurant, you’ll find something to satisfy every taste and every mood in New Zealand’s ultimate foodie destination.

Explore the stunning South Island

The fun and adventure doesn’t stop at Queenstown with plenty of nearby tours and day trips featuring gorgeous landscapes, calm blue waters and walking trails to explore. Embark on the scenic drive to Glenorchy before visiting the Kiwi Bird Life Park where you can meet New Zealand's beloved animals up close! During the warmer months, travel through the Gibbston Valley which is home to New Zealand’s most famous wine regions. Known as the Valley of Vines, you can enjoy some of the world’s best Pinot Noir at over 75 boutique wineries along with perfectly paired cheeses.

Driving to the top of the Remarkables mountain range and taking the 40-minute hike up to the picturesque, snow-fed Lake Alta is also well worth the trip during summer. Enjoy a romantic picnic by the lake nestled amongst the rugged backdrop of the Remarkables and, if you are feeling brave, a refreshing dip in the icy green waters.

The South Island road trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound is considered one the most scenic drives in the world. Located on the Wild West Coast about a 4-hour drive from Queenstown, Milford Sound is an awe-inspiring destination with its rugged cliffs, snow-capped peaks, lush green rainforests and cascading waterfalls that dissolve into mist. You can experience this majestic scenery from helicopter flights, guided kayaking tours, or the popular Milford hiking track.

Whatever you want to do and whatever your style is, Queenstown will feed your imagination, fuel your passions and revitalise your spirit.

Things to do in Queenstown

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: NZ blog

Should you travel New Zealand in a campervan with an itinerary – or wing it?

Ingrid Walker has explored Aotearoa from top to bottom in campervans of all shapes and sizes. She’s experienced both the joy of a perfectly planned itinerary and the freedom of making it up along the way. In this blog, she shares her honest take on what it’s like to travel New Zealand by campervan – with tips to help you find the right balance between structure and spontaneity. 

There’s something pretty special about hitting the open road in a campervan in New Zealand. Waking up to a new view each morning, pulling over when something catches your eye, and having everything you need right there with you – it’s a travel style that feels equal parts freeing and rewarding. 

But when it comes to planning the trip, there’s always that big question: should you map out every stop, or just see where the road takes you? I’ve done both – from tightly planned itineraries to completely winging it – and there are definitely pros and cons to each. 

If you’re planning your first campervan roadie, especially here in Aotearoa, this guide will help you figure out what kind of approach suits you best. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with the whole whānau, I’ve pulled together my top tips to help you find the right balance between structure and spontaneity. 

 

Why New Zealand is perfect for a campervan adventure

New Zealand was made for road trips. The scenery changes dramatically every couple of hours – one minute you’re driving through alpine passes, the next you’re winding along a rugged coastline or parked up beside a peaceful lake. Having a campervan means you can stop whenever you like, take the scenic route, and stay a little longer when a place surprises you (and trust me, that happens often). 

There’s also a great mix of freedom camping spots, DOC campsites, and well-equipped holiday parks dotted all over the country, so you’ve got options whether you’re after simplicity or all the bells and whistles. 

Driving in New Zealand is pretty straightforward too – distances are short, traffic outside the cities is light, and the locals are usually happy to help if you’re unsure of anything. Whether you’re a first-timer or you’ve road-tripped before, hiring a campervan in New Zealand just makes sense – it’s accessible, flexible, and hands-down one of the best ways to explore. 

 

The case for travelling with a set itinerary

I’ll admit, I’m a planner at heart – and when I did my first big campervan trip around New Zealand, having a set itinerary gave me a lot of peace of mind. Knowing where we were staying each night, having activities booked in, and not having to scramble for campsites made the whole experience feel more relaxed. It was especially helpful because we were travelling during summer, when things can book out fast – particularly in places like Queenstown, Rotorua, and along the West Coast. 

Having a schedule really paid off when we rolled into Queenstown late one afternoon. Every holiday park in town was packed, and we saw people being turned away at reception. Luckily, we’d booked ahead – we had a powered site waiting for us and didn’t have to worry about where we were going to sleep. 

A set itinerary is also great for making the most of your time, especially if you're on a shorter trip or travelling with kids. You can lock in must-see experiences like Hobbiton, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, or a Milford Sound cruise and build your route around them. 

The trade-off? There’s less room for spontaneity. You might drive past a waterfall or a quirky roadside café and not have time to stop. And if the weather suddenly turns, your plans may need to shift, which can be tricky if everything is pre-booked. 

READ MORE: Creating your perfect New Zealand itinerary: tip and recommendations from experienced travellers.  

 

The joy of winging it on a campervan road trip

There’s something pretty special about waking up, checking the weather, and deciding where to head next over your morning coffee. No rush, no firm plan – just the open road and a general sense of direction. On my second trip around New Zealand, I decided to take a looser approach, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had. 

One day, we were loosely headed south from Nelson and took a spontaneous turn toward Golden Bay. We ended up at Wainui Bay – a quiet, golden-sand beach tucked away at the edge of Abel Tasman National Park. We hadn’t planned to stop, but we ended up staying two nights. That kind of freedom to go where the mood takes you is hard to beat. 

This approach is perfect for longer trips or if you’ve already ticked off the big-ticket experiences. It gives you room to follow local tips, stay an extra night somewhere unexpectedly beautiful, or change plans entirely if the forecast isn’t in your favour. 

The downside? You might miss out on popular spots that need to be booked in advance, like guided glacier hikes or certain national park campsites. And during peak season, it can be harder to find last-minute spots at holiday parks. 

Top tip: If you’re travelling this way, download the thl Roadtrip app. It’s a game-changer for finding last-minute campsites, dump stations, and activities nearby – especially when you’re off the beaten track or changing plans on the go. 

How the seasons affect your travel style 

One thing I’ve learned is that the time of year can really influence whether planning ahead or winging it works better. 

In summer (December to February), it pays to book ahead – especially in popular spots like Queenstown, Abel Tasman, or around school holidays. Campsites, activities, and even some scenic DOC sites fill up fast, and having a plan helps avoid last-minute stress. 

Winter (June to August) is much quieter on the roads, but some freedom camping areas and attractions may be closed or harder to access. Planning ahead means you can make the most of shorter daylight hours and stay in places with good heating and facilities. 

Spring and autumn are my personal favourites. These shoulder seasons give you more flexibility with bookings, milder weather, and fewer crowds, making them perfect for a semi-planned approach where you book a few key stops and let the rest unfold. 

Top tip: If you’re not tied to travel during peak times, consider planning your roadie for shoulder season. It gives you the best of both worlds – a bit of structure and plenty of space to be spontaneous. 

 

Tips for balancing planning and spontaneity

After a few different road trips around New Zealand, I’ve figured out that I’m happiest somewhere between full-on planner and total free spirit. I like having a rough framework to follow – just enough to stay on track – while keeping things flexible enough to change direction if something better comes along. 

Here are a few tips that have worked well for me: 

  • Plan the framework, not every detail – I book popular spots like Franz Josef or Queenstown ahead of time, especially during busy periods, but I leave gaps in between to explore at my own pace. 

  • Use the thl Roadtrip app – It’s brilliant for finding last-minute campsites, dump stations, fuel stops, and local attractions when plans change on the fly. 

  • Be flexible with time, not your must-dos – If something’s a real priority, I lock it in early. Then I plan loosely around that, knowing the rest can shift if needed. 

  • Mix holiday parks with freedom camping – I love staying at a holiday park every few nights for a long hot shower and a laundry top-up, then using freedom camping in between to stay flexible and keep costs down. 

  • Keep an eye on the weather – NZ’s conditions can change quickly, especially in the mountains. I’ve switched coasts mid-trip to dodge a rain system, and it ended up being the best decision of the week. 

  • Build in buffer days – Giving myself an extra day or two in the itinerary means I can spend longer somewhere beautiful, wait out bad weather, or just take a slow day when needed, without throwing everything off. 

The beauty of a campervan trip is that it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. A bit of structure and a bit of spontaneity can make for the perfect balance. 

 

What type of traveller are you? 

It really comes down to knowing your travel style. If you love structure, get a thrill from ticking off your must-see list, or feel more relaxed knowing where you’ll be each night, then planning your itinerary in advance is probably the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer to follow your instincts, leave space for surprises, and don’t mind a little uncertainty, then letting the road lead you can be incredibly rewarding. 

Most of us fall somewhere in between – and that’s totally fine. Your ideal approach might depend on the season, how long you’re travelling for, or who you’re with. I’ve done more structured trips when I was short on time or travelling with others, and more relaxed ones when I had the freedom to go at my own pace. 

The best part about travelling New Zealand by campervan or motorhome is that there’s no one right way to do it. Whether you’ve got a colour-coded map or a vague idea and a full tank, this country is made for road trippers. So pick the style that works for you, stay open to the unexpected, and enjoy the ride. 

 

Ready to hit the road?

If you love a detailed itinerary or prefer to follow the road wherever it leads, travelling New Zealand by campervan gives you the freedom to explore on your terms. With stunning scenery around every corner, well-equipped campsites, and endless opportunities to explore, it’s the kind of trip you’ll be talking about for years. 

Book your Apollo campervan online today and start shaping your own version of the ultimate New Zealand roadie – planned, spontaneous, or somewhere perfectly in between. 

 

 

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Where to stay with your campervan in Queenstown?

 

There are plenty of accommodation options for campervan travellers in Queenstown with excellent holiday parks and camping grounds close to the town’s centre.

Queenstown Top 10 Holiday Park is located just 15 minutes from Coronet Peak and 15 minutes from the Queenstown CBD making it perfectly placed to enjoy the various adventure activities and spectacular scenic spots.

New Zealand is also a free camping nation which means you can park where you want and stay the night (unless signed otherwise). Freedom camping is a great way to see New Zealand on a budget, but it’s not for everyone and you need to ensure that you have a certified self-contained vehicle. This means it must have an on-board toilet, fresh water storage, waste water storage and a rubbish bin with a lid.

As you continue your South Island road trip, Glendhu Bay Motor Camp is an idyllic campsite nestled right on the edge of the beautiful Lake Wanaka – about an hour’s drive from Queenstown. It is conveniently located next to the Roys Peak track head along with the access road to Treble Cone ski fields (30 minutes) and only a short drive (1 hour) to the Cardrona resort.

Whether you choose to stay at a Queenstown holiday park or take advantage of freedom camping sites, a campervan road trip to New Zealand’s adventure capital is sure to provide a memorable experience.

Why choose Apollo for campervan rental in Queenstown? 

 

You can depend on Apollo for the best campervan rentals in New Zealand. We offer a wide range of vehicles to suit any budget and group size, so you can hit the open road and explore Queenstown and the spectacular South Island.

Our premium quality rental campers are custom built for New Zealand's unique climate by leading RV manufacturers. With quality furnishings and appliances, our vehicles come with all the comforts of home.

Whether you are an intrepid explorer, an adrenaline junkie, or prefer a more sedate pace, you can enjoy absolute confidence travelling in a rental campervan from New Zealand's most modern fleet. Contact our friendly team at Apollo today!

Inspiration for your Queenstown campervan rental

 

From pure natural landscapes and adventure activities to world class wineries and abundant wildlife, the South Island is a must do for every New Zealand traveller. There is no better way to experience this awe-inspiring region than a road trip with an Apollo campervan! Start your holiday in Christchurch and explore everything the South Island has to offer, including the thrills and sights of Queenstown, with these tried and tested New Zealand campervan itineraries.

The South Island Winter Wonderland

Visit the South Island ski fields, glaciers, dark sky reserve and alpine spa towns as you travel along the most amazing road trip routes of the south with this 14 day winter itinerary.

 

Christchurch
Round Trip

Discover the best of New Zealand's South Island with this 21 day road trip featuring stops at iconic locations such as the  Franz Josef Glacier, Queenstown, Wanaka and Dunedin. 

 

Christchurch to Auckland Road Trip

On this 27 day road trip you will enjoy wildlife, massive mountains, subtropical rainforest and golden beaches - visiting the best that both the North and South Islands have to offer.

 

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