The best of the geothermal north and mountainous south
Imagine waking up to the sound of native birdsong in a secluded Coromandel cove, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling your cosy motorhome.
Next, picture yourself exploring ancient glowworm caves, seeing the spray of a powerful geyser and witnessing the raw beauty of volcanic environments.
This isn't a dream. It's the beginning of your unforgettable month-long journey from Auckland to Christchurch — a symphony of landscapes and experiences across two breathtaking islands.
You’ll become immersed in a land of dramatic contrasts, where vibrant cities give way to rugged coastlines and towering mountains reflect in mirrored lakes.
You'll witness the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, hike through the majestic Tongariro National Park and savour world-class wines in relaxing vineyards. Your adventure then continues across Cook Strait — where the South Island unfolds in all its natural glory.
Discover Nelson's artistic charm, the turquoise waters of Abel Tasman National Park and the spectacular beauty of the Southern Alps. Encounter playful marine life in Kaikoura, stand in awe of Aoraki Mount Cook and embrace Queenstown — the adventure capital of the world.
Driving Creek Railway
Glass bottom boat tour
Mount Maunganui — Mauao
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Mitai Māori Village
Huka Falls
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Hawke’s Bay trail rides
Cape Palliser Lighthouse
Te Papa
Great Taste Trail
Abel Tasman Coast Track
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa
Kaikōura whale watching
Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve
Tasman Glacier
Puzzling World
Skyline Queenstown
Ayrburn
Cruising Milford Sound
Ōamaru’s authentic heritage precinct
Keen to start planning your ultimate New Zealand road trip? Simply fill out the form to receive your itinerary.
From underground depths to overground delights
From the cave country of Waitomo, the drive to Rotorua introduces you to a world of geothermal activity. You'll travel through rolling green hills and farmland, as the faint smell of sulphur starts to pervade the air — a scent unique to Rotorua.
You may even spot the occasional geyser or steaming vent as you reach New Zealand’s geothermal wonderland.
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Travel tip — walk to crystal-clear water Make a stop at Te Waihou Walkway to check out the Blue Spring — one of the purest water sources in the world. Near Putāruru, the spring is unbelievably clear with vivid blue and green hues, surrounded by lush native plants. It’s an epic photo stop and a refreshing 10km leg stretch. If you prefer a shorter walk, park your motorhome at the Leslie Road car park for an easy 15 minute stroll to the springs. |
Explore Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland — and marvel at the colourful geothermal features like Lady Know Geyser and the largest mud pool in NZ
Be reinvigorated at the Polynesian Spa — soaking in the geothermal hot pools that overlook Lake Rotorua
Experience Māori culture at Mitai Māori Village — enjoying a cultural performance and a traditional hāngī feast
Take a gondola ride up and luge down at Skyline Rotorua — taking in the panoramic views of the city and lake
Visit the Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest — walking or biking past the towering redwood trees
Download our packing checklist for a campervan road trip.
Distance: 139km
Travel time: 1hr 58min
Route: Waitomo to Rotorua
Stay: Blue Lake TOP 10 Holiday Park or Tasman Holiday Parks Rotorua
Resources: Visit Rotorua
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Sulphur City New Zealand is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a zone of intense volcanic activity. One of the world’s few unique places where underground geothermal phenomena rises to the surface in the form of geysers, hot springs and mud pools is Rotorua — also known as Sulphur City. |
