The Best Places to Visit in NZ by Campervan

The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s most historically significant destinations — home to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the country’s first capital, Russell. 

Located in the far north, about three hours north of Auckland, its subtropical climate and coastal charm make it perfect for slow, scenic exploration. With more than 140 islands scattered across calm, deep blue waters, the Bay of Islands is a favourite spot for snorkelling, diving and just being out on the water.

You’ll find easy access to boat tours, kayaking, fishing and historic sites. A boat trip to the famous Hole in the Rock at Cape Brett is a standout — with the chance to spot dolphins, seabirds and other marine life.

Expect a few driving challenges around the Bay of Islands in the form of:

• Narrow, winding and sometimes hilly roads
  
  

• Limited parking for motorhomes and campervans
  
  

• A usually busy Opua to Okiato ferry to get to Russell — though it is motorhome friendly.

Nearby Matauri Bay Beach Carpark is a serene location where you can park up by the beach during the day. Paihia and Kerikeri are popular bases for parking your campervan or motorhome overnight.

One of the nearest freedom camping spots is the Hundertwasser Car Park — about a 20 minute drive from Paihia in the small town of Kawakawa.

Discover more about travelling by campervan to the Bay of Islands.

The Coromandel doesn’t like being rushed — and you’ll be glad for it. Here, winding roads hug the coastline, radio signals fade in and out, and beachside cafés aren’t too bothered about the time.

Dig your personal thermal spa in the sand at Hot Water Beach. Follow the clifftop trail to Cathedral Cove for a perfectly framed pocket of paradise. And take the short hike to New Chums Beach — often named one of New Zealand’s most beautiful for a swim in crystal-clear water.

Driving the Coromandel can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads, so take your time and be cautious, especially with a larger recreational vehicle. While driving, pull over at the Manaia Road Saddle and Lookout — where you’ll enjoy superb views to the north.

Camp for a night or two at old-school Kuaotunu Campground and enjoy easy access to a few northern beaches and popular Lukes Kitchen.

Pull in to Tararu Beachfront North Reserve or Waiomu Domain Beachfront Reserve for a few relaxing nights of freedom camping.

Learn more about motorhome holidays in the Coromandel.

Golden sand, rolling surf and a sun-soaked seaside vibe. Few places capture the quintessential Kiwi beach town feeling like Mount Maunganui in Tauranga. Its main beach regularly ranks among the best in the country — ideal for swimming, surfing or just kicking back on the sand.

The Mount (Mauao) is the prominent landmark here, an extinct volcanic cone that gives the town its name. The short, steep track to the summit rewards you with panoramic views over the Bay of Plenty — especially stunning at sunrise. In the cooler months, follow your hike with a soak in the Mount Hot Pools.

Head to Mount Maunganui Main Beach parking area on Marine Parade for scenic day views from the comfort of your motorhome. Be aware that traffic can get congested in the city, there are limited parks for RVs and some streets are tight with roundabouts.

When it comes to parking up overnight, Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park is unbeatable for its location. It sits right between the ocean and the base of Mauao with beachfront access to the surf and sand.

Freedom camping options include Kulim Park — with an excellent kids' playground and super views of Mauao just across the water.

Check out our best spots to park up near Mount Maunganui.

The earth breathes in Rotorua. Steam hisses from cracks in the footpath, geysers roar to life without warning and the aroma of sulphur clings to your clothes — and your memories. It’s raw, real and unlike anywhere else in the country.

Set beside a chain of calm lakes and ringed by native bush, Rotorua is more than just a geothermal hotspot. It’s a centre of Māori culture in NZ, where you can share in traditional kai (food), learn stories of the land and soak in its healing waters.

Explore volcanic valleys like Wai-O-Tapu or Waimangu, take a dip in a natural hot stream or experience a hāngī and kapa haka performance at one of several local marae. When you’re not wandering among bubbling mud pools or walking through ancient forests, there’s mountain biking, lake cruises or even waterfall rafting — take your pick.

For an idyllic and somewhat isolated park up location during the day, try Lake Okataina Carpark to the east of Rotorua. Hamurana Reserve Campground is also a nearby option for freedom camping.

Be aware that steam vents can occasionally drift over roads, especially in the early morning or cooler weather — obstructing your visibility.

In thermal areas like Wai-O-Tapu, the ground can be muddy with water runoff from geothermal features crossing small roads or parking areas. City centre parking can also be tight for larger vehicles.

Uncover more cool things to see and do on a campervan road trip to Rotorua.

In one direction, the perfect stillness of Lake Taupō — in the other, a trio of volcanoes rising from the horizon like something out of a movie.

When you travel through this part of the central North Island, you can have both laid-back lakeside mornings and wild, rugged alpine adventures — all in the same day.

On the way past Lake Taupō, stop at Full Moon View for incredible lake vistas. When you set off again, know that you’re driving into an alpine environment with long climbs, tight bends and steep descents. Shifting down gears early will help you control your speed and avoid overheating the brakes.

Visibility and strong crosswinds are also factors to be aware of in Tongariro National Park — with conditions changing rapidly to bring fog or rain, even in summer.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is often called one of the best day hikes in the world, and for good reason. Emerald lakes, steaming craters and panoramic ridgelines make it an unforgettable trek. But there’s more to this region than just the crossing — think hot springs, jet boat rides and trout fishing on the Tongariro River.

Find out more about travelling by motorhome to the spectacular Tongariro National Park.  

With Mount Taranaki rising dramatically behind it and the Tasman Sea stretching out in front, New Plymouth is a city framed by contrast — alpine landscapes, coastal energy and a creative streak running through its heart.

Walk or cycle the 13km New Plymouth Coastal Walkway linking surf beaches, gardens, public art and cafés with ocean views. In the CBD, you can discover a vibrant arts scene centred around the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and the impressive Len Lye Centre.

For a peaceful green escape, Pukekura Park is a local favourite — home to lakes, walking trails and summer light festivals.

In the city, Belt Road Seaside Holiday Park has magical views of Port Taranaki. You can also choose to freedom camp at Lake Rotomanu Freedom Campsite. On the road, Opunake Northern Headland Carpark is a relaxing spot south of New Plymouth, where you can take a rest break and enjoy some coastal views.

The greater Taranaki region offers everything from surf breaks and wild black sand beaches to lush heritage gardens and hiking trails that loop around the mountain's base. It’s one of the most rewarding areas of the North Island to explore by road.

Read our Taranaki motorhome holiday guide for more tips.

Located in Hawke’s Bay on the North Island’s east coast, Napier is known for its unique blend of heritage and coastal charm. Rebuilt in striking Art Deco style after a major earthquake in 1931, the city is one of the best places in the world to see this bold, colourful architecture up close. This is especially true when afternoon light hits the pastel facades lining the streets.

The city isn’t just for architecture buffs. For instance, the:

• Coastline is wild and beautiful
  
  

• Weekend farmers’ markets are a food-lover's dream
  
  

• Wine, especially the Syrah, speaks for itself.

Add a sea breeze and a scoop of gelato, and you’ve got the makings of an unforgettable campervan holiday.

The roads in and around Napier are generally wide and easy to drive, though downtown parking in a campervan or motorhome can be tricky.

Stay the night at popular Kennedy Park Resort Napier, which can get busy due to its great facilities for adults and kids, but also offers plenty of space. Alternatively, pull into scenic Perfume Point for the night if you prefer freedom camping.

Discover plenty more about visiting Napier by motorhome.

Some towns slip by your window without much fuss, but Whanganui isn’t one of them. Set on the banks of the Whanganui River, the township is rich in history and creativity. Its compact centre is home to heritage buildings, glass-blowing galleries and impressive street art. 

The river is central to everything — take a heritage boat tour, walk the riverside paths or just sit with a coffee and watch the rowers pass. 

The Saturday morning riverside market is a must if you’re in town for the weekend. Locals line up early for cinnamon buns, and you’ll also find artisan bread, great coffee and local art under the trees.

If you want a freedom camp in Whanganui, try Castlecliff Beach. For a paid campground with excellent facilities and beachside views, check into Kai Iwi Beach Holiday Park.

Driving around Whanganui is straightforward with wide roads and little traffic, but you’ll find limited RV parks in town. A great option for parking up during the day to check out river views is Moutoa Quay — which is also available every night but Friday as a freedom camping location.

Get details on the mysterious Whanganui National Park and find out about visiting Wellington in a motorhome.

Sitting at the top of the South Island, Nelson is a favourite among motorhomers — and it’s easy to see why. With more sunshine hours than almost anywhere else in New Zealand, it’s a fantastic base for exploring.

Nelson’s creative streak runs deep, from artisan studios to the Nelson Classic Car Museum. It’s also the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park where picture-postcard beaches and turquoise bays are best explored by kayak or on foot.

You’ll also find epic cycling in the region — with trails leading to wineries, breweries and the coastal hub of Mapua. If you have time, take a day trip over the Takaka Hill to Golden Bay to explore the clear blue springs, wild beaches and local art co-ops.

Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park is the place to camp in central Nelson, while Motueka Beach Reserve is a tranquil freedom camping location about 30 minutes away.

You won’t have too many issues driving a large motorhome in and around the Nelson area. Just be aware that some coastal roads can be narrow and winding, and flash flooding, causing landslides onto roads, has been a problem in recent years.

Check out our Christchurch to Nelson road trip itinerary.

Some places are made for ticking off bucket list items — and Kaikōura is right up there on the list. This tiny coastal town punches well above its weight regarding wildlife encounters. Try:

• Starting your day swimming with dolphins
  
  

• Enjoying a crayfish lunch by the sea
  
  

• Ending your Kaikōura experience watching a sperm whale breach against a backdrop of snowcapped mountains.

From kayaking with seals and spotting rare albatross to boarding a boat for a close-up look at the resident whales, the adventures you can have here are simply magical.

If you’d rather stay on shore, the seafood is fresh, the views are endless and the vibe is laid-back in that uniquely Kiwi way.

Don’t miss driving up to the Kaikōura Lookout for superb all-around views. Just down the road is an easy freedom camping spot at the West End Carpark — and the Kaikōura Top 10 Holiday Park.

Driving around Kaikōura is easy and relaxing, but do watch out for occasional strong coastal winds and the possibility of wildlife, like seals, on the road.

Find out where to park up in Kaikōura in your campervan.

Few places in New Zealand stop you in your tracks like Lake Tekapo. Its glacier-fed turquoise water, majestic mountain scenery and star-filled skies make it as captivating in person as in photos.

The lake’s striking colour comes from fine rock particles suspended in the water, but there’s more to Tekapo than just the view. Hike to the summit of Mount John for sweeping vistas, soak in the local hot springs and visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd — one of the most photographed spots in NZ.

And when night falls, look up. Tekapo is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve — and on a clear night, the stars will take your breath away.

Lake Tekapo is actually 710 metres above sea level, so drive your motorhome or campervan rental carefully through this area. Alpine weather creates icy roads and treacherous conditions, including black ice.

Crosswinds are also common here — strong enough to roll high-sided vehicles like some campervans.

View our Christchurch to Queenstown road trip itinerary with Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki highlights.

The West Coast of New Zealand is one of the few places globally where ancient glaciers spill down into dense rainforest.

Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are among the most accessible glaciers on the planet. They’re set in a wild, moody landscape that sometimes feels a little sub-tropical. In this incredible location, you can:

• Walk to the glacier viewpoints — parking your motorhome or campervan in the easily accessible parking areas, or
  
  

• Take a scenic flight — or book a heli-hike to stand on the ice.

Even if you stay grounded, the surrounding tracks wind through rainforest, rivers and alpine valleys rich with birdlife and waterfalls.

The Fox Glacier TOP 10 Holiday Park has private hot tubs and free Wi-Fi — plus spectacular glacier views. However, it costs a little to stay there. Freedom camping is very hard to find in this area of New Zealand, but Gillespies Beach Campsite offers a DOC alternative at a cheaper rate.

Lake Matheson Car Park is a great location to pull over and take some photos of Fox Glacier. To make it this far, fill up your tank wherever you can, as the West Coast has few petrol stations. Also, be aware that heavy rainfall can be common — and sometimes unexpected.

Learn more about the Franz Josef Glacier Walk.

Tucked between towering peaks and glacial lakes, Queenstown and Wānaka are the South Island’s alpine power duo — made for adventure and epic scenery. 

Queenstown lives up to its title as the world’s adventure capital, offering everything from bungy jumping and jet boating to gondola rides and high-country hikes. The town buzzes year-round, with great food, lively bars and easy mountain access.

Just over the Crown Range, Wānaka offers a slower pace — all the beauty, with fewer crowds. Paddle the lake, hike to panoramic viewpoints or just soak up the serenity beneath the Southern Alps.

Driving the Crown Range can be dangerous, as the road winds quickly downhill and can get icy. Your best option for driving between Queenstown and Wānaka is to go via Cromwell, at a lower altitude and on a safer road.

In and around Queenstown, consider staying at the impressive Driftaway Queenstown with its hot tubs and family-friendly facilities. For something out of town and free, park up for the night at Kingston Campsite — where life slows down immeasurably.

Grab some great tips from our Queenstown motorhome holiday guide.

Fiordland and the many sounds (fiords) it houses are simply awe-inspiring. Sheer cliffs, plunging waterfalls and dense rainforest set the stage for two world-class experiences — Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound.

The drive to Milford Sound is one of the most scenic in the country, navigating past mirror lakes, alpine valleys and dramatic rock formations. Once there, cruise beneath towering peaks and watch waterfalls tumble from hundreds of metres above — it’s wild, remote and breathtaking, rain or shine.

Doubtful Sound is more secluded and reached via boat and bus, making the experience feel even more special. It’s larger, quieter and full of wildlife — from dolphins to penguins and fur seals.

About an hour from Milford, your self-contained campervan can overnight at Cascade Creek Campsite. Be sure to fuel up in Te Anau as there are no services beyond that — just nature at its most powerful.

Milford Sound has one campervan park — the Milford Lodge. Near Doubtful Sound, Manapouri Holiday Park is a convenient option.

Driving the roads of Fiordland often involves extended periods of time without roadside services like gas stations. This is an alpine environment, so expect snow and rain any time of year. Take your time driving through the Homer Tunnel — a narrow 1.2km one-lane tunnel with a steep approach.

Research our Christchurch to Milford Sound road trip itinerary for everything you need to know.

Wild, windswept and often overlooked, The Catlins is a lesser-travelled corner of the South Island with a raw, natural beauty. 

The region is home to:

• Waterfalls hidden in native forest
  
  

• An ancient fossilised forest
  
  

• Quiet beaches where sea lions soak up the sun.

With few towns and even fewer people, it’s the kind of place that invites unhurried exploration.

Walk to Purakaunui Falls or time your visit to Cathedral Caves to catch the towering sea caverns at low tide. Watch for yellow-eyed penguins, Hector’s dolphins and seabirds riding the coastal winds.

Make the most of your visit by staying above the surf at Purakaunui Bay Campsite — a stunning spot backed by cliffs and open to the stars. You can also choose to freedom camp at Owaka Freedom Camping Site.

The Catlins is one of the wettest areas of New Zealand. After rain, the roads can become very slippery — especially on gravel or clay surfaces. Potholes and washouts can appear quickly, so take care.

You may also encounter sheep, cows and sometimes penguins or sea lions lingering on the road.

See why The Catlins have some of the best park up spots in New Zealand.