North and South Islands Adventure by Motorhome

Day 1

Auckland

Pick up your motorhome from THL's Auckland brand right next to Auckland International Airport. We recommend spending the day in Auckland, perhaps heading to the top of the Sky Tower for 360-degree views of the city. We’d also recommend taking 45-minute ferry to Waiheke Island to explore its boutique shops, art galleries and wineries.

Suggested Overnight: Takapuna Beach Holiday Park, or similar.

Day 2

Auckland – Rotorua (143 miles)

Today you’ll leave the city and head to Rotorua, a fascinating geothermal location with mud pools, thermal springs, and geysers including Pohutu – the largest geyser in the Southern Hemisphere. We recommend a visit to Te Puia to watch a cultural show and tuck into a traditional Maori hangi (a meal cooked underground).

Suggested Overnight: All Seasons Holiday Park Rotorua, or similar.

Day 3

Rotorua – Taupo (50 miles)

It’s another day of natural splendour, this time taking you to the volcanic waters of Lake Taupo. The Huka Falls is not to be missed, especially with a jet boat ride or river cruise. For the even more adventurous, why not head to Orakei Korako Geothermal Park & Cave to see the most active geysers of any geothermal park in New Zealand.

Suggested Overnight: Taupo TOP 10 Holiday Park, or similar.

Day 4

Taupo – Wellington (232 miles)

It’s a long drive today to reach Wellington. This is a lovely spot for wildlife viewing, including Zealandia Te Mara a Tane, the world’s first fully fenced and predator-proof ecosanctuary where you’ll see rare animals.

Suggested Overnight: Cuba Street Motorhome Park, or similar.

Day 5

Wellington to Nelson (149 miles)

Today you’ll cross from the North Island to the South Island. Enjoy the fantastic views on your Interisland Ferry cruise across Cook Strait and through the amazing Marlborough Sounds.

Disembarking in Picton, you’ll then drive two hours to Nelson, New Zealand’s sunniest town. Once there, why not stretch your legs and hire a bike to cycle along the Tasman Great Taste Trail, stopping by the awesome cafes, fruit stalls, wineries, and craft breweries, of course.

Suggested Overnight: Nelson City TOP 10 Holiday Park, or similar.

Day 6

Nelson – Abel Tasman National Park (37 miles)

Spend the day exploring Abel Tasman National Park, including the world-famous walking track and stunning beaches. You could even add a couple of extra nights here to really enjoy the natural beauty with a scenic cruise or kayaking tour.

Suggested Overnight: Abel Tasman Marahau Beach Camp, or similar.

Day 7

Abel Tasman National Park – Punakaiki (176 miles)

Today you’ll be travelling to the home of the Pukakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. These interesting rock sculptures look like a large stack of pancakes, whilst high tide brings blowholes that spout sea spray into the air.

Suggested Overnight: Punakaiki Beach Camp, or similar.

Day 8

Punakaiki – Franz Josef Glacier (135 miles)

Drive to the Franz Josef glacier area this morning to see some of New Zealand’s most stunning scenery. We’d also recommend stopping by Hokitika along the way, exploring this historic gold mining area on the Hokitika Heritage Trail. Once in Franz Josef, you’ll have plenty of guided tours to choose from, with time to rest at the Waiho Hot Tubs in a luscious rainforest setting.

Suggested Overnight: Franz Josef Campervan Park, or similar.

Day 9

Franz Josef Glacier – Wanaka (176 miles)

Enjoy another day of beautiful sights, driving via scenic Lake Matheson on route. Upon arrival in Wanaka, we recommend taking one of the guided walking tours – one of our favourites is the Waterfall Creek Track. Afterwards, grab a coffee at Big Fig.

Suggested Overnight: Wanaka Lakeview Holidays Park, or similar.

Day 10

Wanaka – Queenstown (43 miles)

It’s your penultimate day in New Zealand today, with a relaxing journey to Queenstown on the agenda. We recommend taking the SH6 route, especially in the summer, as it goes past the township of Cromwell known for its delicious fruit.

Once in Queenstown, you’ll have a bit of time to shop, enjoy a scenic walk, or embark on a fun wine or craft beer experience.

Suggested Overnight: Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park, or similar.

Day 11

Queenstown

Before you return your motorhome to maui’s Queenstown branch, there are a few great little trips you can enjoy. Our favourites include panning for gold in Arrowtown, or a 45-minute to Glenorchy to see some of the landscapes used in Lord of the Rings.