Travel Inspiration

Roadtrip New-Zealand: complete route for 4 weeks

In November 2025, I went on an unforgettable road trip through New Zealand together with my niece Iris and her partner Thijs. What an experience! From glaciers to golden beaches and from film sets to volcanoes: this country has it all.

During this four-week trip, we travelled by campervan from the South Island to the North Island. For many, arriving in Christchurch (or Auckland, if you reverse the route) is the moment to first recover from the long journey. My advice? Plan nothing for the first day and make sure, depending on your arrival time, that you can properly recover.

For our trip I had arranged two campervans through Barefoot Campers. These are ideal for a medium-length road trip and perfect for individual travellers or couples. Through Good Day Travels I'm happy to help you book the right campervan and put together your dream trip.

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Travelling through New Zealand only becomes truly unforgettable when you have the freedom to determine your own route.

What could be more fun than doing a road trip in your own campervan?

Day 1-2: Christchurch → Rakaia Gorge

Upon arrival at Christchurch Airport, we went straight to collect the campervans, so that we had our transport and accommodation sorted immediately. For this campervan trip through New Zealand, I had arranged two campervans through Barefoot Campers. These campervans are ideal for a medium-length road trip and perfectly suited for individuals or couples who want to discover New Zealand by campervan.

Christchurch: gently landing after the long journey

In the afternoon we deliberately took it easy. Christchurch is a lovely city to start your campervan trip: compact, green and relaxed. We took a walk through the centre and visited New Regent Street, one of the city's most charming streets with colourful facades, boutiques and nice cafés.

A fun way to explore Christchurch is with the hop-on hop-off tram, which runs through the city centre in vintage trams. In our opinion, this is one of the most enjoyable and relaxed ways to discover the city, especially if you've just arrived.

In the evening we rounded off the day with a drink at The Church Pub, an atmospheric café which, as the name suggests, is housed in a former church. A special place and a lovely start to our road trip through the South Island.

Breakfast in Christchurch and hit the road

The following morning we first had a lovely lie-in. Something I always recommend after a long flight. Afterwards we started the day properly with a hearty brunch at Bobby's Brunch. The food here is not only delicious, but also beautifully presented. Absolutely recommended if you're visiting Christchurch.

After brunch we strolled through the city centre for a while, browsed some shops and picked up the last few bits before we really hit the road. Early afternoon we climbed into our campervans and began the first leg of this campervan trip through New Zealand, heading towards Lake Tekapo.

The route to Rakaia Gorge

There are two routes to drive from Christchurch towards Lake Tekapo. We deliberately chose State Highway 77 via Inland Scenic Route 72, rather than Highway 1. This route is considerably quieter, greener and much more varied in terms of landscape.

After about an hour's drive, you'll reach Rakaia Gorge, an impressive canyon with bright blue river water. Here you'll find a beautiful walk of approximately 10.5 kilometres return, which runs along the top of the gorge and offers continuous views over the Rakaia River.

Staying overnight at Rakaia Gorge

At Rakaia Gorge there's also a lovely, simple campsite where you can stay for around NZD $15 per person. We decided to stay here, do the walk and spend our first night in the campervan. Sleeping with a view over the river and completely surrounded by nature was a perfect start to our road trip.

Alternative tip: continue on to Fairlie
If you leave Christchurch earlier in the morning, you can also choose to continue on to Fairlie after the Rakaia Gorge hike (± 3 hours total driving). A lovely place to stay overnight is Musterer's Accommodation Fairlie, a peaceful campsite with alpacas. For food and drinks in the evening, the Silverstream Hotel is highly recommended, just five minutes' drive away.

Day 3-4: Rakaia Gorge → Lake Tekapo → Aoraki / Mt Cook National Park

The following morning we left Rakaia Gorge early. Our final destination was Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, but we had deliberately allowed plenty of time for a long stop at Lake Tekapo. One of the great advantages of travelling with a campervan in New Zealand is that you can stop flexibly where and when you want.

From Rakaia Gorge it's just over two hours' drive to Lake Tekapo. On the way we stopped in Fairlie at the Fairlie Bakehouse. Here we grabbed a quick breakfast and a coffee. The pies here are known as some of the best in New Zealand and we can absolutely confirm that.

Tip along the way:
About 20 minutes before Lake Tekapo you'll drive through Burkes Pass. Here you'll find Three Creeks - Vintage Garage Decor, a fun stop with vintage items, classic cars and decor that feels like a village from times gone by.

Hiking at Lake Tekapo

We arrived in Lake Tekapo around 10:00 and started with the Lake Tekapo Peninsula Walk. This short loop walk of approximately 5 km offers stunning views over the bright blue lake, with the mountains of the Southern Alps in the background. An ideal walk to stretch your legs after driving. From mid-November until roughly mid-January you'll find the beautiful and famous lupin flowers here. These pink/purple flowers give the area a real boost and you can expect incredible views because of them!

Want to do a longer walk?

Then the Mt John Summit Circuit Track is an excellent choice. This 8.5 km loop walk takes you along Lake Tekapo and up to Mount John, where you're rewarded with a panoramic view over the lake and the surrounding mountains.

After the walk, we had a homemade lunch at the campervan, something that makes travelling by campervan so wonderful, before we continued driving towards Mount Cook National Park.

To Mount Cook National Park

From Lake Tekapo, it's about another 1.5 hours' drive to Mount Cook National Park. The route itself is impressive, with ever-growing mountains and glaciers in the distance.

We had booked an overnight stay at White Horse Hill Campground. The campsite is located in the middle of the national park and serves as the starting point for several well-known walks, including the iconic Hooker Valley Track.

Red Tarns Track

In the afternoon we decided to do the Red Tarns Track first. This walk is relatively short (± 3.5 km return), but climbs steeply uphill. It's a bit of a slog, but the view at the top is incredible. You look out over Hooker Valley and Mount Cook, with a remote mountain tarn in the foreground. An absolute must if you're short on time but still want to do something spectacular.

Hooker Valley & Tasman Valley

The following day we started with the famous Hooker Valley Track. This 10 km return walk is technically easy and takes you through a rugged, rocky landscape towards Hooker Lake, where ice blocks from the glacier often float in the water. Despite its popularity, this remains one of New Zealand's most beautiful walks.

After the Hooker Valley, we drove on to the Tasman Valley, where we did the short climb to the viewpoint over Tasman Lake and the Tasman Glacier. A completely different perspective, but just as impressive.

Overview of hikes in Mount Cook National Park

Below is an overview of the different walks you can do in Mount Cook National Park. Personally, I've walked them all, because I came here often as a tour guide during my work in New Zealand.

Walking track	Distance	Difficulty
Hooker Valley Track	± 10 km return	Easy
Kea Point Track	± 2.8 km return	Easy
Sealy Tarns Track	± 5.8 km return	Challenging (2,200 steps)
Mueller Hut Route	± 10.4 km return	Challenging
Tasman Glacier View	± 2.6 km return	Easy

Extra tips for Mount Cook National Park:

- Mount Cook National Park is populair als dagtrip voor toeristen. Probeer jouw wandelingen vroeg of juist laat te doen.
- Neem altijd warme en waterdichte kleding mee. Zelfs in de zomer kan het hier koud zijn en plots omslaan.
- Probeer je bezoek te plannen op een zonnige dag. Mount Cook ligt vaak in de wolken.
- Zorg dat je voldoende eten en drinken bij je hebt. In het national park zijn nauwelijks voorzieningen.

Day 4-5: Aoraki / Mount Cook → Twizel

After our overnight stay in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park and completing several hikes, we decided to take it easy this day. We'd already covered quite a few kilometres on foot and didn't want to face another long day of driving. That's why we chose to head towards Twizel, a short drive of approximately 45 minutes.

Just before you enter Twizel, you'll find the Lake Wardell Campsite. This is a basic, free campground and ideal for staying one night. The location is quiet and spacious and has a drop toilet. Don't expect luxury, but for a short stop this is a great spot, especially when you're travelling with a self-contained campervan.

Would you prefer a bit more comfort?
Then Twizel Holiday Park is a good option. This campsite is located in Twizel itself and has extensive facilities such as showers, toilets and a communal kitchen. Ideal if you want to recharge during your road trip through the South Island.

Day 5-9: Twizel → Queenstown

On day five of our road trip through New Zealand, it was time to introduce my guests to Queenstown, the place where I had been living for eight months at that point. From Twizel, you're already in Omarama after about twenty minutes of driving. Right at the beginning of the village sits café The Wrinkly Ram, a perfect stop for a good cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast.

By the end of the morning we arrived in Queenstown. Iris had booked four nights at Hampshire Holiday Parks - Queenstown Lakeview. Not the cosiest campsite, but right in the middle of town, which means everything is within walking distance.

Tip: Book campsites in and around Queenstown as early as possible; they're often fully booked months in advance.
Alternative: Queenstown Holiday Park Creeksyde is a greener and more atmospheric option, also within walking distance of the centre.

Day 5

After arriving, Iris and Thijs settled in at the campsite, while I sorted out a few things at home. Later that afternoon we walked into the centre, browsed the shops and had drinks at various pubs.

Day 6

On day two, Milford Sound was on the agenda. In my opinion, an absolute must during a visit to Queenstown. I worked at the time as a guide for Cheeky Kiwi Travel. They offer a day trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound and back. Have you got enough time? Do the drive yourself and stay overnight in Fiordland National Park! On the day we went, I was the tour guide myself, which made it extra special to take my family along that day. Milford Sound is impressive in all weather conditions: sunshine means crystal-clear blue views and rain creates hundreds of waterfalls along the steep cliff faces. During the day trip we went out on the fjord in a smaller boat (book this through Cruise Milford or Mitre Peak), which gets you closer to the waterfalls and rock walls. Absolutely recommended!

Day 7

In the morning we drove to Arrowtown, about twenty minutes from Queenstown. This village is known as 'New Zealand's prettiest town' and was formed during the gold rush of 1862. We visited the Gold Museum and walked through the historic Chinese Settlement, a remarkable piece of protected heritage from the Chinese gold miners. Arrowtown has many lovely cafés and restaurants; we had lunch at Ayrburn, a beautiful vineyard with several dining options.

In the afternoon we visited Kiwi Park Queenstown, right in the centre. Here you'll see virtually all of New Zealand's native bird species, including the kiwi, something you rarely experience in the wild. On entry you walk through the Honeycomb Centre, where you can buy Manuka honey among other things.

Day 8

On our last full day we did a Lord of the Rings tour to Glenorchy with Nomad Safaris in the morning. In 4×4 vehicles we drove past filming locations such as Isengard, Lothlórien and Fangorn Forest. The area beyond Glenorchy, aptly named Paradise, is absolutely spectacular! I also work here as a tour guide so it was lovely to introduce my family to what I do for work.

Upon returning, we had lunch at Bespoke Kitchen. In the afternoon, we boarded the historic TSS Earnslaw for a cruise across Lake Wakatipu, followed by a substantial BBQ dinner on the opposite shore at the working sheep farm Walter Peak. After dinner, we enjoyed a farm show featuring sheep shearing and working dogs, before returning to Queenstown by boat around 20:15, complete with live music and a look into the warm engine room.

Day 9-10: Queenstown → Franz Josef

After our adventure in Queenstown it was time to move on. We would drive to Franz Josef in a day so we left around 8 in the morning. There were quite a few stops we wanted to make along the way so we certainly needed our time. Below I've described each stop separately:

Cardrona Hotel
The Cardrona hotel is definitely worth a visit. About 45 minutes' drive from Queenstown you'll find this hotel built in 1863. This makes it one of the oldest hotels in New Zealand! In spring and summer it's full of flowers and looks like something out of a film. We had a coffee here and took some photos.

Wanaka
From the Cardrona Hotel it's about another 20 minutes' drive to the beautiful little town of Wanaka. Situated beside Lake Wanaka, it offers stunning views of the mountain ranges on the far side of the lake. In the lake itself you've got the famous 'Wanaka Tree'. This willow tree stands in the middle of the lake and is a real magnet for tourists. We walked down here and it's definitely a funny sight. Try to go as early as possible, especially on a nice day. Late morning and in the afternoon there are literally hundreds of people here taking photos.

Just outside Wanaka you'll find Pembroke Patisserie. We grabbed a quick breakfast to go here before continuing on our way.

Blue Pools
The drive from Wanaka to the Blue Pools is truly heaven on earth. From Wanaka you first head towards Lake Hawea which you follow for about 20 minutes. Expect bright blue water and mighty mountain ranges in the background! Once past Lake Hawea you turn off and drive along the upper side of Lake Wanaka. This too is absolutely stunning and literally after every bend you see something new..

After an hour's drive you arrive at the Blue Pools car park. These are known for their beautiful, crystal-clear, intensely blue water, fed by meltwater from the Makarora River. You reach them via the easy and short Blue Pools Track, a walk through a native beech forest. During this 15-20 minute walk you cross several swing bridges with fantastic views of the pools and the surrounding Southern Alps.

Fantail Falls & Thunder Creek Falls
On the way to the West Coast from the Blue Pools, you'll soon pass two waterfalls, Fantail Falls and Thunder Creek Falls. Both are worth a quick stop. They're only a 1-minute walk from the car park, so you can see them within 5 minutes. They're especially beautiful to visit in spring (September–November) given the volume of water cascading down.

Ship Creek
From Thunder Creek Falls, you're within 45 minutes of the west coast and you'll have the ocean on your left for most of the rest of the drive. Shortly after, you'll come to a place called Ship Creek. Worth a visit on a nice day to take a short walk with ocean views and several viewpoints to capture some great photos. On a grey and/or rainy day, however, it's not particularly special here and you're better off saving your time and driving on.

Fox Glacier
Half an hour before you arrive at Franz Josef you'll first pass through Fox Glacier. Just before you drive through the village you'll find a turn-off along the road to the car park for the Fox Glacier South Side walk. From here you have a first viewpoint at approximately 30 minutes' walk. The path climbs gradually but is well maintained and therefore easy to manage. If you walk on for another 15 minutes from the first viewpoint, you'll have a better view and it's certainly recommended when the cloud cover isn't too heavy.

Franz Josef

Around 5 in the afternoon we finally arrived in Franz Josef. We had booked an overnight stay at the Orange Sheep Campervan Park. This campsite offers pitches with and without power. Without power you pay just NZD $20 per person (NZD $25pp in high season) which is a very reasonable price given the location and facilities included. The campsite gives you the feeling as if you're camping in the middle of a rainforest!

In the evening, while it was pouring down, we ate at Alice May Restaurant. A really lovely spot and you feel as if you're in a mountain hut like the ones you come across in Austria. Highly recommended!

The following morning we set off to explore Franz Josef Glacier, one of New Zealand's most famous glaciers. This impressive glacier on the west coast of the South Island can be explored in various ways, with multiple walking tracks that lead you through the rugged landscape towards the ice. Earlier this year I had already done a hike to a mountain peak with a panoramic view over the glacier. This time, however, we chose a different, equally spectacular route: the Robert's Point Track.

The Robert's Point Track hiking trail is without a doubt one of the most beautiful walks you can do in New Zealand. This hike is approximately 10 kilometres return and takes you through dense rainforest, along riverbeds and over swing bridges. The endpoint is a breathtaking viewpoint with views of the Franz Josef Glacier and the surrounding mountains. For anyone who enjoys hiking and wants to truly experience New Zealand's nature, this hike is an absolute must-do.

Keep in mind that the Robert's Point Track is a reasonably challenging hike. A good basic fitness level is recommended, as you'll need to climb and scramble on some sections. After rain, the track can also be slippery and muddy. Good hiking boots, rain gear and sufficient water are therefore essential. With the right preparation, you'll be rewarded with one of the most impressive nature experiences during a road trip through New Zealand.

Day 10-11: Franz Josef → Hokitika Gorge

After our morning hike at the glacier in Franz Josef, we decided to drive leisurely towards Hokitika Gorge in the afternoon. Because it was already starting to get dark by the time we arrived, we chose to visit the gorge the following morning instead. A choice we didn't regret for a moment.

Staying overnight at a local pub

We'd arranged our overnight stay at a spot behind a local pub in a small farming village in the Hokitika area. Personally, I thought this was an absolutely fantastic place. When we walked into the pub, there were a few locals sitting at the bar who looked pretty rough. Iris and Thijs glanced at each other with a look of: "Where have we ended up now?" I, however, felt immediately at ease and decided that this was exactly the place where we wanted to stay.

It turned out to be a brilliant choice. We had the whole place practically to ourselves, with clean showers and toilets and even a small, cosy kitchen to cook in. The owner was incredibly friendly and welcoming. The location sits in the middle of a quiet farming area, surrounded by paddocks with grazing cows. Exactly that raw, authentic New Zealand feeling that makes a campervan trip so special.

Hokitika Gorge

The following morning we drove early towards the Hokitika Gorge. I had been here before during an earlier road trip, but this place remains so impressive that a second visit is absolutely worthwhile. There is a short walking track around the gorge which, including stops, takes about an hour.

The water here is intensely blue and crystal clear, a colour you can hardly believe until you see it with your own eyes. On a sunny day it looks as if the gorge is filled with sparkling diamonds. During warmer periods it's also possible to swim here. Do bear in mind that the water is quite fresh even on warm days at the beginning of summer. Towards the end of summer, swimming here is much more pleasant.

Why this stop is perfect for a campervan trip

The combination of a peaceful overnight stay in a local village and a natural highlight like Hokitika Gorge makes this part of the route ideal for anyone hiring a campervan in New Zealand who wants to discover the West Coast in a relaxed way. You drive short distances, have plenty of nature around you and experience the real, unpolished South Island. Exactly what a campervan road trip is all about.

Day 11-12: Hokitika Gorge → Punakaiki

After visiting Hokitika Gorge, we drove straight on to our final destination for the day; Punakaiki. Along the way we passed through Greymouth where we had a bit of a walk around and visited some shops. Fine for spending an afternoon but otherwise we didn't find it particularly special.

Once we arrived in Punakaiki, we took a short walk in the afternoon to the 'Pancake Rocks'. At the start of the walk there's plenty of parking space and the walk itself takes no more than 45 minutes including photo stops. The Pancake Rocks, which are around 30 million years old, formed as layers on the seabed that were eventually pushed up by seismic activity. Very impressive.

The campsite Punakaiki Beach Camp that we had chosen for this evening is located right next to the ocean and here you will experience the best sunset in New Zealand. A very beautiful campsite with spacious pitches and plenty of greenery. After waking up leisurely the next morning we went to walk the Pororari River Track. An easy but very beautiful 6.4km walk along the Pororari River with a stunning coastal rainforest.

Day 12-14: Punakaiki → Abel Tasman National Park

After we had completed all our activities around Punakaiki, we drove towards the north of the South Island. Here we were going to visit Abel Tasman National Park. On the way, we stopped halfway to spend the night at Quinny's Bush Camp. A really nice campsite in the middle of the forest but located along the main road. When we were there it was pleasantly quiet, but it is very much geared towards families with children. Want to avoid this? Then it's better not to come here at weekends or during school holidays.

The following day it was just two hours to Abel Tasman National Park. In this area, Abel Tasman, the first European to discover New Zealand, came ashore in 1642 at the place now called 'Golden Bay'. Abel Tasman National Park is known for its beautiful golden beaches, the turquoise colour of the sea and the famous Abel Tasman Coastal Track. During my earlier road trip I stayed on the eastern side of the park at a campsite called 'Old Macdonald's Holiday Park'. Lovely green campsite located beside a river where you can swim. From here you have easy access to the water taxis that can take you to different spots along the coast to then walk back.

Hiking in Abel Tasman National Park

After a lovely night at Quinney's Bush Camp, we woke up early on the morning of day 13. After packing up the campervan, we drove straight to Abel Tasman National Park, all the way to the northwestern side of the park. Here you'll find the Waihui car park where our hike for the day would begin.

Inland & Coast Loop Track via Gibbs Hill

The hike we set out to do is called the Inland & Coast Loop Track via Gibbs Hill. This impressive loop is approximately 24 kilometers long and combines the best of both worlds: a section through dense forest and another along the rugged coastline. During this hike, you discover a beautiful and relatively quiet part of Abel Tasman National Park, featuring views of the ocean, golden beaches, and green hills. Especially on a sunny day, this is one of the most beautiful hikes in the region. Although this hike is stunning, it is important to note that the terrain is not entirely flat. The path is quite steep in places, so a good level of basic fitness is certainly recommended.

We started around 10:30 am and ultimately took about five and a half to six hours. By late afternoon we were back at the car park.

Abel Tasman Coastal Track & Great Walks

This route forms part of the famous Abel Tasman Coastal Track, one of New Zealand's nine official Great Walks. That immediately explains why this area is so popular with hikers from all over the world.

Earlier this year I had already walked another section of this route. Back then I was dropped off halfway at Bark Bay by water taxi and walked back towards the starting point Marahau. That was also about 24 kilometres.

The full Abel Tasman Coastal Walk is around 60 kilometres in total, but the great thing is that you can easily split the route. This way you can walk different sections at different times, depending on your schedule and fitness level. Marahau and Waihui are the start and end points.

After our hike, we drove straight to our next overnight spot: Hack'n Stay Golden Bay. Following a quick check-in, we hopped back into our campervan for dinner at The Mussel Inn, a cosy restaurant just five minutes' drive away.

This place is genuinely worth a visit: idyllically situated amongst the trees, with delicious food and an excellent selection of local beers. The perfect spot to recover after such a long day of walking.

After dinner we drove back to the campsite and climbed into bed in good time. With tired legs but big smiles, we closed another unforgettable day in New Zealand.

Day 14-15: Abel Tasman National Park → Nelson

After a relaxed night, we decided to take it easy the following morning. We had a lovely lie-in, packed up the campervans and drove towards Takaka, a charming little town in Golden Bay known for its laid-back atmosphere and great places to eat.

In Takaka we stopped at The Wholemeal Café, an absolute must for breakfast or a good cup of coffee. The café has a light, open feel with clear influences from the '60s and '70s, both in the interior and in the music.

The staff were incredibly friendly and the food was high quality. A perfect spot to start the day relaxed before you head off on your journey.

Before we reached Takaka, we first made a quick stop at Te Waikoropupu Springs. This is a short, easy walk past several natural springs.

On a sunny day the colours of the water are truly spectacular: intensely clear, almost surreally blue. These springs are among the clearest freshwater sources in the world and are genuinely unique within New Zealand. A short stop that is absolutely worth the effort.

After breakfast and sightseeing, we drove on to Nelson, where we visited the Nelson Classic Car Museum. For car enthusiasts, this is without a doubt a must-do.

The museum is much larger than you'd expect. Where I thought beforehand there would be around 60 to 70 cars, there turned out to be more than 200. From the very first car ever built to modern Formula 1 cars and everything in between. This is without doubt the best car museum I've ever visited.

After our visit to Nelson, we drove on to our next overnight stop: Cable Bay Holiday Park Nelson, located on the north side of the city, outside the centre.

This campsite is beautifully situated amongst the greenery and ranks among the finest campsites we've had in New Zealand. What makes this spot extra enjoyable is that various farm animals roam freely around the grounds. Always lovely to see.

In the evenings we cooked for ourselves at the campsite and went to bed early, ready for another new day full of discoveries.

Day 15-16: Nelson → Picton, via the Queen Charlotte Drive

The following morning we got up early and set off again straight away. Along the way we came across a really nice little café called The Coffee House. A perfect spot to stop for your first cup of coffee of the day. The café is literally on the roadside in a small village and is on the left-hand side, so keep your eyes peeled when you're driving past here.

After the coffee stop, we drove on to Pelorus Bridge, a beautiful spot in the middle of nature. Here you can take a short, easy walk along the Hoiere River. This river is extra special because scenes from The Hobbit were filmed here, including the famous barrels scene where the dwarves float through the water. Even if you're not a big film fan, this is a lovely place to stretch your legs and enjoy the surroundings.

After a short walk we continued our route towards Picton. For this section we deliberately chose the Scenic Queen Charlotte Drive and that is absolutely recommended. The road winds along the water and offers beautiful views over the fjords and bays at multiple spots. Take your time here, because you'll want to stop regularly for photos.

Around lunchtime we arrived in Picton. Because we had to catch the early morning ferry to the North Island the next day, we chose to stay overnight at a campervan site in the village. In the afternoon we did a half-day wine tour with Sound Connection, a tour of about four hours. We visited four different wineries in the Marlborough region and finished at a chocolaterie. Do let yourself be surprised by the wineries that are visited, the standard here is very high. Our guide, a friendly older man called Andy, was able to tell us about the region and the wines with great enthusiasm, which made the tour extra enjoyable.

In the evening we went out for dinner at The Barn & Grill in Picton. A charming restaurant with a clear American style and a relaxed ambiance. The food was very good and with that the perfect end to a successful day.

Day 16-17: Picton → Wellington

Our time on the South Island of New Zealand was over. We'd had two fantastic weeks here and could easily have stayed much longer. In the morning we left early heading for the ferry, so that we would arrive in Wellington around midday.

The crossing itself is incredibly beautiful, especially on the Picton side. Here you sail through the fjords of the Marlborough Sounds, and on a sunny day the views are truly impressive. In my opinion, this ferry journey is not just a transfer, but really an extra experience within your road trip through New Zealand.

We stayed one night in Wellington and chose Evans Bay Marina Self Contained Camping. This spot is free, located right on the water and has two well-maintained toilets that are cleaned daily. Wellington city centre is about a 45-minute walk away and there is also a good bus connection. A pleasant, quiet spot to spend the night in your campervan after the ferry.

After we'd parked the campervans, we walked into Mount Victoria to visit several famous Lord of the Rings filming locations. We saw, among other things, the spot where the four hobbits hide under a tree root from the Nazgûl, the path where they walk just before that, and the tree where Frodo reads at the beginning of the extended version of the first film.

After that, we'd booked a tour at the Weta Workshop, without doubt one of the highlights of our entire road trip through New Zealand. In this studio, the props, costumes and special effects were made for The Lord of the Rings and countless other well-known films. It's hugely impressive to see how much craftsmanship, technique and time goes into this, and how it differs from pure CGI use.

After the tour we headed into central Wellington for food and drinks. We started with a beer and some snacks at Garage Project, a small and super cool brewery housed in an industrial warehouse right in the city. For dinner we grabbed a table at a small local Vietnamese restaurant and finished the evening with live music and a few beers at The Rogue & Vagabond.

Day 17-18: Wellington → Tongariro National Park

Before we left Wellington, we started the morning with a visit to the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. This national museum is absolutely worth it when you want to learn more about the history, nature and native animals of New Zealand. Māori culture is also extensively covered here, making it a lovely introduction before you travel further across the North Island.

Towards the end of the morning we got back in the campervan and started the roughly 4.5-hour drive towards Tongariro National Park. About 45 minutes outside Wellington we made a quick stop for coffee at The Roastery Espresso Bar in Paraparaumu. With a good coffee in hand we had enough energy for the rest of the drive.

At the end of the afternoon we arrived in Tongariro National Park, one of the most impressive natural areas in the country. We stayed overnight at Discovery Lodge Tongariro, a lovely and affordable campsite with plenty of greenery and a relaxed atmosphere. The location is ideal, as the lodge is situated close to the starting point of the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

This iconic hike was scheduled for early the following morning. By staying overnight here, we didn't have to drive far in the morning and could start well-rested on one of New Zealand's most beautiful walks.

Day 18-19: Tongariro National Park → Waitomo Glowworm Caves

The following morning we were picked up early by a pre-booked shuttle that took us to the start of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This 20 km hike takes you right through Tongariro National Park and can be quite challenging with the climb of Mount Tongariro.

If you're fit and healthy, the walk is definitely doable in my opinion. During the trek you're rewarded with the most incredible views: from rugged volcanic landscapes to brightly coloured crater lakes. It's an impressive hike where you also learn a lot about the formation of the North Island, which was largely created by volcanic activity.

Additionally, the park is sacred to the local Māori people, which makes it extra special to be allowed to walk through this area.

After the hike, which we finished towards the end of the morning, we drove on from the campsite heading northeast. Our next destination was the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.

For the overnight stay we stayed nearby at a really lovely farmstay: Waitomo Farmstay. This place has a beautiful location right in the middle of the green rolling hills. Animals are wandering around everywhere and you really get that authentic farm feeling here.

The facilities are considered basic by some, but personally I found that no problem at all. If you've ever lived in the Australian outback, you're used to a thing or two haha.

Day 19-21: Waitomo → Lake Taupo

The following morning we only had to drive 10 minutes to reach the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Various tours are offered through Discover Waitomo and we chose the Blackwater Rafting. During this tour you put on a wetsuit, grab an inflatable tube and head into the caves. At multiple spots you float beneath thousands of glowworms, which is a magical sight.

Along the way there are also sections where you need to climb and clamber, and a few times you jump from a small height into the water to continue your journey. It's a tremendously fun and active way to admire the glowworms and definitely recommended if you're fit and mobile enough. Of course, there are also more relaxed tours available, so young and old alike can experience the caves.

After lunch, which was included in the glowworm tour, we drove on towards Lake Taupō. The drive there is beautiful and takes you through rolling green hills and fields full of flowers.

Near Taupō we stayed again at a farmstay: Wairakei Thermal Valley Campground. This was the favourite campsite of the entire trip for all three of us. We were there with just one other campervan and you can literally park wherever you like. There are no fixed pitches and animals roam freely between the campervans everywhere: from chickens and sheep to alpacas and even Danny the pig.

Upon arrival, we first drove to Huka Falls. This waterfall is famous for its intensely turquoise water and the enormous force of the water being squeezed through a volcanic gorge just 15 metres wide. With around 220,000 litres of water per second, it's an impressive natural phenomenon to see up close.

Afterwards, we walked a bit more through the centre of Taupō and went for dinner at Sorrento Italian Dining & Wine Bar. A cosy, authentic Italian restaurant with good and affordable food.

Taupō is a very touristy destination in summer and particularly popular because of the many water sports on the lake. Because the weather was going to be beautiful the next day, we decided to take a boat trip with Ernest Kemp Cruises. During this cruise you sail across the crystal-clear water of New Zealand's largest lake and visit the impressive 14-metre-high Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay.

On the way back, there's often still the opportunity to jump in the water. Are you going on a warm and sunny day? Then definitely don't forget to bring your swimming gear. Once back, we made a delicious lunch by the campervans at a beautiful parking spot right by the lake. In the afternoon, we drove past the Huka Honey Hive. Here you'll find one of the largest ranges of 100% pure New Zealand honey and Manuka honey. Not only can you come here for honey, but also for all sorts of other local products. Perfect for taking home a lovely souvenir.

Day 21-23: Lake Taupo → Rotorua

After two days in and around Lake Taupō, it was time to drive on to Rotorua. This city is known worldwide as an impressive geothermal area. Everywhere you see bubbling mud pools, steaming hot springs and spectacular geysers. The distinctive sulphur smell makes it immediately clear that you're in an active volcanic area.

In addition, Rotorua is a major centre of Māori culture, with traditional villages, cultural shows and hāngi meals. Action and relaxation enthusiasts are also well catered for here: the region is renowned for its mountain bike trails, as well as natural spas and hot springs. This makes Rotorua a versatile stop during a road trip or campervan journey through New Zealand.

When we arrived in the afternoon, we started with a good cup of coffee and something to eat at Aroma Cafe. After that we strolled around the centre, where Iris and Thijs wanted to buy souvenirs to take home.

When it got dark we went to the Redwoods Treewalk. You can also do this during the day, but in the evening the entire forest is lit up in an artistic way. You walk via suspension bridges and platforms from tree to tree and complete a course among the giant redwood trees, surrounded by special light installations. Very beautiful to see, although we thought the price of about NZD $40 was a bit on the high side. During the day you can also walk through the same forest for free via the normal paths. Still, it was a special experience that we didn't regret.

The following morning we set off early to see the Lady Knox Geyser. This geyser erupts every day at 10:15am. When you buy a ticket for Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, this visit is included and you can combine both locations. Most visitors see the geyser first and then go into the park. That works fine, but if you want to experience the park a bit more peacefully then I recommend visiting the park first. It opens at 08:30, giving you about an hour and a half before you need to head to the geyser. In the park you'll find colourful, bubbling pools of water and volcanic landscapes that are constantly heated by geothermal activity.

During our stay in Rotorua we stayed at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park. An excellent campsite where you can use the wonderfully heated thermal pools free of charge. In the afternoon we relaxed there nicely.

In the evening, we rounded off our time in Rotorua with a typical Māori experience at Mitai Maori Village. We chose the Mitai Māori Cultural Experience & Dinner Buffet. During this evening, you get to know Māori culture, see traditional dance and enjoy a dinner prepared via a hāngi (a traditional cooking method in an underground oven). For us, this was truly one of the most enjoyable cultural experiences of the trip and absolutely a must-do during your road trip through New Zealand.

Day 23-24: Rotorua → Hobbiton Movie Set

After visiting Rotorua, it was time for what we already knew beforehand would be one of the highlights of our road trip through New Zealand: Hobbiton Movie Set. As huge fans of The Lord of the Rings, a visit to Hobbiton simply couldn't be missed.

We had booked the Second Breakfast Tour. With this tour, you're one of the first groups to enter the park and you finish the morning with a delicious brunch at The Millhouse, that iconic building from the films with the waterwheel on the side. Because this tour starts early in the morning, we decided to drive towards Hobbiton the day before our visit.

On the day we left Rotorua we started leisurely with a big breakfast at the campsite. Towards the end of the morning we drove towards Hobbiton. Along the way we made a stop at Te Waihou Blue Springs. We were lucky that it was a sunny day, because just like with other blue springs, the bright blue water only really comes into its own then.

The full walk is approximately 4.7 km and takes around 3 hours return, but we only did the first section and were out for about an hour. That was more than worthwhile.

By late afternoon we drove to our campsite, just five minutes from Hobbiton. We stayed at Brock's Place Matamata, a really lovely farmstay on a hill with beautiful views. There aren't animals wandering about, but you do get that genuine peaceful farm feeling. It's small and personal; there's space for perhaps twenty campervans.

The following morning it was finally time: our visit to Hobbiton. Because we had the first tour of the day, we had to be there at 08:30 and our tour started at 08:40. From the visitor centre you're taken by bus to the film set in about ten minutes. During that journey you already get some explanation about the creation of Hobbiton and why this place is so special.

Once we arrived, we were truly amazed. What a beautiful setting and incredible how much attention has been paid to even the smallest details. We were lucky that it was a sunny spring day, which meant everything was beautifully in bloom. Because our tour went through the park first, we had virtually no one ahead of us – ideal for taking photos.

There are several tours you can book at Hobbiton:

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour – The classic tour through the 12-acre set, including a drink at The Green Dragon Inn.
Movie Set Tour & Lunch Combo – The standard tour followed by a lunch buffet at the Party Marquee.
Second Breakfast Tour – A morning tour where you're first to enter the park. You finish the tour with an extensive brunch at The Millhouse.
Evening Banquet Tour – A tour followed by a banquet at The Green Dragon Inn and a walk back by lantern light.
Behind The Scenes Tour – A premium tour for smaller groups (max. 28 people) with extra time and a meal at The Millhouse.

Are you a big Lord of the Rings fan yourself? Then I definitely recommend the Second Breakfast Tour or the Evening Banquet Tour. Do book these a few months in advance, as they often sell out quickly.

After our tour and a delicious brunch, we were taken back to the visitor centre by bus. There we had a quick look around the souvenir shop. Here you can buy the beers you were able to taste earlier in The Green Dragon Inn, among other things – absolutely recommended.

After our visit to Hobbiton, I said goodbye to Iris and Thijs. They would continue travelling around for a few more days, while I decided to spend a few more days on Waiheke Island.

Day 24-27: Hobbiton → Waiheke Island

After saying goodbye, I drove towards Auckland, a journey of about two hours. There I first returned my campervan, as you don't really need one on Waiheke Island. After dropping off my Barefoot campervan I took an Uber to Auckland city centre, where the ferries depart for Waiheke.

I'd booked my ferry with Island Direct, a smaller company with excellent service and boats that are much quieter than the larger alternatives. The crossing takes about 35 minutes, so before you know it you're already on Waiheke Island.

On the island I stayed at Waiheke Island Guesthouse, a really lovely Airbnb where you truly experience that typical Waiheke atmosphere. The guesthouse has a relaxed, almost hippie-like vibe and borders a beautiful garden where you can unwind wonderfully. It's also a place where you easily meet other travellers.

After I'd checked in, I walked to Waiheke Cycles, about 30 minutes' walk from the accommodation, to pick up my e-bike. The young owner is an incredibly relaxed guy and very helpful. On top of that, the prices here are a lot friendlier than at the bike hire places right by the ferry terminal.

That same evening I met up with some friends I'd got to know earlier when I was living in Queenstown. Together we had a beer and enjoyed the relaxed island atmosphere.

The following two days I actually did largely the same thing, but each time in different places: visiting wineries. Waiheke Island is known for its vineyards and there are an awful lot of them here. With my e-bike I cycled around the entire island and visited both small family vineyards and larger, busier wineries.

My favourite vineyards

Postage Stamp Wines
A small-scale, family-run winery with a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views over the surrounding vineyards. Here you taste artisan wines whilst sitting peacefully amongst the vines.

Stonyridge Vineyard
One of Waiheke's best-known vineyards, famous for its powerful Bordeaux-style red wines. The Mediterranean garden and restaurant make it a perfect spot for a long lunch with a view.

Te Motu Vineyard
A charming, slightly more quietly situated winery known for its elegant and characterful red wines. The combination of good wine, an excellent restaurant and a relaxed setting makes this a real must-visit.

Mudbrick Vineyard
Perhaps the most spectacular winery on the island, with panoramic views over the Hauraki Gulf and the Auckland skyline. Especially at sunset, this is a magical spot for a wine tasting or dinner.

Alongside wine, you'll find beautiful beaches, lovely boutique shops and cosy bars on Waiheke Island. The island also grows a lot of olives. At Bistro Allpress you can taste various local olive oils and of course buy them to take home with you.

Alongside wineries there are also several breweries, so Waiheke really has something for everyone. Personally, I could live here. It feels a bit like a western Bali: the atmosphere is relaxed, people are friendly and helpful, and despite its popularity it never feels overly crowded.

I finished my New Zealand road trip on Waiheke Island. After three days on the island, I flew back to Queenstown from Auckland, where I picked up my work as a tour guide again.

At Good Day Travels you get travel advice that is completely tailored to your adventure in Australia and New Zealand. With extensive experience from all corners of these beautiful countries, I help you plan your ideal trip Down Under.

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