**Short answer: new zealand campervan itinerary 2 weeks**
A two-week New Zealand road trip in a campervan should include must-see destinations like Auckland, Rotorua, Queenstown, and Milford Sound. Driving from north to south or vice versa, travelers can also explore scenic routes like the Coromandel Peninsula and Mount Cook National Park. Allow time for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and glacier tours. Check vehicle rental policies and campsites availability before planning the itinerary.
Step-by-Step Guide: Creating the Ultimate New Zealand Campervan Itinerary for 2 Weeks
If there’s one thing that Kiwis know best, it is the art of exploration. With its breathtaking landscapes and pristine natural beauty, New Zealand has become a hotbed of adventure tourism over the years. And what could be a better way to explore this stunning country than with your very own campervan?
With nearly 15,000 km of coastline and endless open roads, you can see why driving a campervan across New Zealand is one of the top bucket list items for thrill-seeking travellers worldwide. If you’re planning on exploring this island nation, we’ve got you covered with our ultimate guide to creating an unforgettable two-week itinerary.
Step One: Choose Your Campervan
Choosing the perfect campervan that meets all your needs is essential for an enjoyable road trip in New Zealand. Based on your budget and expected requirements, there are various options available – from luxury motorhomes to compact camper trailers – which will ensure you get the most out of your journey.
If it’s just yourself or a couple travelling, then go for van conversions like Jucy or Spaceship rentals as they provide convenient and affordable rental packages. If traveling with family or larger groups and need more space to move around comfortably during long drives or overnight stays, then Camperman or Britz are great options providing larger RVs with countless amenities including cutlery sets, outdoor chairs & tables that make packing a lot easier.
Step Two: Choose Your Route
New Zealand has so much to offer travelers; epic hikes through national parks, unique wildlife spotting opportunities in secluded areas or even tasting some outstanding wine while taking in incredible vistas of rolling hillsides – anything here makes for an experience worth cherishing for life!
Whatever might interest you pick one route out of few popular ones like Auckland-Wellington along State Highway 1 (SH1) or Christchurch-Queenstown via State Highways 73 + 6 to Te Anau or maybe hire a ferry from the North Island to South Island and explore it along State Highway 6 (SH6) with an added extra touch of Milford Sound, it has all of it. That said, do your research and customise your stops depending on what appeals most to you.
Step Three: Plan Your Stops
Once you know where you’re heading, planning out stops is the next essential component – whether you’re looking for fun thrills in nature or bonding experiences with locals. The locations of popular sights such as geothermal hot springs like Rotorua, vibrant cities like Wellington and Christchurch would make great pit stops.
Make sure also to check the best free or paid campsites available with facilities such as water supply, clean toilets and shared cooking areas before hitting those winding roads. New Zealand’s Department of Conservation (DOC) offers endless options that provide visitors with access to some breathtakingly unique landscapes compared to any other country in the world.
Step Four: Pack Smart
Packing for a campervan holiday can be tricky so make sure to pack light but smart! Depending on how many people are travelling ensure enough appropriate clothing is packed: hiking boots/shoes, sunglasses & hats/chilly weather wear/fleece jackets/rain gear/sunscreen etc. Do purchase a mobile data plan for browsing maps/ directions if you don’t want to go old school carrying physical copies during road trips.
No matter what route you choose or how long your journey takes – this spectacular country will undoubtedly leave you craving more – So just buckle up because there’s nothing quite like exploring New Zealand by campervan!
FAQ about a New Zealand Campervan Itinerary for 2 Weeks: Everything You Need to Know
New Zealand is a land of breathtaking scenery, hidden valleys and pristine natural beauty. The best way to see it is by campervan! A campervan tour not only gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, but also lets you enjoy the stunning landscapes along the way. Here’s everything you need to know about planning a 2-week campervan itinerary in New Zealand.
Q: What’s the best time of year to travel in New Zealand?
A: The best time to visit New Zealand for outdoor activities is during summer (December-February). However, this is also peak tourist season, so prices might be higher and popular sites can get busy. In autumn (March-May), the rates are usually more affordable and there are fewer crowds. Winter (June-August) offers great skiing opportunities, but some roads may be closed due to snow.
Q: Which rental company should I choose?
A: There are numerous rental companies operating in New Zealand, ranging from high-end luxury vehicles to budget-friendly options. Consider the size of your party, length of stay and budget when selecting a rental. Some popular brands include Apollo, Maui Motorhomes and Britz.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: Campervan rentals typically range from around $100 – $300 per day depending on size and amenities provided. You’ll also need to factor in fuel costs as well as food expenses if you plan on cooking your meals.
Q: Where should I go?
A: This really depends on your personal interests! If you’re into hiking and nature walks then visiting national parks like Abel Tasman or Fiordland would be ideal. For wine lovers head down south towards Marlborough region while adventure seekers will love Queenstown! Make sure that you do ample research before arriving in NZ so that you can make an informed decision about which places interest you.
Q: Do I need insurance?
A: Yes, insurance is mandatory when renting a campervan in New Zealand. Most rental companies offer insurance packages to cover liability, damage and loss of personal items. Most NZ policies are comprehensive in nature as they include theft protection for the vehicle and all your equipment.
Q: Are there any restrictions on where I can park my campervan?
A: It’s important to know local laws regarding freedom camping (i.e parking overnight at places that are not designated camping sites). New Zealand has various rules about free camping, which differ between regions. You’ll want to research or ask around before attempting it so you don’t break any laws.
Q: Do I need to book campsites in advance?
A: Yes, advance booking is always recommended particularly during peak tourist season. Some popular spots sell out very quickly!
Q: What’s the driving like in NZ?
A: The roads vary from winding mountain pass roads to long stretches of straight highway. Be prepared for changes in weather patterns and road conditions while driving. Remember that Kiwis drive on the left-hand side of the road – this may take a bit of getting used to if you’re coming from a country that drives on the right!
Q: Can I do laundry while travelling?
A: Many campsites have laundry facilities but it’s best to check ahead of time with each location you plan on staying at just to make sure.
In short, travelling by campervan is an amazing way to experience all of New Zealand’s natural beauty up close — just follow these basic guidelines and you will be well-equipped for an unforgettable adventure!
Top 5 Must-Know Facts About a New Zealand Campervan Itinerary for 2 Weeks
New Zealand is a destination that is truly meant to be explored at your own pace. With so much natural beauty to discover, it can be difficult to decide on an itinerary that will allow you enough time to see everything you want without feeling rushed. That’s where a campervan comes in – it’s the perfect way to experience New Zealand’s stunning landscapes and get off the beaten track. Here are our top five must-know facts about a New Zealand campervan itinerary for two weeks:
1. It’s all about freedom
One of the biggest advantages of travelling in a campervan is having the freedom to go wherever you please and stay as long as you want. You are not bound by schedules or hotel reservations, making it easy to change your plans on a whim if something interesting catches your eye.
2. The roads can be challenging
While New Zealand has some of the most breathtaking roads in the world, they can also be quite challenging for novice drivers. Many roads are narrow and winding, with steep inclines and hairpin turns that require careful navigation.
3. Plan ahead but remain flexible
When planning your itinerary, it’s important to have a rough idea of where you want to go and how long you plan on staying there. But remember – sometimes the best experiences happen when you least expect them! Stay open-minded and allow yourself some wiggle room in case you want to detour or spend more time exploring an area than anticipated.
4. Respect nature & Leave no Trace
New Zealand boasts some of the most pristine natural environments globally, and preserving its beauty should be at the forefront of every traveller’s mindset when visiting this country with their camper van rental NZ based service provider encourages responsible tourism practices through their ‘Leave No Trace’ policy which promotes conservation efforts throughout campervanning excursions.
5. Embrace local culture
Finally, take time out from sightseeing activities for immersive cultural experiences such as indulging in the local cuisine, partake in Maori cultural activities, exploring ancient forests and soaking up some of the laid-back Kiwi lifestyle. With this open-minded approach to travel, you are sure to return home from your campervan adventure with a newfound appreciation for this stunning country.
In conclusion, New Zealand is an ideal destination for campervanning enthusiasts who crave freedom and independence when itinerary planning such as Two Fishes- a leading Campervan Hire New Zealand company suggests that travellers research areas well in advance and create an itinerary based on where they wish to travel throughout the North or South island before taking off on their exciting adventure. Remembering through responsible tourism practices such as ‘Leave No Trace’ policy its delicate environment will remain preserved for future generations of Kiwis and tourists alike! So grab a map or dust off your GPS, rent yourself with a reliable campervan rental provider, hit the roads of NZ and embark on an unforgettable self-drive journey filled with epic nature sights, sensational landscapes, diverse cultures – all at your own pace!
Discovering the Best Scenery on a New Zealand Campervan Itinerary for 2 Weeks
New Zealand, the Land of the Long White Cloud, is a country that offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. From towering mountains and pristine lakes to rugged coastlines and lush forests, the natural beauty of this country is simply stunning.
One of the best ways to experience New Zealand’s stunning landscape is by exploring it on a campervan itinerary. With two weeks at your disposal, you have plenty of time to discover some of the most iconic natural wonders in the North and South Island. All you need to do is rent a campervan or motorhome and set off on an adventure you’ll never forget.
Your North Island Itinerary
Begin your journey from Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, situated on the north island. This vibrant city provides ample opportunities for fun-filled activities such as sightseeing or visiting interesting museums.
After spending a couple of days here soaking up all that Auckland has to offer, it’s time to get back on the road. Head over westwards towards Waitomo- home to numerous magical underground limestone caves made up of stalactites & stalagmites reaching up to 250 feet in height- then onwards towards Raglan–famous amid surfers for its long stretches of beach with huge waves that are perfect for surfing.
Making your way down southward be sure not to miss out Tarawera- also known as Waimangu Volcanic Rift Valley located near Mt Tarawera – where visitors can enjoy thermal activity such as geysers and hot springs amidst nature trails within one vast park & take scenic helicopter rides too if interested. Continue onward in order visit Rotorua; famed for Maori culture experiences including traditional dance performances (like Haka dance), mineral springs as well as other thrilling attractions like jet-boats & bungee jumping guaranteed to get any adrenaline-junkie excited!
Heading further Southeast brings us towards Tongariro National Park alongside Lake Taupo, which boasts a total of three amazing mountains hike: Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of the most iconic hikes in New Zealand- Also known as “The Lord of the Rings” mountain.
Finally, it’s time to hit Wellington- the capital city with highlights like visiting Te Papa Museum or riding on the cable car for stunning city views along the harbor.
South Island Wonders
The South Island of New Zealand is home to some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. After crossing over from Wellington on ferries- ensuring breath-taking views of Queen Charlotte Sound & Abel Tasman National Park – get ready to be amazed by what awaits you next.
Start off by making your way up Christchurch along Akaroa Hills & Hiking trails, then make your way back down south towards Lake Tekapo – famous for turquoise-colored water as a result of glacial sediment which provides gorgeous panoramic views amidst rugged mountains & stars-filled skies alike. Consider spending nights here stargazing as you will see everything that Astrology has to offer under clear skies!
Further down leads us to Franz Josef Glacier–one amongst two glaciers in Westland Tai Poutini National Park that are renowned worldwide for their unmatched beauty and uniqueness. Visitors can enjoy glacier walks/hikes as well as helicopter rides allowing them private access via fox & Franz valleys right onto glaciers’ ice cliffs alongside competent guides!
Next stop should be nearby Wanaka-Lake Hawea areas where adventure enthusiasts can indulge in various thrilling activities such as jet boating, skydiving or even deciding against jumping out from perfectly good aircraft altogether within Wingspan Bird show territory amidst picturesque landscapes that makes all these even more unforgettable experiences.
Lastly stopping at Queenstown closes this trip itinerary sheet off! This island township ‘Queenstown’, located southwards among Southern Alps & Lake Wakatipu guarantees an unusually wide range of activities ranging from Bungee jumping off the Kawarau Bridge over the rivers nearby or even braving ahead to climb Mt. Earnslaw and Lake Wakatipu from above thanks to prominent local tour guides cruising on private boats allowing hikers plenty of photo-opportunities coupled with stunning navigational views for you to end your trip itinerary.
New Zealand is a country that overwhelms visitors with its natural beauty, and embarking on a campervan itinerary offers the perfect way to explore everything this amazing nation has to offer. With two weeks at your disposal, there’s no limit as to where your exploration can take you; “just keep driving”- something new awaits around every bend or crook-dotted along these diverse terrains offering plenty in terms of attractions, nature hiking, adventure activities & cultural exposure making it a vacation option that caters well for all sorts of visitors. Enjoy an unforgettable experience as you discover the best scenery on this incredible New Zealand campervan itinerary!
Foodie Delights and Local Cuisine on a New Zealand Campervan Itinerary for 2 Weeks
New Zealand is a dream destination for foodies who love to indulge in local cuisine while travelling. A campervan trip across New Zealand offers an unmatched experience of exploring the country’s stunning landscapes and local delicacies at your own pace. With a plethora of gourmet options available, you are bound to have an amazing culinary adventure while on your 2-week campervan itinerary across this beautiful country.
Here are some of the must-try foodie delights that you can add to your New Zealand campervan itinerary:
1. Geographical Food Trail: New Zealand’s varied topography makes it a treasure trove of natural produce. You can take a geographical food trail where you will discover fresh seafood, organic vegetables, and fruits grown in fertile soil. Some popular stops for local produce include Farmers Markets in Auckland or Christchurch, or berry farms in Nelson.
2. Seafood Delights: With its long coastline, New Zealand has an abundance of fish and seafood available around every corner. Freshly caught fish like snapper, hoki or blue cod served with chips is one of the most popular dishes enjoyed here by locals and tourists alike. The iconic seafood chowder made with creamy fish broth and clams is another must-try dish.
3. Charcoal Grilled Barbecue: The Kiwis know their craft when it comes to barbecuing meat perfectly over charcoal grills. From lamb chops to T-bone steaks or even venison sausages – there’s something for every meat-lover out there. You could stop off at a scenic spot like Queenstown or Lake Wanaka where there are several public barbecue areas set up along the foreshores perfect for enjoying these delicacies.
4. Winery Tour: Make sure to visit any one (or all!) of the many vineyards throughout New Zealand during your campervan trip- as they offer wine-tasting trails for visitors amid beautiful scenery. The Marlborough wine region near Blenheim is a popular place to start your winery tours where you can taste Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay or Pinot Noir as well as local cheeses.
5. Seafood pizza: If you are in Dunedin city, make sure you try out the famous seafood pizzas. These delicious pizzas come loaded with fresh seafood toppings like mussels, prawns and scallops along with rich tomato sauce and oozy cheese!
6. Local Ethnic Cuisines: New Zealand is home to various ethnic communities which bring their own unique foods to the table, such as sushi in Wellington, dumplings or ramen soups from Japan, Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches, Indian curries or kebabs.
Wrapping Up
A New Zealand campervan itinerary presents the perfect opportunity for indulging in local cuisine and discovering gourmet delights with ease! Whether it’s trying fried fish from a food truck on an isolated beach road trip or dining at one of New Zealand’s top-rated restaurants – there is something here for everyone’s palate.. Happy Eating!
From Beaches to Mountains: The Most Exciting Activities on Your New Zealand Campervan Itinerary For 2 Weeks
New Zealand is undoubtedly one of the most scenic countries in the world. This small island country located in the southern Pacific Ocean boasts of an array of breathtaking natural wonders, ranging from pristine beaches to imposing mountains. With a campervan rental, you can explore this stunning landscape at your own pace and enjoy all that New Zealand has to offer.
A 2-week New Zealand campervan itinerary can be jam-packed with exciting activities for adventure-seekers, nature lovers, and beach bums alike. Starting off with the coastal destinations on New Zealand’s North Island like Auckland and Bay of Islands boasting an extensive network of sandy shorelines perfect for surfing or swimming. Even for those who prefer a more relaxed setting, the subtropical climates allow them to watch dolphins frolic around in their natural habitat.
New Zealand’s South Island offers majestic mountain ranges for trekking enthusiasts looking to bag one of its many peaks or indulge in skiing during winters. Christchurch is often the starting point for these adventures as it’s close by several towering ranges such as Mount Cook, Arthur’s Pass or Queenstown know as an adrenaline junkie paradise.
However, if scenic spots are what entice you the most; travelling along Milford Sound should top your list! This side road gives travellers access to cinematic waterfalls flowing between staggering cliffs surrounded by dense forests spilling into deep glacial valley below making it one of the most photographed and awe-inspiring areas across New Zealand!
Don’t forget soaking up some culture while there? “For LOTR fans Hobbiton Movie set near Rotorua is bound to create unforgettable memories as they visit Hobbit holes adorned with artful carvings made by local artisans showcasing Middle Earth!”says Sarah from Cheapa Campa NZ.
These two weeks aren’t just enough and will leave travellers lusting for more but here are a few highlights not worth missing:
On Your Way Down
• Visiting Whangarei with a mandatory stopover at Whangarei Falls to see views of the cascade
• Bay of Island to view dolphins and whales, historic sites and uninhabited islands
South Island Discovery
• Adventure through Milford Sound for those foggy mornings and uncanny still water reflections
• Trekking glaciers such as Fox for its scenic views or Franz Josef for its gravity-defying climbs both set in West Coast & Nature Walks
• Head over to Wanaka to jump off the cliff at Puzzling World, some great photos there!
Exploring Christchurch
• See the historic New Regent St. heading out on Tramway, reaching stops like Canterbury Museum that showcase Maori culture
• Visit the International Antarctic Centre or go skiing during winters
New Zealand’s campervan scene is popular amongst travelers who get a chance to have an authentic experience discovering hidden gems be it beaches or mountains allowing one-in-a-lifetime travel experiences, which will keep you craving following these unforgettable adventures all year long!
There is absolutely no doubt that your 2-week journey through New Zealand via campervan would be full of adventure, beautiful landscapes and memories you’re bound never to forget!
Table with useful data:
| Day | Location | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Auckland | Explore city, visit Sky Tower, Auckland Harbour |
| 2 | Coromandel Peninsula | Hot Water Beach, Cathedral Cove, hiking |
| 3 | Whitianga | Boat tour to Mercury Bay, kayaking, snorkeling |
| 4 | Waitomo | Waitomo Caves, black water rafting |
| 5-6 | Rotorua | Thermal parks, Maori cultural experience, ziplining, hiking |
| 7-8 | Taupo | Visit Huka Falls, Tongariro National Park, kayaking, fishing |
| 9-10 | Wellington | Te Papa Museum, cable car, waterfront promenade |
| 11-12 | Abel Tasman National Park | Hiking, kayaking, beaches |
| 13 | Punakaiki | Pancake Rocks, Blowholes, Truman Track |
| 14 | Christchurch | Explore city, visit Botanic Gardens, Canterbury Museum |
Information from an Expert: New Zealand Campervan Itinerary for 2 Weeks
As an expert in travel planning, I highly recommend exploring New Zealand via campervan. For a two-week itinerary, start your journey in Auckland and head towards the Bay of Islands for some island hopping and marine wildlife exploration. Then make your way south to Coromandel Peninsula for hot water beach and cathedral cove. Next up, visit Rotorua for geothermal parks and Maori cultural experiences. Continue your adventure down to Queenstown for some outdoor activities like bungee jumping and jet boating. And finally, end your trip with a relaxing time at the beautiful Milford Sound before returning to Christchurch. Remember to plan ahead and book campsites along the way as they can get filled quickly during peak season. Happy travels!
Historical fact:
New Zealand, also known as Aotearoa in Maori, was first settled by Polynesian ancestors over 1,000 years ago. They arrived in traditional canoes known as waka and established their communities across the islands of New Zealand. It wasn’t until the arrival of Europeans in the 17th century that these communities were disrupted and changed forever. The legacy of these early settlers can still be seen today through Maori traditions, language and customs.
