The sheer magnificence of New Zealand will take your breath away. For such a small country the abundance of natural beauty and diversity is truly extraordinary. From the geothermal hotspots and bubbling mud pools, to the snow-capped rugged mountain ranges, crystal clear lakes and caves filled with glow worms; this place is totally awesome!
There’s so much to see here that without a doubt the best way to travel around is by hiring a campervan or car. It’s time to embark on an epic road trip. New Zealand is also a free camping nation – which means there are plenty of places to park up and camp for free – perfect for the budget conscious traveller.
In this guide we run through some of the best trips in the North and South Island as well as top do’s and don’ts for road trippin’ in New Zealand. Download the full guide to get all the road trips.
The South Island
Christchurch to Dunedin
- Route 1 via Lake Tekapo
- Route 2 via Timaru and Oamaru
- Route 3 via Middlemarch
Christchurch to Queenstown (Download Version Only)
- Journey through the middle of the island
- Take the South-east coast (via Dunedin and Catlins)
- Travel the West coast (via Arthur’s Pass, Franz Josef Glacier, Wanaka)
The North Island
- Auckland to Wellington (Coromandel, Taupo and Rotarua)
- Auckland to Northland (Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga)
- Auckland to Waiheke Island (Download Version Only)
Do’s and Don’ts: What you need to know when you’re on a road trip in New Zealand