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This isn’t one of those “tick every tourist box” kind of road trips. This one’s about the feel. The early morning lake views. The misty mountains. The freedom to stop wherever. If you’re chasing the real van life NZ experience, this is your route.
- All you need is a self-contained campervan, a good playlist, and a loose plan. Here’s one that works, the ultimate 7-day road trip, from Auckland to Queenstown.
Day 1⃣ — Out of Auckland, into Rotorua
🚐 Drive time: 3 hours
Once you leave Auckland’s motorway madness, the road gets easier. You’ll pass cute towns like Matamata (aka Hobbiton). But skip the tour if you’re short on time — the best stuff is still ahead.
Rotorua highlights:
- Free walk: Kuirau Park’s bubbling mud and hot pools
- Cultural fix: Whakarewarewa Māori village
- Cheap soak: Waikite Valley Hot Pools or Kerosene Creek (free, natural, but rustic)
Where to stay:
- Freedom camping: Reserve near Lake Okareka (self-contained only)
- Holiday park: Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park (showers + hot pools)
Day 2⃣ — Rotorua to Taupō & Tongariro
🚐 Drive time: 2.5 hours
Taupō is NZ’s biggest lake. Super chill town, great spot to grab a bite and fuel up before hitting Tongariro.
Must-do stops:
- Huka Falls: Massive water blast, only a 5-min walk
- Craters of the Moon: Steamy trail for $10
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing: If you’re feeling fit, do the hike next morning (needs planning)
Where to stay:
- Freedom camping: National Park Village or Mangahuia Campsite (DOC site, $10–15)
- With facilities: Tongariro Holiday Park — handy if you plan to hike
Day 3⃣ — Tongariro to Wellington
🚐 Drive time: 4.5 hours
This one’s mostly driving. But don’t rush. The rolling hills and small-town charm are part of the NZ feel.
Cool stops:
- Taihape: Gumboot capital of the world
- Bulls: Every shop sign is a pun. It’s weird. You’ll laugh.
- Wellington: Small city, big personality. Park up, walk around, enjoy the buzz.
Where to stay:
- Freedom camping: Evans Bay Marina (self-contained only, spaces go quick)
- Holiday park: Wellington TOP 10 (solid facilities)
Day 4⃣ — Ferry to Picton & Drive to Kaikōura
🚐 Drive time: 3.5 hours (ferry) — 2.5 hours (drive)
Drive the Kaikōura coast — probably one of the prettiest roads in NZ. Keep an eye out for seals literally chilling on the roadside.
Kaikōura chill list:
- Seal colony walk: Free and wild
- Crayfish truck: Nin’s Bin or Kaikōura Seafood BBQ – fresh and local
- Whale watching: Expensive but unreal if you’ve never done it
Where to stay:
- Freedom camping: South Bay area (marked spots only)
- With facilities: Alpine-Pacific Holiday Park (pool + good Wi-Fi)
Day 5⃣ — Kaikōura to Lake Tekapo
🚐 Drive time: 5.5 hours
This is a long day, so start early. The drive takes you inland through dry hills, rivers, and wide-open land.
Tekapo gems:
- That Church: The tiny one by the lake (yes, it’s photogenic)
- Starry night sky: One of the darkest skies in the world — great for stargazing
- Hot springs: Tekapo Springs – perfect after a long drive
Where to stay:
- Freedom camping: Few spots outside of town (check CamperMate or Rankers app)
- Holiday park: Lake Tekapo Motels & Holiday Park — by the lake
Day 6⃣ — Tekapo to Wanaka
🚐 Drive time: 5.5 hours
Passes through the stunning Lindis Pass — golden hills, winding roads, and hardly any cars. Take your time.
Wanaka vibe:
- That lone tree: Yes, it’s worth a photo
- Walks: Mount Iron loop is easy and rewarding
- Craft beer and chill: Hit a local bar or grab takeaway and sit by the lake
Where to stay:
- Freedom camping: Red Bridge (near Albert Town, self-contained only)
- Holiday park: Wanaka TOP 10 — spacious and clean
Day 7⃣ — Wanaka to Queenstown
🚐 Drive time: 1.5 hours
Take the Crown Range Road if it’s open — steep, curvy, and unforgettable. Otherwise, detour via Cromwell.
Quick stops:
- Cardrona Hotel: Old-school pub for a photo or pint
- Crown Range lookout: Breathtaking views (watch for snow in winter)
Queenstown final stop:
- Walk around the lake
- Fergburger if you’re patient (long queue, but worth it)
- End-of-trip beer with mountain views? Yes please.
Where to stay:
- Freedom camping: Limited here — try 12 Mile Delta DOC campsite
- Holiday park: Queenstown Lakeview – close to town
