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What’s New Zealand known for?
Also known as Aotearoa, or the ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’, New Zealand is a canvas of breathtaking landscapes. From volcanic mountains to golden beaches, each region offers a unique slice of paradise. Beyond the stunning scenery, New Zealand’s fascinating Māori culture and heritage is woven into every visitor's experience. It's this blend of natural beauty and deep-rooted culture that makes a journey through New Zealand unforgettable.
Image: Miles Holden
What’s the best way to travel New Zealand?
There’s simply no better way to explore New Zealand’s diverse landscapes than by a maui campervan hire. When you travel by campervan, you’ve got the freedom to go at your own pace and truly immerse yourself in the experience. Make spontaneous stops, take diversions off the beaten path, and meet other like-minded travellers along the way.
You’ve also got plenty of space for all your must-haves, and there’s no need to pack and unpack as you move between destinations. And of course, you can make your favourite home-cooked meals on the go. Imagine waking up to a beautiful sunrise over the ocean with a freshly brewed coffee and a plate of bacon and eggs. Perfect!
The 10 best hidden gems in New Zealand
Ready to start planning your New Zealand itinerary? Here are a few gems worth adding in…
Whangarei Heads, Northland
Located in sunny Northland, Whangarei Heads is a spot that might just slip under many tourists' radars. With its rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and lush native bush, this gem showcases the natural beauty of Aotearoa in all its splendour.
For those keen on a hike, the Mt Manaia Track offers panoramic views from its summit. Bream Head’s coast walks are also a popular choice, weaving through native forest and past ancient Māori pā sites. Ocean enthusiasts will be drawn to Ocean Beach, perfect for a day of surfing or sunbathing. And if birdwatching is your thing, native kiwi and other endemic species are often spotted in the Parihaka Scenic Reserve.
If you’re keen to stay awhile, the Blue Heron Holiday Park is a fantastic spot to park up. With its proximity to both the beach and the bush, you'll have the best of both worlds right on your doorstep.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Taranaki Falls, Tongariro National Park
Tucked away within the renowned Tongariro National Park, Taranaki Falls is a delightful detour often missed by visitors to this stunning destination.
To reach this captivating cascade, a relatively short and picturesque walk will guide you through diverse landscapes, from open grassland to dense forests. The well-marked trail takes around two hours return. Take your time as you walk through the bush and enjoy the sound of native birds. Approaching the falls, the path offers elevated viewpoints, making it a great spot for capturing that perfect photo.
After a day of awe-inspiring views, park your maui campervan up at Whakapapa Holiday Park, a convenient base just a stone's throw away.
Kapiti Island, Wellington
Sitting off the coast of Wellington, Kapiti Island is an accessible yet somewhat overlooked gem. Only approved commercial tour operators can provide transport. Boats depart from Paraparaumu Beach.
As a renowned nature reserve, it's a sanctuary for endangered birds, making it a haven for avid birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. The island's diverse tours range from self-guided walks to fully guided tours including lunch. Several walking tracks crisscross the island, offering varying degrees of difficulty but always rewarding with spectacular views.
You can’t camp on the island, however, the Kapiti Holiday Resort in Paraparaumu is an ideal base to park and explore.
Farewell Spit, Golden Bay
Perched at the northern tip of the South Island, Farewell Spit is another must-do on your New Zealand road trip. This slender finger of sand reaches out for 34 km into the sea, forming one of the longest sand spits in the world. Home to various migratory birds, it’s a great spot to indulge in some birdwatching. Guided eco-tours are an ideal option for gaining some in-depth insights into the area's rich biodiversity. There's also an array of walking tracks, with varying landscapes from wetlands to dunes. One of the highlights includes the historic Farewell Spit Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the vast surroundings.
For a relaxing stay nearby, head to the Golden Bay Holiday Park. Enjoy parking up right on the beach and all the great attractions Farewell Spit offers.
Nelson Lakes National Park
The gateway to the stunning Southern Alps, Nelson Lakes National Park is often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts. Yet it’s truly a must-see on any South Island road trip. The shimmering waters of Lakes Rotoiti and Rotoroa are the centrepieces, offering perfect spots for kayaking or a refreshing dip. Looking for higher altitudes? There's no shortage of hiking trails. The St. Arnaud Range Track, for instance, offers sweeping lake and mountain vistas.
Those with an interest in history can trace the footsteps of early Māori tribes and European settlers through various heritage sites. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy spotting native species like the kea, New Zealand's playful alpine parrot, or listening to the enchanting calls of bellbirds and tūī.
The nearby Kerr Bay Campground is a superb choice to park up your campervan, with views of Lake Rotoiti and easy access to the park's many attractions.
Punakaiki, West Coast
Punakaiki, located on the rugged West Coast, is best known for its iconic Pancake Rocks and blowholes. The rocks are limestone formations that have eroded over 30 million years, creating a spectacle during high tide as seawater bursts through vertical blowholes. But there's more to Punakaiki than just these natural wonders. Dive into the surrounding Paparoa National Park and you'll find lush rainforests and river valleys. Kayak along the Pororari River for a serene experience or challenge yourself with a hike on the Inland Pack Track.
After a day of exploration, the Punakaiki Beach Camp is an ideal spot for campervan travellers. Park up, enjoy the stunning sea views, and doze off to the sound of crashing waves… bliss!
Lake Tekapo, Canterbury
Smack-bang in the heart of the South Island's Canterbury region, Lake Tekapo is an oasis of unbelievably blue waters backdropped by snow-capped peaks. A three-hour drive from Christchurch, this lake is more than just a photographer's dream. Its shimmering turquoise hue – a result of finely ground glacier rock particles – is truly a sight to behold.
Start your exploration with a visit to the Church of the Good Shepherd, an historic stone chapel offering panoramic lake views. For those wanting a bird's-eye view, scenic flights offer a unique perspective of the Southern Alps. And when night falls, the stargazing here is unparalleled, with the region being part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
For a great spot to park up and rest, Lake Tekapo Motels & Holiday Park provides tranquil lakefront sites, ensuring a memorable stay beneath the southern stars.
Image: Miles Holden
Lake Ōhau, Mackenzie Country
Tucked away in Mackenzie Country, Lake Ōhau is another of the South Island’s lesser-known treasures. Around 30 minutes drive from Twizel, this lake is an untouched retreat, often overlooked by most tourists. Its calm waters make it ideal for kayaking and fishing, while nearby tracks beckon hikers and mountain bikers alike. The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail offers a scenic ride through some of the region's best landscapes. In winter, Lake Ōhau transforms into a snowy playground, with the Ōhau Snow Fields offering pristine skiing conditions.
The Lake Middleton Campsite makes a great base to explore the Lake Ōhau area.
Oamaru, Otago
Located in the South Island region of Otago, the coastal town of Oamaru is rich in history and charm. It's best known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture, which takes centre stage in its historic precinct. Don’t miss a visit to the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, where these delightful seabirds waddle ashore each evening. Another draw is the town's thriving Steampunk culture, evident in its unique Steampunk Museum. Need to stock up the cheese platter? Be sure to stop at Whitestone Cheese to take your pick of delightful cheesy treats.
To make your visit all the more memorable, book into the conveniently located Oamaru TOP 10 Holiday Park.
Catlins Forest Park, Southland
Sitting in the southeastern corner of the South Island, Catlins Forest Park is a slice of rugged, untouched wilderness. One of the country's best-kept secrets, this park is home to dense rainforests, tumbling waterfalls, and a dramatic coastline. For those keen on a walk, the Cathedral Caves track reveals impressive natural formations, while the McLean Falls trail introduces visitors to one of the park's most beautiful cascades. Wildlife enthusiasts might even spot rare yellow-eyed penguins at Curio Bay. A distinctive feature of the area is its fossilized forest, a silent testament to a time long gone.
For a cosy place to park your campervan, the Curio Bay Camping Ground offers stellar sea views, making it a prime spot to rest up while soaking in the beauty of the Catlins.
Image: Miles Holden
Ready to explore the hidden gems of New Zealand with maui?
From bird sanctuaries to shimmering lakes, New Zealand’s hidden gems are truly worth discovering. If you’re ready to see some of these amazing destinations for yourself, now’s the time to make it happen. Book your maui campervan hire online today and get set for the holiday of a lifetime.