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Why you should take a summer campervan trip in New Zealand
New Zealand's summer, from December to February, is the most popular time for a road trip by motorhome. With extra daylight hours and mild weather, you can fully enjoy the country's stunning beaches, lush national parks, and scenic mountains. The natural beauty of New Zealand is truly unmatched, making it an ideal destination for a campervan holiday.
Park up at one of the great campgrounds around the country and chat with locals and like-minded travellers. The warm, welcoming atmosphere in New Zealand during summer makes for an unforgettable experience. Travelling by campervan also gives you the freedom to create your own travel itinerary. Discover hidden gems off the beaten path, enjoy spontaneous detours, and take your time exploring the sights that capture your interest. There are certainly plenty worth checking out!
What is summer like in New Zealand?
Summer in New Zealand is warm and lively, with long sunny days for making the most of outdoor activities and exploring the country's stunning landscapes.
New Zealand weather in January
January is typically the warmest month, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It's a great time for beach visits and water sports, as the sea temperatures are pleasantly warm. The extended daylight hours give you plenty of time to soak up the sun and explore the natural beauty of the coastline.
New Zealand weather in February
February continues the summer warmth, with temperatures similar to January, often peaking in the high 20s°C (mid-80s°F). It's usually a dry month, making it ideal for hiking and outdoor adventures. This is the perfect time to visit New Zealand's national parks, enjoy scenic walks, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.
New Zealand weather in March
March sees the start of autumn, with temperatures gradually cooling to around 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). The weather remains generally settled, offering a pleasant climate for sightseeing and exploring nature. The slightly cooler temperatures make it comfortable for longer hikes and exploring the diverse landscapes.
Best things to do on a New Zealand summer holiday
Ready to plan your trip but need some inspiration? Here are some must-do activities to help you create the ideal summer travel itinerary:
Explore New Zealand’s beaches
New Zealand beaches are at their most beautiful and enjoyable in summertime. Pack your sunscreen and swimming gear and head to one of the many gorgeous beaches around the country. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand or dive into water sports, New Zealand’s coastline has something for everyone.
Make sure your travel itinerary includes some of New Zealand’s best beaches including iconic spots like Piha, Cathedral Cove, and the golden sands of Abel Tasman National Park. These spots are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and taking in the stunning views and natural beauty of New Zealand.
Go hiking or walking
New Zealand is a hiker’s paradise, offering trails for all levels of fitness and experience. Top spots include the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, known for its dramatic volcanic terrain and emerald lakes, and the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, which features golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. For a multi-day adventure, the Milford Track in Fiordland National Park provides breathtaking views of rainforests, waterfalls, and Milford Sound.
READ MORE: Walking and hiking etiquette in New Zealand
Visit national parks
New Zealand’s national parks are home to some of the world’s most spectacular landscapes, making them essential stops on your summer road trip. Egmont National Park, centred around the majestic Mount Taranaki, features lush rainforests, waterfalls, and challenging hiking trails. The South Island’s Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand’s highest peak, provides alpine scenery with glaciers and stunning trails like the Hooker Valley Track. Many New Zealand national parks offer well-maintained campsite facilities so you park up and make the most of your experience.
Keen to check them out? Take a look at some of the best national parks to put on your New Zealand bucket list.
Discover Māori culture
Exploring New Zealand's rich Māori culture is a fascinating and enriching experience. In Rotorua, you can visit Te Puia to see the famous Pohutu geyser, enjoy traditional Māori performances, and explore the Māori Arts and Crafts Institute. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds in the Bay of Islands is another must-visit, offering insights into the historic Treaty of Waitangi with its museum and live cultural performances. You may like to join a guided cultural tour to gain deeper insights into Māori traditions and history, often including a hāngi, a traditional feast cooked in an earth oven.
To help plan your travel itinerary, check out our 4-day Cultural Central North Island itinerary.
Take a campervan road trip
Taking a maui campervan road trip in New Zealand during the summer is the ultimate way to uncover hidden gems and enjoy spontaneous adventures. With long, sunny days, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace, stumbling upon secluded beaches, charming towns, and scenic viewpoints that aren’t in the guidebooks. The best part? Travelling by campervan means you can be flexible with your plans. Feel like staying an extra day at that cosy lakeside spot? Go for it. Heard about a fantastic campsite from fellow travellers? Detour and check it out. Along the way, you’ll meet like-minded people at campgrounds, sharing stories and travel tips.
Try freedom camping
Freedom camping is a fantastic way to experience New Zealand’s natural beauty up close and personal. It allows you to park your campervan in designated areas outside of traditional campgrounds, often in stunning locations like lakesides, beaches, and forests. This style of camping offers a unique sense of adventure and spontaneity. Plus, it’s a great way to fully immerse yourself in the camping experience and the awesome landscapes of New Zealand
Just be sure to respect local regulations and leave no trace, keeping these beautiful locations pristine for future travellers. Freedom camping is a great option for those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path locations and enjoy a more secluded summer road trip.
Everything you need to know about taking a summer campervan trip in New Zealand
New to campervan travel? We’ve got you covered with our top tips to planning your summer campervan road trip!
1. Planning your route
When planning your campervan trip in New Zealand, having a good route in mind is key. Think about the places you want to see, how far you’ll be driving each day and the kind of roads you’ll be travelling on. For a hassle-free experience, download the thl Roadtrip app. It’s a great tool to help you plan your journey, find campgrounds, and spot cool attractions along the way. The app also gives you handy travel tips, road trip itinerary planners, and up-to-date info on campsite facilities and availability.
2. Booking your campervan
Choosing the right campervan means you’ll enjoy your road trip in comfort. Maui offers a variety of options to suit different needs and budgets, whether you’re looking for a cosy two-berth or a spacious six-berth motorhome. Take some time to consider the features you need, such as kitchen facilities, bed size, and storage space, to make sure you pick the perfect fit for your summer road trip.
3. Packing essentials
Before you hit the road, you’ll want to spend a little time planning a list of must-haves. Start with the basics: comfortable clothing for warm days and cooler evenings, swimwear for beach visits, and sturdy shoes for hiking. Don’t forget your sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good hat to protect against the summer sun. It's also a good idea to have a reliable GPS to help with navigation and finding campsites.
Once you pick up your campervan, you can stock up on groceries and water for those remote camping spots. Your maui campervan comes with all the essentials for cooking, cleaning, sleeping, and relaxing.
Read more: What to pack on your motorhome road trip.
4. Understanding New Zealand’s road rules
Before setting off on your campervan road trip, it's important to familiarise yourself with New Zealand's road rules. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
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Drive on the left: In New Zealand, you drive on the left-hand side of the road. This can be a big adjustment if you're used to driving on the right. Remember to take your time and plan for a short trip on your first day.
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Speed limits: Pay attention to speed limits, which are typically 50 km/h in urban areas and 100 km/h on highways. Always look for signs, as limits can change.
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Seat belts: Wearing seat belts is mandatory for all passengers. Make sure everyone in your motorhome is buckled up before you start driving. Children must be restrained in suitable car seats.
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Alcohol limits: New Zealand has strict drink-driving laws. For drivers over 20 years old, the legal alcohol limit is 250 micrograms per litre of breath or 50 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood. For drivers under 20, the limit is zero.
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Mobile phones: It's illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving. Use hands-free options if you need to make calls.
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Roundabouts: When approaching a roundabout, give way to traffic on your right.
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One-lane bridges: Many rural roads have one-lane bridges. Check the signs to see who has the right of way.
5. Booking campsites
New Zealand offers a wide range of excellent campsites, from fully serviced holiday parks to free camping areas. It’s a good idea to book ahead where possible – summer is a busy time and campgrounds often get booked out quickly. Wherever you stay, always respect the environment by following the Leave No Trace principles and only camping in designated areas. This helps preserve the natural beauty for everyone to enjoy.
6. Best destinations to visit
New Zealand is packed with incredible destinations for a summer road trip. Here are a few must-visit spots:
North Island
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Bay of Islands: A stunning maritime park with 144 islands, the Bay of Islands is perfect for boating, fishing, and exploring historic sites. Travelling as a couple? Here are some must-do romantic things to do in the Bay of Islands.
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Auckland: Explore vibrant city life with its beautiful harbour, amazing beaches, and world-class dining scene. Check out our foodie’s guide to Auckland.
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Rotorua: Famous for its geothermal activity and rich Māori culture, Rotorua is a must-do destination on your summer roadie. Check out the top 15 things to do in Rotorua.
South Island
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Queenstown: Known as the adventure capital, Queenstown is a great spot for exploring the great outdoors. Here are 10 of the best walks and hikes near Queenstown.
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Milford Sound: Described by Rudyard Kipling as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World,’ this fjord is brimming with breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife. Check out the best things to do and see on the road to Milford Sound.
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Nelson: Enjoy sun-drenched vineyards, beaches and walks, and the fantastic food spots in Nelson.
Plan your next summer road trip with maui
Now that you’ve got all the tips and info you need for a summer road trip in New Zealand, it's time to start planning! Whether you're soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach, hiking through a national park, or immersing yourself in rich Māori culture, a campervan trip offers the ultimate blend of adventure and relaxation. Don't wait – book your campervan with maui today and start planning your unforgettable summer road trip.