Why a campervan trip in NZ should be on your bucket list
Like many Kiwis, I have a long bucket list of New Zealand road trip destinations I want to tick off. Often when I’m travelling between cities for work, I see signs leading to places I’d love to check out – a scenic lookout, historic place, or unusual attraction. But, when you’re on a tight schedule, it’s hard to take those detours. That’s where a campervan road trip comes in – it gives you the flexibility to slow down and uncover hidden gems you’d otherwise miss. The perfect example – on our last family motorhome holiday, we stopped in Ngatea. This tiny township lies between Auckland and Tauranga in the North Island, and we usually drive straight through it. But we decided to stop for coffee at The Glory Company (delicious mushrooms on toast!) and the barista told us about the Ngatea Water Gardens, hidden around the corner. It was magic! We ended up spending a few hours in what felt like a hidden slice of paradise. They even have an onsite ‘Can Museum’ with 11,000 unusual cans from around the world. Best of all, New Zealand is dotted with these hidden gems that you’ll discover by chatting with locals or taking a detour.
Of course, it’s not just the hidden gems, but the well-known ones that are worth adding to your campervan travel itinerary. On that same trip, we visited the Waitomo Glowworm Caves – an unmissable highlight for anyone on a New Zealand road trip. We also ticked Hobbiton off our bucket list – I highly recommend it! And because we had our teenager with us, it was a really lovely way to reconnect as a family. There’s nothing like discovering a new place together to create some amazing memories. A campervan road trip is something everyone should do at least once in their lives!
What’s the best way to explore New Zealand?
Having spent quite a few holidays juggling motels and BnBs, flights, and rental cars, our first campervan road trip felt like a whole new level of freedom. We chose a maui campervan hire because their modern motorhomes come with all the must-haves – a fully equipped kitchen, bathroom, and comfy beds. I love the freedom and spontaneity of a road trip, but I also like a comfy bed and a private bathroom! Plus, maui campers are available in a range of sizes – from two-berth campervans to six-berth family motorhomes – so you can choose a size to suit.
A campervan road trip is all about doing things your way. Make your own homecooked meals (which seem to taste better when you travel!), take your time, enjoy your own private space, and best of all, explore as much as you want to.
I’d never go back to the hassle, cost, and restrictions of motels or the uncertainty of a BnB. Plus, New Zealand also has plenty of lovely campgrounds and holiday parks to stay at, so you’re never far from somewhere to stay.
Now that I’ve done a few campervan road trips, I’ve discovered there are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience. Here are my top tips to planning a campervan trip that’s fun and relaxing!
How to plan a campervan trip in NZ: a step-by-step guide
Yep, campervan travel is all about freedom and spontaneity. But a little forward planning means you can truly relax knowing your travel itinerary has got you covered. Here are my top tips:
1. Choose the right time to travel
One of the first things to think about when planning a New Zealand road trip is timing. Picking the right season can make all the difference in how relaxing and enjoyable your trip will be. New Zealand’s weather can vary greatly depending on the time of year, so it’s important to know what you’re getting into.
If you’re after long days and warm weather, summer (December to February) is a great time for a camping trip. The beaches are perfect for swimming, and the days feel endless. But with that comes the peak tourist season. Popular spots can get a bit crowded, and prices for holiday parks and activities may rise. If you’re thinking of travelling during these months, it’s a good idea to book your campervan hire and campsite well in advance.
For something a little quieter, I love hitting the road in the ‘shoulder seasons’ – spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). The weather is still mild, the landscapes are stunning with blossoms or changing leaves, and there are fewer tourists around. It’s the perfect time for those who prefer a more peaceful escape but still want to enjoy the outdoors.
Winter (June to August) is ideal if you’re into snow sports, as the South Island’s ski fields come alive. However, the colder temperatures might not be for everyone. That said, the fewer tourists mean you’ll have some of New Zealand’s most beautiful spots all to yourself—just make sure your motorhome is equipped for cooler weather.
2. Select your campervan 
Choosing the perfect campervan hire for your New Zealand road trip all depends on who you're travelling with and what kind of space and comfort you’re after. Whether you’re heading out on a solo getaway, a romantic escape, or a family adventure, maui has a range of options to suit.
If you’re travelling as a couple or solo, the 2 Berth Ultima is a fantastic choice. It comes with all the essentials, including a kitchen, shower, and toilet. You can even opt for bike racks, making it ideal if you’re planning on squeezing in a few extra outdoor activities.
For a small group or family, the 4 Berth Cascade offers a bit more room to spread out. It still has all the comforts like a fully equipped kitchen and bathroom, but with added space for extra relaxation. If you’re after a bit more style and comfort for up to four people, the 4 Berth Beach is another great option.
For larger families or groups, the 6 Berth River is the ultimate in comfort. It’s the largest in the fleet, with plenty of space to relax and unwind. With a large fridge and a full-apartment style kitchen, it’s perfect for long trips where you want all the comforts of home on the road.
No matter the size or style, all of maui’s modern motorhomes all come with automatic transmission and are designed with comfort in mind. Each vehicle is guaranteed to be less than 2.5 years old, so you know you’ll be driving something modern, reliable, and built for the journey ahead.
3. Plan your route
Planning your campervan road trip route is where the excitement really starts to build. I always find a little research goes a long way when it comes to making the most of your time on the road.
One of my favourite parts of planning is thinking about the spots I don’t want to miss. For me, I love finding new places to go hiking or walking. Luckily there are loads to choose from around the country! I also like to add in a nice café or perhaps a winery along the way. But I also love leaving a bit of room for the unexpected. On one trip, we ended up taking a detour to a tiny coastal town I’d never heard of because we spotted a sign for a local farmers' market. It turned out to be one of the highlights of the trip – fresh seafood, friendly locals, and a beautiful spot to park up for lunch!
When it comes to stringing together your must-see spots, the thl Roadtrip app comes in really handy. It makes figuring out how to plan a route with multiple stops so much easier. The app not only helps you plot your course but also points out campgrounds, scenic spots, and hidden gems along the way. I’ve used it to find some amazing off-the-beaten-path camping spots that I never would have stumbled across otherwise.
When you’re figuring out how to create a route with multiple stops, my advice is to keep it flexible. It’s tempting to pack in as much as possible, but trust me, giving yourself time to take in the unexpected – whether it’s a hidden waterfall or a local market – can make your trip even more special.
4. Book campsites in advance
One of the key things I’ve learned from my campervan road trips is that booking campsites ahead of time can make all the difference – especially during peak travel times like summer and school holidays.
New Zealand offers a wide range of camping options, from well-equipped holiday parks to remote freedom camping sites, so there’s something to suit every type of traveller. Places like the TOP 10 Holiday Parks or Kiwi Holiday Parks are dotted all over the country, so you’re never far from a well-serviced spot to park up.
For those who love a bit more of an off-the-beaten-track experience, New Zealand’s DOC campsites are amazing. These campsites are often tucked away in some of the most beautiful, remote parts of the country—think beachfront spots or alongside a river in a national park. A word of advice: many DOC sites require booking well in advance, so it’s worth getting in early and securing your spot.
5. Pack smart
When it comes to packing for a campervan road trip, less is definitely more. With limited space, it’s important to pack smart and focus on the essentials. Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that help me make the most of the storage in a motorhome, while still having everything I need for a comfortable trip.
The good news is, if you’re travelling with a maui campervan hire, you won’t need to worry about kitchen supplies. The van comes fully equipped with pots, pans, plates, and utensils—everything you need to cook up a meal on the road. This means you can just stock up on ingredients once you hit the road. Don’t forget to grab some fresh produce from local markets along the way.
As for clothing, New Zealand’s weather can be a bit unpredictable, so I always pack in layers. Bring a mix of light clothes and warmer items, along with a waterproof jacket. Even in summer, the evenings can be cool, so it’s good to have options. Comfortable shoes are essential—whether you’re hiking to a waterfall or just strolling around the campsite.
Other essentials I never leave without include sunscreen, insect repellent, a quick-drying towel, and a good torch or headlamp for those late-night stargazing sessions. Reusable shopping bags and containers also come in handy for storing food and keeping the camper tidy.
Finally, it’s important to remember that New Zealand has strict biosecurity rules, so if you’re bringing food into the country, be sure to check what’s allowed. And always leave a bit of room for any local goodies you might pick up along the way—New Zealand’s farmers' markets are full of fresh produce and tasty treats!
6. Prep your camper
Before you hit the road, it’s a good idea to spend a little time getting to know your campervan. Familiarising yourself with how everything works will make the whole trip run more smoothly, especially when you’re setting up at a campsite or stopping for a quick meal on the go.
When you pick up your maui motorhome, you’ll get a full briefing on all the key features. It’s important to pay close attention, especially if it’s your first time in a camper. Things like how to operate the kitchen appliances, connect to power at campgrounds, and manage the water system are all easier once you’ve run through them a couple of times. I’ve found it really helpful to take a few notes or even a quick video during the briefing, so I can refer back if I forget something later.
7. Embrace the journey
The key to truly enjoying your New Zealand campervan trip is to embrace the journey itself – take it slow, stop often, and be flexible with your plans.
With a campervan, you have the freedom to pull over, stretch your legs, and explore at your leisure. These spontaneous stops often turn out to be the highlights of the trip.
It’s important to give yourself permission to take breaks and relax. It can be tempting to pack your travel itinerary full of sights and activities, but one of the joys of campervan travel is being able to slow down and enjoy the moment. Whether it’s sipping a coffee with a view, watching the sunset from your campsite, or spending an extra day in a place that surprises you, take the time to soak it all in.
Don’t be afraid to adjust your plans as you go. You may decide to stay longer in a place you’ve fallen in love with or make a last-minute detour to a new destination. That’s the beauty of campervan travel!
8. Stay safe and responsible
While a campervan road trip is all about freedom and adventure, it’s just as important to stay safe and travel responsibly. First and foremost, always drive with care. New Zealand’s roads are often winding, narrow, and can change quickly with the terrain. If you’re new to driving a motorhome, it’s a good idea to get a feel for the vehicle before heading into more challenging routes. Take it slow, especially on unfamiliar roads, and keep an eye out for one-lane bridges and sharp corners. Remember, it’s better to take your time and enjoy the scenery than rush and risk your safety.
Another key aspect of safe travel is making sure you take regular breaks. Long drives can be tiring, especially in a larger vehicle like a campervan. I always try to stop every couple of hours to stretch, rest, and have a snack. It not only helps with fatigue but also gives you the chance to discover new spots along the way.
Always dispose of waste at designated dump stations – these are easy to find at most campgrounds and holiday parks. It’s also important to follow the Leave No Trace principle: pack out what you pack in, and never leave rubbish behind at campsites or along the road.
Respecting the environment is key to keeping New Zealand’s beautiful landscapes pristine for future generations. Stick to designated camping areas, and avoid parking your campervan in restricted or sensitive environmental zones. If you’re enjoying freedom camping, be sure to follow all local regulations and respect the natural surroundings. Keeping noise levels down, staying on marked trails, and being mindful of wildlife will help protect the environment.
Lastly, stay aware of weather conditions and road closures, particularly if you’re travelling in more remote areas or during winter. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and check local advisories before setting off on longer drives or more challenging routes.
Ready to explore New Zealand?
Now that you’ve got all the tips and tricks for planning a campervan road trip, there’s only one thing left to do – book your maui campervan and start your New Zealand adventure! Whether you’re dreaming of coastal drives, hidden gems, or simply enjoying the freedom of the open road, there’s no better way to explore than in a comfortable, fully equipped campervan.
Don’t wait – book your maui campervan online today and get ready to plan a fun, relaxing, and unforgettable New Zealand road trip.