Wellington Loop Itinerary

Wellington's dynamic, creative vibe makes it a top pick for campervan travellers looking to soak up the urban atmosphere. It's a city where the blend of culture, cuisine, and nature creates an inviting buzz that's hard to resist.

There’s no shortage of things to do in Wellington. Start with a visit to the Wellington Museum, where the city's rich history comes to life, and it's just the right size for a morning or afternoon exploration. Next, take your campervan up to the Mount Victoria Lookout, where you can park and enjoy a short walk to the top for a 360-degree view of Wellington's stunning landscapes and seascape. Round off your day by adding Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, an extraordinary urban eco-sanctuary that's a testament to New Zealand's conservation efforts. It's a peaceful place to reconnect with nature and a perfect outdoor activity for your Wellington itinerary.

As the day draws to a close, Cuba St Motorhome Park offers a convenient and central location to park your camper hire. Located in the heart of the city's most vibrant street, you'll find yourself in the perfect spot to continue your Wellington adventure after dark or to rest up for the journey ahead.

On the second day of your campervan hire journey, you'll leave the vibrant cityscape of Wellington and set course for the quaint township of Foxton. The drive from Wellington to Foxton is a scenic transition from urban to rural New Zealand. Scenes of rolling hills and coastal views accompany you as you travel north. As you approach Foxton, the landscape shifts to the flatter, fertile plains of the Manawatū region.

The first thing you’ll notice when you arrive in Foxton, is the De Molen Windmill. This authentic Dutch windmill is not just a Foxton landmark but a working flour mill where you can witness the traditional art of milling. The adjacent Windmill Café is a nice spot to enjoy a coffee and sample some Dutch treats. Afterwards, explore Te Awahou Riverside Cultural Park, just next door. The centre offers a unique cultural encounter, blending Dutch and Māori heritage against a picturesque riverside backdrop. 

History buffs will appreciate the MavTech museum, New Zealand's largest audiovisual museum, where you can step back in time and explore the evolution of sound and film technology. For a dose of fresh sea air, Foxton Beach is a short drive away. There’s plenty of space to park up the campervan and it’s a great spot for fish and chips before a walk along the beach. 

After a day of exploration, the Foxton Beach Holiday Park is an inviting place to park your campervan rental for the night. 

On day three, your campervan road trip takes you from Foxton to the vibrant city of Whanganui, with a couple of must-do stops along the way. Plan your first stop in the tiny town of Sanson with a visit to the legendary Viv's Kitchen. Famous for their cream horns – a delicious pastry filled with cream and jam – Viv’s is the perfect spot to indulge in a bit of local flavour and perhaps a hearty breakfast.

As you continue on, you’ll come to the town of Bulls. Renowned for its antique stores, Bulls offers a treasure trove of vintage finds and unique collectables – a perfect opportunity to stretch your legs and perhaps find a keepsake to remember your trip by.

Arriving in Whanganui, you'll be greeted by a city that's rich in history and full of activities suitable for those travelling by camper hire. Take a walk along the picturesque riverbank, explore the local art at the Sarjeant Gallery, or delve into history at the Whanganui Regional Museum. For a unique experience, enjoy a cruise along the Whanganui River aboard the iconic Waimarie Paddle Steamer. As New Zealand's only authentic coal-fired paddle steamer in operation, the Waimarie offers a unique glimpse into the river's rich history. It's a tranquil escape that combines natural beauty with a touch of nostalgia. 

As the day winds down, the Whanganui River TOP 10 Holiday Park awaits. It's a comfortable and scenic spot to park your campervan rental, offering all the amenities you need to relax after a day of discovery.

The road trip to New Plymouth on day four showcases the diverse scenery of the North Island. The route takes you through landscapes dotted with lush native bush, rolling farmland, and rugged coastlines.

Along the way, a visit to the Tawhiti Museum in Hawera is a worthwhile detour. This museum is renowned for its engaging exhibits that bring the local history and culture to life. It's a unique stop that offers a deep dive into the Taranaki region's past, with life-size displays and dioramas that are as informative as they are impressive.

As you arrive in New Plymouth, you're greeted by the majestic presence of Mount Taranaki. This city is a hub for arts and culture, as well as outdoor activities. A must-do is a visit to the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, New Zealand's contemporary art museum and the home of the Len Lye Centre. Afterwards, stroll along the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway. This scenic pathway offers breathtaking views of the Tasman Sea and the chance to spot some local wildlife. You may also like to explore Pukekura Park, a lush and beautifully maintained garden that provides a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.

Tonight, park up your campervan rental at the New Plymouth TOP 10 Holiday Park. This lovely holiday park has all the facilities you need to ensure a comfortable stay.

Day five of your campervan hire adventure takes you from the energy of Taranaki to the sleepy landscapes of Ohakune. To get there, we recommend taking the historic SH 43, also celebrated as the Forgotten World Highway.

This stretch of road takes you through the rugged heartland of the North Island, offering a glimpse into New Zealand's pioneering spirit. The route winds through lush native forests, across verdant farmland, and past intriguing historical sites. One such place is the Republic of Whangamomona, where you can even get your passport stamped. It's a road less travelled, promising an adventure that's as rich in stories as it is in landscapes.

Upon reaching Ohakune, the gateway to Tongariro National Park, a world of outdoor activities awaits. Whether it's hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying the stunning scenery, there's something for everyone. A visit to the iconic Ohakune Carrot is a must for a fun photo opportunity and to celebrate the town's status as a major producer of New Zealand's carrots.

For your night's rest, the Ohakune TOP 10 Holiday Park provides a cosy and convenient spot to park up your camper hire for the night.

On day six, you’ll travel from the mountainous terrains of Ohakune to the urban charm of Palmerston North. This leg of the trip offers a blend of historical insights and the chance to stretch your legs in some of the North Island's most interesting small towns.

Your first stop is the National Army Museum in Waiouru, where you can learn about New Zealand's military history. It's a poignant and educational experience, offering a deeper understanding of the country's past and present military engagements.

Next, make your way to Taihape, the ‘Gumboot Capital of the World,’ where you can snap a quirky photo with the famous Gumboot Statue, symbolising the town's rural roots and fun spirit.

Another worthy stop along the way is in ‘New Zealand’s most beautiful town’, Feilding. If you’re passing through on a Friday, you can visit the town's bustling farmers' market, a testament to the region's rich agricultural heritage. Don't miss the Coach House Museum for some local history and to see an impressive collection of horse-drawn vehicles. 

As you arrive in Palmerston North, you're welcomed by a city that balances urban sophistication with the accessibility of the great outdoors. One of the most popular attractions here is the New Zealand Rugby Museum. This one is an absolute must for sports fans, offering a journey through the rich history and culture of New Zealand rugby. Afterwards, explore the Victoria Esplanade, with its beautiful gardens, native bush, and walking paths. It's a perfect spot to stretch your legs or park up to make lunch in your campervan. For a touch of culture, check out the Centrepoint Theatre, the hub of Palmerston North's vibrant arts scene, offering a variety of performances throughout the year.

When the day is done, the Palmerston North Holiday Park offers a peaceful retreat to rest and recharge, with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay.

On the final day of your New Zealand road trip, you'll trace the route from Palmerston North back to Wellington via State Highway 2. You're in for a treat on your final day with a road trip that weaves through the classic heartland of New Zealand's North Island.

Make time for a stop at Eketahuna, a small town that epitomises rural New Zealand. Here, you can visit the Eketahuna Kiwi Country Visitor Centre to learn about local attractions and pick up some unique souvenirs.

Next, it’s on to Masterton, the largest town in the Wairarapa region. Masterton is well-known for Queen Elizabeth Park and the nearby vineyards that offer a taste of the region's exquisite wines.

Carterton is a must-visit for its charming blend of history and creativity. The town is home to art studios, antique shops, and the annual Daffodil Festival which takes place in September each year. 

As you continue south, Greytown will enchant you with its well-preserved Victorian colonial architecture. This town is perfect for a leg-stretch, with its boutique stores offering everything from local crafts to gourmet chocolates.

Once you arrive back in Wellington, immerse yourself in more of what the city has to offer. A popular option is to take a guided tour of New Zealand's Parliament to learn about the country's political history and see democracy in action.

Ready to explore Wellington and its surroundings?

With a maui campervan, the diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and endless adventures of the lower North Island await. All you need to do is book your maui campervan and set off on the journey of a lifetime.