Motorhome NZ Trip in 3 Weeks

April 5th, 2025

Starting Your Motorhome NZ Trip: Key Tips

Embarking on a motorhome NZ trip is an adventure of a lifetime, but there are some crucial points you need to know before hitting the road. These tips will help you make the most of your journey through the North and South Islands of New Zealand.

First and foremost, avoid starting your motorhome journey immediately after a long-haul flight. Most accidents occur within the first 24 hours due to fatigue. If you’re from the northern hemisphere, remember that driving is on the left side of the road in NZ.

Most travelers will arrive in Auckland. We recommend getting a transfer from the airport to a hotel in the city for a night or two to overcome jet lag. This small investment could save you money, as motorhome rentals are charged per day, not per 24-hour cycle.

Planning Your Route: North Island Highlights

Starting your motorhome NZ trip from Auckland, there are three main depot locations: Auckland, Christchurch, and Queenstown. Let’s assume you begin in Auckland and explore the North Island first.

After picking up your motorhome, head to the Coromandel Peninsula for two nights. This area is known for its stunning scenery, including Ahi, Cathedral Cove, and Hot Water Beach. Then, travel south to Waitomo for a night, famous for its caves and kiwi bird house.

Continue to Rotorua for two nights, where geysers and thermal sites await. Don’t miss the Maori culture experiences here. As you head further south, explore the thermal wonders between Rotorua and Taupo, like Waiotapu and Waimangu Valley.

Exploring the South Island: Must-See Stops

After exploring the North Island, take a ferry from Wellington to Picton to start your South Island journey. Your first stop should be the Nelson Tasman region, where the Abel Tasman National Park offers hiking, kayaking, and stunning beaches.

Travel south through the Buller Gorge to the West Coast, where Cape Foulwind is a must-see for its seal colony. Spend a night in Punakaiki, known for its Pancake Rocks, but remember to stock up on supplies in Westport as amenities are limited.

Journey Through the Southern Alps – Motorhome NZ Trip in 3 Weeks

Continue your motorhome NZ trip through the Southern Alps, experiencing the dramatic change in landscape from the wet West Coast to the dry Otago region. Spend a couple of nights in Wanaka, a picturesque town on Lake Wanaka.

Head to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park, and leave your motorhome behind for a day to enjoy a guided tour of Milford Sound. This area is home to 14 fjords and offers breathtaking scenery.

Final Leg: Mount Cook and Christchurch – Motorhome NZ Trip in 3 Weeks

As your journey nears its end, head to Mount Cook National Park for two nights. Glentenna Park offers a great base to explore the area, though weather can be unpredictable. From here, travel towards Christchurch, stopping at Lake Tekapo for stargazing opportunities.

Once in Christchurch, consider extending your trip with a rental car to explore Akaroa Peninsula or Kaikoura for whale watching. The options are endless, and time will be your only constraint.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Motorhome NZ Trip

Your motorhome NZ trip offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from the vibrant city life in Auckland to the serene landscapes of the South Island. With careful planning and a spirit of adventure, this journey will be unforgettable.

If you have any questions or need more tips, feel free to reach out in the comments. Safe travels!