12 day itinerary
New Zealand
Itinerary
A 12-day camping car trip through New Zealand sounds like an incredible adventure! Let’s dive into your itinerary, keeping in mind your arrival in and your travel constraints.
Day 1: December 14 - Arrival in
- Morning: Arrive in . Pick up your camping car and get settled in.
- Afternoon: Explore . Take a stroll around and enjoy the stunning views of the .
- Evening: Grab dinner at a local eatery. Try Fergburger for a classic Kiwi burger experience!
- Overnight: Camp at a nearby holiday park or campground.
Day 2: December 15 - to
- Morning: Depart for (about a 2-hour drive). Stop at the scenic viewpoints along the way.
- Afternoon: Visit the . Take a guided tour to see the magical glowworms in their natural habitat.
- Evening: Enjoy a lakeside dinner in .
- Overnight: Camp at Lakeview Holiday Park.
Day 3: December 16 - to
- Morning: Head back to . Consider stopping at the stunning on the way.
- Afternoon: Once back in , take the for breathtaking views and maybe even try the luge!
- Evening: Relax at a local bar or café.
- Overnight: Camp in .
Day 4: December 17 - to Mount Cook
- Morning: Depart for (about a 3-hour drive). Enjoy the scenic drive through the Southern Alps.
- Afternoon: Arrive at Mount Cook. Take a short hike to the for stunning views of .
- Evening: Settle in at a campground in the park. Enjoy stargazing if the skies are clear!
- Overnight: Camp at White Horse Hill Campground.
Day 5: December 18 - Mount Cook to
- Morning: Explore more of . Consider a morning hike or visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.
- Afternoon: Drive to (about 1 hour). Visit the and take in the turquoise waters of the lake.
- Evening: Relax at the hot pools.
- Overnight: Camp at Motels & Holiday Park.
Day 6: December 19 - to
- Morning: Depart for (about a 3-hour drive).
- Afternoon: Explore the city. Visit the and the .
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
- Overnight: Camp at a holiday park in .
Day 7: December 20 - to
- Morning: Drive to (about 2.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Go whale watching or take a scenic walk along the .
- Evening: Try some fresh seafood for dinner, especially the crayfish!
- Overnight: Camp at Top 10 Holiday Park.
Day 8: December 21 - to (North Island)
- Morning: Depart early for the ferry terminal in Picton (about 2 hours).
- Afternoon: Take the ferry to (about 3 hours). Enjoy the scenic views of the Marlborough Sounds.
- Evening: Explore ’s vibrant for dinner and nightlife.
- Overnight: Camp at Top 10 Holiday Park.
Day 9: December 22 -
- Morning: Visit , New Zealand’s national museum, and learn about the country’s history and culture.
- Afternoon: Take the cable car to the and enjoy a leisurely walk.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant.
- Overnight: Camp in .
Day 10: December 23 - to
- Morning: Depart for (about a 5-hour drive).
- Afternoon: Visit the geothermal parks like or to see geysers and hot springs.
- Evening: Experience a traditional Maori cultural performance and hangi dinner.
- Overnight: Camp at Top 10 Holiday Park.
Day 11: December 24 - to
- Morning: Depart for (about a 3-hour drive).
- Afternoon: Explore the waterfront and visit the for panoramic views of the city.
- Evening: Enjoy a festive Christmas Eve dinner at a local restaurant.
- Overnight: Camp at Central Motorhome Park.
Day 12: December 25 - Departure from
- Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for a leisurely breakfast and a final stroll around the city.
- Afternoon: Return your camping car and head to the airport for your departure.
And there you have it! A fun-filled 12-day itinerary that takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes and vibrant cities in New Zealand. Make sure to check the weather and road conditions, and enjoy every moment of your adventure! Safe travels! 🌏🚐✨
