3 day itinerary
New Zealand
Personalized with:Road tripCampavanBoth islandsHobbitonScenery
Itinerary
Oh, how exciting! A road trip through New Zealand in a campervan sounds like an absolute dream! With its stunning landscapes, charming towns, and, of course, the magical , you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into an ideal 3-day itinerary that covers both islands, keeping your love for scenery and adventure in mind!
Day 1: North Island - and
Morning:
- Start in Auckland: Pick up your campervan bright and early. Grab some breakfast at a local café—maybe a flat white and some avocado toast to fuel your adventure!
- Drive to : It’s about a 2-hour drive to Matamata. The rolling green hills will start to set the mood for your magical journey.
Midday:
- Movie Set Tour: Arrive at and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of The Shire. Take a guided tour, snap photos of the iconic hobbit holes, and don’t forget to stop by the Green Dragon Inn for a refreshing drink!
Afternoon:
- Drive to : After your adventure, hop back in your campervan and head to (about a 1-hour drive). The scenery along the way is just breathtaking, with lush landscapes and maybe even a glimpse of some geothermal activity!
Evening:
- Explore : Check out the geothermal parks like or . If you have time, consider visiting a traditional Māori village for a cultural experience and a hangi dinner.
- Camp for the night: There are plenty of campgrounds in where you can park your campervan and enjoy the evening under the stars.
Day 2: South Island - Scenic Drive to
Morning:
- Early Start: After breakfast, hit the road early for a scenic drive to (about 6 hours). The journey is filled with beautiful landscapes, so take your time and stop for photos along the way!
Midday:
- Ferry to South Island: Once in , catch the Interislander ferry to (about 3 hours). The ferry ride through the Marlborough Sounds is absolutely stunning—keep your camera ready!
Afternoon:
- Drive to : After arriving in , drive to (about 8 hours). This is a longer drive, but the scenery is jaw-dropping, especially as you approach the Southern Alps.
Evening:
- Arrival: Settle into a campground in . If you’re up for it, take a stroll around the vibrant town and grab dinner at one of the local eateries. is known for its adventure sports, so you might want to plan some activities for the next day!
Day 3: and Surroundings
Morning:
- Adventure Awaits: Start your day with breakfast in , then choose your adventure! You could go bungee jumping, skydiving, or take a scenic gondola ride up to Bob’s Peak for breathtaking views of the Remarkables.
Midday:
- Explore : After your morning thrill, take a scenic drive to (about 45 minutes). The drive along Lake Wakatipu is simply stunning! Once there, you can explore the area or take a short hike in the nearby .
Afternoon:
- Return to : Head back to and enjoy a leisurely afternoon. You could take a cruise on the lake or visit the local markets if they’re open.
Evening:
- Final Dinner: For your last night, treat yourself to a nice dinner at one of ’s fantastic restaurants. Enjoy the local cuisine and maybe a glass of New Zealand wine to toast to your adventure!
- Camp for the night: Find a cozy campground to park your campervan and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve had.
And there you have it! A whirlwind 3-day adventure through New Zealand, filled with stunning scenery, magical experiences, and a touch of adventure. Make sure to take lots of photos and enjoy every moment of your road trip! Safe travels! 🌍🚐✨