7 day itinerary
New Zealand
Personalized with:Campervan trip with kids
Itinerary
A campervan trip through New Zealand with kids sounds like an adventure of a lifetime! New Zealand is packed with stunning landscapes, fun activities, and family-friendly attractions. Here’s a 7-day itinerary that balances driving, exploring, and relaxing, perfect for a family on the go!
Day 1: Arrival in Auckland
Morning:
- Arrive in Auckland and pick up your campervan. Make sure to get a quick rundown of the vehicle and check all the essentials.
Afternoon:
- Head to the ! It’s a fantastic place for kids to see native and exotic animals. The zoo is well laid out, and there are plenty of spots for a picnic lunch.
Evening:
- Drive to the nearby for some stunning views. Stop at for a sunset stroll. The black sand beach is unique and the kids will love playing in the sand.
Overnight:
- Camp at a nearby holiday park, like the .
Day 2: Auckland to Rotorua (Approx. 3 hours)
Morning:
- After breakfast, hit the road to Rotorua. On the way, stop at in Matamata for a magical tour of the movie set. Kids will love seeing the hobbit holes!
Afternoon:
- Arrive in Rotorua and check into your campsite. Then, head to to see geysers and mud pools. The kids will be fascinated by the geothermal activity!
Evening:
- Enjoy a traditional Maori cultural experience and dinner at a local marae. The performances and food are sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Overnight:
- Stay at a family-friendly campground like .
Day 3: Rotorua Adventures
Morning:
- Start your day with a visit to . The kids can see kiwi birds and enjoy the beautiful gardens.
Afternoon:
- Head to for a walk around the colorful geothermal park. The vibrant colors and unique formations will amaze everyone!
Evening:
- Relax at the . They have family-friendly pools, and it’s a great way to unwind after a busy day.
Overnight:
- Camp at the same spot in Rotorua.
Day 4: Rotorua to Taupo (Approx. 1 hour)
Morning:
- Drive to Taupo. Stop at on the way. The kids will love the power of the water!
Afternoon:
- Spend the afternoon at . It’s a fun place for the kids to splash around in the thermal pools.
Evening:
- Take a stroll along the shores of and enjoy some fish and chips for dinner.
Overnight:
- Stay at a lakeside campground like .
Day 5: Taupo to Tongariro National Park (Approx. 1.5 hours)
Morning:
- Head to Tongariro National Park. Stop at the visitor center for information. While the full crossing might be too much for kids, there are shorter walks available.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy a family-friendly hike, like the . The waterfall is beautiful and the walk is manageable for kids.
Evening:
- Settle in at a campground in the park, like . Enjoy a cozy dinner in your campervan.
Day 6: Tongariro to Wellington (Approx. 4.5 hours)
Morning:
- Depart for Wellington. It’s a longer drive, so pack some snacks and games for the kids.
Afternoon:
- Arrive in Wellington and visit , the national museum. It’s interactive and has plenty of exhibits that will engage the kids.
Evening:
- Take a ride on the for stunning views of the city. Have dinner at one of the family-friendly restaurants in the area.
Overnight:
- Camp at .
Day 7: Wellington to Auckland (Approx. 8 hours)
Morning:
- Start your journey back to Auckland. It’s a long drive, so consider breaking it up with stops at interesting places like or for lunch.
Afternoon:
- If time allows, stop at in Wellington for a quick hike and panoramic views before heading out.
Evening:
- Arrive back in Auckland. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for a final dinner in the city.
Overnight:
- If you have an early flight, consider staying at a nearby campground or hotel.
Tips for Traveling with Kids:
- Keep snacks and drinks handy in the campervan.
- Plan for plenty of breaks during drives to stretch legs and explore.
- Involve the kids in planning some activities to keep them engaged.
- Always check the weather and pack accordingly!
This itinerary offers a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, ensuring that everyone in the family has a fantastic time. Enjoy your New Zealand adventure! 🌏🚐✨