New Zealand Highlights Itinerary: North to South in 14 Days

Pick up your Britz campervan in Auckland and point your wheels toward the rolling Waikato. Today eases you into road trip rhythm with a gentle countryside drive to one of New Zealand’s most unique natural wonders. 

Where to stop between Auckland and Waitomo 

Hamilton Gardens - a quick leg stretch through themed gardens. Ōtorohanga - grab a classic Kiwi pie and a coffee in the main street. 

Things to do in Waitomo 

Drift beneath a galaxy of glowworms in the famous caves, then explore limestone formations and forested walks around the village. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a black water rafting tour through underground streams. As the sun sets, enjoy the quiet of farmland skies and starry nights. 

Where to stay in Waitomo 

Waitomo TOP 10 Holiday Park places you close to the caves with powered sites, hot showers and a relaxed, friendly vibe that’s perfect after your first driving day. 

Head east into the geothermal heart of the North Island. The landscape shifts to steam vents, crater lakes and geysers as you roll into Rotorua, where culture and nature are intertwined. 

Where to stop between Waitomo and Rotorua 

Te Awamutu Rose Gardens - a short, fragrant pause in bloom season. Whakarewarewa Forest - arrive via the Redwoods for towering trees and short walks. 

Things to do in Rotorua 

Watch Pohutu Geyser roar to life, wander bubbling mud pools and soak in mineral hot pools with lake views. Dive deeper into local heritage with an evening of Māori kapa haka performance and a traditional hāngī meal. Mountain bikers can hit world class trails in the Redwoods. 

Where to stay in Rotorua 

Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park keeps you close to geothermal attractions and offers the bonus of onsite hot pools. It’s a handy base to explore both culture and adventure.

It’s a short, scenic hop to the shores of Aotearoa’s largest lake. The road south threads past steamy valleys and river gorges, so take your time and enjoy the views. 

Where to stop between Rotorua and Taupō 

Orakei Korako area - geothermal terraces and silica flows by the river. Huka Falls - feel the power of turquoise water thundering through the gorge. 

Things to do in Taupō 

Join a lake cruise or kayak to the Mine Bay Māori rock carvings, stroll the lakefront, or unwind in thermal hot pools. If you’re feeling adventurious, check out the Taupo bungy. If you’re keen on fishing, Taupō is renowned for trout. Sunset colours across the lake with volcano silhouettes are hard to beat. 

Where to stay in Taupō 

 Taupo TOP 10 Holiday Park offers spacious sites, great facilities and easy access to town. Settle in and enjoy a relaxed evening under big skies. 

Today is your longest North Island driving day, so set off early and enjoy the changing scenery from central plateau tussock to the capital’s harbour. Break up the drive with a couple of easy stops. 

Where to stop between Taupō and Wellington 

Tongariro views - pull over at roadside lookouts for alpine panoramas. Kāpiti Coast - grab a seaside coffee or a picnic on the beach. 

Things to do in Wellington 

Stroll the waterfront, ride the historic Cable Car to Botanic Garden views, and explore Te Papa’s interactive galleries. In the evening, dive into the city’s celebrated food scene with craft beer bars and inventive eateries tucked into laneways. 

Where to stay in Wellington 

Wellington TOP 10 Holiday Park sits in a peaceful spot with handy public transport to the city. It’s spacious, well equipped and a good base before tomorrow’s ferry. 

Cross the Cook Strait by morning ferry, watching Wellington’s hills give way to the sounds and inlets of Marlborough. Dock in Picton and enjoy an easy, scenic road to sunny Nelson. 

Where to stop between Picton and Nelson 

Marlborough wine country - linger for a tasting among the vines. Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve - short forest walks beside emerald water. 

Things to do in Nelson

Browse local galleries, stroll Tāhunanui Beach, or take a short hike for views over Tasman Bay. If time allows, plan a future day trip to Abel Tasman National Park for golden sand and coastal tracks. 

Where to stay in Nelson 

Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park offers beachfront access, big sites and family friendly facilities. It’s ideal for a relaxed evening swim and sunset strolls. 

Turn west into classic road trip country of river gorges, rainforest and wild coast. The journey is the highlight today, with several short stops to break up the drive. 

Where to stop between Nelson and Greymouth 

Nelson Lakes - Lake Rotoiti or Lake Rotoroa for mirror calm water and short walks. Punakaiki - Pancake Rocks and blowholes erupting at high tide. Shantytown near Greymouth - step into gold rush history. 

Things to do in Greymouth 

Walk the floodwall for Tasman Sea views, visit local galleries and enjoy hearty West Coast fare. This heritage town is a great launch point for tomorrow’s glacier country run. 

Where to stay in Greymouth 

Greymouth Seaside TOP 10 Holiday Park offers coastal views, modern facilities and easy access to town. It’s a comfortable, convenient overnight stop. 

Follow the West Coast ribbon road through rainforest, rivers and driftwood beaches to glacier country. The scenery shifts every few kilometres, so keep the camera handy. 

Where to stop between Greymouth and Fox Glacier 

Hokitika - artisan pounamu stores and a quick beach wander. Franz Josef / Waiau township - viewpoints and a visitor centre to learn about the ice. 

Things to do in Fox Glacier 

Join a guided walk to glacier viewpoints or book a scenic helicopter flight to land on the snow. Visit Lake Matheson at dusk or dawn to capture famous reflections of Aoraki / Mount Cook and the Southern Alps. 

Where to stay in Fox Glacier 

Fox Glacier TOP 10 Holiday Park provides spacious sites amid alpine scenery. Alternatively, stay in Franz Josef at the local TOP 10 for similar comfort and easy access to trails. 

Climb over the Haast Pass into the drier landscapes of Central Otago. Waterfalls, river flats and ancient beech forest line the way before the blue waters of Lake Wānaka appear. 

Where to stop between Fox Glacier and Wānaka 

Knights Point lookout - sweeping coastal views before turning inland. Haast Pass stops - short walks to tumbling waterfalls and river viewpoints. 

Things to do in Wānaka 

Stretch out beside the lake, find the beloved Wānaka tree, or take a gentle hike for panoramic views. In the evening, catch a film at the quirky Cinema Paradiso or sample local craft beer and wine. 

Where to stay in Wānaka 

It’s a short but spectacular drive to New Zealand’s adventure capital. Take it slow to savour mountain and lake vistas, and arrive with a full day to explore. 

Where to stop between Wānaka and Queenstown 

Arrowtown - gold rush streets, autumn colours and riverside walks. 

Things to do in Queenstown 

Ride the gondola for sweeping views, jet boat the Kawarau or Shotover Rivers, or book a bungy for the ultimate thrill. Prefer a gentler pace? Taste Central Otago pinot noir at nearby cellar doors or walk the lakeside trails. 

Where to stay in Queenstown 

Queenstown Holiday Park Creeksyde is an easy stroll from town with excellent facilities. It’s ideal for parking up and exploring on foot. 

Settle in for a full day to enjoy Queenstown at your own speed. Take a lake cruise, hike to Ben Lomond saddle, or plan a half day trip to Glenorchy for mirrored mountains and beech forest tracks. Foodies can graze their way through town, from iconic burgers to upscale dining. 

Things to do in Queenstown 

Mix adrenaline with relaxation. Start with a sunrise lakeside walk, add a vineyard tour after lunch, then cap the day with a golden hour gondola ride and dinner with a view. 

Where to stay in Queenstown 

Start early for one of the world’s great alpine drives. The Milford Road winds through valleys carved by ice and over rugged passes toward a fiord flanked by vertical cliffs and waterfalls. 

Where to stop between Queenstown and Milford Sound 

Te Anau - coffee, fuel and the lakeside promenade. Mirror Lakes - reflections of the Earl Mountains on a calm day. The Chasm - short walk to roaring waterfalls and sculpted rock. 

Things to do in Milford Sound 

Board a cruise to glide beneath waterfalls and watch for seals and dolphins. In calm conditions, kayaking lets you feel the scale of the fiord up close. Even on misty days, Milford’s mood is unforgettable. 

Where to stay in Milford Sound 

Stay at Milford Sound Lodge for unbeatable proximity to the fiord, or base yourself in Te Anau for broader dining options and a shorter return drive tomorrow. 

Retrace the Milford Road at a relaxed pace, stopping at viewpoints you missed yesterday. With the sun at a different angle, the scenery feels brand new. 

Where to stop between Milford Sound and Queenstown 

Eglinton Valley - wide glacial plains framed by peaks. Lake Manapouri - peaceful picnic spot and serene water views. 

Things to do back in Queenstown 

Reward the drive with a leisurely afternoon. Browse boutiques, sample a lakeside gelato, or unwind in a hot tub with mountain views. Keep tomorrow’s longer highway leg in mind and turn in early. 

Where to stay in Queenstown 

Return to Queenstown Holiday Park Creeksyde for an easy walk to dinner and a restful night before your final push northeast. 

Today trades alpine valleys for the big sky Mackenzie Country, turquoise lakes and wide Canterbury plains. Leave at first light, enjoy several short stops and you will still arrive by late afternoon. 

Where to stop between Queenstown and Christchurch 

Omarama Clay Cliffs - otherworldly spires of layered clay and gravel. Lake Pukaki - jaw dropping views of Aoraki / Mount Cook and turquoise water. Lake Tekapo - Church of the Good Shepherd and lupin lined shores in season. Note that Russell lupins are seasonal and considered invasive in parts of the Mackenzie, so flowering varies by location and timing. 

Things to do in Christchurch 

Roll into the Garden City and stretch out in the Botanic Gardens, browse the riverside markets or hop aboard the heritage tram for an easy city overview. If you have time, explore the street art trail. 

Where to stay in Christchurch 

If you prefer to return your campervan tomorrow, choose a well equipped holiday park on the city fringe for easy access to the Britz branch and a quiet night’s sleep. 

pend a final morning exploring the revitalised city. Wander along the Avon River, sip coffee in the laneways and pick up last minute souvenirs. When you are ready, make your way to the Britz branch to return your campervan and celebrate the end of an epic New Zealand journey. 

Things to do in Christchurch 

Visit the Canterbury Museum’s new exhibits, stroll New Regent Street’s pastel arches and, if time allows, detour to the Port Hills for one last South Island panorama. 

Where to stay in Christchurch 

If you are staying on, book a central holiday park or city hotel and keep exploring at an easy pace. 

Two islands and many highlights, all connected by the freedom of a campervan. This north to south route balances short drives with big scenery, iconic experiences with quiet moments and comfortable holiday parks at every stop. Tweak it to your taste, add an extra night where you fall in love and let the road do the rest. Your New Zealand highlight reel is waiting.