Planning a self-drive campervan holiday in New Zealand begins with an exciting question: where should you start your journey—Auckland or Christchurch? Each location offers unique advantages depending on whether you’ve visited before, how long you’ll be in New Zealand, and what you want to see while you are here.
Have you visited New Zealand before?
- First-time visitors: Starting in Auckland is an excellent introduction to New Zealand.
- Returning Visitors: You may want to focus on areas you haven’t explored yet. Starting in Christchurch can be an ideal gateway to dive deeper into the South Island.
How long are you in New Zealand?
One of the first things to consider is the duration of your trip. To get a good taste of New Zealand, many travellers find a week on the North Island and two weeks on the South Island ideal.
- North Island (1 week): With a shorter timeframe, you can explore Auckland’s nearby highlights, the area has plenty of gems, including the Bay of Islands, rich in history and scenic beauty. Rotorua is famous for its geothermal activity and Māori cultural experiences, while the Coromandel Peninsula offers golden beaches and relaxing coastal vibes. Outdoor enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a renowned hiking trail with breathtaking volcanic scenery. These locations provide a rich mix of cultural and natural attractions, perfect for travellers with limited time.
- South Island (2 weeks): For those dedicating more time, the South Island’s diverse landscapes offer endless adventure. Starting in Christchurch offers an ideal path to iconic South Island sights. A classic “figure 8” route takes you north to Picton, perfect for wine tasting in Marlborough, before looping down the wild West Coast, through the serene Arthur’s Pass, and onto the adventure capital of Queenstown. Many travellers then return to Christchurch via the east coast and heading to Kaikoura to experience its famous whale-watching tours and seafood.
- The North-to-South Combo Tour: A popular option for travellers who want to see it all is a North-to-South route. Starting in Auckland, spend a week exploring the North Island, then return your campervan, hop on a quick flight to Christchurch and pick up another campervan to begin your South Island journey. Or you and your motorhome can cross the Cook Strait by ferry from Wellington to Picton and seamlessly continue your self-drive tour. This approach offers the best of both islands without backtracking, making it ideal for those with two to three weeks to spare.
Whether you’re here for a short visit or a month-long adventure, New Zealand offers endless opportunities to customise your journey. From starting points to iconic stops, a self-drive holiday allows you the flexibility to design an itinerary that fits your interests, pace, and schedule.
For comprehensive resources and suggested itineraries, consider exploring AA Traveller’s guides, which provide valuable insights into must-see destinations and travel tips.
With the added benefits of unlimited kilometres, free airport pick-ups and drop-offs, and 24/7 roadside assistance, Road Runner Rentals makes it easy and worry-free to explore with their self-contained motorhome options. Embrace the adventure, make spontaneous stops, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
