Road trip by car and motorhome in Nouvelle-Zélande
From the comfort of hotels to wild locations, experience the New Zealand adventure in all its forms.
Duration
19 days
From
€3,075/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec
Style
Self-drive tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
Enjoy the ideal combination for your first discovery of Nouvelle-Zélande: the comfort of hotels on the North Island and the adventure of a campervan on the South Island. Explore the North Island by car, taking advantage of comfortable accommodations carefully selected by our team for a smooth start to your journey.
In Christchurch, exchange your car for a fully equipped campervan and set off on an adventure along the roads of the South Island. This region offers all the necessary infrastructure for campervan travel, with sites in the heart of nature in simply magnificent locations.
This itinerary is fully customizable: choose your campervan or van model, explore the North Island by campervan and the South Island by car, or reverse the direction of the circuit according to your preferences.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Auckland, the City of Sails!
Haere Mai – welcome to Auckland! Upon arrival, a shuttle awaits you at the airport to take you directly to your accommodation located in the city center.
Nicknamed the "City of Sails", Auckland is Nouvelle-Zélande's largest city. It is also known as the capital of Polynesia, home to the largest population originating from the Pacific islands.
Depending on your arrival time, set off for a first discovery of Auckland on foot or by public transport. Don't miss Mount Eden, an ancient volcano offering panoramic views over the city, the Auckland Museum, the old Parnell district, or a stroll along the ocean at Mission Bay to the marina where the last America's Cup was held. You can also take the ferry to Devonport and enjoy its two peaks offering a magnificent view over the bay.
Night in a hotel or motel.
From Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton: on the Road of the Hobbits
This morning, you pick up your rental car in downtown Auckland. You leave the city by taking Highway 1, crossing the Bombay Hills before entering the Waikato region, an agricultural province known for raising racehorses and the site of numerous battles between British soldiers and Maoris in the 19th century.
You arrive at Matamata, known worldwide as "Hobbiton". This is where you'll find the only remaining set from the Hobbit village from the Lord of the Rings films. A guided tour (included) allows you to discover this mythical place and learn more about filming secrets. Fans and newcomers alike will appreciate this unique immersion.
After this experience, allow approximately one hour's drive to reach Rotorua and its lake, in the heart of this renowned volcanic region.
2 nights in a hotel or motel in Rotorua.
Rotorua: geothermal immersion and Maori culture
Welcome to Rotorua, a major hub of Maori culture and a popular destination for its intense geothermal activity and lake. You are here at one of the most active geothermal sites in the world.
Maoris represent 35% of the local population. Explore the city on foot, from the lakeside to the Government Gardens, passing through the small Maori village of Ohinemutu, or enjoy a walk in the heart of the redwood forest.
The region is full of lakes, mountains, volcanoes and forests, offering many outdoor activities: mountain biking, rafting, summer luge, or swimming and relaxation in hot water pools after a day of exploration.
Included: guided tour of Te Puia with the famous Pohutu geyser,
From Rotorua to Tongariro: Geothermal Wonders and Huka Falls
Rotorua → Tongariro National Park
Today, you're heading towards Taupo, just one hour from Rotorua. Along the way, stop at the Wai o Tapu geothermal park, famous for its incredible colors. Entrance is included.
Your next stop will take you to the impressive Huka Falls before reaching Lake Taupo, the largest in Nouvelle-Zélande.
Continue then around Lake Taupo to Turangi, then enter the country's oldest national park: the Tongariro National Park. This park offers a wide choice of easy walks or more challenging hikes, including the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, considered one of the most beautiful hikes in Nouvelle-Zélande. Whatever walk you choose, you will be amazed by the exceptional beauty of this place.
Overnight in a hotel or motel.
From Tongariro to Wellington: Setting Sail for the World's Southernmost Capital
Tongariro National Park → Wellington
After the arid landscapes of Tongariro, the road gradually takes you towards greener lands, skirting the Kapiti Coast, until you reach the southern tip of the North Island.
You arrive in Wellington, the southernmost capital city in the world and a true cultural hub of Nouvelle-Zélande. Nicknamed "Windy Wellington" because of its frequent winds, the city spreads around a superb harbour and climbs up steep mountainsides. To admire a panoramic view over the capital and its bay, head to the top of Mount Victoria.
The lively city centre is easy to explore on foot, with its numerous restaurants, cafés, shops and art galleries. Must-sees include Parliament, the Old St Paul Church, the national Te Papa museum, the Maritime Museum and the botanical garden accessible by cable car.
Night in hotel or motel.
Crossing the Cook Strait: from Wellington to Picton
Report to the Wellington ferry terminal at least one hour before departure. You will board for a 3h15 crossing to the South Island, aboard a comfortable ferry.
The journey begins with a magnificent cruise around Wellington Bay, offering superb panoramic views of the capital. The boat then crosses the Cook Strait, before entering the spectacular Marlborough Sounds, a series of peaceful fjords bordered by verdant hills.
You then disembark in the charming village of Picton.
2 nights in a hotel or motel in Picton.
Picton: Dolphin cruise and scenic ride
Picton, a former whaling port, captivates with its charm nestled between verdant hills and the calm waters of the Queen Charlotte Sound. Its port welcomes ferries and serves as the starting point for many excursions in the Marlborough Sounds.
Among the must-do trails, take the Tirohanga Track, a climb through magnificent forest offering breathtaking views over Picton and its surroundings. Allow approximately 45 minutes to reach the viewpoint before retracing your steps or descending the other side and returning to Picton through its streets.
Included: a 4-hour boat excursion. Embark on a guided cruise to encounter Nouvelle-Zélande dolphins and fur seals, before docking on Motuara Island. You'll enjoy a one-hour walk in this sanctuary dedicated to seabirds.
From Picton to Kaikoura: Among Vineyards, Seals and Crayfish
This morning, leave Picton by crossing the Blenheim region, renowned for its vineyards. Tempted by a little tasting? It might be a bit too early for that!
Continue your journey down the east coast to Kaikōura, a charming little town nestled between sea and mountains. It stretches along a peninsula populated by seals and still bears the traces of the 2016 earthquake, which profoundly changed its geological landscapes.
Kaikoura means "crayfish meal" in Māori. Take advantage of this stop to savour seafood, in particular from the caravans set up along the sea offering fresh crayfish. The town is also renowned for its whales and sperm whales, present year-round and observable during a cruise.
Night in a hotel or motel.
From Kaikoura to Christchurch: Waipara vineyards and the start of your motorhome road trip
Leave Kaikōura via State Highway 1 heading south. After a few kilometers, scan the rocks: you may see sea lions, sometimes numerous but difficult to distinguish against the rock. You could also spot dolphins along this coast.
The road then winds between hills and plains. An hour north of Christchurch, the Waipara vineyards stretch at the foot of the arid Canterbury hills, with around 75 wineries.
Upon arrival in Christchurch, return your rental car and pick up your campervan near the airport before 4pm.
Night in a campground (not included). From here on, the itinerary is given as a guide only, as you are now free to move at your own pace!
From Christchurch to Lake Tekapo: Alpine landscapes and starry skies
Leave the east coast and Christchurch to head inland. You will pass through Geraldine, a charming rural town where you can taste local cheeses and jams.
After Fairlie, you enter the "Mackenzie country", a vast pastoral region. A few kilometres further on, discover the village of Lake Tekapo, situated on the shores of its turquoise lake, famous for its chapel and the Southern Alps as a backdrop. The intense colour of the lake comes from "stone flour", fine mineral particles in suspension.
To enjoy a 360° view over Lakes Tekapo and Alexandrina, climb to the top of Mt John, accessible on foot or by car. Classified as an International Dark Sky Reserve, this region offers a unique opportunity to admire the beauty of the southern sky.
Night in camping (not included).
From Lake Tekapo to Dunedin: Moeraki Boulders and Scottish Charm
Cross the interior of the country via Lake Pukaki, with the majestic Aoraki/Mt Cook (3724 m) as a backdrop, heading towards Dunedin.
Stop at Oamaru, an elegant Victorian town, then at Moeraki, famous for its impressive spherical boulders on the beach and its charming fishing village.
You then arrive at Dunedin, a city of Scottish influence built on the waterfront on volcanic hills. It stands out for its architecture, its renowned university and the exceptional wildlife of the Otago Peninsula, where albatrosses, sea lions, penguins and seals live.
Among the must-sees of the city: the Otago Museum, the historic railway station, Baldwin Street (the world's steepest street), Street Art, as well as its numerous breweries and cafés. Ōtepoti, the Maori name for Dunedin, is also the home of our agency… and we love living there!
Night in camping (not included).
From Dunedin to Te Anau: Wild Beaches and Nouvelle-Zélande Countryside
Leave Dunedin via the coastal road and stop at Tunnel Beach. This short but steep walk will take you to the beach offering a magnificent panorama of the cliffs and ocean.
Resume the main road heading south towards Balclutha, then turn west to cross the Southland plains towards Gore. You will pass through typical rural scenery where you will certainly encounter many sheep – there are more than 30 million in Nouvelle-Zélande ! The region is also renowned for trout fishing.
You finally arrive at Te Anau, gateway to the Fiordland National Park.
Night in camping (not included).
Milford Sound: Cruise at the Heart of the Eighth Wonder of the World
Today, head to Milford Sound along the magnificent Milford Road, considered one of the most beautiful roads in Nouvelle-Zélande. Numerous viewpoints and walks dot the route: Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, Knobs Flat, Monkey Creek, Cleddau Valley, Homer Tunnel and The Chasm.
Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, the most famous of New Zealand's fjords, was described by Rudyard Kipling as the Eighth Wonder of the World. Take your time on the way there and back from Te Anau to fully enjoy these magnificent landscapes. Allow a minimum of 2 hours 15 minutes of driving from Te Anau (excluding stops). One of the most beautiful stages of your trip!
Upon arrival in Milford, board a 2-hour cruise in the fjord (included). Whether the weather is fine or rainy, the place remains simply magical and enchanting.
Night in camping (not included).
From Te Anau to Queenstown: Heading to the Adventure Capital
Leave behind the fjords and their exuberant nature to find the plains of the Southland, where thousands of sheep graze.
Further on, the vast Lake Wakatipu marks your entrance into the Otago region, with one of its flagship cities: Queenstown, the adventure capital! Situated in a grandiose setting dominated by the Remarkables mountain range, Queenstown is one of the most sought-after destinations in the country, summer and winter alike.
We recommend spending two days there to explore its surroundings, particularly Glenorchy and Arrowtown.
Night in camping (not included).
Queenstown: Adrenaline Rush
Queenstown is considered by many to be one of the world's capitals of extreme sports. The city offers a wide choice of activities to get your adrenaline rush: bungee jumping, white water rafting, zip-lining, jet boat, skiing or even skydiving.
For those who prefer quieter activities, the region is full of vineyards to visit, renowned golf courses, as well as numerous walking and hiking options for all levels. You can also enjoy a trip on a steamboat on the lake or stroll through the botanical garden, not forgetting the mountain biking trails in the surrounding area.
This evening, board the cable car to access the panoramic restaurant The Stratosfare and enjoy a buffet dinner (included), while admiring the spectacular view over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.
Night in camping (not included).
From Queenstown to the glaciers: between gold rush and wild coast
Leave Queenstown and stop at Arrowtown, a charming former gold mining town.
Reach Wanaka by taking the scenic Cardrona Valley route, with its famous hotel dating back to the gold rush era, or alternatively via Gibbston Valley and its vineyards, along Lake Dunstan.
Continue on towards the West Coast, one of the most beautiful in the country. You will pass Lakes Hawea and Wanaka, cross Haast Pass and discover the dense and wild vegetation typical of this region.
After crossing the Alps, the route will take you to the famous glaciers Fox and Franz Josef. Weather permitting, take a walk around Lake Matheson (approximately 1.5 hours) to enjoy spectacular views of the mountains and glaciers.
Overnight in camping (not included).
From the West Coast to Hokitika: on the road to jade and gold
Continue your itinerary along the West Coast on this road that alternates between dense forests and dairy farm pastures. Take a break in Ross, a former gold digger village, where relics still bear witness to that era when gold fever attracted thousands of people in search of wealth.
Once you arrive at Hokitika, don't miss visiting a workshop where pounamu is carved, the jade of Nouvelle-Zélande, harvested from the rivers of the region. A great opportunity to discover this traditional art and perhaps take home a symbolic souvenir.
Night in camping (not included).
From Hokitika to Christchurch: from the Alps to the Canterbury Plains
Leave the West Coast by taking the alpine route via Arthurs Pass. Stop in this small village to observe keas, mischievous mountain parrots, or set off on a walk to discover the Devils Punchbowl waterfall, 130 metres high.
Continue on your way and stop at Kura Tawhiti (Castle Hill) to admire its impressive rock formations before heading back down to the lush plains of Canterbury, at the end of which lies Christchurch.
Located on the east coast of the South Island, Christchurch (Ōtautahi in Māori) is the largest city on the island, with around 380,000 inhabitants. Nicknamed the "Garden City", it captivates with its many lush green spaces and multicultural charm mixed with a Victorian style.
Night in camping (not included).
See you soon in Nouvelle-Zélande!
Christchurch is full of assets to conclude your trip beautifully. Discover its renowned botanical garden, the Canterbury Museum (currently under renovation, but a small temporary collection is on display at the COCA museum on Gloucester Street), its art gallery and the beautiful Turanga library.
Stroll through the city center aboard the historic tramway or along the Avon River that runs through the city. Also enjoy its numerous restaurants and cafés, as well as the recent thermal center offering views of the sea.
Since the 2011 earthquake, the city center has been profoundly transformed, now offering a modern, pleasant and dynamic atmosphere.
Return the motorhome near the airport before your return flight.
See you soon!
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flights and possible domestic flights
- The Road User charge calculated per kilometer, to be paid when collecting the campervan
- Camping pitches / nights
- Optional activities
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- A change in the GST rate or the introduction of a new government tax
- Potential supplements related to public holidays and special events
- Petrol, possible tolls and parking fees
- Entry fees to Nouvelle-Zélande territory (NZeTA and IVL)
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance, highly recommended
Included
- Airport – hotel transfer in Auckland on arrival
- The transfer of the motorhome from the storage facility to the airport at the end of your stay
- Accommodation in Auckland to Kaikoura (9 nights) in standard category hotels/motels
- Car rental of a recent vehicle (such as Hybrid Crossover or similar) from Auckland to Christchurch, with unlimited mileage and full insurance with no excess
- The ferry crossing between the two islands
- The rental of a 2-person motorhome with shower and toilets, including comprehensive insurance with no deductible
- Hobbiton guided tour
- Guided tour of Te Puia with Maori performance (daytime)
- Entrance to the Wai-O-Tapu geothermal park
- Boat trip from Picton and in the Marlborough Sounds
- Dinner at Queenstown's panoramic restaurant
- 2-hour Cruise in Milford Sound
- New Zealand taxes (GST 15%)
- Our on-site assistance in case of need
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to New Zealand for tourism purposes. Entry requirements may change, so we recommend verifying the information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter New Zealand, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay and contain at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Tourist stay without a visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays.
To date, this exemption allows a stay of up to 90 days within a 12-month period.
The authorities may also request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.
NZeTA Travel Authorization
Before your arrival, you must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authorization (NZeTA), issued by the New Zealand Immigration authorities.
This authorization is required even without a visa and must be obtained before boarding your flight. It is electronically linked to your passport. During your application, you will also need to pay the International Visitor Levy (IVL).
To submit your application, you will need the following information:
passport information
a recent photograph
flight details
address of your first accommodation in New Zealand
The NZeTA application must be submitted online or via the official app at least 72 hours before departure. A digital confirmation will be sent via email and may be requested when passing through immigration.
Strict health and customs rules
New Zealand applies particularly stringent phytosanitary and customs controls upon arrival. It is prohibited or strictly regulated to bring in many food products, plants, animal products, or outdoor equipment (hiking boots, camping gear, etc.).
Any item subject to declaration must be declared on the arrival card. Non-compliance with these rules can result in heavy fines.
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport as well as an individual NZeTA covering the duration of the stay.
In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to leave the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Affected travelers should inquire with the New Zealand embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have evacuation assistance and foreign medical expenses coverage.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to an insurance plan, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one of these plans.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these formulas, the policy document detailing all coverage and claim declaration procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claim declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy document with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Before traveling to New Zealand, you must obtain an NZeTA authorization (approximately 17 NZD) and pay the IVL tourist tax (35 NZD). The authorization is valid for 2 years and allows multiple entries of up to 90 days per stay. Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure from New Zealand. Entry conditions vary depending on your nationality. Please check with the New Zealand consular authorities in your country before booking your trip.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between €250 and €400 per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and activities. International flights (€1500-2200 return) are additional. Campervan rental is a popular and often economical option.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, educational and entertaining activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on site throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — North Island
A Nomadays advisor will get back to you to refine this project — itinerary, dates, budget, wishes — and propose a tailor-made version suited to your trip.
