Adventure meets laid-back freedom on this route! Grab your Wicked Camper, steer into the wild, and let the long white cloud of Aotearoa show you what “road trip” really means. From volcanoes to glaciers and cute little surf towns, this road trip itinerary has something for everyone.
Why this route rocks
Starting in the bustling harbour city of Auckland on the North Island and ending in the adventure capital of Queenstown on the South, this road trip traverses the essence of New Zealand. From steaming thermal valleys to alpine peaks, coastal ferry rides to lakeside backdrops. Guides describe it as a “drive through the highlights of New Zealand” covering both islands. With a Wicked Campervan, you get the freedom to stop when you want, stay where the view calls you, and bring your own vibe to each campground, holiday park or wild spot.
Practical prep for your trip
- Vehicle: Choose a comfortable campervan from Wicked, with flexibility for drop-off in Queenstown.
- Duration: While you can rush it (10–14 days), many recommend 21 days or a full month to soak it in.
- Route type: North Island ferry across the Cook Strait South Island. The ferry connects the North/South journey. You can also just flip this route upside down and travel from South to North.
- When to go: Spring and summer give the best access for outdoor spots and longer daylight. Autumn can already get pretty cold, especially in the South, but it depends what your level of comfort is.
- Driving notes: Expect a mix of motorway, smaller roads, winding coastal sections in the South. Take it slow in scenic zones.
- Campervan tips: Camp where allowed, respect freedom-camping rules (especially in the South Island), book major holiday parks ahead in peak season, fill up on water and dump grey water when required.
Suggested Epic Itinerary (14 Days)
Here's a Wicked Camper-friendly version of a 14 day itinerary, from city to snow-tipped mountains. Feel free to adjust days, linger longer or skip bits depending on your time.
Day 1: Auckland
Explore Auckland's waterfront, maybe climb the Sky Tower for views. Get your campervan set up, stock groceries, head out with the sense of freedom. Camp overnight in a holiday park near the city or head south out of town to find a quiet spot.
Day 2: Auckland Rotorua
Drive south through farm country, swing by the Hobbiton Movie Set (optional) then on to Rotorua for geothermal wonderland: geysers, hot springs and Maori culture. Camp in Rotorua for the night.
Day 3: Rotorua Taupo
Short drive to Lake Taupo, with a stop at the mighty Huka Falls. Enjoy lake views, maybe a swim, walk, or relax in the van. Overnight by the lake and enjoy the sunset.
Day 4: Taupo Wellington
Cross to the capital, Wellington. Explore the cafe scene, grab a coffee on Cuba Street, stretch your legs at a local museum. Spend the night in or around Wellington, ready for the ferry the next day.
Day 5-7: Ferry to South Island & Nelson/Abel Tasman
Take the ferry from Wellington to Picton, and explore the top of the South Island. Spend a few days around Nelson or close to Abel Tasman National Park where the coastline is golden and peaceful.
Days 7-9: South Island - Lakes, Mountains & Drive
Make your way southwards through either the east or west route of the South Island:
- Option A (East): Via Kaikoura, Christchurch, then down to Lake Tekapo, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
- Option B (West): Via the wild West Coast (glaciers at Franz Josef), then through Wanaka to Queenstown.
Days 9-11: Wanaka and Surrounds
Take it slow. In Wanaka unwind, hike, maybe mountain bike and enjoy local cafes. Try to climb Roy's Peak at sunrise if you've got time, you will not regret it! Then aim for Queenstown's doorstep.
Day 12-14: Queenstown
Arrive in Queenstown and base yourself here for a couple days. Adventure time: maybe bungy, jet-boat, lake cruises, or simply chill by the lake with a craft beer. If you feel up to the challenge, climb up Ben Lomond and enjoy the lake views from the top.
Extra Tip: The scenic drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy is worth the detour!
Wicked-Camper Specific Tips
- Stock up on groceries early (supermarkets in big towns) and fill your water tank.
- Use holiday parks for reliable amenities (shower, dump, laundry) especially after the South Island drives.
- For freedom-camping: check local rules, some places restrict hours or require permits.
- Always check the weather, especially in the South Island: alpine passes can change quickly.
- Photo opportunity: sunrise or sunset at Lake Tekapo or Queenstown, you'll want the shot for Instagram.
Why Choose Wicked Campers for this Route
Because the journey from Auckland to Queenstown is long (over 1,700 km plus ferry) and deserves flexibility. With Wicked you’re not locked into hotel check-in times, you don’t have to pack/unpack every night, you can cook your own meals, and literally wake up next to an alpine lake if you choose.
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