Gear up for an epic one-way campervan adventure from the Garden City of Christchurch to the City of Sails, Auckland. This route gives you a slice of both the South and North Island of New Zealand: majestic landscapes, rivers, hot pools, whale watching, volcanic action, and relaxed coastal vibes. Plenty of room for spontaneous stops, vanlife moments and campervan-style freedom.
Why this route rocks
- It's a one-way road trip: pick up your Wicked van in Christchurch, drop off in Auckland, minimal back-tracking or unnecessary detours.
- You'll cross from South Island North Island via the scenic ferry so you get two landscapes in one.
- The pace is flexible: you can take it slower or hit the big highlights in 10-14 days. For Wicked Campers renters, that's perfect for turning the trip into a relaxed road trip.
- Plenty of camper-friendly spots and freedom camping opportunities, especially when you go off the beaten track.
Suggested 14-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Christchurch
Spend your first day settling in your Wicked van, exploring Christchurch's parks, street art and recovering from travel. Use it to stock up on groceries, check the van's gear (kitchen, gas, water, fridge) and get comfortable.
Tips: Visit the Botanic Gardens and wander the rebuilt central city.
Day 2: Christchurch Kaikoura (approx 2.5-3 hrs)
Head north along the coast. Kaikoura is famed for its whales, dolphins and sea-life. Stop at the peninsula walk, lookout for seals at Ohau Point. Kaikoura is known to be the place where alpine meets coast, with the snow-topped mountains overlooking the coastal town. In the evening, park up near the coast, enjoy seafood and an amazing sunset.
Day 3-4: Kaikoura Blenheim / Marlborough (approx 1.75-2 hrs)
Move on to the Marlborough wine region. Time for vineyards, bike rides between wineries (if you're game!) and scenic landscapes. If you have time, take an extra day to explore the beauty of the Marlborough Sounds.
Campervan tip: many vineyards allow daytime parking or nearby campgrounds.
Day 5: Blenheim Picton Ferry to Wellington
Drive to Picton, then catch the ferry across the Cook Strait to Wellington. The sea-crossing gives you a natural break and a change of pace. In Wellington spend the evening walking the waterfront, checking out Cuba Street and the many fun little bars.
Day 6: Wellington
Explore the cool little capital. Take the cable car to the botanic gardens, visit Te Papa museum and climb to Mt Victoria lookout. Allow some rest after driving, gear check, and stock up on more supplies in the city.
Day 7-8: Wellington Lake Taupo (via central plateau)
Head north out of Wellington, up through the heart of the North Island. You'll hit the volcanic plateau region, which offers some amazing views along the way. In Taupo, consider the lakeside, hot springs or even scenic flights. If you have time, take an extra day for the Tongariro Crossing, a 20km hike across amazing volcanoes.
Great for Wicked Campers: a big lake, open space and bold backdrop for photos.
Day 9: Taupo Rotorua
Short hop to Rotorua, a geothermal wonderland. Mud pools, geysers, Maori culture and adventure rides. Let the van rest while you explore.
Day 10-12: Rotorua Hamilton Auckland (approx 3-4 hrs)
From Rotorua you can make your final leg into Auckland. Optionally stop in Hamilton for a break. Add an extra day and make a stop in Raglan, the cutest surf town you'll find in New Zealand. As you approach Auckland, switch your mindset: from wild road-trip mode to city wrap-up.
Day 13-14: Auckland
Arrive in Auckland with your Wicked van. Explore the city: harbour, Sky Tower, Waiheke Island for wine tours or just chill. Wrap up your road-trip story, do a van clean-out and go home with a bunch of new memories.
Wicked Campers Tips & Road-Trip Hacks
- One-way drop-off: Choose Christchurch Auckland to save cost and mileage.
- Campervan gear check: Ensure your Wicked van has everything upon pick up: kitchen gear, table & chairs, fridge or icebox.
- Freedom camping rules: NZ has regional rules. Check each region ahead (South vs North Island differences). Use an app like CamperMate to find freedom camping spots.
- Driving in NZ: Distances look short but roads often twist and climb. Don't over-schedule.
- Weather & seasons: While NZ is lovely year-round, check for road closures (especially in winter) and ferry schedules for the ChristchurchPicton leg.
- Budgeting fuel & campsites: Factor in fuel, ferry cost, camping fees. Booking some premium campgrounds ahead (especially near big spots) is wise.
- One big tip: Stay flexible. Some of the best photo ops and memories come from spontaneous detours.
Final Words
Grab your keys, pick your Wicked van and hit the road. From Christchurch’s gardens and city-streets, up through Kaikoura’s wild coast, across to the North Island and Lake Taupo’s shimmering surface, into Rotorua’s steam and finally the urban sprawl of Auckland, this is a road trip that ticks the boxes.
Take your time. Get lost a little. Make memories. And when you park the van in Auckland, you’ll have earned every kilometre.
BOOK YOUR SOUTH TO NORTH TRIP NOW