Auckland

Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, is a hub of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Nestled between two stunning harbours, the city is also referred to as ‘The City of Sails’. From swimming and surfing to cruises and kayaking, it’s the place to be for fun on the water. But there are plenty of great things to do in Auckland for land lovers too, with fantastic hikes and bush walks, beautiful gardens, and plenty of shopping and sightseeing.

At the heart of Auckland’s appeal is its unique blend of urban and natural attractions. Take a stroll through the picturesque Viaduct Harbour, visit the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views, or immerse yourself in the rich Māori heritage at the Auckland Museum. Auckland combines city excitement with stunning natural landscapes, offering an unforgettable experience for every traveller. So, get ready to explore, discover, and create lasting memories in this remarkable city.

With your Apollo campervan, you can easily extend your city explorations and head out on one of the many Auckland day trips to discover pristine beaches, lush forests, and scenic vineyards. Drive to the black sand beaches of Piha, surround yourself in birdsong and native bush in the Waitākere Ranges, or take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day of wine tasting and relaxation.

Why explore Auckland by campervan?

Exploring Auckland by campervan is a fantastic way to see the best of the region at your own pace. With an Apollo campervan, you have everything you need for the journey right there with you. No more unpacking and repacking at every stop – just hop in and go! You can start your day with a coffee by the beach, then head off for a spot of shopping or explore more Auckland attractions. The next day, you may like to discover the stunning black sand beaches of the west coast, hike the trails in the Waitākere Ranges, or enjoy a leisurely picnic in a quiet park. With a campervan, you can simply wake up and decide which awesome Auckland attractions you’ll tick off your list today!

Apollo’s campervans are designed with comfort and convenience in mind, so you can rest assured that you’ll have everything you need for a smooth journey. Motorhome travel also means you can fully embrace the spontaneity and adventure of an Auckland campervan holiday. Whether you’re exploring the city shops or heading out on a day trip, a campervan gives you the flexibility to make the most of your trip.

Things to do in Auckland

Auckland offers loads of fun activities and attractions, making it an excellent destination for campervan travellers. Start your journey at the iconic Sky Tower, where you can take in the panoramic views of the city and beyond. For a cultural experience, visit the Auckland Museum to learn more about New Zealand’s history and Māori heritage. Explore the hot spots in the city, such as the stylish cafes and boutiques in Ponsonby or Britomart. For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Mission Bay, where you can walk along the beach and dine at waterfront restaurants. For family-friendly Auckland tourist attractions, the Auckland Zoo and SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium are must-visits.

Outdoor adventurers will find plenty of things to do in Auckland. Explore the rugged beauty of the Hunua Ranges with its scenic hiking trails and waterfalls, or head to the east coast beaches like Tāwharanui for a day of swimming and sunbathing. For a unique experience, take a ferry to Rangitoto Island and hike to the summit of this iconic volcanic cone for stunning views of the city and beyond. The island's unique lava fields and native forest provide a fascinating landscape for exploration.

Hannah Klein / Thursday, 21 September 2023

/ Categories: NZ blog

Top 15 things to do in Wellington

Blending unique natural beauty with urban sophistication, Wellington offers endless exploration, making it a popular destination for motorhome travellers. If you’re planning to book a campervan hire and tick off some of the great things to do in Wellington, we’ve got you covered.

Image: Instagram - @fieldnotes__

Where is Wellington?

Sitting at the southern tip of New Zealand's North Island, Wellington enjoys a unique position as a gateway between the North and South Islands. With regular ferry connections between the islands, this prime location makes Wellington the perfect central hub for those on a New Zealand road trip.

What’s Wellington known for?

Wellington is celebrated not only as New Zealand’s political capital but also as its creative capital. Often referred to as Wellywood, the city has gained international fame for its contributions to the film industry. Wellington is also home to several significant museums, theatres, and art galleries. Foodies are well catered to also, with a vibrant café culture including a number of excellent artisan coffee roasters. Add in an awesome calendar of festivals and events, a great selection of bars and clubs, and a compact layout that makes the city easy to get around, and you can see why Wellington is a must-visit destination.

The best way to explore Wellington

There’s no better way to make the most of the many great Wellington attractions than with an Apollo campervan hire. Relax in the luxury, privacy, and convenience of your cosy camper. With all your home comforts on board, it’s easy to create home-cooked meals in your own kitchen, use the bathroom anytime, and take a nap whenever you need to in your own comfy bed.

Top 15 things to do in Wellington

Now that you know the best way to explore the capital, let’s take a look at some of the fun things to do while you’re there.

Mount Victoria Lookout

Before you start exploring, the best way to get your bearings of the city is by checking out the views from the top of Mount Victoria. Take in the expansive panorama of Wellington city, its sparkling harbour, and the backdrop of rolling green hills. You can either drive to the top of Mt Vic or walk along one of the many trails in the Town Belt. We suggest grabbing some fish and chips to enjoy while you’re up there. Settle in on the hillside, and relax while watching ferries sail into the harbour, and planes fly in and out of the airport.

Wellington Museum

Located on Queens Wharf, Wellington Museum is a treasure trove of history and heritage. Housed in a historic building that once served as the Bond Store, the museum offers visitors a fascinating journey through Wellington's evolution. Thoughtfully curated exhibits and engaging storytelling techniques paint a vivid picture of the people, events, and cultural shifts that have left indelible marks on Wellington's identity. As an ode to the city's close ties with the sea, the museum also provides a deep dive into its nautical stories, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious explorers alike.

Willis Lane

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Wellington, you can’t go past Willis Lane. Once home to historic underground walkways, the site has transformed over the years to become a lively epicentre for food aficionados and fun-seekers alike. From freshly brewed morning coffee to late-night dumplings, Willis Lane is a haven for the hungry. But it's not just about food. For those in the mood for some good old-fashioned fun, the bowling alley offers the perfect setting for friendly rivalry.

Cable Car

The Wellington Cable Car is an iconic symbol of the city's history and innovative spirit. Operating since 1902, this charming red carriage connects the central city to the elevated suburb of Kelburn. As you head uphill, relax and enjoy the breathtaking views of the harbour, cityscape, and surrounding hills. Once you reach the top, pop into the Cable Car Museum to find out more about the history of its operation.

Glow-worms at the Botanic Gardens

For something just a little different, head to Wellington’s Botanic Gardens as darkness falls to witness the mesmerising glow-worms. Nestled amidst the flora, these tiny luminous creatures offer a magical spectacle, turning the gardens into a twinkling wonderland. For the best experience, take a guided glow-worm tour. These are available throughout the year, although the best time to spot glow-worms is during spring after rainfall.

Weta Workshop

Check out New Zealand’s world-famous movie-making magic. Get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into how Wētā Workshop helps craft some of the world’s biggest films. See props and costumes crafted for The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, District 9, The Chronicles of Narnia and more. Take a guided tour to learn more about how the movie effects are made, what goes into creating costumes, and how movie make-up is applied. Afterwards, explore the retail shop and browse the collectables, books, and games. There’s even a mini museum to check out.

Crocodile Bikes

Take a ride on the wild side! Cruise along Wellington’s scenic Oriental Bay aboard a Crocodile Bike. Hire a three- or six-seater and see the waterfront the easy way. Afterwards, call into Shake and treat yourself to the ultimate in indulgence – the Crocshake. We recommend the Unicorn Crocshake featuring rainbow ice cream, 100s & 1000s, candy floss, rainbow candy and sprinkles. Yum!

Zealandia Twilight Tour

Keen to meet some of New Zealand’s unique native wildlife? Located just minutes from central Wellington, Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne is the world’s first fully fenced, predator-proof ecosanctuary. For a truly unforgettable experience, head along after dark and join a Twilight Tour. The tours offer visitors an intimate glimpse into the nocturnal habits of some of the country's most elusive creatures. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a kiwi rustling through the underbrush.

The Beehive

Step into the epicentre of New Zealand’s political arena with a visit to the Beehive. This unique architectural masterpiece, with its circular design and tiered profile, is easy to spot among the parliamentary buildings. Just head to the corner of Molesworth Street and Lambton Quay. For the best experience, book into a guided tour where you’ll be able to see some of the highlights within the building while hearing more about what goes on inside.

City Gallery

Immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art at City Gallery Wellington. This cutting-edge gallery curates an array of thought-provoking exhibitions, providing a platform for both local and international artists. Each display offers a fresh perspective. From visual masterpieces to multimedia installations, the gallery invites visitors to engage, interpret, and be inspired. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a curious observer, the gallery promises a transformative experience.

Witching Hour Mini Golf

Step into a ghostly realm at Wellington's Witching Hour Mini Golf. This unique venue adds a spooky touch to the classic game of mini golf. Navigate your way through 13 haunted holes complete with projected illusions, black lights, and creepy props. Afterwards, recover your composure with a drink at the bar.

Sweet Axe

If mini golf and galleries don’t quite tick the boxes, how about a bit of axe throwing? Tap into your inner lumberjack at Sweet Axe as you aim for the target and experience the primal thrill of hurtling an axe through the air. It’s all perfectly safe of course, although be warned – this activity does bring out the competitive streak in most, so start warming up that throwing arm!

The Occasional Brewer

Attention craft beer aficionados, this one is for you. Indulge in Wellington's craft beer scene at The Occasional Brewer. Book into a Brewing Experience to learn all about what goes into making a crafty brew. Learn the entire process from start to finish – you can even enjoy a beer and snacks while you brew. Prefer something a little stronger? There are whisky and gin making experiences too.

Space Place

Take a cosmic journey at Space Place within the Carter Observatory. This awesome Wellington attraction offers an immersive experience into the wonders of the universe. Boasting a state-of-the-art planetarium, visitors can traverse galaxies, explore celestial wonders, and uncover the mysteries of the night sky. Beyond the dome, Space Place features interactive exhibits and displays that delve into the complexities of space science. Whether you're a budding astrophysicist or simply curious about the cosmos, Space Place delivers a stellar adventure that ignites both imagination and understanding.

Te Papa Museum

A must-do for visitors to Wellington, Te Papa Museum, officially known as the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, tells the stories of Aotearoa New Zealand through innovative and interactive exhibitions. As the national museum, it offers a profound journey into New Zealand's rich tapestry of history, art, and Māori heritage. Located prominently along Wellington's waterfront, plan your visit for a Sunday morning so you can pop into the Harbourside Market next door for brunch.

Ready to explore Wellington?

From movie magic to craft beer brewing, Wellington is awash with unique activities that make it a mecca for motorhomers. And there’s no better way to enjoy it all than with an Apollo campervan hire. Pick up your prebooked camper from our Auckland or Christchurch branch and head off on the ultimate New Zealand road trip. You can even pick up your camper at one branch and drop it off at another. Take the first step and book your Apollo campervan hire online now.

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Popular Auckland day trips & itineraries

The City of Sails is the perfect starting point for some unforgettable Auckland day trips. With an Apollo campervan, you have the freedom to explore whenever the mood strikes. How about a visit to the charming town of Matakana with its boutique vineyards and local markets? Or, head south to the iconic Hobbiton for a magical experience in the heart of Middle-earth. For an adventure underground, the Waitomo Caves offer stunning glowworm displays and limestone formations. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a longer journey, our itineraries will help you make the most of your campervan holiday in New Zealand. Check out our suggested routes and start planning your journey today!