Why explore Nelson & Marlborough by campervan

Travelling in a campervan, especially through beautiful areas like Nelson and Marlborough, turns a simple holiday into a series of unforgettable experiences. It's your adventure, at your pace, surrounded by the comfort and convenience that only campervan travel can offer. With a campervan, you're not tied down. You can linger over a long lunch in a Nelson café or decide to spend an extra day tasting wines in Marlborough because you've fallen in love with the scenery.

The journey itself becomes part of the fun when you're in a campervan. It's about making spontaneous stops at breathtaking lookouts, enjoying your morning coffee in the middle of postcard-perfect views, and finding your own special spot to watch the stars. Stumbled upon a hidden gem in Golden Bay or found a hiking track in Marlborough you’d like to tackle? With a campervan, you have the freedom to explore it as much as you like.

Things to do in Nelson & Marlborough

Nelson and Marlborough are rich with activities and attractions, offering something special for every kind of traveller. For families on holiday, there are endless opportunities for fun, from exploring the sun-drenched beaches of Nelson to the interactive and educational experiences in the region's museums and galleries. Food enthusiasts will revel in the culinary journey through Nelson and Marlborough, from the fresh seafood of the coastal areas to the exquisite flavours of the region's renowned wineries. Whether you're indulging in a leisurely lunch at a vineyard in Marlborough or sampling local artisan produce at a Nelson market, your taste buds are in for a treat. Adventure seekers and nature lovers won't be left wanting either. With activities like kayaking through the Marlborough Sounds or hiking the trails of the Abel Tasman National Park, the great outdoors is your playground. And for those looking to unwind, the charming towns scattered throughout the region offer a peaceful retreat with their unique boutiques, cafes, and galleries.

Popular Nelson road trips & itineraries

Nestled at the top of New Zealand's South Island, Nelson and Marlborough are prime starting points for some of the most picturesque road trips in the country. Kicking off from Nelson, you can weave through the scenic drives that unveil the artistic townships, golden beaches, and lush national parks. Heading into Marlborough, the journey continues through rolling vineyards and along the majestic Marlborough Sounds. Whether you're venturing from the urban buzz of the North Island or the rugged landscapes of the South, these regions promise memorable campervan road trip adventures tailored to every interest. Here are a few worth checking out:

Louise Wright / Wednesday, 8 March 2023

/ Categories: NZ Itineraries, South Island, 1-4 Days, Iconic Road Trips, Family Friendly, Food & Drinks, Natural Wonders, Outdoor Activities

South Island | Christchurch to Arthur's Pass Road Trip Itinerary

This scenic 4-day road trip is the perfect starting trip for anyone new to campervan holidays and road trips, with short driving days and plenty of beautiful places to stop and soak in the serenity along the way.

Day 1: Christchurch

Found on the East Coast of the South Island of New Zealand, Christchurch is known for its great mix of entertainment, cultural experiences, and historical buildings. Christchurch is perfect launching pad for your next New Zealand motorhome holiday.

With a lively arts community, museums and art galleries are a must visit too. Christchurch has a newly developed restaurant scene which delivers on local and international flavours and culinary delights worth indulging in.

Pick up your campervan hire in Christchurch and stock your on board fridge up with delicious local goodies before settling in for a good night’s rest at a local campground, ready for the next day’s adventure!

Roadside stop south island nz campervan trip Image: Flynn Graham

Day 2: Christchurch- Akaroa

Travel time: 1 hr

Distance: 87 km

Departing from Christchurch, we suggest the easiest of the two drives that will take you to Akaroa. Travelling down State highway 75 you will journey via Lake Ellesmere and Lake Forsyth before climbing over the hills to the stunning Akaroa Harbour.

Akaroa is full of character and charm. Originally a French Settlement, Akaroa is intertwined with homage to its French history with French street names and local restaurants incorporating French themes and menus. Bon appétit!

Why not visit the Akaroa Museum or check out one of the beautifully restored historic cottages while in town? There is also marine life to explore on the Akaroa harbour cruises, where you might just meet penguins, fur seals and dolphins. After a day of exploring, you can park up at a local campground in Akaroa.

Kaikōura, Canterbury
Image: Miles Holden via Tourism New Zealand

Day 3: Akaroa - Arthurs Pass

Travel time: 2.5 hr

Distance: 214 km

Travelling back towards Christchurch and journeying to Arthurs Pass is a slightly longer drive than day 2, however, with the ease or stopping wherever you like with your camper, you won’t mind the added time to explore.

Once out of Christchurch you will embark on the journey through the Canterbury Plains - bringing rolling green hills while passing through towns like Kirwee, Darfield, Sheffield and Springfield. If you fancy adding some skiing to your motorhome holiday, this route winds into the ski areas of Porter Heights and Craigieburn, which are an easy detour. You can then follow the Waimakariri and Bealey Rivers before arriving at Arthur’s Pass.

While Arthur’s Pass today is a sophisticated mountain pass with stunning scenery, this route was first used by Māori tribes crossing to the West Coast to find pounamu (jade). There’s plenty to explore at Arthur’s Pass with several short walks, plus climbing, hiking and ski adventures all available within the Arthur’s Pass National Park.

The beauty of a motorhome holiday in the South Island of New Zealand is that you can stay and play as long as you’d like without having to worry about hotel check in times – so you can make the most of your time exploring Arthur’s Pass.

Bealey Valley, Arthur's Pass, Canterbury
Image: Unlimited NZ via Tourism New Zealand

Day 4: Arthurs Pass – Christchurch

Travel time: 2 hr

Distance: 170 km

On your return journey to Christchurch, you will travel back via the Waimakariri and Bealey Rivers and ski areas of Porter Heights and Craigieburn. We would recommend taking this opportunity to stop at Lake Pearson and Grasmere for a few Instagram worthy holiday snaps with your camper van.

Your next stops on the way back to Christchurch are the friendly rural towns of Kirwee, Darfield, Sheffield, and Springfield.

The journey ends in Christchurch – the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand. Christchurch city has many walking and cycling paths along the beautiful Avon River. We’d recommend taking some time to stretch your legs and enjoy in the sights of the city before returning your home on wheels back to the Apollo Christchurch branch.

Port Hills, Canterbury
Image: Julian Apse via Tourism New Zealand

Ready to book your Christchurch road trip?

There’s plenty to explore around Christchurch city and beyond. The first step is to book your Apollo camper today.

Hiring a camper means you have the flexibility to stay and play as long as you’d like. With branches in Auckland and Christchurch you could even pick up your camper at one branch and return at another – make the adventure yours!

Looking for more inspiration for your next New Zealand road trip? Check out our blogs:

Looking for places to stay?

Apollo works with a number of campground networks – we recommend downloading our ApolloConnect App or find out more info on places to stay.

This driving route is supplied by New Zealand Tourism Guide.

Ready to explore?

South Island | Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary

South Island | Christchurch to Kaikoura Road Trip Itinerary

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Tags: Christchurch campervans for hire Family Outdoor Activities Natural Wonders Hiking roadtrip canterbury

days	4
kms	510
stops	10+
LabelField4	1
Field4	National Park

Apollo Campervan branches

Christchurch

The drive from Apollo Christchurch to Nelson takes you along some of the South Island’s most scenic coastline. There’s a fair bit to see and do along the way, so be sure to take your time and perhaps plan an overnight stay in Kaikoura.

Queenstown

Keen to make the most of your road trip and explore more of the South Island? Book your camper with our Queenstown branch and spend a few days heading northward taking in some of the great southern highlights along the way.

Auckland

The North Island is packed full of sights and experiences, so why not tick off a few with a road trip from Apollo Auckland to Nelson? This journey includes crossing the Cook Strait by ferry offering the opportunity to travel through the pristine Marlborough Sounds.