Best Things to See and Do on a Drive From Hobart to Launceston | Apollo AU
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Apollo motorhome driving nearby Auckland, New Zealand

Motorhome and Campervan Hire Auckland

There is no better place to start your New Zealand road trip adventure than in Auckland, the country’s largest city and the gateway to the North Island. Though it’s known as the entrance to many of the North island’s destinations, this metropolis is a popular destination all on its own. Explore Auckland with visits to the museums for Māori cultural performances, to the Auckland Zoo to get in touch with the local wildlife, and to many other landmarks, all perfect for a day out with the family. Whether visiting Waiheke Island in the Hauraki Gulf to bask in the scenic beauty, or venturing up to the Sky Tower for a heart-stopping bungee jump, there are many activities to enjoy on your Auckland campervan holiday.

Auckland Transfer Information:

Shuttle transfers are available to and from the Airport:

If you’re flying into Auckland airport, International Terminal: Once you clear customs, exit the terminal from door 8 and make your way to the Off-site Transfer Zone; cross the pedestrian crossing and it’s just a short 5-7 minutes’ walk under the covered canopy walkway, behind the Te Arikanui Pullman Hotel. Refer to the attached map and follow the orange dotted line from door 8 (or door 4), making your way to the area marked Off-site Transfer Zone and Rental Car drop off. Request a pickup on the shuttle by calling through to Aeroparks and let them know you need to be collected from the International Terminal. Phone number for Aeroparks is 0800 237 672 or +64 27 414 4712. Pick-up is between 8am and 4pm daily. 

 

Looking for campervan rental in Auckland?

For the campervans Auckland travellers love, choose Apollo! Leave Auckland from any direction in your campervan, and you will find more of what the North Island has to offer! Visiting Northland and the Bay of Islands will provide splendid opportunities to see dolphins up close. The relaxing beaches and spas of The Coromandel are truly worth the scenic road trip, as are Hamilton and Waikato, with stunning beaches, nature reserves and the famous Hobbiton; the movie set where the Lord of the Rings trilogy was shot. While you’re there, don't miss the thermal mud pools of Rotorua, and Lake Taupo, which offers beautiful clear waters and stunning stargazing by night.

Explore ethereal landscapes and majestic scenery, and be immersed in unique Māori and modern culture with a self-drive adventure in a campervan or motorhome hired from Apollo Motorhome Holidays. If you’re visiting from the South Island, we have a branch there too. Apollo has you covered for campervan hire from Auckland to Christchurch.

Campervan hire Auckland Airport: Guests will need to arrange their own way to and from the airport to our branches in Auckland and Christchurch.

Auckland Branch

  • Address:
    13 Manu Tapu Drive, Auckland Airport, Auckland 2022, New Zealand
  • Opening Hours:
    Monday – Sunday: 8am – 4:30pm
  • Telephone:
    0800 845 222
  • Distance from City:
    21 Kilometres / 13 Miles
  • Taxi Fare City:
    NZD $95 Approx
  • Distance from Airport:
    4.5 Kilometres / 2.8 Miles
  • Taxi Fare Airport:
    NZD $25 Approx
  • Closed Days:

    All branches are closed on Christmas Day (25 Dec). 

What to do on your campervan road trip?

 

The beautiful legends of New Zealand and the inception of its two main islands are told as part of the traditional Māori people, who settled in the country long before the Europeans first arrived. According to the Māori, the North Islands were formed after the brothers of Māui, a demigod, fought over a great fish that he pulled from the sea. The fish was chopped into pieces, creating what is now known to be Te Ika-a-Māui, the traditional name of the island group. Though the tales may only be myth, the breathtaking beauty of the North Island is definitely not.

Auckland City

The North Island of New Zealand has endless opportunities for adventure, beauty and wonder. However, we think the perfect place to start is Auckland, where you’ll be picking up your Apollo motorhome or campervan. Although surrounded by the natural beauty of the North Island, Auckland itself has an array of fantastic tourist activities sure to keep everyone entertained, from food and music to art and culture. So, after setting off from our Auckland branch location, why not stop in at a few of the city's best sites and attractions.

Sky Tower

Piercing Auckland’s skyline, the Sky Tower is known for its panoramic views of the city, bay area and surrounding landscape. Standing at 300 metres high, it is the highest structure in the Southern Hemisphere. As well as stunning views, the Sky Tower also offers gift shops, world-class restaurants and a heart-stopping bungee jump which starts at 192m above the streets below. 

Auckland Museum

Step back in time and discover the rich history of Maori and Pacific Islander culture. With extensive cultural, military and natural history collections, the Auckland Museum is the perfect place to immerse yourself in New Zealand’s story. Located within a historical building and surrounded by tranquil parkland, it’s the perfect day trip for the whole family. 

Mount Eden

Walk up Auckland’s highest volcanic peak for stunning views of the Auckland CBD and harbour. You can observe the crater in the centre of the mountain, which is now covered in grass. 

Tapapakanga Regional Park

Operated by the Auckland City Council, the Tapapakanga Regional Park is a scenic coastal farm park about an hour’s drive east of Auckland. Perfect for a relaxing start to your NZ road trip, park up at your beach-side campsite, and watch the sunset over the rolling landscape behind you. 

Touring the North Island

Travelling out of Auckland in your Apollo campervan, you are spoiled for choice. From forests, beaches, rolling hills, and wild rivers, which area of natural beauty should you visit first? 

The Northern Tip

Travelling north of the city, you will reach the world-renowned Bay of Islands. From there, drive as far as you can to arrive at Cape Reinga, the northernmost point on mainland New Zealand. Along the way you will encounter cute little towns, rural charm and gorgeous coastal scenes.

Heading South

South of Auckland, there are many different paths you can take. If you’re feeling in need of some sea air, make a beeline for the Bay of Plenty or Coromandel Peninsula. A trip inland will likely guide you to lakes and thermal environments of Taupo and Rotorua.

Wild West Coast

If dramatic, rugged scenes are what you crave, the west coast of the North Island is perfect for you. Let the wind whip through your hair as you stand over the craggy cliffs or paddle out on one of the many surf beaches. Dotted with national parks, limestone caves and even a volcanic mountain, let the west coast captivate you with its natural beauty.

East Coast Adventure

Known as the ‘Sunshine Capital’, Napier and surrounding regions are home to world-class vineyards and a wonderful collection of art-deco architecture. Get a bit of culture in you and stroll the streets of Napier on a self-guided ‘Art-Deco walk’, designed by the Art-Deco Trust. 

Things to do in Auckland

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: AU Blog

Best Things to See and Do on a Drive From Hobart to Launceston

Heading out on a road trip from Hobart to Launceston? With everything from eye-popping landscapes to quaint towns plucked right out of a fairy tale, this iconic Tasmania road trip route has it all. In this guide, we will walk you through the best family-friendly things to do in Hobart and the must-visit Tasmania tourist attractions on the way north. From Richmond's historic charm to Ben Lomond National Park's alpine allure, we've handpicked the top spots to make your road trip unforgettable. 

Along this route, you can indulge in wine tasting, explore pioneer farm complexes, and soak up the urban oasis of Cataract Gorge, all while enjoying the freedom only a campervan can offer. Curious about the other incredible things to see in Tasmania between Hobart and Launceston? Keep reading as we map out your next unforgettable campervan hire road trip.  

 

How long does it take to drive from Hobart to Launceston?

Covering roughly 200 km, the drive from Hobart to Launceston can take anywhere from 2 to 3.5 hours, but who's rushing? Especially when there are so many stunning vistas and cozy towns along the way that invite you to slow down and savour Tasmania's laid-back vibe. The journey itself is a highlight reel of Tasmania’s best bits: historic towns whispering stories of yore, vineyards that tease with the promise of crisp wines, and landscapes that switch from coastal views to mountainous majesty in the blink of an eye. 

 

What’s the best way to get between Hobart and Launceston?

Hands down, the best way to soak in the beauty between Hobart and Launceston is from behind the wheel of a campervan. Why? Because the freedom to pause where you want, when you want, isn't just nice—it's necessary for a land as rich in experiences as Tasmania. With a campervan, you're not just passing through; you're in the thick of it, camping under starlit skies, waking up to ocean views, or enjoying breakfast in the shadow cast by towering granite mountains. It's about creating a travel itinerary that's as unique as your interests, whether your family lean towards the adrenaline-fueled or the blissfully serene. Plus, campervan hire means you have all the comforts of home parked right outside the next adventure. Ready to make the road from Hobart to Launceston your own? Apollo's fleet of campervans is your ticket to an unforgettable Tasmania road trip.

Image: Insatgram - @_letsescapetogether_

 

The best things to see and do on a drive from Hobart to Launceston

Ready to hit the road and explore the heart of Tasmania? This road trip route is overflowing with must-see Tasmanian tourist attractions. To help, we've curated the ultimate list of stops to make your campervan journey unforgettable. From indulging in local flavours to immersing yourself in the natural beauty that makes Tasmania a must-visit destination, here's a snapshot of what awaits you on this epic road trip.

 

1. Richmond

After exploring the best things to do in Hobart, make your way to the charming and historic town of Richmond, just a short 20-minute drive from Hobart. Richmond is home to Australia's oldest still-in-use bridge, the Richmond Bridge, with the picturesque Georgian architecture of the town providing a stunning backdrop. 

This town is the perfect place to spend a few hours wandering through quaint shops, indulging in fresh Tasmanian food, and taking in the tranquil beauty of heritage buildings. For campervan travellers, the large car park off Bridge Street is the ideal spot to park your home on wheels and explore Richmond's enchanting streets on foot.

 

2. Coal River Valley

Only a stone's throw away, about 25 minutes from Hobart, the Coal River Valley awaits with its scenic vineyards and panoramic views. This region is a haven for wine lovers, offering an array of cellar doors where you can sample some of Tasmania's finest drops. The valley's picturesque countryside is perfect for a leisurely drive or a picnic among the vines. Campervan visitors can find convenient parking at specific winery estates or designated spots along the main road, making it easy to stop and enjoy the valley's serene beauty.

 

3. Campbell Town

As you continue north, Campbell Town is tucked away an hour and a half from Hobart. This historic town is rich with colonial architecture and is the perfect Tasmanian attraction to learn about Tasmania's convict past. While in town, don't miss the Red Bridge, Australia's oldest surviving brick arch bridge, and delve into history at The Book Cellar, an unusual bookshop located in the cellars of the convict-built Foxhunters Return Inn. For those travelling in a campervan, parking is available along High Street, providing easy access to explore Campbell Town's quaint charm and historic Tasmania attractions.

 

4. Ben Lomond National Park

For adventurous families, a detour to Ben Lomond National Park is a must –  about 3 hours from Hobart. The park is a haven for outdoor lovers, offering breathtaking alpine scenery, challenging hikes, and the thrilling ascent of Jacobs Ladder. In winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland, with skiing and snowboarding taking centre stage. 

During the warmer months, the alpine landscape reveals stunning vistas perfect for hiking with the whole family. Campervan adventurers can park at the designated car park at the park's entrance or take the shuttle bus from the lower car park in winter, ensuring a smooth visit to Tasmania's majestic highlands. 

 

5. Woolmers Estate

Nestled in Longford and a 2-hour drive from Hobart, Woolmers Estate is a slice of Australian heritage, perfectly preserved from the 19th century. This sprawling 82-hectare estate showcases the evolution of Australian farming through buildings frozen in time, including the impressive main homestead, quaint workers’ cottages, and a historic chapel. 

When visiting this Tasmanian attraction, don't miss exploring the blacksmith shop, stables, and Australia's oldest woolshed still standing. Woolmers Estate offers a unique glimpse into the early European settlement of Tasmania as well as the pioneering spirit of the Archer family, who owned the land for six generations. For those travelling by campervan, parking is available on-site, making it easy to explore this historic gem.  

 

6. Cataract Gorge Reserve

A mere 5-minute drive from Launceston, Cataract Gorge Reserve is where city life and natural tranquillity effortlessly merge. This urban oasis is a favourite among locals as well as a popular Tasmania tourist attraction for its stunning scenery, the historic Kings Bridge, and being home to the world's longest single-span chairlift. 

Here, you can enjoy a leisurely ride across the gorge or challenge the whole family to an iconic Tasmania hike on the scenic trails to witness the beauty of this natural reserve up close. If you really want to experience the full spectrum that this iconic Tasmania attraction has to offer, the chairlift offers a unique vantage point to take in the gorge's splendour 

 

Where to stay in Tasmania

Tasmania offers a variety of campervan-friendly accommodations, from bustling holiday parks to serene campgrounds, ensuring you have a comfortable place to park after a day of exploring the best things to do in Tasmania. Here are a few of our top picks on the route from Hobart to Launceston.

Image: Instagram - @andrewatsonphoto

 

BIG4 Hobart Airport Tourist Park

BIG4 Hobart Airport Tourist Park offers a seamless start to your Tasmania adventure, especially for families flying into the island. Just a stone's throw from Hobart Airport, this tourist park is the perfect first stop on your campervan journey. With its spacious powered sites, your campervan will feel right at home. The park doesn't skimp on amenities either; let the kids burn off some energy on the jumping pillow or kick back in the TV room. It’s an ideal spot for a comfortable and enjoyable stay, ensuring you and your family are well-rested and ready to get ready to explore the best things to do in Tasmania.  

 

Big4 Launceston Holiday Park

Big4 Launceston Holiday Park is an excellent base for those exploring Tasmania by campervan. Located conveniently in Launceston, it provides easy access to Cataract Gorge and the sprawling township of Launceston. The park boasts a range of facilities to enhance your stay, including powered sites, modern amenities, and breathtaking views of the surrounding region. Its proximity to the city centre means you're never too far from Launceston's charming cafes, shops, and restaurants. 

 

Big4 St Helens Holiday Park

For those wanting to add a detour to the East Coast, Big4 St Helens Holiday Park is your gateway to iconic Tasmanian sites like the Bay of Fires. This holiday park is a haven for campervan adventurers looking to explore the stunning Tasmania beaches and coastal walks this area is renowned for. Offering a mix of powered and unpowered sites, modern facilities, and easy access to St Helens’ vibrant town, it's the perfect spot to recharge before your next adventure. 

 

Explore more of Tasmania with Apollo

This road trip from Hobart to Launceston is just the beginning of what awaits a Tasmania campervan hire adventure. With an Apollo campervan, you're free to explore Tasmania’s attractions at your own pace, discovering hidden gems and iconic landmarks along the way. Whether it's diving into the rich history of Woolmers Estate, experiencing the natural beauty of Cataract Gorge, or finding the perfect campsite under the stars in the Bay of Fires, Apollo has you covered. Ready to start your campervan hire adventure with Apollo? Book your campervan today.

 

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Tags: Apollo Camper Tasmania things to do

Where to stay in Auckland with your campervan

 

The Auckland region and surrounding North Island are perfect for your motorhome or campervan journey. The area is packed full of motorhome-friendly holiday parks that can provide power and security while offering amazing views. There will often be a holiday park close to popular towns and tourist spots so you can enjoy everything Auckland has to offer.

Holiday parks can supply powered and non-powered sites for campervans and motorhomes, as well as tents and caravans. They may offer multiple recreational amenities like heated swimming pools, trampolines and barbeque facilities. 

For inspiration, check out these world-class tourist areas which cater to motorhomes and campervans:

The Shakespear Regional Park - Situated north of Auckland, this beautiful spot offers beautiful views of Te Haruhi Bay, with three main walking tracks for you to enjoy.

Whatuwhiwhi Holiday Park - Perfect for a beach-side getaway, this spot is great for accessing the pristine Perihepe Beach. Enjoy an array of activities in the area, like fishing, snorkelling, kayaking and paddle boarding. 

Kauri Coast Holiday Park - Located on two hectares of stunning native parkland, the Kauri Coast is a great launching point for seeing the natural wonders of the west coast. Visit the nearby Waipoua Forest, Kauri Park or stroll along the beaches at Maunganui Bluff.

New Zealand is also a free camping nation which means you can park and stay the night in designated areas, as long as you're respectful of others and the environment. Freedom camping is a great option for cheap campervan hire, but it is only allowed for certified self-contained vehicles. This means it must have an on-board toilet, shower and waste disposal facilities.

For more information about free camping in your campervan rental, Auckland City Council has provided detailed rules and regulations for staying in the city.

Why choose Apollo for campervan and motorhome hire in Auckland?

 

Apollo has been a leading brand for premium quality motorhome and campervan rentals since 1985. Our entire campervan fleet is designed and custom built by expert RV manufacturers, who understand New Zealand’s unique climate and terrain. Fitted with quality appliances and furnishings, we can ensure you all the comforts from home when you’re on the road.

Contact our Apollo Motorhomes Reservations team and speak to one of our dedicated team members today. You can also browse through our range of campervans and motorhomes online now and start planning your ultimate Auckland road trip.

Nearest Campsite

TAKAPUNA BEACH HOLIDAY PARK

22 The Promenade, Takapuna,
Auckland 0622

Apollo campervan filling up at petrol station

Nearest Fuel Station

WAITOMO MANGERE

33 Richard Pearse Drive, Mangere,
Auckland 2022

Family cooking in Apollo motorhome

Nearest Supermarket

PAK'N'SAVE

Corner of Bader Drive & Orly Avenue, Mangere, Auckland, 2022

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