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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, Domestic Terminal: Pick up is opposite the Jetstar end of the Terminal. Once you have your luggage, head left and exit through doors 9 or 10. Walk straight ahead, across the pedestrian crossing, towards the big white control tower, to the shuttle pick-up point. Once there, you will need to request a pickup on the Aeroparks shuttle by calling through to Aeroparks. Let them know you need to be collected from the Domestic Terminal. Refer to the attached map and follow the pink line. Phone number for Aeroparks is 0800 237 672 or +64 27 414 4712. Pick-up is between 8am and 4pm daily.

If you’re flying into Auckland airport, International Terminal: Once you clear customs, exit the terminal from door 4 or door 8 and make your way across the pedestrian crossing, beside the Novotel Hotel. It’s just a short 5-7 minutes’ walk under the covered canopy walkway. Refer to the attached map and follow the pink line from door 8 (or door 4), making your way to shuttle pick-up zone*. Once there, you will need to request a pickup on the Aeroparks shuttle by calling through to Aeroparks. 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.

If you are travelling by car: You can book secure parking with Aeroparks by calling 0800 237 672 or +64 27 414 4712. thl customers receive a 25% discount off the rate of the day. Please ensure you let staff know you are a thl customer and that you require to be picked up and dropped off at the Auckland branch location on Manu Tapu Drive. If you are at our branch and require a pick-up, please contact the shuttle request number on +64 27 213 2880.

Alternatively, there are many other secure local car parking options available near our Auckland branch, but there is no shuttle available from these locations.

 

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

Heather Schiller
/ Categories: NZ blog

Things to do in Queenstown

We've broken down the must-do activities to do in Queenstown – be that strolling through the quaint Queenstown market, pedalling along the Queenstown bike trails, soaring above the town in the gondola in Queenstown, or playing detective to uncover the charm of Arrowtown. For good measure, we have also added a few of our top recommendations or places to stay in Queenstown to add to your campervan hire travel itinerary. So, grab your pen, or well, your phone, and let's jot down the essentials for a campervan adventure through Queenstown – ensuring your travel itinerary is nothing short of epic.

 

What is Queenstown best known for?

Oh, where do we start with the legend that is Queenstown? This is a town where the mundane is frowned upon, and the extraordinary is just a part of the daily grind. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, with the Southern Alps looming, it has gained fame for its adrenaline-pumping activities and Queenstown attractions. Whether you dream of bungee jumping off Kawarau Bridge or skiing down the Remarkables during the winter (not to mention the myriad of water sports in the warmer months), this region is the Holy Grail for adrenaline junkies. But it’s not all about the heart-racing shenanigans; Queenstown also has a softer, more serene side with its vineyards, historic Arrowtown, and a burgeoning food scene. 

 

Why Queenstown is a great place to visit on your campervan trip

There are plenty of activities to do in Queenstown that are suitable for families, couples, or lone rangers with a lust for exploration. The scenic roads are a camper road trip haven as you transition between serene lakes, rolling hills, and rugged mountains (though just be sure to steer clear of the crown ranges, as campers are not permitted here). Its prime location makes it the perfect launchpad for other South Island must-dos and New Zealand travel draws, like Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound, Lake Wanaka, and Arrowtown. Making Queenstown a stellar base camp for your New Zealand road trip. 

The beauty of Queenstown is its year-round appeal, be it the snow-capped winters ideal for skiing or the blooming summers perfect for a hike or a bike ride along the Queenstown bike trail. Fancy a bird’s eye view? Hop onto the gondola in Queenstown for a scenic flirt with the skies. And if you fancy a more tranquil adventure, the Queenstown Kiwi Park awaits to introduce you to these feathery icons. And the best part? You can easily find a place to park your camper, stretch your legs, and explore the quaint town or the wild trails on foot. This iconic New Zealand road trip destination is ready to sweep you off your feet, one quaint street at a time.

 

How many days in Queenstown is enough?

Now, onto the million-dollar question when planning your first campervan trip: how many days do you have to earmark for Queenstown? The allure of Queenstown is such that a day would only be a teaser. So, while the town’s charm can hook you in for weeks, a good 3 to 4-day stint should do this town justice. This timeframe allows you to soak in the majestic lake views, defy gravity with a bungee jump, and perhaps enjoy a serene bike ride along Lake Wakatipu. That way, you won’t be sucked into a mad rush of ticking off your list of things to do in Queenstown, New Zealand, but actually have the chance to immerse yourself and experience this region’s alpine beauty.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

The 10 best things to do in Queenstown

So, how do you spend a day in Queenstown? Whether it's sinking your teeth into a juicy Fergburger, rummaging through the vibrant Queenstown market, biking along the scenic Queenstown bike trails, or taking a ride on the iconic gondola in Queenstown, there are seemingly endless things to do in Queenstown – especially when armed with your trusty camper. Here is our pick of the top 10 things to do in Queenstown on your upcoming adventure. 

 

1. Enjoy a famous Fergburger

A trip to Queenstown would be half-baked without paying homage to the legendary Fergburger. In a land where the landscapes steal the show, Fergburger enters the scene with a standing ovation. This burger joint is a legend among Queenstown’s attractions and a rite of passage for anyone cruising through the town. As you approach, the aroma of grilled meat entwined with fresh herbs beckons you towards what many claim to be ‘the best burgers in New Zealand’. As you sink your teeth into the juicy goodness, you’ll realise why the queue outside often resembles the line at a rock concert. Luckily, the digital age blesses us with online ordering, easing the wait for your turn to devour one of New Zealand’s most famed burgers.

The menu isn’t just a one-hit-wonder; breakfast burgers, kiddie delights, and thick shakes to wash it all down. Once you've got your hands on one of these beasts of a burger, you can saunter over to the nearby waterfront, find a cosy spot, and indulge in a burger with a view. A delicious chapter to your things to do in Queenstown tale.

 

2. Stroll through the Queenstown Market

If your idea of a Saturday well spent involves artisanal treasures and a dash of local culture, then the Queenstown market is your go-to. Nestled by the lakefront, the shorefront comes alive from 9 am to 4 pm. As you meander through the stalls, you’ll come across a diverse range of goods, from handcrafted pottery and jewellery to unique wood and metal creations. While your eyes feast on the kaleidoscope of products, you will be treated to the glorious morning sun reflecting off Lake Wakatipu. Whether you're on a mission to find the perfect souvenir or just keen on soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, the Queenstown Market is a charming pit stop in any New Zealand road trip adventure.

 

3. Take a detour to Arrowtown

Ah, the quaint, charming enclave of Arrowtown! For those in the back wondering, “Is Arrowtown worth a visit?” – it's a resounding yes! The blend of history, natural beauty, and a cozy community vibe makes it a cherished detour on any New Zealand road trip. The drive from Queenstown to Arrowtown in your motorhome is a brief yet beautiful route, threading through landscapes that are a testament to New Zealand’s surreal beauty. 

Just a 20-minute camper ride away from Queenstown, this historic gold mining town is a nugget of the past nestled amidst the modern bustle. Once a haven for those with big dreams during the 1860s gold rush, today, it's a picturesque escape for those chasing serene trails and quaint cafe corners. Meander through its leafy lanes and stumble upon boutique shops. Then, hit the walking trails. Whether it's the Sawpit Gully trail or the Tobins Track, the scenic trails here are a travel itinerary must. Fancy a little gold panning? Arrowtown lets you flirt with your fortune at the riverbanks, where gold nuggets were once a common find. Simply hire a gold pan and head down to the river to see if you will strike gold!

 

4. Visit Kiwi Park

A whisk away from Queenstown, and you find yourself amidst the chirps and flutters of Kiwi Birdlife Park. This sanctuary is a window to New Zealand’s avian wonders, nestled right in the heart of Queenstown. Step in, and the world transforms into a haven of native flora and fauna. The park is home to over 20 native bird species and – its biggest drawcard – the elusive kiwi. Be sure to join the Kiwi Encounter, where you come face to beak with New Zealand’s iconic nocturnal bird. 

 

5. Take a Farm Tour

As your camper trundles along the scenic routes of Queenstown’s surrounds make a pitstop at the countryside haven of Walter Peak High Country Farm. The Walter Peak Farm Tour is a ticket to experiencing New Zealand’s pastoral heartland. Here, the green pastures roll under the soft shadows of towering mountains, offering a tranquil retreat from the adventure-fueled activities to do in Queenstown.

The tour is a perfect blend of traditional farming practices with a sprinkle of Kiwi hospitality. Whether it's watching a sheep shearing demonstration or feeding the farmyard animals, every activity gives a peek into the simplistic and serene rural life of New Zealand – adding a rustic charm to your New Zealand road trip. Best of all, accessing this pastoral paradise is a breezy drive from Queenstown, with ample spaces to park your camper. 

 

6. Bike the Queenstown Trail

Alright, let’s pedal into the heart of Queenstown’s outdoors, shall we? The Queenstown Trails is your ticket to cruising through some of the most jaw-dropping sceneries you'll ever lay eyes on. With over 130 km of off-road trails to pick from, you’ve got options aplenty, whether you’re up for a breezy morning ride or a full-day cycling saga. With vistas of the Wakatipu Basin, the Shotover River, and Lake Hayes as your companions along the ride, there are plenty of options to choose from!

Getting here? A cinch. Park the camper in town, saddle up, and you’re on your way to a day packed with pedal-powered adventure. Don’t have a bike? No problem. There are plenty of great places to rent a bike for a day in town, or you can simply opt to explore these beauties on foot. And hey, don’t forget to pack a picnic; there are loads of perfect spots to plop down and soak in the surroundings. 

 

7. Wander Queenstown Gardens

Speaking of great views, how about a leisurely stroll through a slice of Eden? The Queenstown Gardens are a tranquil little haven right in the midst of the adrenaline buzz that is Queenstown. Established way back in 1866, this place has been serving up doses of serenity for over a century. Meander along the paths, and you’ll be greeted by a spectacle of roses, with Lake Wakatipu playing peek-a-boo through the foliage.

And hey, ever thrown a Frisbee in a garden that’s over a century old? Toss in a round of Frisbee golf at the Queenstown Gardens, and you’ve got yourself a fine blend of the quaint and quirky. Your camper will find a snug spot in the nearby parking area, just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the entrance of this Queenstown attraction. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to slow down, breathe in, and just be.

 

8. Visit a sweet shop haven

For those of us with a sweet tooth, Queenstown has a sugary haven tucked up its sleeve. Say hello to the Remarkables Sweet Shop, a place where the world seems to be painted in shades of candy. Park your camper nearby and step into a realm where every shelf is laden with sweet promises. Whether you’re a fudge fanatic or a lolly lover, there’s a little something to tickle everyone’s sweet fancy. It’s the perfect pitstop to load up on some sugary fuel before you hit the road again for your New Zealand road trip.  

 

9. Ride the gondola in Queenstown

So, after all those ground-level gallivants, how about we take to the skies with the Skyline Gondola. As you glide up Bob’s Peak in this state-of-the-art gondola, Queenstown unfolds below you. And when you reach the top, the views are nothing short of magic, with Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables Mountain Range standing tall in the backdrop. If that wasn’t enough, up top, you’ve got one of the most stunning dining tables Queenstown has to offer with the Stratosfare Restaurant and bar, as well as a luge track. The gondola runs from 9 am to 9 pm, giving you ample time to chase the sun.  

 

10. Try the crazy doughnuts

Now, let’s shimmy down from the skies and dive into a sugary whirlpool, shall we? Welcome to the land of sweet madness, Balls and Bangles. Imagine doughnuts, not just glazed but dressed up in a riot of colours and flavours, each one with its personality, daring you to take a bite. Open from 7:30 am to 5 pm, this sweet haven is where diets come to die happily. 

And it's not just about doughnuts; they've got a lineup of bagels and coffee that’ll make your morning shine brighter than the Southern stars. Located in the heart of Queenstown, getting here is a cinch. Park your camper, follow the aroma of fresh dough, and voila! Whether you’re a sugar lover or a bagel buff, Balls and Bangles is a perfect sweet pit stop on your Queenstown New Zealand travel itinerary.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

Where to stay in Queenstown

Alright, now that your adventure appetite is all riled up, let’s talk nests for places to stay in Queenstown. No, not the birdy kind, but cozy spots to park that comfy campervan hire of yours while you're exploring this Southern gem. Whether you fancy a lake view lounge or a wooded wonderland, Queenstown has a caravan spot with your name on it. Let’s cruise through some options of where to stay in Queenstown that are more than just a parking spot, shall we?

 

Queenstown Top 10

First on the list is the Top 10 Holiday Park in Queenstown. Nestled amidst a tranquil setting, yet a stone's throw away from the town buzz, this park is a blend of convenience and serenity. Facilities? Oh, they’ve got you covered with a range of options from powered sites to motel units, all decked with amenities to make your campervan stay extra comfy. It’s a cozy corner to park, sleep, and sprint into the very best things to do in Queenstown.

 

Hampshire Holiday Parks

Next up is Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park (Hampshire Holiday Park), a place where the name pretty much sums it up. Park your camper here, and you’re waking up to a lake view that’s nothing short of a postcard scene. The facilities range from powered sites for your motorhome to self-contained units if you fancy a night under a solid roof.  

 

Driftaway Queenstown

Now, if you fancy a bit of a drift from the usual when it comes to places to stay in Queenstown, Driftaway Queenstown is your spot. Tucked away in a peaceful locale, this park is a haven for campervan mates. With powered sites to keep your camper all juiced up and essential facilities to make your stay snug, it’s a neat nook away from the town hustle.  

 

Ready for your Queenstown adventure?

From sky-high gondola rides to sugar-coated doughnuts and scenic bike trails to cozy campervan corners, there are plenty of great things to do in Queenstown on a New Zealand road trip. Now that you have every reason to take a New Zealand road trip, it’s your turn to turn these words into wanderlust realities. Ready to book your campervan online? Booking your Apollo campervan online is a breeze, and with multiple rental branches, picking up your ride to explore the best things to do in Queenstown, as well as places to stay in Queenstown in a campervan (and beyond), is just a click away. 

 

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Tags: Apollo Camper South Island New Zealand Queenstown Dunedin Free Camping things to do southern lakes and fiordland

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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