4 Weeks New Zealand

In November 2025, I went on an unforgettable road trip through New Zealand together with my niece Iris and her partner Thijs. What an experience! From glaciers to golden beaches and from film sets to volcanoes: this country has it all.

During this four-week journey, we travelled by campervan from the South Island to the North Island. For many, arriving in Christchurch (or Auckland, if you reverse the route) is the moment to first recover from the long journey. My advice? Don't plan anything for the first day and make sure, depending on your arrival time, that you can properly recover.

For our trip, I had arranged two campers through Barefoot Campers. These are ideal for a medium-length road trip and perfect for solo travelers or couples. Through Good Day Travels, I'm happy to help you book the right camper and create your dream journey.

Hieronder vind je mijn complete reisverslag, inclusief tips voor campings, wandelingen en bezienswaardigheden.

Traveling through New Zealand only becomes truly unforgettable when you have the freedom to determine your own route.
What could be more fun than taking a road trip in your own camper?

Upon arrival at Christchurch Airport, we immediately picked up the campervans, so we had our transport and accommodation sorted straight away. For this campervan trip through New Zealand, I had arranged two campervans through Barefoot Campers. These campervans are ideal for a medium-length road trip and perfectly suited for individuals or couples who want to explore New Zealand by campervan.

Christchurch: peaceful landing after the long journey

In the afternoon we deliberately took it easy. Christchurch is a great city to start your campervan trip: compact, green and relaxed. We took a walk through the center and visited New Regent Street, one of the city's most charming streets with colorful facades, boutiques and nice cafés.

A fun way to explore Christchurch is with the hop-on hop-off tram, which travels through the city center in vintage trams. In our opinion, this is one of the most enjoyable and relaxed ways to discover the city, especially if you've just arrived.

In the evening, we ended the day with a drink at The Church Pub, a charming café that, as the name suggests, is housed in a former church. A special place and a lovely start to our road trip through the South Island.

The next morning we had a nice lie-in first. Something I always recommend after a long flight. After that we started the day well with a hearty brunch at Bobby's Brunch. The food here is not only delicious, but also beautifully presented. Definitely recommended if you're visiting Christchurch.

After brunch we took a stroll through the city centre, browsed some shops and picked up the last few things before we really hit the road. Early afternoon we got into our campers and started the first leg of this camper trip through New Zealand, heading towards Lake Tekapo.

There are two routes to drive from Christchurch towards Lake Tekapo. We deliberately chose State Highway 77 via Inland Scenic Route 72, rather than Highway 1. This route is much quieter, greener and far more varied in terms of landscape.

After about an hour's drive, you'll reach Rakaia Gorge, an impressive canyon with bright blue river water. Here you'll find a beautiful walk of approximately 10.5 kilometers return, which runs along the top of the gorge and continuously offers views over the Rakaia River.

At Rakaia Gorge there's also a lovely, simple campsite where you can stay overnight for about $15 per person. We decided to stay here, do the walk and spend our first night in the camper. Sleeping with a view over the river and completely surrounded by nature was a perfect start to our road trip.

Alternative tip: continue to Fairlie
If you leave Christchurch earlier in the morning, you can also choose to continue to Fairlie after the Rakaia Gorge hike (± 3 hours total driving). A nice place to stay overnight is Musterer's Accommodation Fairlie, a peaceful campsite with alpacas. For food and drinks in the evening, the Silverstream Hotel is recommended, just a five-minute drive away.

Day 3–4: Rakaia Gorge | Lake Tekapo | Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park (~ 3.5 hours driving)

The next morning we left early from Rakaia Gorge. Our final destination was Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, but we had deliberately allowed plenty of time for a long stop at Lake Tekapo. One of the great advantages of travelling with a campervan in New Zealand is that you can stop flexibly wherever and whenever you want.

From Rakaia Gorge it's just over a two-hour drive to Lake Tekapo. On the way we stopped in Fairlie at the Fairlie Bakehouse. Here we had a quick breakfast and grabbed a coffee. The pies here are known as some of the best in New Zealand and we can absolutely confirm that.

Tip along the way:
About 20 minutes before Lake Tekapo, you'll drive through Burkes Pass. Here you'll find Three Creeks – Vintage Garage Decor, a fun stop with vintage items, classic cars and decor that feels like a village from bygone days.

We arrived around 10:00 AM in Lake Tekapo and started with the Lake Tekapo Peninsula Walk. This short loop walk of about 5 km offers beautiful views over the bright blue lake, with the mountains of the Southern Alps in the background. An ideal walk to stretch your legs after driving. From mid-November to about mid-January you'll find the beautiful and famous lupin flowers here. These pink/purple flowers give the area a real boost and you can expect incredible views!

Would you like to take a longer hike?
Then the Mt John Summit Circuit Track is an excellent choice. This 8.5 km loop trail takes you along Lake Tekapo and up to Mount John, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views over the lake and surrounding mountains.

After the walk, we had a homemade lunch at the camper, something that makes traveling by camper so enjoyable, before continuing towards Mount Cook National Park.

From Lake Tekapo, it's about another 1.5 hours' drive to Mount Cook National Park. The route itself is impressive, with ever-growing mountains and glaciers in the distance.

We had booked an overnight stay at White Horse Hill Campground. The campsite is located in the middle of the national park and serves as the starting point for several popular walks, including the iconic Hooker Valley Track.

In the afternoon we decided to do the Red Tarns Track first. This walk is relatively short (± 3.5 km return), but goes steeply uphill. It's a bit of a slog, but the view at the top is incredible. You look out over Hooker Valley and Mount Cook, with a remote mountain lake in the foreground. Highly recommended if you have limited time but still want to do something spectacular.

The next day we started with the famous Hooker Valley Track. This 10 km return walk is technically easy and takes you through a rugged, rocky landscape towards Hooker Lake, where ice chunks from the glacier often float in the water. Despite its popularity, this remains one of New Zealand's most beautiful walks.

After the Hooker Valley, we drove on to the Tasman Valley, where we did the short climb to the viewpoint over Tasman Lake and the Tasman Glacier. A completely different perspective, but just as impressive.

Overview of hikes in Mount Cook National Park

Below is an overview of the different walks you can do in Mount Cook National Park. Personally, I've done all of them, as I came here often as a tour guide during my work in New Zealand.

Extra tips voor Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook National Park is popular as a day trip for tourists. Try to do your hikes early or late in the day.

After our overnight stay in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park and completing several hikes, we decided to take it easy this day. We had already covered quite a few kilometers on foot and didn't want to make another long driving day. Therefore, we chose to head towards Twizel, a short drive of about 45 minutes.

Just before you enter Twizel, you'll find Lake Wardell Campsite. This is a basic, free campground and ideal for staying one night. The location is quiet and spacious and has a drop toilet. Don't expect luxury, but for a short stop this is a great spot, especially when you're traveling with a self-contained camper.

Would you prefer a bit more comfort?
Then Twizel Holiday Park is a good option. This campsite is located in Twizel itself and has extensive facilities such as showers, toilets and a communal kitchen. Ideal if you want to recharge during your road trip through the South Island.

On day five of our road trip through New Zealand, it was time to introduce my guests to Queenstown, the place where I had been living for eight months at that point. From Twizel, you reach Omarama after about twenty minutes of driving. Right at the entrance of the village is café The Wrinkly Ram, a perfect stop for a good cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast.

Aan het einde van de ochtend arriveerden we in Queenstown. Iris had vier nachten geboekt op Hampshire Holiday Parks – Queenstown Lakeview. Niet de gezelligste camping, maar wel midden in het dorp, waardoor alles op loopafstand ligt.

Tip: Boek campings in en rondom Queenstown zo vroeg mogelijk; deze zitten vaak maanden van tevoren vol.
Alternatief: Queenstown Holiday Park Creeksyde is een groenere en sfeervollere optie, eveneens op loopafstand van het centrum.

Upon arrival, Iris and Thijs settled in at the campsite, while I took care of some things at home. Later that afternoon we walked into the center, browsed shops and had drinks at various pubs.

On day two, Milford Sound was on the agenda. In my opinion, an absolute must during a visit to Queenstown. I worked at the time as a guide at Cheeky Kiwi Travel. They offer a day trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound and back. Do you have enough time? Then do the drive yourself and stay overnight in Fiordland National Park! On the day we went, I was the tour guide myself, which made it extra special to take my family along for this day. Milford Sound is impressive in all weather conditions: sunshine means crystal-clear blue views and rain creates hundreds of waterfalls along the steep cliff walls. During the day trip, we went onto the fjord with a smaller boat (book this through Cruise Milford or Mitre Peak), which gets you closer to the waterfalls and rock faces. Absolutely recommended!

In the morning we drove to Arrowtown, about twenty minutes from Queenstown. This village is known as 'New Zealand's prettiest town' and was formed during the gold rush of 1862. We visited the Gold Museum and walked through the historic Chinese Settlement, a remarkable piece of protected heritage from the Chinese gold miners. Arrowtown has many cosy cafés and restaurants; we had lunch at Ayrburn, a beautiful vineyard with several dining options.

In the afternoon we visited Kiwi Park Queenstown, right in the center. Here you can see virtually all native bird species of New Zealand, including the kiwi, something you rarely experience in the wild. Upon entering, you walk through the Honeycomb Centre, where you can buy Manuka honey among other things.

On our last full day we did a Lord of the Rings tour to Glenorchy in the morning with Nomad Safaris. In 4×4 vehicles we drove past filming locations like Isengard, Lothlórien and Fangorn Forest. The area beyond Glenorchy, aptly named Paradise, is absolutely spectacular! I also work here as a tour guide so it was nice to introduce my family to what I do for work.

After returning, we had lunch at Bespoke Kitchen. In the afternoon, we boarded the historic TSS Earnslaw for a cruise across Lake Wakatipu, followed by an extensive BBQ dinner on the other side at the working sheep farm Walter Peak. After dinner, we enjoyed a farm show featuring sheep shearing and herding dogs, before returning to Queenstown by boat around 8:15 PM, complete with live music and a look into the warm engine room.

After our adventure in Queenstown it was time to move on. We would drive towards Franz Josef in a day so we left around 8 in the morning. There were quite a few stops we wanted to make along the way so we definitely needed our time. Below I have described each stop separately:

Wanaka
From the Cardrona Hotel, it's about a 20-minute drive to the beautiful village of Wanaka. Located beside Lake Wanaka, it offers stunning views of the mountain ranges on the other side of the lake. In the lake itself, you'll find the famous 'Wanaka Tree'. This willow tree stands in the middle of the lake and is a real tourist attraction. We walked here and it's certainly an amusing sight. Try to go as early as possible, especially on a nice day. By late morning and in the afternoon, there are literally hundreds of people here taking photos.

Just outside Wanaka you'll find Pembroke Patisserie. We quickly grabbed a breakfast to go here before continuing on our way.

The drive from Wanaka to the Blue Pools is truly heaven on earth. From Wanaka, you first head towards Lake Hawea, which you follow for about 20 minutes. Expect bright blue water and majestic mountain ranges in the background! Once past Lake Hawea, you turn off and drive along the upper side of Lake Wanaka. This is also absolutely stunning, and literally around every bend you see something new..

After an hour's drive, you'll arrive at the Blue Pools car park. These are renowned for their stunning, crystal-clear, intensely blue water, fed by meltwater from the Makarora River. You reach them via the easy and short Blue Pools Track, a walk through native beech forest. During this 15-20 minute walk, you'll cross several swing bridges with fantastic views of the pools and the surrounding Southern Alps.

Around 5 in the afternoon we finally arrived in Franz Josef. We had booked an overnight stay at the Orange Sheep Campervan Park. This campsite offers pitches with and without electricity. Without electricity you pay only $20 per person ($25pp in high season) which is a very reasonable price considering the location and facilities provided. The campsite gives you the feeling as if you're camping in the middle of a rainforest!

In the evening, while it was pouring down, we had dinner at Alice May Restaurant. A really nice place and you feel as if you're in a mountain lodge like the ones you encounter in Austria. Highly recommended!

The next morning we set out to explore Franz Josef Glacier, one of New Zealand's most famous glaciers. This impressive glacier on the west coast of the South Island can be explored in various ways, with multiple walking tracks leading you through the rugged landscape towards the ice. Earlier this year I had already done a hike to a mountain peak with a panoramic view over the glacier. This time, however, we chose a different, equally spectacular route: the Robert's Point Track.

The Robert's Point Track hiking trail is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful walks you can do in New Zealand. This hike is approximately 10 kilometers return and takes you through dense rainforest, along riverbeds and over suspension bridges. The endpoint is a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the Franz Josef Glacier and the surrounding mountains. For anyone who enjoys hiking and wants to truly experience New Zealand's nature, this hike is an absolute must-do.

Keep in mind that the Robert's Point Track is a reasonably challenging hike. A good basic fitness level is recommended, as you'll need to climb and scramble in some sections. After rain, the trail can also be slippery and muddy. Good hiking boots, rain gear and sufficient water are therefore essential. With the right preparation, you'll be rewarded with one of the most impressive nature experiences during a road trip through New Zealand.

After our morning hike at the glacier in Franz Josef, we decided to take it easy in the afternoon and drive towards Hokitika Gorge. Since it was already getting dark by the time we arrived, we chose to visit the gorge the next morning instead. A decision we didn't regret for a moment.

We had arranged our accommodation at a spot behind a local pub in a small farming village in the Hokitika area. Personally, I thought this was an absolutely fantastic place. When we walked into the pub, there were a few locals sitting at the bar who looked pretty rough. Iris and Thijs exchanged glances that said: "Where have we ended up now?" However, I immediately felt at ease and decided that this was exactly the place where we wanted to stay.

It turned out to be a wonderful choice. We had the entire place practically to ourselves, with clean showers and toilets and even a small, cozy kitchen for cooking. The owner was incredibly friendly and welcoming. The location is set in the middle of a peaceful farming area, surrounded by pastures with grazing cows. Exactly that raw, authentic New Zealand feeling that makes a campervan trip so special.

The next morning we drove early towards Hokitika Gorge. I had been here before during an earlier road trip, but this place remains so impressive that a second visit is absolutely worth it. There's a short walking trail around the gorge that takes about an hour, including stops.

The water here is intensely blue and crystal clear, a color you can hardly believe until you see it with your own eyes. On a sunny day it looks as if the gorge is filled with sparkling diamonds. During warmer periods it's also possible to swim here. Do keep in mind that the water is quite fresh even on warm days at the beginning of summer. Towards the end of summer, swimming here is much more pleasant.

Why this stop is perfect for a motorhome trip

The combination of a peaceful overnight stay in a local village and a natural highlight like Hokitika Gorge makes this part of the route ideal for those renting a campervan in New Zealand who want to discover the West Coast in a relaxed way. You drive short distances, have plenty of nature around you and experience the real, unpolished South Island. Exactly what a campervan road trip is all about.

After visiting Hokitika Gorge, we drove straight through to our final destination for the day; Punakaiki. Along the way we passed through Greymouth where we walked around a bit and visited some shops. Fine for spending an afternoon but otherwise we didn't find it particularly special.

Once we arrived in Punakaiki, we took a short walk in the afternoon to the 'Pancake Rocks'. At the start of the walk there's plenty of parking space and the walk itself takes at most 45 minutes including photo stops. The Pancake Rocks, which are about 30 million years old, formed as layers on the seabed that were eventually pushed up by seismic activity. Very impressive.

The Punakaiki Beach Camp campsite we had chosen for this evening is located right next to the ocean and here you will experience the best sunset in New Zealand. A beautiful campsite with spacious pitches and plenty of greenery. After waking up leisurely the next morning, we went to walk the Pororari River Track. An easy but very beautiful 6.4km walk along the Pororari River with a stunning coastal rainforest.

After we had completed all our activities around Punakaiki, we drove towards the north of the South Island. Here we were going to visit Abel Tasman National Park. Along the way, we stayed overnight halfway at Quinny's Bush Camp. A very nice campsite in the middle of the woods but located along the main road. When we were there it was pleasantly quiet, but it is very much geared towards families with children. Want to avoid this? Then it's better not to come here on weekends or during school holidays.

The next day it was another two hours to Abel Tasman National Park. In this area, Abel Tasman, the first European to discover New Zealand, came ashore in 1642 at the place now called 'Golden Bay'. Abel Tasman National Park is known for its beautiful golden beaches, the turquoise colour of the sea and the famous Abel Tasman Coastal Track. During my earlier road trip I stayed on the east side of the park at a campsite called 'Old Macdonald's Holiday Park'. Lovely green campsite located next to a river where you can swim. From here you have easy access to the water taxis that can take you to different spots along the coast to then walk back.

After a lovely night at Quinney's Bush Camp, we woke up early on the morning of day 13. After packing up the camper, we drove straight to Abel Tasman National Park, all the way to the northwestern side of the park. This is where the Waihui car park is located, where our hike for the day would begin.

Inland & Coast Loop Track via Gibbs Hill

De wandeling die we gingen doen heet de Inland & Coast Loop Track via Gibbs Hill. Deze indrukwekkende lus is ongeveer 24 kilometer lang en combineert het beste van twee werelden: een deel door dichtbegroeide bossen en een deel langs de ruige kustlijn.
Tijdens deze hike ontdek je een prachtig en relatief rustig deel van Abel Tasman National Park, met uitzicht op de oceaan, goudgele stranden en groene heuvels. Zeker op een zonnige dag is dit een van de mooiste wandelingen in de regio.
Hoewel deze hike ontzettend mooi is, is het belangrijk om te weten dat hij niet volledig vlak is. Op sommige stukken is het pad behoorlijk steil, waardoor een goede basisconditie zeker aan te raden is.

We started around 10:30 AM and ultimately took about five and a half to six hours. By late afternoon we were back at the parking lot.

This route is part of the famous Abel Tasman Coastal Track, one of New Zealand's nine official Great Walks. That immediately explains why this area is so popular with hikers from all over the world.

Earlier this year I had already walked another part of this route. Back then I was dropped off halfway at Bark Bay by water taxi and walked back towards the starting point Marahau. That was also about 24 kilometers.

The complete Abel Tasman Coastal Walk is approximately 60 kilometers in total, but the great thing is that you can easily divide the route. This way you can walk different sections at different times, depending on your schedule and fitness level. Marahau and Waihui are the start and end points.

After our hike, we drove straight to our next accommodation: Hack'n Stay Golden Bay. After a quick check-in, we got back in our camper for dinner at The Mussel Inn, a cozy restaurant just five minutes away.

This place is truly recommended: idyllically situated among the trees, with delicious food and an excellent selection of local beers. The perfect spot to recover after such a long day of hiking.

After dinner we drove back to the campsite and dove into our beds on time. With tired legs, but big smiles, we closed another unforgettable day in New Zealand.

After a relaxed night, we decided to take it easy the next morning. We slept in, packed up the campers, and drove towards Takaka, a cozy village in Golden Bay known for its laid-back atmosphere and great places to eat.

In Takaka we stopped at The Wholemeal Café, an absolute must for breakfast or a good cup of coffee. The café has a light, open atmosphere with clear influences from the '60s and '70s, both in the interior and the music.

The staff was incredibly friendly and the food of high quality. A perfect place to start the day relaxed before heading out.

Before we reached Takaka, we first made a short stop at Te Waikoropupu Springs. This is a short, easy walk along several natural springs.

On a sunny day, the colors of the water are truly spectacular: intensely clear, almost surrealistic blue. These springs are among the clearest freshwater sources in the world and are truly unique within New Zealand. A short stop that is absolutely worth it.

After breakfast and sightseeing we drove on to Nelson, where we visited the Nelson Classic Car Museum. For car enthusiasts this is without a doubt a must-do.

The museum is much larger than you would expect. Where I initially thought there would be around 60 to 70 cars, there turned out to be more than 200. From the very first car ever built to modern Formula 1 cars and everything in between. This is without a doubt the best car museum I have ever visited.

After our visit to Nelson, we drove on to our next overnight stay: Cable Bay Holiday Park Nelson, located on the north side of the city, outside the center.

This campsite is beautifully situated among greenery and ranks among the finest campsites we've had in New Zealand. What makes this place extra enjoyable is that various farm animals roam freely around the grounds. Always nice to see.

In the evenings we cooked for ourselves at the campsite and went to bed early, ready for another new day full of discoveries.

The next morning we got up early and continued driving right away. Along the way we came across a really nice little café called The Coffee House. A perfect spot to stop for your first cup of coffee of the day. The café is literally on the roadside in a small village and is on the left side, so keep your eyes peeled when you're driving past.

After the coffee stop, we drove on to Pelorus Bridge, a beautiful spot in the middle of nature. Here you can take a short, easy walk along the Hoiere River. This river is extra special because scenes from The Hobbit were filmed here, including the famous barrel scene where the dwarves float through the water. Even if you're not a big film fan, this is a lovely place to stretch your legs and enjoy the surroundings.

After a short walk we continued our route towards Picton. For this section we deliberately chose the Scenic Queen Charlotte Drive and that is definitely recommended. The road winds along the water and offers beautiful views over the fjords and bays at multiple spots. Take your time here, as you'll want to stop regularly for photos.

Around lunchtime we arrived in Picton. Since we had to catch the early morning ferry to the North Island the next day, we chose to stay overnight at a campervan site in the village. In the afternoon we did a half-day wine tour with Sound Connection, a tour of about four hours. We visited four different wineries in the Marlborough region and finished at a chocolaterie. Be sure to let yourself be surprised by the wineries that are visited, the standard here is very high. Our guide, a friendly older man named Andy, shared stories about the region and the wines with great enthusiasm, which made the tour extra enjoyable.

In the evening we went out for dinner at The Barn & Grill in Picton. An atmospheric restaurant with a clear American style and a relaxed ambiance. The food was very good and therefore the perfect ending to a successful day.

Our time on the South Island of New Zealand had come to an end. We'd had two fantastic weeks here and could easily have stayed much longer. In the morning we left early towards the ferry, so that we would arrive in Wellington around midday.

The crossing itself is incredibly beautiful, especially on the Picton side. Here you sail through the fjords of the Marlborough Sounds, and on a sunny day the views are truly impressive. In my opinion, this ferry journey is not just a way to get from A to B, but a real highlight within your road trip through New Zealand.

We stayed one night in Wellington and chose Evans Bay Marina Self Contained Camping. This spot is free, located right by the water and has two well-maintained toilets that are cleaned daily. Wellington city centre is about a 45-minute walk away and there's also a good bus connection. A pleasant, quiet spot to stay overnight with the camper after the ferry.

After we parked the campers, we walked into Mount Victoria to visit several famous Lord of the Rings filming locations. Among other things, we saw the spot where the four hobbits hide from the Nazgûl under a tree root, the path they walk on just before that, and the tree where Frodo reads at the beginning of the extended version of the first film.

After that, we had booked a tour at the Weta Workshop, without a doubt one of the highlights of our entire road trip through New Zealand. In this studio, the props, costumes and special effects were made for The Lord of the Rings and numerous other well-known films. It's incredibly impressive to see how much craftsmanship, technique and time goes into this, and how it differs from purely using CGI.

After the tour we headed into the centre of Wellington for food and drinks. We started with a beer and some snacks at Garage Project, a small and really cool brewery housed in an industrial warehouse right in the city. For dinner we sat down at a small local Vietnamese restaurant and finished the evening with live music and a few beers at The Rogue & Vagabond.

Before we left Wellington, we started the morning with a visit to the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. This national museum is absolutely worth it when you want to learn more about the history, nature and native animals of New Zealand. Maori culture is also extensively covered here, making it a great introduction before you travel further across the North Island.

Towards the end of the morning, we got back in the camper and started the approximately 4.5-hour drive to Tongariro National Park. About 45 minutes outside Wellington, we made a quick stop for coffee at The Roastery Espresso Bar in Paraparaumu. With a good coffee in hand, we had enough energy for the rest of the journey.

At the end of the afternoon we arrived in Tongariro National Park, one of the most impressive natural areas in the country. We stayed overnight at Discovery Lodge Tongariro, a nice and affordable campsite with lots of greenery and a relaxed atmosphere. The location is ideal, as the lodge is located close to the starting point of the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

This iconic hike was scheduled for early the next morning. By staying here overnight, we didn't have to drive far in the morning and could start well-rested on one of New Zealand's most beautiful walks.

The next morning we were picked up early by a pre-booked shuttle that took us to the start of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This 20 km hike takes you right through Tongariro National Park and can be quite challenging with the climb up Mount Tongariro.

If you're fit and healthy, the hike is definitely doable in my opinion. During the trek you're rewarded with the most incredible views: from rugged volcanic landscapes to brightly colored crater lakes. It's an impressive hike where you'll also learn a lot about the formation of the North Island, which was largely created by volcanic activity.

Additionally, the park is sacred to the local Maori people, which makes it extra special to be able to walk through this area.

After the hike, which we finished towards the end of the morning, we drove from the campsite further northeast. Our next destination was the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.

For the overnight stay, we stayed nearby at a really cool farmstay: Waitomo Farmstay. This place has a beautiful location right in the middle of the green rolling hills. Animals roam around everywhere and you really get that authentic farm feeling here.

The sanitary facilities are considered somewhat basic by some, but personally I didn't find that a problem at all. If you've ever lived in the Australian outback, you're used to a thing or two haha 😂.

The next morning we only had to drive 10 minutes to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Various tours are offered through Discover Waitomo and we chose the Blackwater Rafting. During this tour you put on a wetsuit, grab an inner tube and head into the caves. In several spots you float beneath thousands of glowworms, which is a magical sight.

Along the way there are also sections where you have to climb and clamber, and a few times you jump from a small height into the water to continue your journey. It's an incredibly fun and active way to admire the glowworms and definitely recommended if you're fit and mobile enough. Of course, there are also more relaxed tours available, so young and old alike can experience the caves.

After lunch, which was included in the glowworm tour, we continued driving towards Lake Taupō. The drive there is beautiful and takes you through rolling green hills and fields full of flowers.

Near Taupō we stayed at another farmstay: Wairakei Thermal Valley Campground. This was all three of our favorite campsite of the entire trip. We were there with just one other van and you can literally park wherever you want. There are no fixed pitches and animals roam freely among the campers: from chickens and sheep to alpacas and even Danny the pig.

Upon arrival, we first drove to Huka Falls. This waterfall is known for its intensely turquoise water and the enormous force of the water being pushed through a volcanic gorge only 15 meters wide. With approximately 220,000 liters of water per second, it's an impressive natural phenomenon to see up close.

Afterwards we walked around the center of Taupō for a bit and had dinner at Sorrento Italian Dining & Wine Bar. A cozy, authentic Italian restaurant with good and affordable food.

Taupō is a very popular tourist destination in summer, especially because of the many water sports on the lake. Since the weather was going to be beautiful the next day, we decided to take a boat trip with Ernest Kemp Cruises. During this cruise you sail across the crystal-clear water of New Zealand's largest lake and visit the impressive 14-metre-high Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay.

On the way back, there's often still the opportunity to jump into the water. Are you going on a warm and sunny day? Then definitely don't forget to bring your swimming gear. Once back, we made a delicious lunch by the campers at a beautiful parking spot right by the lake. In the afternoon, we drove past the Huka Honey Hive. Here you'll find one of the largest selections of 100% pure New Zealand honey and Manuka honey. Not only can you come here for honey, but also for all kinds of other local products. Perfect for taking home a nice souvenir.

After two days in and around Lake Taupō, it was time to drive on to Rotorua. This city is known worldwide as an impressive geothermal area. Everywhere you see bubbling mud pools, steaming hot springs, and spectacular geysers. The distinctive sulfur smell immediately makes it clear that you're in an active volcanic region.

Additionally, Rotorua is an important center of Māori culture, with traditional villages, cultural shows, and hāngi meals. Action seekers and relaxation enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy here: the region is known for its mountain bike trails, as well as natural spas and hot springs. This makes Rotorua a versatile stop during a road trip or campervan journey through New Zealand.

When we arrived in the afternoon, we started with a good cup of coffee and something to eat at Aroma Cafe. After that we strolled through the center, where Iris and Thijs wanted to buy souvenirs to take home.

When it got dark we went to the Redwoods Treewalk. You can also do this during the day, but in the evening the entire forest is illuminated in an artistic way. You walk from tree to tree via suspension bridges and platforms, completing a course among the giant redwood trees, surrounded by special light installations. Very beautiful to see, although we thought the price of about $40 was a bit steep. During the day you can also walk through the same forest for free via the normal paths. Still, it was a special experience we didn't regret.

The next morning we set out early to see the Lady Knox Geyser. This geyser erupts every day at 10:15 AM. When you buy a ticket for Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, this visit is included and you can combine both locations. Most visitors see the geyser first and then enter the park. That works fine, but if you want to experience the park more peacefully, I recommend visiting the park first. It opens at 8:30 AM, giving you about an hour and a half before you need to head to the geyser. In the park you'll find colorful, bubbling pools of water and volcanic landscapes that are constantly heated by geothermal activity.

During our stay in Rotorua, we stayed at Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park. An excellent campsite where you can use the wonderfully heated thermal pools for free. We relaxed there nicely in the afternoon.

In the evening, we concluded our time in Rotorua with a typical Māori experience at Mitai Maori Village. We chose the Mitai Māori Cultural Experience & Dinner Buffet. During this evening, you'll get to know Māori culture, see traditional dance, and enjoy a dinner prepared using a hāngi (a traditional cooking method in an underground oven). For us, this was truly one of the most enjoyable cultural experiences of the trip and absolutely a must-do during your road trip through New Zealand.

After visiting Rotorua, it was time for what we already knew would be one of the highlights of our road trip through New Zealand: Hobbiton Movie Set. As huge fans of The Lord of the Rings, a visit to Hobbiton simply couldn't be missed.

We had booked the Second Breakfast Tour. With this tour, you're one of the first groups to enter the park and you finish the morning with a delicious brunch at The Millhouse, that iconic building from the films with the water wheel on the side. Because this tour starts early in the morning, we decided to drive towards Hobbiton the day before our visit.

On the day we left Rotorua, we started leisurely with an extensive breakfast at the campsite. Towards the end of the morning, we drove towards Hobbiton. Along the way, we made a stop at Te Waihou Blue Springs. We were lucky it was a sunny day, because just like with other blue springs, the bright blue water only truly comes into its own then.

The complete hike is approximately 4.7 km and takes about 3 hours return, but we only did the first section and were on the trail for about an hour. That alone was more than worth it.

Towards the end of the afternoon we drove to our campsite, just five minutes from Hobbiton. We stayed at Brock's Place Matamata, a really lovely farmstay on a hill with beautiful views. There are no animals roaming around, but you do get that peaceful farm feeling. It's small and personal; there's space for maybe twenty campers.

The next morning, the moment had finally arrived: our visit to Hobbiton. Since we had the first tour of the day, we had to be there at 08:30 and our tour started at 08:40. From the visitor center, you're taken by bus to the film set in about ten minutes. During that ride, you already get some explanation about the creation of Hobbiton and why this place is so special.

Once we arrived, we were truly amazed. What a beautiful setting and incredible how much attention has been paid to even the smallest details. We were lucky that it was a sunny spring day, so everything was beautifully in bloom. Since our tour went through the park first, we had virtually no one ahead of us – ideal for taking photos.

There are several tours you can book in Hobbiton:

Are you a big Lord of the Rings fan yourself? Then I definitely recommend the Second Breakfast Tour or the Evening Banquet Tour. Do book these a few months in advance, as they often sell out quickly.

After our tour and a delicious brunch, we were taken back to the visitor center by bus. We had a look around the souvenir shop there. Among other things, you can buy the beers here that you were able to taste earlier in The Green Dragon Inn, absolutely recommended.

After our visit to Hobbiton, I said goodbye to Iris and Thijs. They would continue traveling around for a few more days, while I decided to spend a few more days on Waiheke Island.

After we said goodbye, I drove towards Auckland, a journey of about two hours. There I first returned my camper, because on Waiheke Island you don't really need one. After returning my Barefoot camper, I took an Uber to Auckland city centre, where the ferries depart for Waiheke.

I had booked my ferry with Island Direct, a smaller company with excellent service and boats that are much quieter than the larger alternatives. The crossing takes about 35 minutes, so before you know it you're already on Waiheke Island.

On the island, I stayed at Waiheke Island Guesthouse, a really cool Airbnb where you truly experience that typical Waiheke atmosphere. The guesthouse has a relaxed, almost hippie-like vibe and borders a beautiful garden where you can unwind wonderfully. It's also a place where you easily meet other travelers.

After I checked in, I walked to Waiheke Cycles, about a 30-minute walk from the accommodation, to pick up my e-bike. The young owner is an incredibly relaxed guy and very helpful. Additionally, the prices here are much more reasonable than at the bike rental shops right by the ferry terminal.

That same evening I met up with some friends I had gotten to know earlier when I lived in Queenstown. Together we had a beer and enjoyed the relaxed island atmosphere.

The two days after that I basically did mostly the same thing, but each time in different places: visiting wineries. Waiheke Island is actually known for its vineyards and there are an incredible number of them here. I cycled around the entire island on my e-bike and visited both small family vineyards and larger, busier wineries.

Besides wine, you'll find beautiful beaches, charming boutique shops, and cozy bars on Waiheke Island. The island also cultivates many olives. At Bistro Allpress, you can taste various local olive oils and of course purchase them to take home.

In addition to wineries, there are also several breweries, so Waiheke really has something for everyone. Personally, I could live here. It feels a bit like a western Bali: the atmosphere is relaxed, people are friendly and helpful, and despite its popularity, it never feels overly crowded.

I finished my road trip through New Zealand with Waiheke Island. After three days on the island, I flew back to Queenstown from Auckland, where I resumed my work as a tour guide.

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