New Zealand’s National Parks
If you’re wanting a motorhome holiday you’ll remember forever, look no further than any one of New Zealand’s 13 National Parks. Spread across more than 30,000 square kilometres these are the places that make New Zealand famous all over the world. We are so unbelievably lucky to have them right on our doorstep, and all with places to park a campervan and enjoy New Zealand at its stunning, natural best.
North Island
Though the North Island has some of our largest cities and biggest population densities in New Zealand, you still don’t have to go far to explore off the beaten track in some of our wonderful National Parks. An all year round crowd pleaser is Tongariro crossing; though more hospitable in summer, for all of you who love an adventure in the snow winter is a fantastic time to go, when you can have the chance to enjoy the serenity with a few less tourists.
If you’re wanting more of a scenic stroll but still want to explore the region, add the Old Coach Road in Tongariro National Park to your to-do list. You’ll be wandering your way through native bush and adventuring across old train bridges, getting the most of the panoramic views. Just a four hour drive from Auckland, this region is perfect to explore the snow, adorable townships, and of course, magnificent National Parks the central North Island has to offer.
Head South East of Tongariro and you’ll find Whanganui National Park. Whanganui is perfect for all Wellingtonians (and near neighbours!) who are wanting to escape the windy city, with the drive being just three hours. Kayak along the Whanganui river, mountain bike the trails, and get some enviable snaps of Kaiwhakauka Waterfall. If you’ve rented a motorhome for this trip, you’ll have no shortage of adventures available to you in the central North Island - just turn on your navigation app of choice, grab your favourite road trip snacks, and go!
South Island
If you’re lucky enough to have some time in the South Island, you’ll be spoilt for choice for National Parks to get lost in! Rent a campervan and get exploring at the tip of the South Island, where the coastline can take you from the breathtaking waters of the Queen Charlotte sound, and westwards to Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Park.
Heading down the west coast you’ll find Westland and Paparoa National Park, the perfect road trip for exploring the rugged coastline of the West Coast. Make a stop at pancake rocks near Punakaiki (which has stellar fish and chips and friendly service at the Punakaiki Tavern), all of which is just a hop and a skip from Paparoa National Park.
Venture inland and you’ll have plenty of adventures awaiting you at Arthur’s Pass - a motorhome will be the perfect way to explore the spectacular scenery of this region, as accommodation can be hard to find at times. After you’ve taken in the stunning mountain ranges of Arthur’s Pass, why not head south to the renowned Mount Aspiring and Fiordlands in the very South?
This time of year can definitely be chilly, so make sure you wrap up warm if you’re planning on ticking off your National Park dream road trip this winter! August onwards is a great time of year to go, as the rain starts clearing up and you’re left with crisp air and blue skies. If you’re wanting some more info on a winter road trip itinerary then make sure to check out our next blogpost, which will be chock-full of travel inspo for all your adventure needs!
