Auckland

Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, is a hub of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Nestled between two stunning harbours, the city is also referred to as ‘The City of Sails’. From swimming and surfing to cruises and kayaking, it’s the place to be for fun on the water. But there are plenty of great things to do in Auckland for land lovers too, with fantastic hikes and bush walks, beautiful gardens, and plenty of shopping and sightseeing.

At the heart of Auckland’s appeal is its unique blend of urban and natural attractions. Take a stroll through the picturesque Viaduct Harbour, visit the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views, or immerse yourself in the rich Māori heritage at the Auckland Museum. Auckland combines city excitement with stunning natural landscapes, offering an unforgettable experience for every traveller. So, get ready to explore, discover, and create lasting memories in this remarkable city.

With your Apollo campervan, you can easily extend your city explorations and head out on one of the many Auckland day trips to discover pristine beaches, lush forests, and scenic vineyards. Drive to the black sand beaches of Piha, surround yourself in birdsong and native bush in the Waitākere Ranges, or take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day of wine tasting and relaxation.

Why explore Auckland by campervan?

Exploring Auckland by campervan is a fantastic way to see the best of the region at your own pace. With an Apollo campervan, you have everything you need for the journey right there with you. No more unpacking and repacking at every stop – just hop in and go! You can start your day with a coffee by the beach, then head off for a spot of shopping or explore more Auckland attractions. The next day, you may like to discover the stunning black sand beaches of the west coast, hike the trails in the Waitākere Ranges, or enjoy a leisurely picnic in a quiet park. With a campervan, you can simply wake up and decide which awesome Auckland attractions you’ll tick off your list today!

Apollo’s campervans are designed with comfort and convenience in mind, so you can rest assured that you’ll have everything you need for a smooth journey. Motorhome travel also means you can fully embrace the spontaneity and adventure of an Auckland campervan holiday. Whether you’re exploring the city shops or heading out on a day trip, a campervan gives you the flexibility to make the most of your trip.

Things to do in Auckland

Auckland offers loads of fun activities and attractions, making it an excellent destination for campervan travellers. Start your journey at the iconic Sky Tower, where you can take in the panoramic views of the city and beyond. For a cultural experience, visit the Auckland Museum to learn more about New Zealand’s history and Māori heritage. Explore the hot spots in the city, such as the stylish cafes and boutiques in Ponsonby or Britomart. For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Mission Bay, where you can walk along the beach and dine at waterfront restaurants. For family-friendly Auckland tourist attractions, the Auckland Zoo and SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium are must-visits.

Outdoor adventurers will find plenty of things to do in Auckland. Explore the rugged beauty of the Hunua Ranges with its scenic hiking trails and waterfalls, or head to the east coast beaches like Tāwharanui for a day of swimming and sunbathing. For a unique experience, take a ferry to Rangitoto Island and hike to the summit of this iconic volcanic cone for stunning views of the city and beyond. The island's unique lava fields and native forest provide a fascinating landscape for exploration.

Heather Schiller / Wednesday, 28 October 2020

/ Categories: NZ blog

6 Most Romantic Destinations in New Zealand

Your guide to the ultimate romantic road trip

Some of the best memories are made on holidays. If you are looking to get away from it all and reconnect with your significant other, a romantic road trip campervanning around New Zealand, driving through luscious green rolling hills, exploring hidden beaches, incredible wineries and taking in the jaw dropping views from the coast is exactly what you are looking for.

Campervan holidays around New Zealand is the best way to explore the most of this incredible destination and with Apollo locations in both Christchurch and Auckland you can fly into one location and out the other allowing you make the most of your New Zealand Trip itinerary. New Zealand is also a free camping nation which means you can pretty much park anywhere (unless signed otherwise) making for an affordable road trip in New Zealand.

So, throw your bags in the campervan, turn up the tunes and get set for an unforgettable romantic holiday as we showcase the 6 Most Romantic Destinations in New Zealand to add to your ultimate NZ road trip!

AUCKLAND

A great place to pick up your motorhome and start your journey, Auckland has everything on offer for a romantic getaway. Enjoy a wide range of cuisine in the city’s diverse cafes and restaurants, explore trendy suburbs like Ponsonby delving through vintage clothing boutiques, take a romantic stroll through the Parnell Rose gardens and drive along the coastal road from the CBD to Mission Bay where you can brunch at seaside cafes, relax on gorgeous beaches, paddleboard or kayak on the calm waters, explore the parks and take a stroll along the paved beach boardwalk.

Waiheke Island is an incredibly romantic spot for couples and only a short car ferry away from Auckland. Visit the Waiheke Community Art Gallery and enjoy a romantic lunch and wine tasting at cellar doors in a gorgeous vineyard with views of rolling hills and the ocean. Our top picks are Mudbrick, Stony Ridge and Cable Bay.

BAY OF ISLANDS

The Bay of Islands is one of the most exquisite romantic locations in New Zealand. A 3.5-hour drive from Auckland via scenic winding roads, Bay of Islands is world away from hustle of the city. Encompassing 144 islands and including the popular boutique towns of Opua, Paihia, Russell and Kerikeri, here you can spend your days together exploring seaside walking tracks, watching the sun set from the many secluded beaches, snorkeling or kayaking in the crystal-clear waters.

For an extra special romantic adventure, charter a yacht for just the two of you sailing along the calm and pristine waters, pulling up at your own private beach for the afternoon, enjoying a picnic lunch and each other’s company.

COROMANDEL PENINSULA

Think pristine beaches, majestic waterfalls, trendy cafes and a friendly relaxed vibe, you can easily spend a few quality days together exploring the beauty of the Coromandel Peninsula, a 2.5 km drive from Auckland. Walk hand in hand from the north end of the Hahei Beach as it takes you to Cathedral Cove, where a naturally formed, cathedral-like tunnel separates two secluded white sand beaches. Hire a kayak and paddle the crystal-clear waters, just offshore you will find a protected marine reserve where you can spot seals, dolphins and colourful fish. On the southern end you will find Hot Water Beach where you can dig your own hot pool for 2 in the sand and relax in the bubbling thermal spring waters metres away from the Pacific Ocean – awesome!

Explore the Pinnacles on foot via the spectacular Pinnacles Track which will see you climbing through ruggedly beautiful mountain ranges on an overnight adventure giving you another aspect of the Coromandel to enjoy. Climb to the summit early in the morning taking in the awe inspiring 360-degree views of the Coromandel as the sun rises.

QUEENSTOWN

A tourist hotspot during the ski season in winter, Queenstown, located 6 hours south of Christchurch, promotes itself as the adventure capital of the world, with an abundance of daredevil sports on offer but there is so much more to experience with gorgeous landscapes, calm blue waters and numerous walking trails to explore.

During the warmer months explore the scenic Gibbston Valley, also known as the ‘Valley of Vines’ where you can enjoy some of the world’s best Pinot Noir at over 75 boutique wineries along with delicious cheese which are a great addition to your picnic basket. Driving to the top of the Remarkables and taking the 40-minute hike up to the picturesque snow-fed crystal-clear Lake Alta is also a well worth the trip during summer. Enjoy a romantic picnic by the lake nestled amongst the rugged backdrop of the Remarkables Mountain range and if you are game, a refreshing dip in the icy green waters.

MILFORD SOUND

Located on the west coast of the South Island, a 4-hour drive from Queenstown, Milford Sound with its snow-capped peaks, lush green rainforests and waterfalls that dissolve into mist offers an experience that is guaranteed to leave you both lost for words and spell bound. If you both enjoy hiking, the Milford Track, a 53 kilometre journey that begins at the head of Lake Te Anau and leads you across suspension bridges, board walks, a mountain pass to feel the misty breath of Sutherland Falls, the tallest waterfall in New Zealand, will be a highlight.

Best travelled in the warmer months, the journey to Milford Sound is equally spectacular as you journey into the heart of the Fiordland National Park. As you pass through the Homer Tunnel and into the Cleddau Valley you will find one of the most impressive photo spots along the Milford Road – The Chasm – a series of gushing waterfalls just a short walk from the road.

CHRISTCHURCH

The vibrant and creative Christchurch city is a great inclusion as the last leg of your journey so you can drop off your motorhome and explore the city by foot, double-decker bus or tram. Take in the incredible street art, enjoy a bite to eat at eclectic cafes like The Caffeine Laboratory, relax in hot pools and spend a relaxing afternoon walking through the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Punting along the picturesque Avon River on handcrafted flat-bottomed boats is an incredibly romantic experience in any season and an enjoyable and relaxing way to enjoy Christchurch together from a different perspective.

Visit our itineraries for Christchurch to Auckland travel routes and further travel inspiration.

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Tags: Auckland things to do canterbury southern lakes and fiordland coromandel and bay of plenty northland and bay of islands

Popular Auckland day trips & itineraries

The City of Sails is the perfect starting point for some unforgettable Auckland day trips. With an Apollo campervan, you have the freedom to explore whenever the mood strikes. How about a visit to the charming town of Matakana with its boutique vineyards and local markets? Or, head south to the iconic Hobbiton for a magical experience in the heart of Middle-earth. For an adventure underground, the Waitomo Caves offer stunning glowworm displays and limestone formations. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a longer journey, our itineraries will help you make the most of your campervan holiday in New Zealand. Check out our suggested routes and start planning your journey today!