Hawke's Bay

Looking for a New Zealand campervan holiday destination that ticks the boxes for sunshine, adventure, great food, and perhaps a little history and culture? You can’t go past Hawke’s Bay. This stunning region offers a taste of the good life amidst some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. Whether you’re into adventurous hikes, wine tasting, or family fun, you’ll find plenty of great things to do in Hawke’s Bay.

The appeal of the Hawke's Bay region lies not only in its charming townships such as Napier and Hastings but also in its natural attractions. The Hawke’s Bay weather is among the best in New Zealand, boasting plenty of sunshine that ripens grapes in its world-renowned vineyards and warms its expansive beaches. This climate makes the region a year-round destination for visitors looking to explore the outdoors whether on bike trails, on foot through its scenic reserves, or along its stunning coastlines.

Travelling by campervan allows you to take in everything Hawke's Bay has to offer at your own pace. Wake up to ocean views, spend your days discovering local markets or touring iconic wineries in Hawke’s Bay. In the evenings, enjoy relaxed sunset meals prepared in your campervan kitchen. And with plenty of Hawke’s Bay accommodation for campervan travellers, you’ve got the freedom to explore far and wide.

Why explore Hawke’s Bay by campervan

Exploring Hawke's Bay by campervan offers an unparalleled opportunity to dive deep into the region's offerings at your own pace. From the freedom to wander through the sunlit vineyards of Hawke’s Bay to parking along the coastlines near Napier, your campervan allows for a flexible, immersive travel experience.

Travelling by campervan comes with heaps of perks that make the trip even better. Fancy cooking up some local produce from a roadside stall? You've got your own kitchen right there. Tired of hauling suitcases in and out of hotels? That's not an issue when your campervan acts as your base. You can also pack all the gear you need for outdoor fun – like hiking packs or surfboards – without worrying about space. And let’s not forget the convenience of having your own bathroom, which means no more hunting for public restrooms. It’s all about making your holiday as relaxed and enjoyable as possible.

Things to do in Hawke’s Bay

Hawke's Bay is a playground for explorers, foodies, and culture enthusiasts alike. Immerse yourself in the rich history and Art Deco architecture of Napier. Sample some of New Zealand's finest wines. Or simply explore the natural beauty of the region's landscapes and coastlines. Whatever you’re keen to see and do, there's something here for everyone.

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From Art Deco delights to world-class wineries, there's no shortage of unforgettable places to visit in Hawke’s Bay. And there’s...

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Popular Hawke’s Bay road trips & itineraries

Located on the eastern coast of New Zealand's North Island, Hawke's Bay is easily accessible from major cities including Auckland and Wellington. Setting off from Napier, the heart of Hawke's Bay, you can delve into the area's renowned Art Deco architecture, explore the dramatic cliffs of Cape Kidnappers, or indulge in a tasting tour through its famous vineyards. Whether coming down from Auckland or making your way up from Wellington or even the South Island, Hawke’s Bay is perfectly poised to offer an unforgettable New Zealand road trip.

Alyssa Tresider / Saturday, 26 April 2025

/ Categories: NZ Itineraries

7-Day Couples Escape

Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

Arrive at Auckland International Airport, pick up your vehicle at the Auckland branch. Take the time to explore Auckland and choose your own adventure from the following recommendations:

Auckland Museum: Set in the Auckland Domain, this museum offers a powerful introduction to New Zealand’s natural history, Māori culture, and military history.
Visit the Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city (SkyCity Auckland).
Auckland Art Gallery: A beautiful blend of historic and contemporary architecture, this gallery showcases national and international works across four levels.
All Blacks Experience: An interactive, high-energy journey into New Zealand’s rugby legacy – perfect for sports lovers, located at the SkyCity Precinct.
Wētā Workshop Unleashed: Dive behind the scenes of blockbuster film-making with this immersive creative experience from the makers of The Lord of the Rings and Avatar. Located at the SkyCity Precinct.

To finish the day off, wander through Viaduct Harbour, Commercial Bay, or Wynyard Quarter. Take your pick for dinner at one of Auckland’s vibrant restaurants.

Where to stay: Ambury Campground

Day 2: Day Trip to Waiheke Island

Take a day trip to Waiheke Island and get the morning ferry to Waiheke. Depart from Auckland’s ferry terminal for a scenic 40-minute ferry ride across the Hauraki Gulf to Waiheke Island. Once there, it is time to explore the Island and browse boutique shops and galleries in Oneroa Village, filled with handcrafted jewellery, fine art, and local fashion. Take a coastal walk through olive groves and native bush tracks, or for those with a spirit for adventure, enjoy a three hour ziplining experience with Eco Zip.

Then, enjoy a long lunch or go wine tasting with Anada Tours visiting Waiheke’s world-class wineries. Then, it’s time to get the return ferry to Auckland, head back in the early evening to the city for a relaxed night in or dinner at one of Auckland’s buzzing waterfront spots.

Where to stay: Ambury Campground

Day 3: Auckland to Tauranga (Bay of Plenty)

Leaving Auckland, drive to Tauranga and enjoy the scenic route through the Hauraki Plains. On arrival, walk Mount Maunganui / Mauao: Take the base track, which is around 50 minutes, for a gentle coastal loop, or challenge yourself with the summit track. Along the way, use the Arataki Cultural Walking Trails App to hear local Māori legends and stories that bring Mauao’s rich history to life.

If you wish, you can also take the time to explore Mount Maunganui Village and browse boutique clothing stores, artisan homewares, and stylish cafes. At the end of the day, enjoy some dinner and enjoy local cuisine at Mount Maunganui, or dine like a local at Bobby’s Fresh Fish Market and enjoy a casual meal of fish and chips perched on the wharf overlooking the ocean.

Where to stay: Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park

Day 4: Tauranga to Tairāwhiti Gisborne

Today it’s time to drive to Gisborne and travel across the stunning East Coast, with plenty of photo-worthy coastal stops along the way. Be sure to check out, Gisborne Railbike Adventure, on arrival, enjoy a unique railbike journey along a decommissioned railway line with Gisborne Railbikes. Ride side-by-side on pedal-powered bikes while taking in river and countryside views.

To wrap up the day, settle in with a stroll along Waikanae Beach, followed by dinner at one of Gisborne’s fabulous restaurants.

Where to stay: Waikanae Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park

Day 5: Gisborne – Maunga Hikurangi Sunrise

Rise early for the Te Urunga Sunrise Experience with local guides at Maunga Hikurangi. Be among the first in the world to greet the new day, surrounded by sacred Māori carvings and stories on this awe-inspiring mountain. This experience includes 4WD access and local storytelling. (Maunga Hikurangi)

Spend the afternoon visiting the Tairāwhiti Museum to delve deeper into the region’s rich Māori and European history. For dinner, choose from one of Gisborne’s local restaurants.

Where to stay: Waikanae Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park

Day 6: Dive Tatapouri & East Coast Explorer

Today, it is time to explore Dive Tatapouri and begin the morning with the unforgettable Marine Wildlife Encounter, where you can walk across the reef at low tide and interact with wild stingrays and other reef species under expert guidance. A deeply engaging marine experience, even in winter. Enjoy an afternoon coastal drive and explore more of the Tairāwhiti coastline—visit Wainui Beach, and Makorori Beach. Stop along the wine for a breezy walk, or a coffee or a glass of local wine overlooking the surf.

After spending the day exploring, enjoy some dinner from one of Gisborne’s local restaurants.

Where to stay: Waikanae Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park

Day 7: Gisborne to Auckland

Now, it is time to make the drive back to Auckland to drop off your camper. Along the way, enjoy the scenic journey through the rolling hills and farmland of the North Island’s East Coast and Waikato regions.

Break up the drive with a relaxed lunch stop in Whakatāne, a charming coastal town with riverside cafés and a laid-back atmosphere. Then, take the time to head back to the branch.

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Tags: Apollo Camper apollo nz

days	7
kms	1050
stops	7+

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Apollo Campervan branches

Auckland

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Christchurch

The drive from Apollo Christchurch to Northland & the Bay of Islands sets you up for a scenic multi-day journey across the South Island, including the picturesque ferry crossing at the Cook Strait, and into the North Island.

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