The Best Family-Friendly Campsites and Holiday Parks in Tasmania | Apollo AU
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Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki

A New Zealand campervan holiday through the Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki region offers an unforgettable experience. Rich in natural beauty and cultural significance, this special part of New Zealand offers travellers a unique blend of urban charm and rugged wilderness. If you love exploring arts and culture, you’ll be spoilt for choice in this region. You may even like to follow the Coastal Arts Trail which spans 300 km between New Plymouth to Palmerston North. The trail is peppered with galleries, sculptures, studios and more. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the mystical Bridge to Nowhere, accessible through the verdant Whanganui National Park, offering an unforgettable journey into New Zealand's remote backcountry. 

Transitioning westward, the landscape dramatically changes as you enter Taranaki, dominated by the iconic, conical shape of Mount Taranaki. This region is a magnet for adventurers and nature lovers alike, with New Plymouth at its heart – a coastal city known for its sunny climate, thriving arts community, and surf-friendly beaches. The coastal walkway stretching from Bell Block to Port Taranaki offers spectacular sea views, perfectly complementing the city’s dynamic cultural venues and eateries.

 

Why explore Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki by campervan

Exploring Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki by campervan offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heartland of New Zealand's North Island. It also makes it easy to change your itinerary on the fly. Whether it's spending an extra day enjoying the surf in New Plymouth, exploring the hiking trails around Mount Taranaki, or parking beside the scenic Whanganui River for a spontaneous picnic, the choice is yours. The ability to set your own pace and schedule makes a campervan ideal for discovering the hidden gems of these regions.

Travelling by campervan not only brings the comforts of home on the road, such as your own bed, kitchen, and living space, but also eliminates the hassles of constant packing and unpacking. This is especially valuable in regions like Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki, where attractions are spread out. Having your necessities with you means you're always ready for the next adventure. 

 

Things to do in Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki

Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki offer activities for all ages, from nature excursions to authentic cultural experiences. Explore Palmerston North's gardens and arts scene, Whanganui's historic riverboat cruise, or brave the surf at New Plymouth's beaches. Immerse yourself in the local culture with visits to museums, galleries, and artist studios. Whether it's outdoor excitement or cultural enrichment, this fascinating region provides something for everyone.

 

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Popular Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki road trips & itineraries

Stretching down the lower west coast of New Zealand’s North Island, Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki are prime destinations for road trippers seeking a mix of culture, nature, and adventure. Easily accessible from major urban centres like Wellington and Auckland, the drive itself showcases the dramatic shift from urban landscapes to the lush, green countryside of Manawatu and the striking volcanic features of Taranaki. These routes not only offer breathtaking views but are dotted with a variety of attractions, making every stop an opportunity for discovery. 

 

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Great savings on your New Zealand road trip

Apollo offers a fantastic selection of deals and specials for those looking to explore Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki by campervan. From hot deals and last-minute discounts to long-term hire benefits, you’re sure to find a deal designed to help you make the most of your campervan road trip. 

Long Hire Offer Long Hire Offer

Long Hire Offer

Do you love road trips across New Zealand as much as we do? You're in luck with our Long Hire Offer! If you are travelling for more than 21 days, you will receive 5% off daily vehicle rates, if...
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Apollo Campervan branches

Christchurch

The drive from Apollo Christchurch to the Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki region sets you up for a scenic journey across the South Island, including the picturesque ferry crossing at the Cook Strait, and onto the North Island. 

Queenstown

Keen to make the most of your road trip and explore the South Island before heading north? Book your camper with our Queenstown branch and spend a few days taking in some of the great southern highlights before crossing the Cook Strait by ferry.

Auckland

Set off from Apollo Auckland and kick off your exploration of this region in New Plymouth – just a few hours drive away. Make your way down the west coast taking in the charming townships, rolling rural landscapes, and rugged coastline as you venture south.  

Auckland City Skyline

Auckland

New Zealand’s multi-cultural hub of food, music, arts and culture.

 

Christchurch City, New Zealand

Christchurch

 One of the world’s most unique destinations.

 

Queenstown

Breathtaking scenery and adrenaline-pumping adventure activities.

 

Helpful tips for visiting Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki

 

Climate and seasons in Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki

Stretching hundreds of kilometres, this expansive region offers distinct seasonal experiences, making it an attractive destination year-round for visitors looking to enjoy a variety of landscapes and activities.

Manawatu-Whanganui enjoys a mild, temperate climate with moderate rainfall, making it pleasant for travel most of the year.

  • Summers (December to February) are warm with temperatures averaging around 22°C, ideal for exploring the great outdoors and the region's rivers and parks.
  • Autumn (March to May) brings cooler temperatures and a beautiful change in foliage, particularly in the bush-clad hills, providing perfect conditions for hiking and photography.
  • Winter (June to August) can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C, but it is generally mild compared to other regions, with occasional frost in sheltered areas.
  • Spring (September to November) sees the landscape rejuvenate with bursts of flowers and greenery, making it a lovely time for visiting the many gardens and reserves.

Taranaki is known for its more dynamic weather patterns, due to the presence of Mount Taranaki, which can attract clouds and cause quick changes in weather.

  • Summers here are pleasant with temperatures similar to Manawatu-Whanganui but expect more frequent rain showers that keep the surroundings lush.
  • Autumn sees stable weather, ideal for outdoor activities as the forests display a vivid array of autumn colours.
  • Winter in Taranaki can be wet, with more pronounced rainfall, and the mountain often receives snowfall, offering spectacular views and winter sports.
  • Spring brings a rapid growth of new foliage and is particularly spectacular as rhododendrons and other blooms erupt around the mountain's base.

 

 

 

What to pack?

Preparing for your campervan journey through Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki requires thoughtful packing to make the most of the diverse climates and activities available in these regions. Here’s what you should consider bringing along:

  • Outdoor gear: given the varied terrain from river valleys to volcanic mountains, pack versatile outdoor gear. Lightweight, breathable clothing will serve you well during warmer months, while waterproof and windproof layers are essential for the unpredictable weather near Mount Taranaki. Sturdy hiking boots are a must for exploring the rugged landscapes and numerous walking trails. With the stunning natural beauty and wildlife in both regions, a good camera can help you capture memorable landscapes and native birds. Binoculars will also enhance your experience, especially when visiting coastal areas and bird sanctuaries.
  • Campervan add-ons: Enhancing your campervan experience can significantly improve your comfort during the trip. Consider including a portable heater for the cooler evenings, especially during winter months in Taranaki. A reliable GPS and physical maps can help navigate the more remote areas. Additional camping chairs and a table can also be handy for scenic stops along the coast or in forest parks.
  • Sun protection and rain gear: The regions' varying weather conditions call for both sun protection and rain gear. Pack a high-SPF sunscreen, UV-protection sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield against the strong New Zealand sun. Also, include a durable rain jacket and waterproof trousers to stay dry during sudden rain showers, particularly prevalent in Taranaki. For more helpful ideas, check out our guide to what to pack for your campervan road trip.

For more helpful ideas, check out our guide to what to pack for your campervan road trip.

 

 

Nearby attractions and day trips from Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki

Manawatu-Whanganui

Whanganui River cruise or kayak

Experience the tranquil beauty of the Whanganui River by taking a leisurely cruise or paddling a kayak. This historic river offers stunning views of lush landscapes and provides a quiet escape into nature, perfect for a relaxing day on the water.

Whanganui National Park

Home to native forests and scenic waterways, Whanganui National Park is popular with hikers and walkers. The park is also home to the Bridge to Nowhere Walk, a 3 km return (around 1.5 hours) easy walk popular with visitors to the area.

Forgotten World Highway

The Forgotten World Highway, running through remote, mystic landscapes, offers a journey back in time. This historic route passes through rugged terrain, dense forests, and small forgotten towns, making it a unique adventure for road-trippers.

Bushy Park

Bushy Park Ecological Sanctuary, near Whanganui, is known for its rich biodiversity and protected native forest. The 100-hectare reserve is home to some of the tallest and oldest trees in the region, including a 500-year-old rata. The park's predator-free status allows visitors to encounter rare and endangered birds such as the hihi and saddleback in their natural habitat.

Nearby attractions and day trips from Taranaki

Mount Taranaki

Dominating the landscape, Mount Taranaki offers challenging hikes and spectacular views from its summit. The symmetrical volcano is a striking feature of Egmont National Park, drawing climbers and photographers alike.

New Plymouth Coastal Walk

The New Plymouth Coastal Walkway is a spectacular 13-kilometre path that stretches from Ngamotu Beach to Bell Block, offering panoramic views of the Tasman Sea. This award-winning walkway is ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling featuring iconic landmarks like the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, which resembles a breaking wave or whale skeleton.

Pukekura Park

New Plymouth’s Pukekura Park is a beautifully landscaped garden featuring lakes, waterfalls, and exotic plants. It hosts the famous Festival of Lights, transforming into an enchanted evening wonderland.

Dawson Falls in Egmont National Park

Dawson Falls is a spectacular 18-metre waterfall located within Egmont National Park. The area around the falls offers picturesque walking tracks that wind through lush native bush, ideal for a short, scenic hike.

 

Where to stay in Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki with a campervan

When it comes to finding the perfect spot to park and rest in Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki, there's no shortage of picturesque, comfy campgrounds. Here are a few worth checking out:

Manawatu-Whanganui

Taranaki

 

 

 

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: AU Blog

The Best Family-Friendly Campsites and Holiday Parks in Tasmania.

Planning a family campervan hire adventure in Tasmania? This guide is your ultimate companion to the top campsites and holiday parks, perfect for families exploring the best things to do in Tasmania. Tasmania is an island packed with stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and endless outdoor activities. Here, we’ll dive into why Tasmania should be your next family holiday road trip destination, the best way to explore its natural beauty, and, of course, where to park your campervan for the night. Whether you’re after a beachside spot or a forest retreat, we’ve got you covered.

 

Why you should take a family holiday to Tasmania

Tasmania is a playground for families who love the outdoors. You can hike through ancient rainforests, kayak in crystal-clear waters in the Bay of Fires, and get up close with wildlife (including rare species like the Tasmanian devil). The island's diverse landscapes offer a wide range of activities to keep everyone entertained, from the adrenaline junkies in the family to those who are looking for a more laid-back travel itinerary.

Beyond its natural beauty, Tasmania is rich in history and culture. Whether you explore convict sites, engage with Aboriginal heritage or delight in local food and wine, each day promises a new culturally rich adventure. Last (but certainly not least), Tasmania is renowned for its clean air and lack of pollution, thanks to over 40% of this island state being made up of forests and reserves. This makes it an ideal spot for families looking to escape city life for a while. 

 

What’s the best way to explore Tasmania with your family?

Hands down, the best way to soak in all of Tasmania’s glory is with an Apollo campervan. Why? Flexibility and convenience. A campervan holiday means you wake up to a new view every morning, be it the serene Tasmania beaches or the majestic mountains of Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay. You can tailor your travel itinerary to suit your family’s pace and interests without the constraints or inconveniences of hotel bookings or navigating public transport schedules.

Campervan travel isn’t just about getting from A to B; it’s about the adventures you have along the way. Stop at a secluded Tasmanian beach for a picnic, find a hidden trail in the forest, or simply enjoy the landscapes that unfold as you drive. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly way to experience the best things to do in Tasmania. From the iconic Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay to the mysterious caves of Mole Creek to spotting a Tasmanian devil in the wild, hiking the Overland Track in Tasmania, or just gazing at the stars from the comfort of your campsite. With all the essentials on board, you decide where to go and when to stop, making it an unbeatable option for a family road trip.

So, whether you’re looking for the freedom to explore at your own pace, the convenience of having your accommodation on wheels, or the joy of discovering Tasmania’s hidden gems, a campervan holiday ticks all the boxes for an epic family journey. For more ideas for planning your Tasmania road trip, check out our top Tasmania guides below:

 

The best family-friendly campsites and holiday parks in Tasmania

When planning your campervan hire adventure to Tasmania’s tourist attractions, choosing the right campsite or holiday park can significantly enhance your experience. To help, we have outlined six of our top picks for places to stay in Tasmania in your campervan. Below, we will take a more detailed look at what each of our top picks offers, focusing on the facilities as well as the iconic Tasmania tourist attractions and experiences nearby.

Image: Instagram - @_letsescapetogether_

 

1. BIG4 Launceston Holiday Park

BIG4 Launceston Holiday Park serves as an ideal launchpad for families eager to dive into Northern Tasmania's treasures. Positioned in the charming city of Launceston, this park gives families easy access to not only urban Tasmania tourist attractions but also nearby Tasmania hikes. A short drive takes you to the Cataract Gorge, where walking trails, a suspension bridge, and the world’s longest single-span chairlift await. For animal lovers, the Tasmania Zoo is a short 20-minute drive, offering close encounters with the famous Tasmanian devils. 

The holiday park itself is home to plenty of great amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for the whole family. Whether you are cooking up a feast at the camp kitchen, playing on the playground, having a blast on the giant jumping pillow with your kids, or taking advantage of the laundry machines on site after a big day of outdoor adventures, this campervan park has you covered.

 

2. Discovery Parks, Cradle Mountain

Set on the edge of the World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Discovery Parks – Cradle Mountain offers families a unique wilderness experience. The holiday park is the perfect starting point for the famed Overland Track in Tasmania, a must-do for keen hikers. Shorter walks, like the Enchanted Walk, are ideal for families, offering magical forests and the chance to spot wombats, wallabies, and other wildlife meandering near the boardwalk. The park itself integrates seamlessly into the natural surroundings, providing a cozy base with the wilderness right on your doorstep. 

What’s more, this holiday park is an adventurer's retreat that doesn't skimp on comfort. The park offers a communal kitchen perfect for meal times, BBQ facilities for authentic Aussie outdoor dining, and spacious campervan sites. This is one of the best places to visit in Tasmania to find the wilderness on your doorstep without sacrificing the conveniences of home.

 

3. BIG4 Hobart Airport Tourist Park

For families arriving by air, BIG4 Hobart Airport Tourist Park makes the transition to beginning your Tasmanian road trip as smooth as possible. Its location near the airport cuts down on travel time, giving you more time to enjoy. You're also at the gateway to the best things to do in Hobart, including popular family-friendly Hobart attractions such as the historic and bustling Salamanca Market, Battery Point’s charming architecture, and the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. It is also just a short drive to the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, where the family can interact with native Australian animals. 

However, it's not just the location that’s convenient; the park boasts a TV and movie room for unwinding, a giant jumping pillow that guarantees laughs, bike hire for exploring the surroundings, and practical amenities like laundry facilities. It's the perfect launchpad for families flying in or out of Hobart for their road trip.

 

4. NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park

NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park is an exceptional choice for families keen to explore Tasmania’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Nestled near the hauntingly beautiful Port Arthur Historic Site, this campervan park offers families a unique opportunity to delve into Tasmania's convict past, surrounded by picturesque Tasmanian landscapes.

The park itself is a gateway to adventure, giving families direct access to explore the historic ruins, interactive tours, and haunting ghost stories of Port Arthur. Beyond the historic site, the area is a haven for nature lovers, with options for bushwalking, kayaking, and exploring local Tasmania beaches. Last but not least, the park's facilities are top-notch, including a playground for the kids, BBQ areas for communal cooking (including a woodfired pizza oven!), and the convenience of laundry facilities. 

Image: Insatgram - @_letsescapetogether_

 

5. St Helens Big 4 Holiday Park

Set on the breathtaking East Coast of Tasmania, St Helens Big 4 Holiday Park is perfect for those looking to explore the beauty of the Bay of Fires. With its prime location, families have the perfect base to explore the stunning local Tasmanian beaches, the famed Bay of Fires, the world-class St Helens Mountain Bike Park and nearby Tasmania hikes.

This park is a paradise for families looking for both relaxation and adventure. Amenities like the playground, recreation lounge, and games room ensure family fun is always within reach. The direct beach access invites you to enjoy swimming, fishing, and beachcombing. The park is also within easy walking distance of town, so you can simply wander on food to grab groceries or treat the family to a meal out. 

 

6. Freycinet National Park Campgrounds

For families dreaming of a camping experience enveloped by nature, the campgrounds at Freycinet National Park are unparalleled. Here, you can choose from Richardsons Beach Campground, Honeymoon Bay Campground, or Ranger Creek Campground for stunning views of crystal-clear waters and granite peaks.

This is the place to wake up to the breathtaking scenery of Tasmania's East Coast. The park is a treasure trove of natural Tasmania tourist attractions, from the iconic Freycinet National Park’s Wineglass Bay to secluded beaches and scenic Tasmania hikes like the Sleepy Bay Circuit. While the amenities are more basic, reflecting the natural and untouched setting, they are thoughtfully designed to enhance your stay. You’ll find communal BBQ areas perfect for family meals under the stars, clean and accessible toilet facilities, and nearby walking trails that are the perfect way to connect with the wild beauty of Freycinet (this varies from campground to campground). It’s an ideal setting for families looking to explore the outdoors and witness some of Tasmania’s most spectacular and wild landscapes.

 

Explore more of Tasmania with Apollo

Tasmania is an island of untold beauty and adventure, perfect for exploring with your family in a campervan. From the historical depths of Port Arthur to the natural wonders of Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay to the adventure-filled landscapes of St Helens, there are plenty of things to see in Tasmania on a campervan adventure. With these holiday parks and campgrounds in your campervan holiday arsenal, you are all set to explore these beautiful corners of Tasmania. 

The best part? Booking your Apollo campervan online is easy, and with locations across Australia, including Tasmania, picking up your campervan and starting your journey is seamless. Whether you’re after historic sites, the natural beauty of Tasmania’s beaches, or adrenaline-pumping Tasmania tourist attractions, a campervan holiday offers the flexibility and comfort to make the most of Tasmania’s rich offerings. So pack your bags, gather the family, and get ready for an unforgettable road trip through Tasmania’s stunning landscapes and family-friendly campsites.

 

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