Why explore Wellington & Wairarapa by Campervan

There’s no better way to discover Wellington and Wairarapa than with an Apollo campervan. Be as spontaneous or structured as you like. Take your time, travel at your own pace, and truly immerse yourself in everything on offer in this special region. With your own kitchen, bed, and bathroom onboard, travel by Apollo campervan is all about freedom and comfort. A road trip through Wellington and the Wairarapa in a campervan is all about the freedom to go where you want when you want. With a campervan, your plans are as flexible as your mood, allowing you to soak up moments that you'd miss if you were rushing to meet hotel or tour schedules.

Travelling by campervan isn't just about getting from A to B; it's about the experiences along the way. It's about impromptu picnics at breathtaking overlooks, morning coffees with views that beat any café, and nights spent under a blanket of stars. Fancy spending an extra day exploring a hidden gem you've stumbled upon? Go for it. Every turn in the road offers new possibilities, and with a campervan, you're in the driver's seat!

A campervan holiday in New Zealand, especially through areas like Wellington and the Wairarapa, is a journey into the heart of what makes this part of the world so special. And it's all yours to explore!

Things to do in Wellington & Wairarapa

Wellington and the Wairarapa are bursting at the seams with activities and sights, catering to every taste and interest. If you’re enjoying a family holiday, you’ll find plenty of great family-friendly things to do in Wellington that promise fun for all ages. And if you’re a foodie looking for a taste of something new, you’ll find no shortage of must-try food in Wellington. Venture into the Wairarapa, and you'll find a peaceful escape with wine tours, scenic hikes, and charming country towns waiting to be explored.

Alyssa Tresider / Friday, 29 September 2023

/ Categories: NZ blog

The Best Family-Friendly Campsites and Holiday Parks Near Raglan

Where is Raglan?

Raglan is a hidden gem located on the west coast of New Zealand's North Island. Tucked away in the Waikato region, it sits between rolling green hills and the Tasman Sea. Just a 45-minute drive from Hamilton and two hours from Auckland, Raglan is easily accessible for those exploring New Zealand in a campervan.

While Raglan is renowned internationally for its left-hand break surf at Manu Bay and Whale Bay, it offers so much more than just waves. This picturesque coastal town offers a laid-back atmosphere, an artistic community, and a vibrant café culture, making it a must-visit spot on any North Island itinerary.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Is Raglan a good place for families to visit?

Absolutely! Raglan offers a perfect blend of family-friendly activities, beautiful landscapes, and a relaxed vibe. Whether you're into water sports, nature exploration, or simply enjoying a peaceful beach day, Raglan has something for everyone in the family.

Why families should explore Raglan in a campervan

A family campervan holiday is one of those rewarding experiences that kids will always remember. The laughs, the bonding moments, and the discoveries along the way form memories that last a lifetime. Exploring Raglan in a campervan takes this experience to a whole new level. Here are just a few reasons why:

Hassle-free travel: With a campervan rental, you have your transportation and accommodation merged into one, making the journey smoother and more streamlined. Plus, there’s plenty of room for all the kids' camping supplies.
Bring the family dog: Why leave your furry friends behind when they can join in on the fun? Apollo campervan rentals are pet-friendly which means no pet boarding fees and no sad goodbyes. Your family dog can be part of those cherished memories too!
No packing and unpacking: When you travel by campervan, there's no need to pack and unpack at every stop. Your belongings stay in one place, easily accessible anytime. This means less time arranging your stuff and more time exploring Raglan's wonders.
Easy on-the-go naps: Little ones can get tired easily after a day of adventures. With an Apollo campervan, you don't have to worry about trekking back to a motel room for nap time. Simply pull over at a scenic spot and let them rest comfortably while you make a drink and enjoy the view.
Spontaneity and freedom: With van travel, you’re not tied down to strict itineraries. See an interesting side road or a beach that wasn't on your plan? No problem! Dive into spontaneous adventures and let your children experience the thrill of the unexpected.

The 5 best family campervan spots near Raglan

As you can see, exploring Raglan in a campervan makes for the perfect family holiday. Now let’s take a look at some great Raglan camping sites you can stay at while you’re there.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Raglan Holiday Park

Sitting at the edge of the harbour, Raglan Holiday Park offers a prime waterfront position with views stretching over the estuary and out to the Tasman Sea. Just a stone's throw from the heart of Raglan’s township, the holiday park’s idyllic location makes it a perfect basecamp.

Facilities

This Raglan campground offers a range of top-notch facilities catering to families. Plug your campervan into a powered site. Make use of the clean and spacious communal kitchen and bathroom facilities. And let the kids burn off energy on the playground and huge jumping pillow. There are also laundry facilities – very handy for families on a longer road trip. And for those days you just want to relax at the park, there's free Wi-Fi, allowing you to share your adventures or plan your next outing.

Family-friendly attractions nearby

Being close to Raglan's centre, the holiday park provides easy access to a great range of family activities. Just a short walk away is Raglan Wharf where you can

find fresh seafood eateries, local crafts shops, and kids can enjoy watching boats come and go. A quick drive will take you to Ngarunui Beach, known for its expansive sandy shores perfect for building sandcastles and gentle waves for beginner surf lessons.

Te Kopua Whanau Camp

Located on the banks of the tranquil estuary, Te Kopua Whanau Camp offers a more secluded and natural setting, while still being conveniently close to Raglan's vibrant town centre. The camp boasts a unique position on Ocean Beach making sunsets particularly memorable.

Facilities

Designed with a vision of providing a more organic camping experience, Te Kopua Whanau Camp offers essential amenities without compromising the natural feel of the environment. Campers have access to non-powered sites and bathroom facilities.

Family-friendly attractions nearby

Sitting right on the campsite’s doorstep, Te Kopua Domain offers up plenty of green space for family activities. From playing frisbee, picnicking, or just taking a leisurely stroll, there's something for everyone.

Several trails start or pass by the campgrounds. These are perfect for families looking to explore the surrounding landscapes, whether on foot or on a bike. A bit further afield but worth the visit, the 55 m Bridal Veil waterfall is an easy walking trail, making it a family-friendly excursion.

Not too far from the camp is Raglan's renowned skatepark. If your kids are into skating or even just watching, it's a great place to spend some time.

Solscape

Perched atop the hills overlooking the Tasman Sea, Solscape provides a panoramic view of Raglan's famous surf breaks and scenic coastline. Located just a few minutes drive from Raglan town, this eco-retreat is both secluded and accessible. Little wonder it’s a favourite spot for those seeking a combination of nature, tranquillity, and adventure.

Facilities

Solscape prides itself on being an eco-conscious retreat, which is evident in its sustainable practices and the facilities it offers. While it's known for its unique accommodations like earth domes and tipis, campervanners are well catered to with all the necessary amenities. The retreat offers a communal kitchen designed with recycled materials, organic gardens, and bathroom facilities that focus on water conservation.

Family-friendly attractions nearby

For relaxation, there's a dedicated yoga and wellness centre, and families will appreciate the on-site café offering nutritious and delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients.

Unique to Solscape, they occasionally offer workshops on sustainable living and permaculture. This can be an enlightening experience for older kids and parents alike, teaching valuable lessons on living in harmony with nature.

From Solscape, you can find trails leading down to the beaches or into the native bush, perfect for families to explore the diverse landscapes of the region.

Just a few minutes drive away, Manu Bay is famous for its surf. It’s a spectacle to watch surfers ride the waves. And for families interested, there are surf schools nearby that offer lessons for both adults and children.

Karioi Lodge

Tucked away amidst native bush on the slopes of Mount Karioi, Karioi Lodge offers an immersive nature experience like no other. Just a short drive from Raglan's town centre, this lodge offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle.

Facilities

Campervan travellers will find dedicated parking areas with kitchen and bathroom amenities. The lodge also offers communal areas where guests can gather around a warm fire in the evenings. Given its eco-friendly focus, sustainable practices are at the forefront of its operations.

Families will particularly appreciate the outdoor BBQ areas, perfect for grilling under the starry nights. And kids will be thrilled with the outdoor playground, ping pong and pool tables, TV room, mountain bike hire, and more.

Family-friendly attractions nearby

Given its location, Karioi Lodge is a hotspot for birdwatching and glowworm spotting. With a bit of luck, you might even spot New Zealand's iconic kiwi in its natural habitat.

The lodge offers direct access to various walking and hiking trails on Mount Karioi. Families can choose from walks suitable for all fitness levels, leading to lookout points offering panoramic views of the Tasman Sea, Raglan, and beyond.

For families keen to learn surfing, the lodge has its own surf school. With expert instructors, both beginners and intermediates can ride the waves of the nearby beaches safely.

Just a short distance from Karioi Lodge, Whale Bay is a gem of Raglan's coastline and an idyllic day-trip destination for families. Celebrated for its magnificent surf breaks, the bay is a great spot for budding surfers to watch professionals carve through waves or even take lessons themselves. Its tranquil setting is perfect for family picnics or simply soaking in the views.

Ruapuke Motor Camp

Around 28 km south of Raglan, on a sprawling rural site close to the rugged coastline, Ruapuke Motor Camp offers families a peaceful escape from the typical tourist spots.

Facilities

This great family campsite offers a range of amenities tailored to ensure a comfortable stay for campervan travellers including powered and non-powered sites. This campsite is also dog-friendly, so your furry friends will be welcomed.

Communal facilities such as clean kitchens and bathroom areas make for a comfortable stay. For families, the camp provides open spaces suitable for outdoor games and activities. Plus, with its more remote location, stargazing on clear nights becomes a magical experience, unspoiled by city lights.

Family-friendly attractions nearby

The region around the motor camp offers up several walking trails, suitable for various fitness levels. A popular option is the 3.4 km Ruapuke Beach Loop Walk. The walk takes around an hour and is a nice easy route making it ideal for the whole family.

Nearby Ruapuke Beach is a sprawling expanse of black sand and a haven for families, offering ample space for kids to play, build sandcastles, and explore.

The rugged landscape around Ruapuke is ideal for horseback riding. Local operators offer guided tours suitable for families along beaches and through forests making for a memorable adventure.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Ready for a family trip to Raglan?

A family campervan holiday in Raglan is the perfect way to enjoy some family bonding time in the fresh air. From building sandcastles and surfing waves to exploring nature trails and horseback riding…. no devices needed here! Ready to make some amazing memories? Don’t put it off any longer, book in your Apollo campervan rental today and make it happen.

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Tags: Apollo Camper New Zealand things to do central north island where to stay

Popular Wellington & Wairarapa road trips & itineraries

Positioned at the southern end of New Zealand's North Island, Wellington and the Wairarapa region are perfectly placed for unforgettable road trips. Starting from Wellington, you can easily navigate your way through the scenic routes that lead to the Wairarapa, where vineyards, coastlines, and quaint towns await. Whether you're coming from the North Island's urban centres or making the crossing from the South Island, these regions offer fantastic campervan road trip experiences with a variety of itineraries to suit every traveller’s taste. Here are a few worth checking out:

Apollo Campervan branches

Christchurch

The drive from Apollo Christchurch to Wellington takes you along some of the South Island’s most scenic coastline. There’s a fair bit to see and do along the way, so be sure to take your time and perhaps plan an overnight stay in Kaikoura. This journey includes crossing the Cook Strait by ferry.

Queenstown

Keen to make the most of your road trip and explore more of the South Island? Book your camper with our Queenstown branch and spend a few days heading northward, including crossing the Cook Strait by ferry. You may even like to plan an epic road trip and continue on to Auckland. You can arrange to drop off your camper at any of our three branches.

Auckland

The North Island is packed full of sights and experiences, so why not tick off a few with a road trip from Apollo Auckland to Wellington? The beauty of a campervan trip is that you can stop when you need to, change your route, or take a detour if you spot a signpost pointing to something you’d like to see.