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 / Tuesday, 1 August 2023

/ Categories: NZ blog

15 family friendly things to do in Auckland

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Go wild at Auckland Zoo

When planning your travel itinerary, a visit to Auckland Zoo is a must. Located in Western Springs, the zoo is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts of all ages. Families can enjoy a range of incredible experiences such as feeding giraffes, meeting a Galápagos tortoise, or getting up close to a cute red panda. The zoo is renowned for its conservation efforts, combining fun with invaluable learning about the precious wildlife we share our planet with.

After a day of fun at the zoo, pop next door to Western Springs Park for a relaxing stroll around the lake or to let the kids loose on the fantastic playground.

See the sharks at Sea Life Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium

Dive into a captivating underwater world at Sea Life Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium. This awesome Auckland attraction is located just a few minutes from the city centre in Orakei. Walk through the underwater tunnel as sharks, stingrays, and colourful fish swim overhead. Discover a frozen wonderland that is home to a colony of sub-Antarctic penguins and learn about their behaviour and habitat.

For littlies, the aquarium’s interactive displays offer both entertainment and education. The rock pool experience lets them gently touch sea stars and sea cucumbers, providing a tangible connection to marine life.

Take a swing at Holey Moley Golf Club

Tee off on a fun-filled family day out at Holey Moley Golf Club. Tucked away on Auckland's vibrant Viaduct Harbour, this isn’t your typical mini-golf course. Expect vibrant themes, quirky twists, and challenging shots that demand creativity. You'll find everything from scary sharks to Simpson-themed holes. Continue the fun afterwards with some karaoke followed by pizza or burgers.

Tackle the All Blacks Experience

Attention rugby fans… this one’s for you! Located at SkyCity in the heart of Auckland is the All Blacks Experience. Here, rugby's rich history comes to life, embodying the spirit of New Zealand's most revered sports team. This state-of-the-art interactive experience explores the All Blacks' heritage, culture, and of course, their many victories. Learn more about the esteemed players who've worn the famous black jersey, and what it takes to be an All Black.

Even if you're not a rugby aficionado, the All Blacks Experience serves as a fantastic insight into New Zealand's culture.

Embrace nature with a stroll along Piha Beach

On Auckland's rugged west coast, about an hour's drive from the city centre, you'll find Piha Beach. Surrounded by the Waitakere Regional Park, Piha Beach is renowned for its stunning black iron-sand coastline and surf-worthy waves. The beach is also home to Lion Rock, a local landmark steeped in Māori history.

Piha Beach is perfect for families seeking a tranquil retreat from the city. Spend the day exploring the surrounding walking tracks, building sandcastles, or just taking in the dramatic landscape.

Step back in time at Auckland Museum

If you’re looking for things to do in Auckland when it’s raining, the Auckland War Memorial Museum is hard to beat. Situated in the Auckland Domain – the city's oldest park – the museum houses a vast collection of Māori and Pacific Island artefacts. On your visit, you'll see fascinating exhibits that tell the story of New Zealand's unique history, from the first Polynesian explorers to modern-day Auckland. And with many of the exhibits included in the general admission, it's also a budget-friendly day out.

Look to the heavens at Stardome Observatory and Planetarium

Taking pride of place at One Tree Hill Domain in Greenlane is the Stardome Observatory and Planetarium. This celestial haven offers awe-inspiring experiences, perfect for family nights out during your Auckland campervan holiday. Gaze upon glittering stars, discover distant galaxies, and learn about our vast universe. Stardome also hosts fascinating live planetarium shows (day and night) and is home to powerful telescopes that offer a closer look at the stars above.

See the sheep at One Tree Hill and Cornwall Park

Before or after your visit to Stardome, expand your adventure in Auckland by exploring One Tree Hill and Cornwall Park. This urban oasis is a picturesque setting, where city life meets nature.

Take in stunning panoramic views of Auckland from atop One Tree Hill. Families can enjoy a relaxed picnic, take leisurely strolls through tree-lined paths, or cycle through the park's trails. Children will delight in seeing the park's resident farm animals including sheep, cows, and even peacocks. If you’re visiting during July – September, you’re likely to see lambs frolicking in the park. The onsite Cornwall Park Café offers tasty refreshments and great coffee, too.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Stop and smell the roses at Auckland Botanic Gardens

Spanning over 64 hectares, the Auckland Botanic Gardens is a haven of horticultural splendour with over 10,000 plants from around the world. Located in Manurewa, around 30 minutes’ drive from the city centre, the garden displays offer year-round colour and inspiration.

Visitors can wander through diverse landscapes, from native bush to formal gardens. Kids can explore the enchanting Potter Children's Garden and get stuck in with interactive experiences. And when tummies start to rumble, the onsite café provides a spot for a quick bite or leisurely lunch.

Go full throttle at Rainbow’s End

Rainbow's End is the ultimate destination for fun-seeking families. With over 20 rides and attractions, there's something for everyone in the family. Experience the exhilaration of the Stratosfear, test your courage on the Fearfall, or take a ride on New Zealand’s only corkscrew coaster. For the younger members, Kidz Kingdom offers a safe space to enjoy the fun. Whether you're drawn to the fast-paced rides or the colourful Fairy Tale castle, it's a day out you won't forget.

Enjoy the exhibits at Auckland Art Gallery

Located in the central city, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki offers a blend of culture, creativity, and fun. The gallery is home to a vast collection of over 17,000 artworks, including pieces from prominent New Zealand and international artists. But it's not just a viewing experience; interactive exhibits bring art to life for younger audiences. Whether you're an art aficionado or a curious novice, it's an inspiring spot on your motorhome exploration of Auckland.

Meet creatures large and small at Butterfly Creek

Just a stone's throw from Auckland Airport and Apollo’s Auckland branch, Butterfly Creek makes the ideal first or last stop on your Auckland campervan adventure. This delightful destination promises a colourful display of exotic butterflies, housed in a tropical butterfly house.

Kids will be thrilled by the Dinosaur Kingdom and the chance to come face-to-face with life-sized dinosaurs. Don't miss the Crocodile Encounter, home to New Zealand's only giant saltwater crocodiles. And if the kids prefer something a little less scary, they can wander through the park and find unicorns, magical mermaids, fairies, and other amazing creatures.

Take a seaside escape in Devonport

Located across the harbour from downtown Auckland, Devonport is a charming, seaside suburb well worth a visit on your campervan travels.

Among its attractions is the Navy Museum, where the family can explore the history of New Zealand’s Navy. From there, enjoy a walk along the beach to the children's playground. And if you’re in town on a Sunday, don’t miss the market at the Devonport wharf from 9 am – 2 pm. Another must-do is a stop at Devonport Chocolates – a local favourite with delicious, sweet treats on offer. Top off your visit with a trip up Mount Victoria or North Head to take in the panoramic city and harbour views.

Meet marine life on an Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari

Enjoy a family day out on the water with Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari, based at the Viaduct Harbour. This four-and-a-half-hour excursion takes you out into the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, a haven for diverse marine life including the critically endangered Bryde’s whale. You’ll be hosted by a marine expert who’ll share their research and knowledge with you as you enjoy your tour.

Go to great heights with Tree Adventures

Located in the Woodhill Forest, Tree Adventures outdoor activity park is a must-do for thrill-seekers. It offers 10 different courses, ranging from easy to challenging, all set high up in the trees.

Children and adults alike will enjoy the variety of challenges, including swinging bridges, balancing ropes, and exciting flying foxes. Don’t worry, the park has expert guides to ensure everyone's safety and comfort.

Ready to explore Auckland?

As you can see, Auckland offers an abundance of family-friendly attractions to suit all ages and interests. Head out on the water or up a high tree. Meet sharks, dinosaurs, and mermaids! There's no shortage of unforgettable experiences. Exploring in an Apollo campervan allows you to discover all these awesome Auckland attractions at your own pace, creating a travel itinerary tailored to your family's fun levels.

So why wait? Make your Auckland adventure a reality. Book your Apollo campervan online now.

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Tags: Apollo Camper Auckland Family Family Friendly things to do winter

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.