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 / Monday, 24 June 2024

/ Categories: NZ blog

Where to see penguins in New Zealand.

New Zealand offers some of the best opportunities to see penguins in their natural habitat. That makes it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts planning a campervan road trip! Exploring the scenic landscapes of Aotearoa in a campervan hire allows you the freedom to discover these incredible birds up close.

In this helpful guide, we'll share some of the top spots to find penguins in New Zealand, from the blue penguins of the Otago Peninsula to the charming tawaki of Fiordland and Stewart Island. Let’s dive in!

What kinds of penguins are in New Zealand?

New Zealand is home to several unique penguin species, each with distinct characteristics and habitats. From the tiny little blue penguin to the rare yellow-eyed penguin, these fascinating birds can be found in various coastal regions across the country. Here's a closer look at some of the different types of penguins you might encounter on your New Zealand road trip.

Little blue penguin (kororā)

The little blue penguin, also known as the kororā, is the smallest penguin species in the world. These adorable birds are commonly found along the coastlines of both the North and South Islands. They are nocturnal, spending their days at sea and returning to their burrows onshore at night. The best places to see blue penguins in NZ include Oamaru and the Otago Peninsula.

Yellow-eyed penguin (hoiho)

The yellow-eyed penguin, or hoiho, is one of the rarest penguin species in the world and is easily identifiable by its pale yellow eyes and yellow headband. These penguins are primarily found on the southeast coast of the South Island, particularly in the Catlins and on the Otago Peninsula. The best place to see these special birds is at a protected reserve where you can observe them without disturbing their natural habitat.

Fiordland crested penguin (tawaki)

The Fiordland crested penguin, known as tawaki, lives in the rugged and remote regions of Fiordland and Stewart Island. Characterised by their striking yellow crests, these penguins breed in dense coastal forests and rocky areas. They’re best seen during the breeding season from July to November.

Things to keep in mind when trying to spot penguins in NZ

When you're on the lookout for penguins in New Zealand, keep these tips in mind for a smooth and enjoyable experience:

Respect wildlife and their habitat: Always keep a safe distance from the penguins and avoid disturbing them. Use binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens to get a closer look without getting too close.
Visit at the right time: Penguins are often more visible during certain times of the day. Many species return to their burrows in the late afternoon or evening, making this a great time for viewing.
Stay quiet and still: Penguins can be easily startled by loud noises and sudden movements. Keep things quiet and calm to avoid scaring them away.
Follow local guidelines: Many penguin habitats are protected areas with specific rules. Follow all posted guidelines and listen to any instructions from local conservation staff.
Bring the right gear: Depending on where you're going, you might need warm clothing, waterproof gear, and comfortable walking shoes.

The best way to go penguin spotting

Travelling around New Zealand in an Apollo campervan is the perfect way to go penguin spotting. Here's why:

Flexibility and freedom: With a campervan hire, you can travel at your own pace and adjust your New Zealand itinerary as you go. This lets you visit multiple penguin spots without being tied to motel reservations or fixed schedules.
Comfort and convenience: Your Apollo campervan has all the comforts of home, including a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping areas. This means you can stay close to the best penguin viewing locations and enjoy home-cooked meals after a day of exploring.
Scenic drives: The journey is just as enjoyable as the destination when you drive New Zealand in a campervan. The scenic coastal roads and stunning landscapes make the travel experience even more memorable.
Cost-effective travel: Travelling in a campervan can be cheaper than staying in hotels and dining out every day. You can save money by cooking your own meals and staying at campgrounds or holiday parks.
Access to remote locations: Many of the best places to see penguins in New Zealand are in remote or less accessible areas. A campervan lets you reach these spots and stay overnight, giving you the best chance to see these amazing birds.

The best places to see penguins in New Zealand

Wondering where to go in New Zealand to see penguins? We suggest planning a South Island road trip! Here are some of the top spots:

1. Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony

Located on the east coast of the South Island, the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony is one of the most accessible places to see blue penguins in NZ. These little penguins return to shore every evening, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to observe them up close. The best time to see them is at dusk when they come ashore after a day at sea.

Oamaru itself is a charming town with a Victorian precinct and the famous Steampunk HQ, making it a great spot for a family visit.

Best place to stay: We suggest parking up at the Oamaru TOP 10 Holiday Park. This campsite offers excellent facilities for campervan travellers, including spacious sites, clean amenities, and easy access to local attractions. It's a perfect base for your penguin-spotting adventure and exploring the beautiful Otago region.

2. Dunedin's Otago Peninsula

The Otago Peninsula near Dunedin is renowned for its wildlife, including the rare yellow-eyed penguin. Visitors can see these unique birds at various protected areas along the peninsula, especially at Sandfly Bay and the Penguin Place conservation reserve. The best time to see them is late afternoon and early evening.

In addition to penguin spotting, the peninsula offers stunning coastal scenery, the historic Larnach Castle, and the Royal Albatross Centre.

Best place to stay: For a comfortable stay, head to the Portobello Village Tourist Park. This campground is perfect for campervan travellers, offering great facilities, beautiful surroundings, and proximity to the top wildlife viewing sites on the Otago Peninsula.

3. Stewart Island/Rakiura

Located off the southern coast of the South Island, Stewart Island/Rakiura is a remote and wild destination. It’s also home to several penguin species, including the Fiordland crested penguin and little blue penguin. The island's rugged coastline and pristine environment provide an excellent backdrop for spotting these birds, particularly around Halfmoon Bay and Ulva Island.

The best time to visit is during the breeding season from July to November. Besides penguins, Stewart Island offers incredible bird watching opportunities, with species like the kiwi and kaka.

Best place to stay: While there's no campervan accommodation on Stewart Island itself, you can park up at The Bluff Campground on the mainland. This campground offers a convenient spot to leave your campervan before catching the ferry. The ferry ride across Foveaux Strait takes about an hour, providing stunning views and a chance to spot marine wildlife along the way.

4. Milford Sound

Known for its breathtaking fjords and dramatic landscapes, Milford Sound is also home to the Fiordland crested penguin. These penguins can often be spotted in the dense coastal forests and rocky shores of the area, particularly during the breeding season from July to November.

Aside from penguin spotting, Milford Sound offers stunning cruises, kayaking, and hiking opportunities, making it a must-visit destination in New Zealand.

Best place to stay: Park up at the Milford Sound Lodge for a unique camping experience. This rainforest campervan park offers excellent facilities, breathtaking views, and close proximity to the stunning Milford Sound. It's an ideal base for exploring and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

5. Moeraki Peninsula

Located on the eastern coast of the South Island, Moeraki Peninsula is famous for its geological marvels, the Moeraki Boulders, and is also a great spot to see yellow-eyed penguins. The best place to view these penguins is at Katiki Point, where you can see them coming ashore in the late afternoon. While you're there, explore the scenic walking tracks and the historic Moeraki Lighthouse.

Best place to stay: Camp at the Moeraki Boulders Holiday Park for a convenient and comfortable stay. This park offers excellent facilities for campervan travellers, stunning coastal views, and easy access to the Moeraki Boulders and penguin viewing sites, making it a perfect stop on your New Zealand road trip adventure.

READ MORE: Check out the best places to see kiwi in New Zealand

Ready to see some penguins?

Exploring New Zealand’s stunning landscapes and unique wildlife, including its diverse penguin populations, is an adventure of a lifetime. With the flexibility and comfort of an Apollo campervan, you can create your own New Zealand itinerary, visit the best penguin spots, and enjoy the scenic drives that make this country so special.

Don’t wait to start your New Zealand road trip. Book your Apollo campervan hire today and begin planning your penguin-spotting adventure.

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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.