What to do on your campervan road trip?

The beautiful legends of New Zealand and the inception of its two main islands are told as part of the traditional Māori people, who settled in the country long before the Europeans first arrived. According to the Māori, the North Islands were formed after the brothers of Māui, a demigod, fought over a great fish that he pulled from the sea. The fish was chopped into pieces, creating what is now known to be Te Ika-a-Māui, the traditional name of the island group. Though the tales may only be myth, the breathtaking beauty of the North Island is definitely not.

Auckland City

The North Island of New Zealand has endless opportunities for adventure, beauty and wonder. However, we think the perfect place to start is Auckland, where you’ll be picking up your Apollo motorhome or campervan. Although surrounded by the natural beauty of the North Island, Auckland itself has an array of fantastic tourist activities sure to keep everyone entertained, from food and music to art and culture. So, after setting off from our Auckland branch location, why not stop in at a few of the city's best sites and attractions.

Sky Tower

Piercing Auckland’s skyline, the Sky Tower is known for its panoramic views of the city, bay area and surrounding landscape. Standing at 300 metres high, it is the highest structure in the Southern Hemisphere. As well as stunning views, the Sky Tower also offers gift shops, world-class restaurants and a heart-stopping bungee jump which starts at 192m above the streets below.

Auckland Museum

Step back in time and discover the rich history of Maori and Pacific Islander culture. With extensive cultural, military and natural history collections, the Auckland Museum is the perfect place to immerse yourself in New Zealand’s story. Located within a historical building and surrounded by tranquil parkland, it’s the perfect day trip for the whole family.

Mount Eden

Walk up Auckland’s highest volcanic peak for stunning views of the Auckland CBD and harbour. You can observe the crater in the centre of the mountain, which is now covered in grass.

Tapapakanga Regional Park

Operated by the Auckland City Council, the Tapapakanga Regional Park is a scenic coastal farm park about an hour’s drive east of Auckland. Perfect for a relaxing start to your NZ road trip, park up at your beach-side campsite, and watch the sunset over the rolling landscape behind you.

Touring the North Island

Travelling out of Auckland in your Apollo campervan, you are spoiled for choice. From forests, beaches, rolling hills, and wild rivers, which area of natural beauty should you visit first?

The Northern Tip

Travelling north of the city, you will reach the world-renowned Bay of Islands. From there, drive as far as you can to arrive at Cape Reinga, the northernmost point on mainland New Zealand. Along the way you will encounter cute little towns, rural charm and gorgeous coastal scenes.

Heading South

South of Auckland, there are many different paths you can take. If you’re feeling in need of some sea air, make a beeline for the Bay of Plenty or Coromandel Peninsula. A trip inland will likely guide you to lakes and thermal environments of Taupo and Rotorua.

Wild West Coast

If dramatic, rugged scenes are what you crave, the west coast of the North Island is perfect for you. Let the wind whip through your hair as you stand over the craggy cliffs or paddle out on one of the many surf beaches. Dotted with national parks, limestone caves and even a volcanic mountain, let the west coast captivate you with its natural beauty.

East Coast Adventure

Known as the ‘Sunshine Capital’, Napier and surrounding regions are home to world-class vineyards and a wonderful collection of art-deco architecture. Get a bit of culture in you and stroll the streets of Napier on a self-guided ‘Art-Deco walk’, designed by the Art-Deco Trust.

Things to do in Auckland

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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Where to stay in Auckland with your campervan

The Auckland region and surrounding North Island are perfect for your motorhome or campervan journey. The area is packed full of motorhome-friendly holiday parks that can provide power and security while offering amazing views. There will often be a holiday park close to popular towns and tourist spots so you can enjoy everything Auckland has to offer.

Holiday parks can supply powered and non-powered sites for campervans and motorhomes, as well as tents and caravans. They may offer multiple recreational amenities like heated swimming pools, trampolines and barbeque facilities.

For inspiration, check out these world-class tourist areas which cater to motorhomes and campervans:

The Shakespear Regional Park - Situated north of Auckland, this beautiful spot offers beautiful views of Te Haruhi Bay, with three main walking tracks for you to enjoy.

Whatuwhiwhi Holiday Park - Perfect for a beach-side getaway, this spot is great for accessing the pristine Perihepe Beach. Enjoy an array of activities in the area, like fishing, snorkelling, kayaking and paddle boarding.

Kauri Coast Holiday Park - Located on two hectares of stunning native parkland, the Kauri Coast is a great launching point for seeing the natural wonders of the west coast. Visit the nearby Waipoua Forest, Kauri Park or stroll along the beaches at Maunganui Bluff.

New Zealand is also a free camping nation which means you can park and stay the night in designated areas, as long as you're respectful of others and the environment. Freedom camping is a great option for cheap campervan hire, but it is only allowed for certified self-contained vehicles. This means it must have an on-board toilet, shower and waste disposal facilities.

For more information about free camping in your campervan rental, Auckland City Council has provided detailed rules and regulations for staying in the city.

Why choose Apollo for campervan and motorhome hire in Auckland?

Apollo has been a leading brand for premium quality motorhome and campervan rentals since 1985. Our entire campervan fleet is designed and custom built by expert RV manufacturers, who understand New Zealand’s unique climate and terrain. Fitted with quality appliances and furnishings, we can ensure you all the comforts from home when you’re on the road.

Contact our Apollo Motorhomes Reservations team and speak to one of our dedicated team members today. You can also browse through our range of campervans and motorhomes online now and start planning your ultimate Auckland road trip.

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