What to do on your Christchurch campervan road trip?

With Apollo’s campervan and motorhome hire in Christchurch, you can explore every corner of New Zealand’s spectacular South Island.

Head north, to Hanmer Springs and Kaikoura, where the stunning scenery and friendly locals combine with fresh seafood and the famous Marlborough wineries. Further on you’ll be able to explore the Marlborough Sounds and the golden sands of the Tasman National Park.

To the west coast, the photo opportunities are endless. There's so much on offer including tramping, mountain biking, the glaciers of the wild West Coast and the local beers and whitebait patties. Yum!

And of course the famous southern scenic route, including the Southern Lakes, Aoraki Mt Cook, Queenstown and Milford Sound, where every bend in the road will take your breath away. Literally millions of people come from all over the world to see our back garden, why not you!

Discover Christchurch City

Welcome to Christchurch, the doorway to the South Island. On your journey, you will discover endless natural beauty in this uniquely New Zealand setting, from snow-capped mountain ranges to lake-side vistas. However, now that you’re here, why not check out what the city of Christchurch has to offer first?

After you set off from our branch just outside the airport, cruise on into the CBD and enjoy the cultural delights of New Zealand’s oldest city. From restaurants and heritage architecture, to street art and the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra concerts in Hagley Park, feast your senses on all Christchurch has to offer.

Botanic Gardens

As one of the city’s most popular attractions, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens feature the most extensive collection of local and exotic plantlife throughout New Zealand. With over 1.1 million patrons each year, these epic botanic gardens are a place of ever-evolving natural beauty. There's something new to see with every season.

Christchurch Gondola

For the best view in town, ride the Christchurch Gondola to the top of the Port Hills. This experience offers a stunning outlook over the city, the Southern Alps, Lyttelton Harbour and the Canterbury Plains. At the summit, you can enjoy a variety of activities, including shopping, the Time Tunnel Ride or a beverage and snack at the Red Rock cafe.

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Want to see a Kiwi bird in its natural habitat? How about with no glass between you? At the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, you can get close to many of New Zealand’s native icons, as well as other local and introduced species. Walk around the park at your own pace and let the animals eat out of your hand, then stay for a Maori cultural demonstration or walk through the gift shop.

Your South Island campervan adventure

Ready to see the Lord of the Rings in real life? After exploring what Christchurch has to offer, it’s time for the main event. With the dazzling scenery in every direction, we lay out what the South Island has to offer, place by place. Read on to discover where our campervan hire can take you.

Lake Tekapo

Regardless of the season, Lake Tekapo is a sight to behold. Fed from a nearby glacier, bask in the reflection of the crystal clear waters, or visit one of the local cafes to gaze across this great blue expanse. When the sun sets, prepare yourself for a dazzling night time display. Known for its stargazing, local tours operate from Wednesday to Sunday, taking you to the perfect spots to witness our vast milky way.

Aoraki Mount Cook

Standing at 3724 m above sea level, Aoraki Mount Cook is the tallest mountain in New Zealand. On a clear day, it stands magnificently against the sky - a memorable sight for anyone to behold. For day trips to Mt Cook, we highly recommend the Hooker Valley Track. At an easy 3 hour return time, the Hooker Valley Track offers stunning views of Hooker Lake, the Mueller Glacier and, of course, Aoraki Mount Cook.

Hanmer Springs

Unlike most places, Hanmer Springs is ideal for both thrill seekers and chill seekers. The thermal springs are the perfect place to unwind after a long day’s driving, with temperatures reaching up to 36C in some pools. However, for those who are a little more restless, Hanmer Springs Attractions offers a whole host of high-octane fun. From jet boating to river rafting, to quad bike tours and bungy jumping, they have it all. The best part is, they operate from one location, making it possible to do multiple tours in a single day.

Marlborough Sounds

With over 50 conservation reserves, 1500 km of coastline and many hidden bays and quiet beaches, the Marlborough Sounds are a place to find your own piece of paradise. The perfect setting for an island hopper cruise, float between islands and coves as you drink in some of NZ’s most picturesque coastline. With the best south island wineries located in this region, the Sounds are also the ideal place to please your palate, as well as your soul.

Things to do in Christchurch

Alyssa Tresider / Thursday, 2 May 2024

/ Categories: AU Blog

Best Things to See and Do on a Drive From Hobart to Launceston

Heading out on a road trip from Hobart to Launceston? With everything from eye-popping landscapes to quaint towns plucked right out of a fairy tale, this iconic Tasmania road trip route has it all. In this guide, we will walk you through the best family-friendly things to do in Hobart and the must-visit Tasmania tourist attractions on the way north. From Richmond's historic charm to Ben Lomond National Park's alpine allure, we've handpicked the top spots to make your road trip unforgettable.

Along this route, you can indulge in wine tasting, explore pioneer farm complexes, and soak up the urban oasis of Cataract Gorge, all while enjoying the freedom only a campervan can offer. Curious about the other incredible things to see in Tasmania between Hobart and Launceston? Keep reading as we map out your next unforgettable campervan hire road trip.

How long does it take to drive from Hobart to Launceston?

Covering roughly 200 km, the drive from Hobart to Launceston can take anywhere from 2 to 3.5 hours, but who's rushing? Especially when there are so many stunning vistas and cozy towns along the way that invite you to slow down and savour Tasmania's laid-back vibe. The journey itself is a highlight reel of Tasmania’s best bits: historic towns whispering stories of yore, vineyards that tease with the promise of crisp wines, and landscapes that switch from coastal views to mountainous majesty in the blink of an eye.

What’s the best way to get between Hobart and Launceston?

Hands down, the best way to soak in the beauty between Hobart and Launceston is from behind the wheel of a campervan. Why? Because the freedom to pause where you want, when you want, isn't just nice—it's necessary for a land as rich in experiences as Tasmania. With a campervan, you're not just passing through; you're in the thick of it, camping under starlit skies, waking up to ocean views, or enjoying breakfast in the shadow cast by towering granite mountains. It's about creating a travel itinerary that's as unique as your interests, whether your family lean towards the adrenaline-fueled or the blissfully serene. Plus, campervan hire means you have all the comforts of home parked right outside the next adventure. Ready to make the road from Hobart to Launceston your own? Apollo's fleet of campervans is your ticket to an unforgettable Tasmania road trip.

Image: Insatgram - @_letsescapetogether_

The best things to see and do on a drive from Hobart to Launceston

Ready to hit the road and explore the heart of Tasmania? This road trip route is overflowing with must-see Tasmanian tourist attractions. To help, we've curated the ultimate list of stops to make your campervan journey unforgettable. From indulging in local flavours to immersing yourself in the natural beauty that makes Tasmania a must-visit destination, here's a snapshot of what awaits you on this epic road trip.

1. Richmond

After exploring the best things to do in Hobart, make your way to the charming and historic town of Richmond, just a short 20-minute drive from Hobart. Richmond is home to Australia's oldest still-in-use bridge, the Richmond Bridge, with the picturesque Georgian architecture of the town providing a stunning backdrop.

This town is the perfect place to spend a few hours wandering through quaint shops, indulging in fresh Tasmanian food, and taking in the tranquil beauty of heritage buildings. For campervan travellers, the large car park off Bridge Street is the ideal spot to park your home on wheels and explore Richmond's enchanting streets on foot.

2. Coal River Valley

Only a stone's throw away, about 25 minutes from Hobart, the Coal River Valley awaits with its scenic vineyards and panoramic views. This region is a haven for wine lovers, offering an array of cellar doors where you can sample some of Tasmania's finest drops. The valley's picturesque countryside is perfect for a leisurely drive or a picnic among the vines. Campervan visitors can find convenient parking at specific winery estates or designated spots along the main road, making it easy to stop and enjoy the valley's serene beauty.

3. Campbell Town

As you continue north, Campbell Town is tucked away an hour and a half from Hobart. This historic town is rich with colonial architecture and is the perfect Tasmanian attraction to learn about Tasmania's convict past. While in town, don't miss the Red Bridge, Australia's oldest surviving brick arch bridge, and delve into history at The Book Cellar, an unusual bookshop located in the cellars of the convict-built Foxhunters Return Inn. For those travelling in a campervan, parking is available along High Street, providing easy access to explore Campbell Town's quaint charm and historic Tasmania attractions.

4. Ben Lomond National Park

For adventurous families, a detour to Ben Lomond National Park is a must – about 3 hours from Hobart. The park is a haven for outdoor lovers, offering breathtaking alpine scenery, challenging hikes, and the thrilling ascent of Jacobs Ladder. In winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland, with skiing and snowboarding taking centre stage.

During the warmer months, the alpine landscape reveals stunning vistas perfect for hiking with the whole family. Campervan adventurers can park at the designated car park at the park's entrance or take the shuttle bus from the lower car park in winter, ensuring a smooth visit to Tasmania's majestic highlands.

5. Woolmers Estate

Nestled in Longford and a 2-hour drive from Hobart, Woolmers Estate is a slice of Australian heritage, perfectly preserved from the 19th century. This sprawling 82-hectare estate showcases the evolution of Australian farming through buildings frozen in time, including the impressive main homestead, quaint workers’ cottages, and a historic chapel.

When visiting this Tasmanian attraction, don't miss exploring the blacksmith shop, stables, and Australia's oldest woolshed still standing. Woolmers Estate offers a unique glimpse into the early European settlement of Tasmania as well as the pioneering spirit of the Archer family, who owned the land for six generations. For those travelling by campervan, parking is available on-site, making it easy to explore this historic gem.

6. Cataract Gorge Reserve

A mere 5-minute drive from Launceston, Cataract Gorge Reserve is where city life and natural tranquillity effortlessly merge. This urban oasis is a favourite among locals as well as a popular Tasmania tourist attraction for its stunning scenery, the historic Kings Bridge, and being home to the world's longest single-span chairlift.

Here, you can enjoy a leisurely ride across the gorge or challenge the whole family to an iconic Tasmania hike on the scenic trails to witness the beauty of this natural reserve up close. If you really want to experience the full spectrum that this iconic Tasmania attraction has to offer, the chairlift offers a unique vantage point to take in the gorge's splendour

Where to stay in Tasmania

Tasmania offers a variety of campervan-friendly accommodations, from bustling holiday parks to serene campgrounds, ensuring you have a comfortable place to park after a day of exploring the best things to do in Tasmania. Here are a few of our top picks on the route from Hobart to Launceston.

Image: Instagram - @andrewatsonphoto

BIG4 Hobart Airport Tourist Park

BIG4 Hobart Airport Tourist Park offers a seamless start to your Tasmania adventure, especially for families flying into the island. Just a stone's throw from Hobart Airport, this tourist park is the perfect first stop on your campervan journey. With its spacious powered sites, your campervan will feel right at home. The park doesn't skimp on amenities either; let the kids burn off some energy on the jumping pillow or kick back in the TV room. It’s an ideal spot for a comfortable and enjoyable stay, ensuring you and your family are well-rested and ready to get ready to explore the best things to do in Tasmania.

Big4 Launceston Holiday Park

Big4 Launceston Holiday Park is an excellent base for those exploring Tasmania by campervan. Located conveniently in Launceston, it provides easy access to Cataract Gorge and the sprawling township of Launceston. The park boasts a range of facilities to enhance your stay, including powered sites, modern amenities, and breathtaking views of the surrounding region. Its proximity to the city centre means you're never too far from Launceston's charming cafes, shops, and restaurants.

Big4 St Helens Holiday Park

For those wanting to add a detour to the East Coast, Big4 St Helens Holiday Park is your gateway to iconic Tasmanian sites like the Bay of Fires. This holiday park is a haven for campervan adventurers looking to explore the stunning Tasmania beaches and coastal walks this area is renowned for. Offering a mix of powered and unpowered sites, modern facilities, and easy access to St Helens’ vibrant town, it's the perfect spot to recharge before your next adventure.

Explore more of Tasmania with Apollo

This road trip from Hobart to Launceston is just the beginning of what awaits a Tasmania campervan hire adventure. With an Apollo campervan, you're free to explore Tasmania’s attractions at your own pace, discovering hidden gems and iconic landmarks along the way. Whether it's diving into the rich history of Woolmers Estate, experiencing the natural beauty of Cataract Gorge, or finding the perfect campsite under the stars in the Bay of Fires, Apollo has you covered. Ready to start your campervan hire adventure with Apollo? Book your campervan today.

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Where to stay in Christchurch

The Canterbury region is ideal for motorhome and campervan journeys with excellent holiday parks located close to all the popular tourist attractions and towns. These areas are well equipped for road trippers, as they have everything from kitchen and bathroom facilities to powered sites specifically for campervan rentals. Some holiday parks also offer various recreational facilities like barbeque areas, swimming pools, biking and walking trails, and small stores for basic goods.

For inspiration, check out these fantastic holiday parks which cater to motorhomes and campervans:

Tasman Holiday Park, Christchurch - Only 15 minutes from the Christchurch CBD, the Tasman Holiday Park is the perfect place to begin your holiday on New Zealand’s South Island.

Leithfield Beach Holiday Park - North of Christchurch, stop here on your way to the Marlborough Sounds and enjoy beach-side accommodation for a fraction of the price.

The Lake Tekapo Holiday Park - Stay at the top of Lake Tekapo while remaining within walking distance of the town centre, the lake’s edge and local hot springs.

For the more adventurous Christchurch campervan travellers, you can also free camp in certain places throughout the South Island. Freedom camping is a great way to explore New Zealand on a budget, but it comes with strict rules and regulations. You must have a certified self-contained vehicle with your own toilet, shower and waste disposal facilities on board. If you’re planning to free camp in your motorhome rental, Christchurch City Council has rules and regulations about where you can stay.

Why choose Apollo for campervan and motorhome hire in Christchurch?

Apollo is New Zealand’s leading provider of premium quality motorhome and campervan rentals. Designed and built by expert RV manufacturers, our entire fleet is custom-made for New Zealand’s unique climate and terrain. Whether you are looking for your next adventure or want to enjoy a relaxing scenic drive, the best way to explore Christchurch is with an Apollo campervan.

We offer a wide range of campervan and motorhomes to suit any budget and group size. Each vehicle is kitted out with quality appliances and furnishings so you can have all the comforts of home on your road trip. For great Christchurch campervan deals, contact our friendly team at Apollo and start planning your dream holiday.

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