Overview
If you’re looking for the best North Island campervan itinerary, this 7-day route ticks every box: geothermal wonders, Maori culture, beaches, and volcanoes. Starting in Auckland and finishing in Wellington, it’s perfect for travellers who want a one-week New Zealand road trip packed with variety and easy driving days.
Day 1: Auckland → Coromandel Peninsula (2.5 hrs)
Pick up your campervan in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. Stock up on groceries and head east toward the Coromandel Peninsula, famous for beaches, forest walks, and relaxed Kiwi vibes.
Spend your first evening at Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own natural spa at low tide.
Stay: Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park, ideal for campervans.
Day 2: Explore Coromandel
Take it slow today. Visit Cathedral Cove in Hahei (a short hike or water taxi away) and enjoy a dip in the turquoise waters. If you’re after a hidden gem, drive up to New Chums Beach, it’s often named among the world’s best.
Stay: Hahei Holiday Resort or free-camp at Whangapoua Reserve (if self-contained).
Day 3: Coromandel → Rotorua (3 hrs)
Drive south through the Waikato region to Rotorua, the heart of Maori culture and geothermal magic. Visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland or watch geysers erupt at Te Puia. In the evening, enjoy a traditional hangi dinner and cultural performance.
Stay: Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park, close to hot pools and city centre.
Day 4: Rotorua → Taupō → Tongariro (3 hrs total)
Stop at Huka Falls on your way to Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake. Try skydiving, kayaking, or a lakefront cycle. Then continue to Tongariro National Park, home of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, often called the best day hike in NZ.
Stay: Whakapapa Holiday Park or Discovery Lodge with volcano views.
Day 5: Tongariro → Wellington (4.5 hrs)
Drive south to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital, a vibrant city known for art, coffee, and craft beer. Explore the Te Papa Museum, ride the historic Cable Car, and wander Cuba Street’s boutiques.
Stay: Wellington TOP 10 Holiday Park, convenient for city access.
Day 6: Wellington & Surrounds
Spend a day exploring the capital: hike Mount Victoria for 360° views or take a ferry to Days Bay for a beach picnic. Film buffs can tour Wētā Workshop, home to The Lord of the Rings props.
Stay: Same as previous night.
Day 7: Return or Ferry to South Island
If you’re continuing your New Zealand campervan journey, take the Interislander Ferry to Picton and start your South Island adventure. Otherwise, return your vehicle in Wellington and fly home with a camera full of memories.
Pro Campervan Tips
- Fuel up early: between Rotorua and Tongariro there are few petrol stops.
- Book holiday parks in advance during summer and public holidays.
- CamperMate App: essential for finding dump stations and campgrounds.
- Respect geothermal areas: stick to marked paths for safety.
Ready to Book Your North Island Adventure?
Start your journey here → Search New Zealand Campervans