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9-Day Family Adventure Road Trip from Auckland to Christchurch in a Camper Van

Viewed by 65 travelers

Day 1: Adventure Begins

Matamata, New Zealand on April 23, 2025

10:00AM

Visit Hobbiton

Start your adventure at the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set to explore the charming village that once hosted Bilbo and Frodo's adventures.
Drive from Auckland southbound to Matamata (approx. 2 hours).
NZD100, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Green Dragon Inn

Enjoy a themed lunch at The Green Dragon Inn, nestled in the heart of Hobbiton.
Located on site at Hobbiton.
NZD30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Matamata Campervan Park

Set up at the Matamata Campervan Park, a comfortable spot with clean facilities.
Use local signage for directions.
NZD40, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Redoubt Bar and Eatery

Indulge in a variety of dishes at one of Matamata's best restaurants.
Short drive from the park.
NZD60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Matamata

Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Rotorua, New Zealand on April 24, 2025

8:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Embark on your journey to Rotorua, famous for its geothermal activity and rich Maori culture.
Drive from Matamata to Rotorua (approx. 1 hour).
NZD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Te Puia

Visit Te Puia to see bubbling mud pools and geysers, and enjoy the cultural performances from the local Maori tribe.
Follow GPS directions.
NZD60, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Stratosfare Restaurant

Savor a scenic buffet lunch overlooking Rotorua at the top of the Skyline Gondola.
Drive to Skyline Rotorua (approx. 10 minutes).
NZD50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Rotorua Mineral Spa

Relax in the geothermal baths of Rotorua Mineral Spa, which offers therapeutic benefits.
Drive to the spa (approx. 10 minutes).
NZD80, 2 hours

5:00PM

Rotorua Central Motorhome Park

Check into Rotorua Central Motorhome Park for the night.
Follow local directions to the campsite.
NZD45, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Fat Dog Cafe

Enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with great meals at Fat Dog Cafe.
Short drive from the park.
NZD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 3: Nature's Wonders

Taupo, New Zealand on April 25, 2025

8:00AM

Drive to Taupo

Journey to Taupo, a town known for its stunning lake and outdoor activities.
Drive from Rotorua to Taupo (approx. 1 hour).
NZD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Huka Falls

Visit the beautiful Huka Falls and take pictures of the spectacular waterfall.
Drive to Huka Falls (approx. 15 minutes).
NZD0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Lunch at The Ploughmans

Delight in a hearty lunch at this local favorite, known for its warm hospitality.
Drive back to Taupo (approx. 15 minutes).
NZD40, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lake Taupo Water Activities

Engage in fun water activities such as swimming, kayaking, or a scenic cruise on Lake Taupo.
Check local options for rentals at the lake.
NZD100, 3 hours

5:00PM

Taupo Top 10 Holiday Park

Settle at Taupo Top 10 Holiday Park, a family-friendly site with great amenities.
Drive to the park (approx. 10 minutes).
NZD50, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Vine Eatery

Enjoy exquisite dining at Vine Eatery with a delightful wine selection.
Short drive from the park.
NZD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 4: City & Culture

Wellington, New Zealand on April 26, 2025

8:00AM

Drive to Wellington

Travel south to Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, known for its vibrant arts scene.
Drive from Taupo to Wellington (approx. 4 hours).
NZD0, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cuba Street

Explore the eclectic eateries at Cuba Street and enjoy lunch at a trendy cafe.
Locate a spot in the Cuba Street area (follow signs).
NZD45, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Wellington Cable Car

Rode the iconic Wellington Cable Car for stunning views of the city and gardens.
Walk to the cable car station (approx. 10 minutes).
NZD8, 1 hour

3:00PM

Te Papa Museum

Visit New Zealand's national museum, Te Papa, to discover the history and culture of the nation.
Walk from the cable car (approx. 15 minutes).
NZD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Wellington Top 10 Holiday Park

Check into Wellington Top 10 Holiday Park, a well-equipped park with excellent facilities.
Drive back to the park (approx. 10 minutes).
NZD55, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Logan Brown

Indulge in a fine dining experience at Logan Brown, known for its elegant atmosphere and seasonal dishes.
Short drive from the park.
NZD120, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 5: Seaside Relaxation

Nelson, New Zealand on April 27, 2025

8:00AM

Drive to Nelson

Head to Nelson, a sun-drenched town known for its arts community and proximity to beautiful beaches.
Drive from Wellington to Nelson (approx. 2.5 hours).
NZD0, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Lunch at Little Indian

Savor authentic Indian cuisine at Little Indian, known for its delightful dishes.
Drive to Little Indian restaurant (approx. 10 minutes).
NZD50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit the Nelson Market

Spend your afternoon wandering through the local Nelson Market, featuring crafts, food stalls, and unique products.
Follow local signage to the market.
NZD0, 2 hours

3:00PM

Tahunanui Beach

Relax at Tahunanui Beach, enjoying the sun and sea in this popular seaside spot.
Drive to the beach (approx. 10 minutes).
NZD0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Nelson City Top 10 Holiday Park

Settle in for the night at Nelson City Top 10 Holiday Park, with great facilities and nearby attractions.
Drive back to the park (approx. 10 minutes).
NZD45, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at The Styx

Enjoy a fantastic dinner at The Styx, known for its burgers and relaxed atmosphere.
Short drive from the park.
NZD60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 6: Scenic Landscapes

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand on April 28, 2025

8:00AM

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Set off early to Lake Tekapo to experience its stunning turquoise waters and mountain backdrop.
Drive from Nelson to Lake Tekapo (approx. 3.5 hours).
NZD0, 3.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at the Lake Tekapo Tavern

Enjoy a warm meal with a view at the Lake Tekapo Tavern.
Short distance from lake access.
NZD50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd

A must-see structure at Lake Tekapo, this picturesque church is set against the lake's stunning backdrop.
Drive to the church (approx. 5 minutes).
NZD0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Lake Tekapo Regional Park

Enjoy walking or biking in the breathtaking landscapes of Lake Tekapo Regional Park.
Walk or drive to the park area.
NZD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Lake Tekapo Motels & Holiday Park

Check in at Lake Tekapo Motels & Holiday Park where camping sites are set amidst gorgeous scenery.
Drive back to the park (approx. 5 minutes).
NZD55, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Kohan Restaurant

Enjoy modern Japanese cuisine paired with stunning views over Lake Tekapo.
Short drive from the park.
NZD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Lake Tekapo

Day 7: Helicopter Adventure

Mount Cook, New Zealand on April 29, 2025

8:00AM

Drive to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Travel to Mount Cook Village, where breathtaking views and outdoor activities await.
Drive from Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook (approx. 1 hour).
NZD0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Helicopter Tour of Mount Cook

Book a helicopter tour to experience the majestic Mount Cook and its stunning glaciers from above.
Head to Helicopter Line office for boarding.
NZD499, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Old Mountaineers' Cafe

Relish alpine cuisine with fantastic views at The Old Mountaineers' Cafe.
Drive to the café (approx. 5 minutes).
NZD50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hooker Valley Track

Walk along the Hooker Valley Track for stunning views of Mount Cook and the beautiful Hooker Lake.
The track starts near the visitor center.
NZD0, 3 hours

5:00PM

Aoraki/Mount Cook Alpine Lodge

Check into the Aoraki/Mount Cook Alpine Lodge for a comfortable night under the stars.
Drive to the lodge (approx. 10 minutes).
NZD60, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at The Hermitage Hotel

Dine at The Hermitage with views of Mount Cook, offering a fine dining experience.
Short drive from the lodge.
NZD90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Mount Cook

Day 8: Cultural City Escape

Christchurch, New Zealand on April 30, 2025

8:00AM

Drive to Christchurch

Head to Christchurch, known for its British heritage and gardens.
Drive from Mount Cook to Christchurch (approx. 3.5 hours).
NZD0, 3.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Little High Eatery

Visit Little High Eatery, a laneway dining area with varied food options perfect for families.
Follow GPS to Little High Eatery.
NZD45, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Stroll through Christchurch Botanic Gardens, experiencing lush landscapes and beautiful flower displays.
Drive to the gardens (approx. 10 minutes).
NZD0, 2 hours

3:30PM

Christchurch Art Gallery

Discover contemporary Māori and Pacific art at this stunning gallery that promotes cultural exchange.
Short drive from the gardens.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Christchurch TOP 10 Holiday Park

Check in at Christchurch TOP 10 Holiday Park to unwind after an exciting day.
Drive to the park (approx. 10 minutes).
NZD50, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Culpeppers

Conclude your day with a sumptuous dinner at Culpeppers, offering a blend of contemporary Kiwi cuisine.
Short drive from the park.
NZD75, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 9: Relax and Wind Down

Canterbury Plains, New Zealand on May 1, 2025

8:00AM

Drive to Canterbury Plains

Conclude the trip with a scenic drive through the stunning Canterbury Plains.
Drive from Christchurch to Canterbury Plains (approx. 1 hour).
NZD0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit a Local Farm

Engage with local farmers and learn about agricultural practices in the area.
Find a local farm offering tours.
NZD20, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Farmers' Market

Enjoy fresh produce and local specialties at a nearby Farmers' Market.
Check local directories for market days.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Plains

Take a leisurely drive through the picturesque countryside of the Canterbury Plains.
Drive through scenic routes, following GPS.
NZD0, 2 hours

3:30PM

Return to Christchurch Airport

Prepare for departure as you head back to Christchurch Airport.
Drive to the airport (approx. 1 hour).
NZD0, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Canterbury Plains
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