Short campervan trips New Zealand: maximize weekends

You don’t need weeks to experience the best of New Zealand—sometimes, all you need is a long weekend or a few spare days to create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re visiting from abroad or exploring closer to home, a short campervan trip in Aotearoa is the perfect way to embrace the country’s incredible beauty, diverse landscapes, and laid-back vibe.

With well-maintained roads, stunning national parks, and easy access to secluded beaches and majestic mountains, New Zealand is an ideal destination for a road trip, no matter how much time you’ve got. So, how do you make the most of a short campervan trip? Here’s our guide to help you hit the road and maximise your adventure in just a few days.

1. Choose a doable route with a big impact

One of the best things about New Zealand is that you don’t need to travel far to see something incredible. If you're working with limited time, it's important to pick a route that offers a lot of bang for your buck—scenic beauty, iconic landmarks, and opportunities to get out and explore.

North Island route: Auckland > Coromandel Peninsula

Drive time: 2 hours 30 minutes

This route offers a great mix of coastal beauty, beaches, and small-town rustic charm, all within a short distance of Auckland. Start by heading up north to Whangaparāoa Peninsula for panoramic views of the city, then make your way to the Coromandel Peninsula , where you can spend your days beach-hopping, hiking, or relaxing in the forested campsites. Highlights include New Chums Beach and Opoutere Beach , both perfect for a peaceful, scenic escape.

South Island route: Queenstown > Lake Tekapo

Drive time: 3 hours

If you’re short on time but still want to experience the South Island’s beauty, take the scenic route from Queenstown to Lake Tekapo. This journey takes you through some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes New Zealand has to offer. Stop in Wanaka for a lakeside stroll, before heading north to Lake Pukaki , where you’ll be treated to spectacular views of Mount Cook. End your trip with a relaxing night by the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo — one of the best spots for stargazing in New Zealand!

2. Plan your overnight stops carefully

With limited time, you want to make sure you’re spending your nights somewhere special—without having to spend hours trawling for the perfect spot. Look for free or low-cost campsites that are close to major attractions, so you can wake up to the scenery you came for without wasting hours on the road.

3. Keep activities simple and enjoy the journey

A short trip means you don’t have to cram every major tourist attraction into your itinerary. Instead, take the time to really enjoy the places you visit—whether it’s a relaxing walk along a beach, a scenic drive through the countryside, or a quiet spot by the lake.

Top activities for a short campervan trip:

Short hikes: There’s no need to commit to multi-day hikes when you’re on a short trip. Focus on easy, beautiful trails like the Waitahinga Trails, Lake Matheson Track, or Roys Peak. These shorter hikes are accessible, scenic, and rewarding.

Scenic drives: New Zealand’s highways are legendary for their breathtaking views. The Southern Scenic Route on the South Island or the Coromandel Loop up north are both full of photo ops, without the need for major detours.

Beaches & lakes: When you’re in a campervan, it’s easy to stop and take in the scenery. Spend time at New Chums Beach in the Coromandel or find a quiet spot at Lake Wānaka. These places are just as stunning as New Zealand’s more famous spots, but without the crowds.

4. Maximise your time by staying flexible

With a short trip, flexibility is key. You’ll have the freedom to change your plans on the fly, so don’t be afraid to take a detour if something catches your eye. If you hear about a nearby hidden gem or a roadside stop that looks too good to miss, go for it!

One of the great things about campervan travel is that you’re not tied to a rigid schedule—you have the freedom to linger longer in places you love and skip spots that don’t appeal to you. For instance, if you find a dreamy café or craft brewery in a small town, spend an extra hour enjoying it without worrying about reaching your next destination by sunset.

5. Embrace the simplicity of campervan living

A short trip is the perfect chance to embrace the simplicity of life on the road. You don’t need to overcomplicate things—your campervan is your home, your transport, and your base for adventure all in one. Use this opportunity to slow down and enjoy the little things, like cooking a fresh meal in your camper’s kitchen or waking up to birdsong at sunrise.

Don’t overpack your schedule with too many activities. The joy of campervan travel is in the journey itself, so make time to unwind and truly experience New Zealand’s natural beauty at your own pace.

6. Don’t forget to make the most of your campervan

Your campervan is more than just a mode of transport—it’s your mobile home and the key to a more relaxed, self-sufficient adventure. Take advantage of its features to make the most of your time. For example:

Cook your own meals: Take advantage of the kitchen and prepare meals in scenic spots like beaches, lakesides, or parks.

Stay off the beaten path: Use your campervan to access more remote areas that are often overlooked by tourists. From quiet lakeside spots to forested areas, some of New Zealand’s best places are waiting for you to discover them.

Pack light: Keep your campervan clean and simple with just the essentials, so you can focus on enjoying the experience without clutter.

A short campervan trip in New Zealand is the perfect way to get a taste of this incredible country without the pressure of a lengthy itinerary. By choosing the right route, keeping your stops simple, and embracing the freedom of campervan living, you’ll be able to experience New Zealand’s natural beauty, charm, and adventure in just a few days. So hit the road, leave the stress behind, and get ready for an unforgettable road trip—no matter the length!

With Camplify, you’re never far away from a campervan, caravan or motorhome that’s right for your trip. With thousands of passionate van owners all over the country, you can look, book, and hit the road for a quick getaway in no time at all.