Surfing NZ coast: Owen & Courtney van adventure

Are you ready for a road trip with a twist? Picture yourself driving along New Zealand's breathtaking coastlines in a cozy campervan, chasing waves, and immersing yourself in the natural splendor. That's precisely the journey that surfing influencers Owen Milne and Courtney Dunlop embarked on, and we're excited to share their incredible experience with you.

Get ready for a ride that embodies freedom, flexibility, and affordability, all made possible by Camplify's unique van-sharing community.

Starting point: Auckland

The journey kicks off inAuckland, the vibrant surf city that serves as the gateway to New Zealand's North Island. With its buzzing surf culture and proximity to stunning beaches, Auckland is the perfect launchpad for Owen and Courtney's two-week surf trip.

Meet Owen and Courtney

Owen Milne and Courtney Dunlop aren't just any surfers; they're wave warriors with a knack for capturing the stoke of their adventures. Known for their infectious passion and love for the ocean, these two influencers decided to embark on a two-week surf trip across New Zealand in a Camplify campervan. "There's nothing like waking up to the sound of waves and having the freedom to move wherever the swell takes you," shares Owen. "Traveling in a campervan means we can be spontaneous and find those hidden gems," explains Courtney.

The ultimate surf road trip: itinerary

Destination No. 1: Raglan

Distance from Auckland: 150 km (approx. 2 hours)

First stop, Raglan, a legendary surf town known for its epic left-hand point breaks. Owen and Courtney parked their Camplify van at the top of a lookout, soaking in jaw-dropping views before shredding the famous Manu Bay. The fun, peeling waves were the perfect warm-up for their trip. "The view from the lookout was absolutely mind-blowing. And Manu Bay's waves were just right for a fun session," notes Owen.

Free Campsite: Raglan Kopua Holiday Park offers budget-friendly options and is just a short stroll from the surf.

Destination No. 2: Taranaki

Distance from Raglan: 260 km (approx. 3.5 hours)

Next, they hit the legendary Surf Highway in Taranaki. With the majestic Taranaki mountain as a backdrop, they explored multiple surf spots, parking the campervan right on the beach. The sunrises and sunsets here are nothing short of magical. "Seeing the sun rise over the ocean while brewing coffee in the van is an experience I'll never forget," recalls Courtney.

Free Campsite: Waitara Holiday Park offers affordable camping with beachfront views.

Via: Waipoua Forest

Distance from Taranaki: 300 km (approx. 4 hours)

A must-see detour through Waipoua Forest, home to the ancient Tane Mahuta, the largest tree in New Zealand. The drive itself is an adventure, with winding roads through dense forest. "Driving through Waipoua Forest felt like entering a different world. Seeing Tane Mahuta was a humbling experience," mentions Courtney.

Destination No. 3: Opononi

Distance from Waipoua Forest: 110 km (approx. 1.5 hours)

Opononi offers stunning bay views and friendly locals. Owen and Courtney enjoyed some of the best coffee in NZ here, making it a perfect pit stop. "The locals were so welcoming, and the coffee was top-notch," says Owen.

Free Campsite: Omapere offers great freedom camping spots with bay views.

Destination No. 4: Henderson Bay

Distance from Opononi: 150 km (approx. 2 hours)

Crystal clear waters and white sand beaches await at Henderson Bay. They stayed at Rarawa Beach Campsite, capturing stunning night photos. "Henderson Bay's clear waters and white sands were like a dream. And the night sky was incredible," Owen enthuses.

Free Campsite: Rarawa Beach Campsite is budget-friendly and right by the beach.

Destination No. 5: Ahipara

Distance from Henderson Bay: 100 km (approx. 1.5 hours)

Ahipara is a hidden gem with epic waves at Shipwreck Bay. They climbed sand dunes and enjoyed a sunset drink and dinner right by the campervan. "Surfing Shipwreck Bay was a dream come true. The waves were perfect, and the view from the dunes was breathtaking," Owen reveals.

Free Campsite: Ahipara Holiday Park offers affordable beachfront camping.

Destination No. 6: Rotorua

Distance from Ahipara: 400 km (approx. 5.5 hours)

Rotorua's geothermal wonders are a must-see. They soaked in the Polynesian hot springs and enjoyed a variety of cuisines on Eat Street. Camping by Lake Taupo, they woke up to a foggy river filled with frolicking ducks. "The hot springs were the perfect way to relax after a day of surfing," Courtney highlights.

Free Campsite: Lake Taupo offers numerous freedom camping spots.

Destination No. 7: Mahia

Distance from Rotorua: 230 km (approx. 3 hours)

Mahia's remote coastline is a surfer's dream with beautiful waves and raw weather. Owen and Courtney had the waves to themselves and parked their van right at the beach. "Mahia's coastline is rugged and beautiful. We had the waves all to ourselves, which was amazing," Owen remarks.

Free Campsite: Mahia Peninsula offers plenty of freedom camping options.

Via: Waioeka Gorge

Distance from Mahia: 200 km (approx. 2.5 hours)

The Waioeka Gorge drive is one of the most incredible you'll ever experience. They braved the freezing river for a swim and warmed up between the mountains. "The drive through Waioeka Gorge was stunning. We even took a dip in the freezing river – it was exhilarating!" Courtney recalls.

Ready to hit the road?

Inspired by Owen and Courtney's adventure? Head over toCamplify to find your perfect campervan and start planning your own epic surf road trip. With Camplify, the open road is yours to explore!

Camplify's community-based model means you're renting from fellow adventurers who know the best spots. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's a wide range of vans to suit your needs. Some owners even offer delivery to your location, making it super convenient.

Booking your ideal campervan with Camplify is easy. Visit ourAuckland page to browse available vans. Request to book without any upfront payment, verify your identity, and complete the payment once your booking is accepted.

Ready to create your own unforgettable adventure? Click here**** to get started and embark on your dream surf road trip today!****