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Christchurch to Auckland Campervan Rental
Christchurch to Auckland One Way Motorhome Hire
Travelling from Christchurch to Auckland? Journey across New Zealand with a one-way campervan rental. Use our comparison tool to find the best options.
Travelling in the opposite direction? Rent a campervan from Auckland to Christchurch.
Popular Campervans
Find the perfect camper for your travel needs.
4 Berth Euro
Apollo
Automatic · Toilet · Shower
6-Berth Euro Deluxe
Apollo
Automatic · Toilet · Shower
4-Berth Discovery
Britz
Automatic · Toilet · Shower
4 Berth Double Up
Mighty
Automatic · Toilet · Shower
6 Berth SAM
Pacific Horizon
Automatic · Toilet · Shower
6-Berth SAM Premium
Pacific Horizon
Automatic · Toilet · Shower
Christchurch to Auckland One Way Itinerary
Day 1
Christchurch to Kaikoura
Distance: Approximately 180 km (112 miles)
Estimated Driving Time: About 2.5 hours
Things to See:
- Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway (coastal walk with sea views)
- Whale watching tours (seasonal)
- Kaikoura Seal Colony
Day 2
Kaikoura to Blenheim
Distance: Approximately 130 km (81 miles) Estimated Driving Time: About 1.5 hours
Highlights:
- Marlborough Wine Region (wine tasting, especially Sauvignon Blanc)
- Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
- Wither Hills Farm Park (hiking trails and views)
Day 3
Blenheim to Wellington (via Ferry)
Distance: Ferry crossing from Picton to Wellington, approximately 92 km (57 miles) by sea
Estimated Ferry Time: About 3.5 hours
Must-See Stops in Wellington:
- Te Papa Tongarewa (Museum of New Zealand)
- Wellington Botanic Garden
- Mount Victoria Lookout (panoramic views of Wellington)
Day 4
Wellington to Palmerston North
Distance: Approximately 140 km (87 miles)
Estimated Driving Time: About 2 hours
Things to Experience:
- Victoria Esplanade Gardens
- Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science and History
- The New Zealand Rugby Museum
Day 5
Palmerston North to Tongariro National Park
Distance: Approximately 200 km (124 miles)
Estimated Driving Time: About 2.5 hours
Places of Interest:
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing (one of New Zealand’s best day hikes)
- Mount Ruapehu (skiing in winter, hiking in summer)
- Tawhai Falls (also known as “Gollum’s Pool” from The Lord of the Rings)
Day 6
Tongariro National Park to Taupo
Distance: Approximately 100 km (62 miles)
Estimated Driving Time: About 1 hour
Things to See:
- Huka Falls (powerful waterfalls on the Waikato River)
- Lake Taupo (New Zealand’s largest lake)
- Craters of the Moon Geothermal Walk
Day 7
Taupo to Rotorua
Distance: Approximately 80 km (50 miles)
Estimated Driving Time: About 1 hour
Highlights:
- Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland (geothermal attractions)
- Te Puia (geysers, mud pools, and Maori cultural experiences)
- Polynesian Spa (natural hot springs)
Day 8
Rotorua to Hamilton
Distance: Approximately 100 km (62 miles)
Estimated Driving Time: About 1.5 hours
Must-See Stops:
- Hamilton Gardens (themed garden areas)
- Waikato Museum
- Zealong Tea Estate (New Zealand's only tea plantation)
Day 9
Hamilton to Waitomo Caves
Distance: Approximately 70 km
Estimated Driving Time: About 1 hour
Things to Experience:
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves (boat tour through glowworm-lit caves)
- Ruakuri Cave (guided underground tours)
- Marokopa Falls (short walk to a scenic waterfall)
Day 10
Waitomo Caves to Auckland
Distance: Approximately 200 km (124 miles)
Estimated Driving Time: About 2.5 hours
Attractions in Auckland:
- Sky Tower (views of the city and beyond)
- Auckland War Memorial Museum
- Waiheke Island (short ferry ride from Auckland)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you sleep anywhere in a campervan in New Zealand? Is freedom camping allowed?
Freedom camping, or the ability to sleep in your campervan in New Zealand, is allowed but heavily regulated by local councils. It’s essential to know the specific rules of the region you’re visiting before settling in for the night. The Department of Conservation (DOC) also maintains a network of campervan-friendly campsites across the country for responsible self-sufficient camping.
These DOC sites typically provide basic amenities, so campers must dispose of waste properly, respect the environment, and follow local bylaws.
For a more comfortable experience, consider campgrounds designed for campervans and motorhomes. They often have electric and water hookups (so you can run your fridge, appliances, shower, etc.), dump stations for waste, and sometimes facilities like swimming pools or playgrounds.
When planning your trip, research local camping regulations and choose campgrounds or sites that suit your needs. That way you can enjoy New Zealand’s beauty while camping responsibly and sustainably.
Are one-way campervan rentals possible in New Zealand?
Yes, a large number of companies allow for one-way rentals.
One-way rentals may not be available between all routes, and additional fees apply, depending on the pick-up and drop-off locations. Our comparison tool will automatically factor in any additional fees and show you which vehicles are available on your preferred route.
Can I bring my pet with me when renting a campervan?
There are a number of pet-friendly campervan rental companies in New Zealand that allow you to travel with your dog or cat. Approval must be obtained in advance and this will usually incur a fee to cover the extra cleaning cost. Contact our support team to check if it’s possible to take a pet on board a specific vehicle.
How long should I plan for a motorhome holiday to the South Island?
A good idea is to plan for a minimum of 7 days. However, even a 2- or 3-week road trip around the South Island will easily be filled.
Popular attractions include Mount Cook, UNESCO-designated Fiordland National Park with Milford Sound, Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier, and the adventure capital of Queenstown.
