The Best Off Road Caravan Destinations in New Zealand
Embarking on an off road caravan journey in New Zealand is a travel bucket list item for many adventure seekers. But where should you go? No need to worry because this country has caravan parks and destinations perfect for your holiday.
This guide lists the best off road caravan destinations in New Zealand so you can plan your next road trip.
7 Off Road Caravan Destinations in New Zealand
Off road caravans are suitable for those who want to go off-grid and enjoy the natural scenery that New Zealand has to offer. From stunning landscapes to breathtaking lakes and waterfalls, prepare your caravan, as these destinations will want to make you pack your bags and go.
- Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo is less than three hours away from Christchurch in New Zealand. This fantastic lake is one of the best off road caravan destinations because it is calm and serene, with a rugged landscape. It is one of the best spots to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Canterbury region.
When you arrive in the area, you can park your caravan at the Lake Tekapo Motels & Holiday Park. You can also find other parks nearby to stop for the night and spend more time enjoying the stunning Lake Tekapo. It offers one of the best campsite views in New Zealand.
- Lake Pukaki
Another lake makes it to the list of the best off road caravan destinations in New Zealand. You can find many caravan parks where you can park your vehicle and stay for a night (or two). Caravan driving along Lake Pukaki is one of the highlights of your road trip in this area.
The endless blue lake with the snow-capped mountains serving as its backdrop creates a picturesque view unlike any other. This area is also known as one of the best star-gazing sights in this part of New Zealand.
- Edwards Valley
The Edwards Valley is one of the best off road destinations to take your off road caravan out for a drive. This off road track is part of the St. James Conservation Area in the Canterbury region. Since it is a conservation area, you must register your off road vehicle before traversing the well-famed off road track of the Edwards Valley.
While it is an off road track, it is suitable for beginners. Aside from being popular with off road caravanners, many walking and hiking enthusiasts also come to this area. In particular, Arthur’s Pass National Park has many stunning hiking trails. If you choose to park in the area or spend a few nights, you can tackle these trails, too.
- Wanaka
Wanaka is a town in South Island, New Zealand. It is a scenic lakeside town that is a favorite for many off road caravan enthusiasts. It is best known for the Wanaka Tree, a solitary tree that juts out of the lake.
You can find many caravan campgrounds in the area. Some are closer to town, and others are more remote and isolated. You can pick a caravan park that suits your preference and how peaceful you want the experience to be. Either way, Wanaka is a great off road destination because the area has many natural features worth exploring.
- Te Anau
Te Anau is one of the most picturesque parts of New Zealand. That is saying a lot, given the many stunning landscapes that this country has to offer. It is approximately two hours from Queenstown, the closest metropolitan area to Te Anau.
Te Anau is a sleepy town that serves as the jump-off point for anyone who wants to visit Milford Sound in the South Island, New Zealand. It also serves as the gateway to Fiordland National Park. The area is home to many endangered bird species and trout in Lake Te Anau. Meanwhile, you can explore caves filled with glow worms and waterfalls. There is an endless array of things to see and do in Te Anau, which is why it is among the best off road destinations in New Zealand.
- Kawhia to Raglan
Completing this list of the best off road caravan destinations in New Zealand is the 4WD track from Kawhia to Raglan. Kawhia is a small village, while Raglan is a scenic surf town.
Exploring this off road route with your caravan enables you to witness rolling hills and a scenic coastline in one trip. It takes less than an hour to get from Kawhia to Raglan. The road conditions to get from one village to another vary at different points in your journey. Some parts are smooth, while some roads are bumpy and filled with potholes. Expect windy conditions throughout your drive.
- Milford Sound
Milford Sound might be one of New Zealand’s most well-known tourist destinations. It is a fiord on the South Island that is best known for the Mitre Peak. The fiord is home to penguins, dolphins, and fur seal colonies. The area is also filled with rainforests and stunning waterfalls. Many boat tours are available to explore Milford Sound and get close to this natural beauty.
Therefore, it is one of the best New Zealand caravan destinations on the map. You can find many holiday campsites for your caravan and spend more time exploring the area.
Final Thoughts
An off road caravan is an attractive investment for those who enjoy travelling and exploring new places, especially those accessible only off-the-beaten track. Start with the off-road destinations listed above to light the fire in you and inspire wanderlust.
As you become more experienced with off road caravanning, you can explore other hidden gems that New Zealand masterfully hides from the rest of the world. That thirst for discovery and an adventurous spirit will unlock your desire to see more of what New Zealand has to offer.