The Most Scenic Caravan Routes in New Zealand

New Zealand is beautiful, with many awe-inspiring sights to see and explore. The best way to get around and see these scenic destinations is by land. No matter where you are in the country, there is a scenic route nearby to which you can drive your caravan and set it up for a few days.

If you want to plan your next caravan trip, this list of the most scenic caravan routes in New Zealand should help you plan your itinerary.

 

8 Most Scenic Caravan Routes in New Zealand

Discover a caravan holiday like no other when you drive through New Zealand’s most scenic caravan routes. This list features world-class caravan driving routes and some hidden gems.

1. Auckland to Bay of Islands Loop

No list of the most scenic caravan routes in New Zealand would be complete without the Auckland to Bay Islands Loop. If you’re from Auckland and want to get away from the city, this is the best route because the Bay of Islands lets you get close to nature.

The route going to the Bay of Islands is scenic by epic proportions. This part of New Zealand is home to many subtropical destinations filled with stunning beauty. You can stop anytime along the route to swim on the beaches and enjoy water activities.

You will find many caravan parks in the Bay of Islands, varying in the facilities available. Most have campground facilities where you can park your caravan for a few days. Others have parking for boats, a swimming pool, and other amenities. These caravan parks make your home away from home on wheels as comfortable as possible.

2. Queenstown Loop

The South Island is one of the best places for anyone looking to embark on a caravan adventure. This region of New Zealand boasts some of the country’s most impressive landscapes.

Since the route is a loop, you’ll start in Queenstown and then make your way back around, stopping at a few key destinations. This 9-day caravan road trip route kicks off at the Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park, where you could spend your first night. The area nearby features many great locations to watch the sunrise and sunset. It is also a photographer’s dream because of the gorgeous mountain backdrops.

A few other highlights of this scenic caravan route include the following: Glenorchy, Milford Sound, Wanaka, Tasman Glacier, Lake Pukaki, and Moeraki.

 

3. Forgotten World Highway

Despite its name, the Forgotten World Highway is one of the best and most scenic routes to take your caravan in New Zealand. Known as the oldest heritage trail in the country, there is nothing forgettable about this route.

It stretches 155 km and traverses between Stratford and Taumarunui. It is one of North Island’s prized gems. The area is also filled with heritage sites, forest reserves, waterfalls, and tunnels. Therefore, you can stop along your caravan road trip to explore these must-see destinations. If you want to witness something unique, you can see the volcanoes at Strathmore Saddle.

4. Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most scenic routes in New Zealand – period. Therefore, it’s a noteworthy addition to this list of the most scenic caravan routes. The world-famous route straddles the east coast of New Zealand and links Coromandel, Whakatane, and the Bay of Plenty to the rest of Auckland. It also gives you access to other parts of New Zealand, such as Hawke’s Bay (south) and Auckland (north).

Many signposts along the Pacific Coast Highway make it easy to explore. It is home to some of the best beaches in the region and to witness the sun rise or set over the Pacific Ocean. Meanwhile, caravan enthusiasts can stop by Coromandel and visit one of its many wineries. You’ll also discover a few cultural sites in the area, including the ancient Maori sites.

5. Coromandel to Rotorua

The Coromandel to Rotorua route is one of the most popular among those who embark on a road trip in New Zealand. Therefore, it is an excellent option for caravan enthusiasts because of the scenic views that await your adventure.

The Coromandel Peninsula is gifted with natural beauty. You can find a caravan park nearby and explore top attractions like Te Hoho Rock and Cathedral Cove. As you drive toward Rotorua, you will discover more stunning natural attractions like the hot springs and geothermal sites. Lord of the Rings fans will also be delighted to drive by the Hobbiton movie set.

 

6. Arthur’s Pass

If you are headed to Christchurch or want to explore the area, Arthur’s Pass is one of the most scenic caravan routes you could explore. Many road-tripping enthusiasts take a detour to Arthur’s Pass because nothing compares to the natural marvel of the blue waters flowing through the Hokitika Gorge.

Make sure to drive to the Otira viaduct and park your caravan to hike to the Devil’s Punchbowl Falls. It’s a trail that you should explore at least once.

7. Thermal Explorer Highway

The Thermal Explorer Highway is one of the most scenic caravan routes in New Zealand. This region boasts crystal-clear streams and lakes, geothermal attractions, ski fields, and Maori sites. This caravan route kicks off from Auckland and takes you through the wine country of Hawke’s Bay before heading to North Island.

Once on the North Island, you will find the largest lake in New Zealand – Lake Taupo. You could also witness the stunning scenery of Ruapehu and explore the geothermal wonderland known as Rotorua.

8. The Middle Country

The Middle Country caravan route is one of the less-explored parts of New Zealand. However, that does not take anything away from the beauty of this route. This region boasts the most beautiful beaches in New Zealand. The entire route spans 765 km and could take up to seven days.

Get in your caravan and be ready to witness some of the best highlights of this route, such as Nelson Lakes, Abel Tasman, Golden Bay, and the Lord of the Rings filming locations.

New Zealand has it all if you want to see the beaches, national parks, wineries, or lakes. Embarking on an adventure along these scenic caravan routes will spoil you with the most stunning sights!

Check out the range of amazing off-road caravans at Fortis Caravans NZ to upgrade your van and start that dream holiday.