New Zealand
15-Day Blueprint*
Day 1: Arrival in Auckland
Morning/Afternoon: Arrive in Auckland and pick up your fully-converted van. Settle in, stock up on supplies, and explore the city.
Evening: Relax at Mission Bay and enjoy dinner at Oak Barrel wine House. Stay overnight at a local campsite.
Day 2: Auckland to Coromandel Peninsula
Morning: Drive to Coromandel (2.5 hours).
Afternoon: Explore the famous Hot Water Beach or hike to the picturesque Cathedral Cove. Enjoy a late afternoon pint at one of the local pubs.
Evening: Settle into a scenic beachside spot in Coromandel and relax in your van for the night.
Day 3: Coromandel Adventures
All Day: Enjoy more of Coromandel. Hike through the Pinnacles Track for panoramic views or take a leisurely drive along the coast.
Evening: Watch the sunset at New Chums Beach, one of the world’s most beautiful, untouched beaches.
Day 4: Coromandel to New Plymouth (Optional Day Trip to Hobbiton)
Morning: Early drive towards New Plymouth (5 hours).
Optional Stop: If you’re a fan of Middle-earth, take a detour to Hobbiton for a magical tour (2 hours from Coromandel).
Evening: Arrive in New Plymouth, explore the coast, and stay overnight at a local camp site.
Day 5: Explore New Plymouth
Morning: Visit the Lake Mangamahoe Lookout and take in views of Mount Taranaki. Option: Hiking expedition on Mount Taranaki (8+hr)
Afternoon: Wander the Coastal Walkway, visit the Len Lye Centre, or hang around town for some cafe and art gallery hopping.
Evening: Enjoy an evening at camp or stop into Shining Peak brewery for some sundowners and bite to eat before a cozy night in your van.
Day 6: New Plymouth to Wellington
Morning: Early start to drive to Wellington (4.5 hours).
Afternoon: Explore Wellington’s Te Papa Museum and vibrant waterfront.
Evening: Stroll through the lively Cuba Street for dinner, then prepare for the overnight ferry (with vehicle).
Day 7: Wellington to Picton via Overnight Ferry
Morning: Arrive in Picton after the ferry ride through the stunning Cook Strait.
Afternoon: Drive to Abel Tasman National Park (2 hours).
Evening: Settle in to a campsite near the park and relax.
Day 8: Abel Tasman National Park
All Day: Spend the day kayaking the stunning coastline, hiking the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, or taking a boat cruise through the crystal-clear waters.
Evening: Overnight at the campsite or park lodge.
Day 9: Abel Tasman to Franz Josef
Morning: Drive south along the stunning West Coast towards Franz Josef (5.5 hours).
Afternoon: Arrive in Franz Josef and explore the town. Optional: helicopter trip to hike Fox Glacier for a once-in-a-lifetime experience or for moderate fitness levels a hike at Aoraki/Mount Cook.
Evening: Camp overnight in the area near Fox Glacier.
Day 10: Fox Glacier to Wanaka
Morning: A quick breakfast at camp before driving to Wanaka (3 hours).
Afternoon: Welcome to Lake Wanaka! Enjoy the afternoon lake side at one of the many restaurants or take a vineyard tour. Don't forget to see the famous tree. Option: Hike the Roy’s Peak Track for stunning views (moderate fitness required)
Evening: Enjoy a peaceful night in the area, van life style.
Day 11: Wanaka to Fiordland National Park (Milford Sound Day Trip)
Morning: Drive to Fiordland National Park (4 hours).
Afternoon: Take a day cruise through the breathtaking Milford Sound, surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls. Optional: Embark on a kayak tour of the fiords instead.
Evening: Spend the night in the Milford or Te Anau area, soaking in the beauty of Fiordland.
Day 12: Fiordland to Queenstown
Morning: Head to Queenstown (2 hours).
Afternoon: This afternoon is full of adrenaline! Take a ride at Shotover Jet or the Skyline Gondola, or if you're a real thrill seeker the tallest bungee jump in NZ is calling you.
Evening: Enjoy the vibrant downtown nightlife and dine at Fergburger for a local favorite. Stay at a local campsite outside of town. Option: Upgrade to a hotel downtown.
Day 13: Explore Queenstown
All Day: Spend a full day exploring Queenstown. Consider activities like wine tasting in Gibbston Valley, skydiving, or hiking the Ben Lomond Track.
Evening: Relax at camp with a final night in Queenstown.
Day 14: Queenstown to Lake Tekapo
Morning: Begin the journey toward Lake Tekapo (3.5 hours).
Afternoon: Arrive in town and explore the local area. Don't miss the hot springs or the observatory!
Evening: Overnight at a lake view campsite.
Day 15: Lake Tekapo to Christchurch & Final Goodbyes
Morning: Complete the drive to Christchurch (3 hours).
Afternoon: Drop off the van and check into The Classic Villa, situated right across from the botanical gardens, to refresh after 2 weeks of van life. Afternoon at leisure.
Evening: Relax and explore Christchurch’s vibrant city center before your flight.
*This is an example. We customize YOUR trip for YOU!
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