Traveling New Zealand’s North Island by Campervan/Motorhome in March

New Zealand is a travel paradise, and March is the perfect time to explore its North Island. Embarking on a journey by campervan or motorhome allows for a flexible and immersive experience, covering scenic routes and breathtaking landscapes. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the best route for traveling through New Zealand's North Island in March, including accommodations, attractions, and tips.

Planning Your Expedition

A thorough planning is essential for a successful trip. Here's a suggested route that takes you from Auckland to the North and back, via the East and West coasts, and finally following the middle of the island:

Route Overview

From Auckland to the North: Start in Auckland, where the weather is still warm enough to enjoy swimming. Continue northward along the coast until you reach the East Cape. This area is isolation and offers numerous opportunities for camping and exploring. You can stay in a campervan on the beach in Napier, a city known for its unique Art Deco architecture.

Camping Opportunities

Near Napier: Free camping is possible on the beach in Napier, a city rich in Art Deco charm. Stay in close proximity to the city center for easy access to amenities.

Further North to Waitomo Caves: Continue your journey north to Lake Taupo for a couple of days. Enjoy a hot swim and free camping options. Consider calling in at Waitomo Caves, where you can explore the spectacular underground caves.

The Central Route

Maungarongo to the Tongariro National Park: Head west to the Tongariro National Park, home to many hiking trails and adventure sports. If time allows, visit Mt Taranaki on the West Coast for a different perspective of the island's natural beauty.

Wellington and Rotorua

Wellington: If you continue south from Lake Taupo, Wellington is a must-visit. Wellington is picturesque and offers museums, but finding a space to camp might be challenging.

Rotorua: Rotorua is located an hour north of Taupo and is ideal for those interested in cultural and thermal experiences. Thermal pools and Maori culture are the highlights here, and yes, you can free camp in the area.

Northland Adventure

Northland: For a truly unique experience, head up to Northland for the few remaining days or the entirety of March. In Pahia, you can try deep sea fishing and diving, followed by champagne on the boardwalks. Alternatively, you can enjoy fish and chips in Mangonui and drive through the beautiful Waipoua Forest, potentially facing restrictions due to tree diseases.

Additional Tips

Don't forget to explore the lesser-known holiday spots such as Opunake and Kawhia on the West Coast. The surf highway offers a variety of experiences for both nature and history enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Whangarei offers interesting limestone caves, but be prepared for some wading and navigating.

Enjoying New Zealand’s Wonder

Whichever route you choose, New Zealand offers a myriad of experiences, from beautiful landscapes to historical sites. The North Island is a pocket wonderland with something for everyone, making your trip unforgettable.

Keywords: New Zealand North Island, March trip, Campervan Route