Nugget Point Lighthouse

This guide is for both Islands in New Zealand (the north and the south) for first time visitors who are taking their camper van throughout the islands with a few days in Auckland and Queenstown. It's a three week itinerary and includes the arrival and departure flight days (and has some suggestions for these days as well). It will go through (in detail!) every location we visited, the activities we did, the sites we camped up at, the restaurants we ate at (in between our camper van meals), what we learned about New Zealand and the camper van life whilst we were there, and other suggestions of what to do in the areas so you can alter your plans to fit what you want. Note that this itinerary includes two different camper van rental locations on each island, and flying between the two islands. But you could easily do the majority of this itinerary and just switch up a few days to drive between the two islands! This itinerary does have a decent amount of driving but its because we really wanted to PACK our itinerary to see as much of New Zealand and it's beautiful scenery whilst we were here. The main locations touched on are listed here (and we highly recommend all of them): -> Auckland (& Waiheke Island) -> West Coast North Island (Black Sand Beaches / Mt Taranaki) -> Tongariro Alpine Crossing -> Coromandel Peninsula -> Queenstown -> Milford Sound -> Wanaka (& Roys Peak) -> Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park -> Dunedin -> The Catlins If you're looking for a detailed guide that outlines your plan for each and every day, look no further!

This is one of our favourite itineraries we have ever crafted as it truly packs in so much adventure whilst also allowing time to relax. Here you'll find 12 days of adventure in the South Island covering what to do, where to eat, where to stay, and insider information from our travels to these spots. Whilst the first two days are in hotels in Queenstown, the rest of this itinerary is by camper van and does include driving. We HIGHLY recommend doing New Zealand by campervan to reach & stay in some of the most stunning places. You can expect fjords, hiking, beaching, and adventure from this itinerary. This is for those who really want to get the most of out their 12 days on the South Island and covers the following regions: -> Queenstown (with day trips) -> Milford Sound -> Mt. Cook / Aoraki National Park (& surrounding towns) -> Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki -> Wanaka -> Dunedin -> The Catlins -> Arthurs Pass (with a quick stop in Christchurch & an option to change the itinerary OR make it a 14 day trip). PLUS so many more ideas on how to fill your days. Note: If you're interested in doing the North & the South Island of New Zealand, check out our three week itinerary on our Thatch page to both places to get the best value (it includes everything written in this itinerary).

Due to their location at the south of the South Island, the Catlins are often overlooked by travellers as they're not part of the "typical tourist route" and off the main road. But let me tell you, this stunning region is so worth visiting. From rugged coastline and majestic waterfalls to dense forests and unique wildlife, the Catlins offers a truly unforgettable experience. Come with me to explore this off the beaten path destination and immerse yourself in this natural wonderland. My guide includes an interactive map with 27 of the best places to see, where to stay and places to eat.