25 Day North & South Explorer

Begin your motorhome adventure heading north from Auckland through farmland and coastal towns.

Arrive in Paihia for your first taste of laid-back New Zealand, where pristine beaches and island-studded waters welcome you to one of the country's most beautiful regions.

Take a scenic cruise to the famous Hole in the Rock, keeping watch for dolphins playing in the crystal-clear waters.

Explore the historic grounds of Waitangi, where the founding document of modern New Zealand was signed in 1840.

Return through the countryside to New Zealand's largest city, Auckland.

Explore harbourside precincts like the Viaduct and Mission Bay, or simply enjoy the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the City of Sails.

Travel south through the rolling Waikato hills to Hamilton, New Zealand's fourth-largest city.

Discover vibrant gardens and enjoy riverside paths in this agricultural heartland city.

A short drive brings you to Rotorua, the geothermal wonderland of the North Island.

Witness bubbling mud pools and steaming vents that showcase the raw power of New Zealand's volcanic geology.

Visit Te Puia to see the famous Pohutu geyser and experience Māori culture firsthand.

Soak in lakeside hot springs and enjoy a traditional hangi feast, where food is cooked using geothermal heat beneath the ground.

Pause at magnificent Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake, and witness the thundering Huka Falls.

Descend toward the coast to reach Napier, the Art Deco capital of the world.

Explore Napier's pastel-toned streets and boutique shops, admiring the architectural legacy of the city's 1931 earthquake and rebuild.

Venture into the renowned Hawke's Bay wine region for tastings at world-class wineries.

Journey south through vineyards and rugged coastline to New Zealand's creative capital.

Arrive in compact, walkable Wellington, perched between harbor and hills.

Explore the interactive Te Papa museum, stroll vibrant Cuba Street, and visit the Mount Victoria lookout for panoramic city views.

Discover Wellington's renowned coffee culture and innovative dining scene.

Board your motorhome onto the Interislander Ferry and sail across Cook Strait through the spectacular Marlborough Sounds.

Drive through New Zealand's premier wine country to Blenheim, gateway to the Marlborough region.

Spend the day exploring cellar doors throughout the Marlborough region.

Sample world-renowned Sauvignon Blanc and other varietals at boutique wineries set among endless rows of vines.

Trace the dramatic Pacific coast where sea meets mountains in stunning fashion.

Arrive in Kaikoura, famous for its marine wildlife and fresh seafood.

Embark on an unforgettable whale watching excursion to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Enjoy seaside walks and feast on the freshest seafood, particularly the renowned Kaikoura crayfish.

Travel inland from the coast to Hanmer Springs, a picturesque alpine village.

Settle into this haven of natural hot springs surrounded by mountains and pine forests.

Cross spectacular alpine passes to reach New Zealand's rugged West Coast.

Explore windswept beaches and discover the region's famous greenstone (pounamu) artisans in historic Hokitika.

Follow the coastal road south through temperate rainforest to the glacier region.

Arrive at Franz Josef, where ancient glaciers descend from the Southern Alps almost to sea level.

Cross the dramatic Haast Pass from the West Coast into the alpine charm of Central Otago.

Arrive in Wanaka, a lakeside resort town surrounded by mountains and renowned for its relaxed atmosphere.

Explore lakeside trails and boutique shops in Wanaka's charming town center.

Visit the famous 'Wanaka Tree' and enjoy the stunning mountain reflections in the crystal-clear lake.

Travel over the Crown Range, New Zealand's highest main road, for spectacular mountain views.

Descend into Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, spectacularly set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

Full day to experience Queenstown's renowned activities and stunning scenery.

Choose from jet boating on the Shotover River, wine tasting in Gibbston Valley, or simply soaking in the mountain views from the Skyline Gondola.

Another day to explore all that Queenstown has to offer at your own pace.

Consider an optional excursion to Milford Sound or spend the day enjoying the town's vibrant atmosphere and adventure options.

Journey north across dramatic landscapes to the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo.

Visit the iconic stone Church of the Good Shepherd and prepare for world-class stargazing in this Dark Sky Reserve.

Take a day trip to the Aoraki/Mount Cook region, home to New Zealand's highest peak.

Enjoy alpine walks with views of glaciers and snow-capped mountains before returning to Lake Tekapo.

Make the final drive across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch, a city of renewal and innovation.

Return your motorhome and reflect on an incredible 25-day journey through the diverse landscapes and experiences of both islands.