The Ultimate Campervan Adventure: Wellington to Waitomo and Back

Pack your bags, fuel up your campervan or motorhome, and embark on an unforgettable one-week road trip from Wellington to Waitomo, return. This epic journey promises stunning landscapes, vibrant townships, and plenty of opportunities to explore New Zealand's diverse attractions. From cultural hubs to natural wonders, here's a guide to the most compelling stops along your route — ideal for domestic holidaymakers and international tourists alike.

• Wellington: Starting Point with a Cultural Vibe

Begin your adventure in New Zealand's bustling capital, Wellington. This city boasts a vibrant arts scene, stunning harbour views, and a delectable food culture. Spend a day or two visiting the Te Papa Museum for a rich dive into New Zealand's history, riding the iconic Wellington Cable Car, and sampling local delicacies along the Wellington Waterfront. Don't forget to visit Cuba Street for a taste of Wellington's eclectic charm.

• Levin: The Heart of Horowhenua

Head north to Levin, a small town with a big heart. This laid-back spot is perfect for a picnic lunch at Lake Horowhenua. Stroll through Levin Adventure Park, providing a fun break for both kids and adults. If you're craving fresh produce or handmade crafts, visit the Levin Market held on Saturdays.

• Bulls: Quirky and Charming

Your next stop is Bulls, a town famous for its quirky sense of humour and puns. Enjoy a quirky stop at the Bulls Museum to learn about local history. Take a coffee break at one of the town's themed cafes and snap some photos of the "punny" street signs that give Bulls its unique charm.

• Whanganui: River City Adventures

Continue your journey to Whanganui, nestled along the Whanganui River. This town is brimming with culture and history. Visit the Whanganui River Market on Saturdays for local food and crafts. Explore the Sarjeant Gallery for an impressive collection of art, and stroll along the river to take in the scenic beauty. Climb the iconic Durie Hill Elevator and Tower for panoramic views of the city and river.

• Ohakune: Base Camp for Tongariro

After Whanganui, head towards Ohakune, where we suggest you stay for a night at the holiday park there. This town is known as the "carrot capital" of New Zealand and serves as a gateway to the Tongariro National Park. Enjoy local attractions such as the Ohakune Carrot Adventure Park and take a drive along the Old Coach Road for stunning views of the volcanoes.

• Historic Taumarunui:

Next, travel to Taumarunui, a town steeped in railway history. Visit the Forgotten World Adventures and consider taking a rail cart tour through the scenic landscapes. The Whanganui River adventures, including jet boating and canoeing, provide another thrilling way to explore the area.

• Te Kuiti: Sheep Shearing Capital

Continue your journey to Te Kuiti, the "Sheep Shearing Capital of the World." Marvel at the statue of the shearer and explore the town's rich agricultural history. For a bite to eat, try one of the local bakeries or restaurants offering hearty Kiwi fare.

• Waitomo: Mystical Caves and More

Finally, arrive in Waitomo, where you'll spend two to three nights exploring the famous underground wonders. Take a guided tour of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and experience the magical boat ride under a canopy of glowworms. For adventure seekers, black water rafting in the Ruakuri Cave or abseiling in the Lost World Cave offers a thrilling experience.

In addition to the caves, visit the Waitomo Caves Discovery Centre to learn more about the area's geology and history. Enjoy a scenic walk through the Waitomo Walkway or explore the local bush trails.

Stay at the Waitomo Top10 Holiday Park for comfortable and convenient access to all the major must-see-and-dos. The Holiday Park is centrally located.

• Tongariro National Park: Nature's Playground

On your return journey, revisit the Tongariro National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers stunning volcanic landscapes and world-class hiking opportunities. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of the best one-day hikes in the world, with breathtaking scenery. For a shorter adventure, explore the Tawhai Falls or the Taranaki Falls Track.

• Taihape: Gumboot Capital

As you drive south, stop by Taihape, known as the "Gumboot Capital of the World." Snap a photo with the giant Gumboot Statue and try your luck at the annual Gumboot Tossing event if you happen to be there at the right time. It's a quirky and delightful stop along your journey. This may be a good place to stop and spend the night – we recommend either here or Palmerston North.

• Palmerston North: City of Knowledge

Next, head to Palmerston North, home to Massey University and a thriving student population. Visit the Te Manawa Museum for a mix of art, science, and history. Explore the Victoria Esplanade for beautiful gardens and a mini railway ride, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

• Masterton: Wairarapa Delights

Make a stop in Masterton, the heart of the Wairarapa region. The Queen Elizabeth Park is a lovely spot for a family picnic, while the Aratoi Museum of Art and History offers intriguing exhibits. The nearby Pukaha National Wildlife Centre is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.

Back to Wellington: Reflect on the Journey

This road trip offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, natural wonders, and thrilling activities, making it a great must-do contender for anyone visiting or travelling around New Zealand. Whether it's the magical glowworm caves of Waitomo, the volcanic beauty of Tongariro, or the quirky charm of Bulls, each stop adds a memorable chapter to your travel story.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your epic road trip and let the journey from Wellington to Waitomo and back be the adventure of a lifetime.

Discover more and book your stay at Waitomo Top10 Holiday Park today. Hopefully, this road trip itinerary inspires you to get cracking and hit the road!