New Zealand offers stunning road trip routes year-round, but during winter, certain routes become particularly magical with snow-capped mountains, serene landscapes, and fewer crowds. All you need is the perfect campervan or caravan to travel in, and you’re ready for the road trip of a lifetime. Venturing on this routes via camper means your transport and accommodation are one, and you can focus on slowing down and seeing more knowing that everything you need is in tow with you. Hire a camper from Camplify from almost anywhere in New Zealand for your winter road trip, and check out these scenic routes ranging from ever-popular to hidden gems.
1. Southern Scenic Route
The Southern Scenic Route crosses the spectacular south from Dunedin to Queenstown, via The Catlins and Invercargill. See some of the South Island’s most rugged and remote landscapes. In winter, the Catlins waterfalls and coastal cliffs are dramatic, and Queenstown offers snow-covered mountains and snow sports. Invercargill and Bluff provide a taste of the south with fresh bluff oysters over the autumn and winter months, plus a look into New Zealand’s culture and history. For a couples getaway on the Southern Scenic Route check out Orange on Camplify, a quirky, road trip worthy camper for two. Other campers to consider in Dunedin are Vando (The Vandalorian) for a luxurious motorhome experience and Silver Linings for a budget friendly van-life trip. If you’re starting your journey on the Southern Scenic Route in Queenstown, check out the Silver Wanderer, available for pick up in Jacks Point so you can skip the busy roads and get straight onto this scenic route.
2. The Alpine Pacific Touring Route
This South Island road trip route is incredible all year round, though in winter you can expect snowy mountains, plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities and even a ski field. Cruise in your camper of choice from Christchurch to Kaikōura with key stops at Waipara Valley and Hanmer Springs. The Alpine Pacific Touring Route is the place to experience whale watching tours, fantastic wineries and cellar doors, mountainous walks and coastal scenery. Soak in the thermal hot springs in Hanmer Springs after a day of exploring the snowy surroundings. Christchurch campers to rent on Camplify will have everything you need for a memorable escape on this touring route along the Pacific Ocean.
3. West Coast Road Trip
The mighty West Coast is unlike any other part of New Zealand. It’s a region known for its wild, untamed beauty. In winter, the rainforests and glaciers create a unique natural landscape, with Franz Josef and Fox Glacier offering winter glacier hiking and the chance to see stunning ice formations up close. Start your West Coast road trip in Punakaiki to see the famous Pancake Rocks, blowholes, caves and Paparoa National Park. Drive down to the glaciers for unique winter views and those guided glacier hikes. A visit to Waiho Hot Tubs in Franz Josef is the perfect way to wrap up a winters day in the West Coast. Camplify have vans for hire across New Zealand. Hire from fellow New Zealand adventurers who have chosen to share their camper on Camplify. Whether you pick up a camper in Queenstown, Christchurch or somewhere in between, be sure to add a West Coast road trip to your South Island travel route!
Check for road conditions as the West Coast can be prone to heavy rain and slips. When hiring a van on Camplify, you’ll be in direct contact with the van owner so be sure to ask questions about what roads are suitable for your camper, and benefit from some handy tips and tricks from a local.
4. The Great Alpine Highway
Journey from Christchurch to Greymouth on The Great Alpine Highway. From the Pacific Ocean to the Southern Alps, this stretch of road runs through some remarkable scenery. Drive across Arthur’s Pass National Park, a cornucopia of beautiful nature. A stop in Arthur’s Pass is well worth it, particularly for checking out the impressive hiking trails and view points. Mountains, waterfalls and bridges along the way make The Great Alpine Highway a special route. Winter driving conditions can be challenging, so be prepared for snow and ice. Finish up in Greymouth on the West Coast, known for its rugged coastline and mining history. Experience this roadie with a little luxury with motorhomes for hire on Camplify like Brand New i69, with all the bells and whistles. Roxy sleeps four and is close to an apartment on wheels, and campers like Kieran will get you there on a bit more of a budget.
5. Queenstown to Milford Sound
It’s hard to beat the mountainous backdrop in resort town, Queenstown. Spend time here in winter for snow sports, après ski and sightseeing. One of the best New Zealand road trip routes is the journey from Queenstown to Piopiotahi Milford Sound. It’s a road trip full of breathtaking scenery, clear crisp air and in winter, snow-covered mountains. Travel through the hub of Fiordland, Te Anau and continue onto Milford Sound, one of the 14 fiords in Fiordland. With so much rainfall year-round, the waterfalls are powerful and the towering peaks are often shrouded in mist and snow.
Hire a camper from Camplify in Queenstown to experience this incredible road trip route. A character-filled van like Vanessa makes for an exciting adventure, encouraging you to take your time and make plenty of stops along the way. If you’re staying overnight in Milford Sound, check out motorhomes like Renee to plug in at a powered campsite and stay comfortable and cosy all night long.
6. Tongariro National Park Circuit
You may have heard of the Tongaririo Northern Circuit, one of New Zealand’s best multi-day hikes, but Tongariro National Park is also a great place for a winter road trip. The route traverses from Taupō to Tongariro National Park and back, for a stunning circuit on the road. Enjoy views of the Central Plateau’s volcanic landscape, which is especially impressive in winter when Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe are covered in snow. This area is a hub for skiing and snowboarding, making it the ultimate winter destination in the North Island.
Though Taupō isn’t one of the major cities in New Zealand, there are campers available for hire in this area on Camplify. Discover the lake, geothermal activity and the incredible Huka Falls in Taupō before setting off for Tongariro National Park.
7. Northland Winter Warmer
If the idea of escaping the winter chill and chasing the warmer weather sounds like the perfect holiday to you, a road trip through Northland in winter will tick the boxes. Embark on a route from Auckland to Cape Reinga via top spots like Matakana and the Bay of Islands. Drive down the side roads and take the detours to discover the beauty of the Northland region. Auckland campers for hire are plentiful on Camplify. Enjoy comfort all the way with Piki, a indoor lounge area for cooler days and an outdoor awning to soak up those crisp yet still warm winter days up north.
For a milder winter experience, Northland offers beautiful coastal drives, historic sites and stunning beaches. Some spots along the way are less crowded in winter, making it a peaceful retreat with cultural and natural attractions to explore.
8. Chistchurch to Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook
The magnificent scenery in this part of New Zealand makes this one a must-do road trip route! Travel from Christchurch (or Queenstown) to Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook. This route take you through the heart of the Mackenzie Basin, known for its stunning turquoise lakes and clear night skies. In winter, Lake Tekapo’s Church of the Good Shepherd against a backdrop of snow-covered mountain peaks is a sight to behold. The drive to Aoraki Mount Cook is special in its own right, and once you reach the village there’s plenty to explore in this winter paradise.
Find campers on Camplify to suit this road trip route here.
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