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Book a campervan in Queenstown
Prepare for the road trip adventure you've been dreaming of. Check out some our of our incredible trip ideas in Queenstown and beyond and book your camper today.
Self-Contained Camping in New Zealand: Everything You Need to Know
If you're planning a campervan adventure in New Zealand, a self-contained vehicle is the key to ultimate freedom. With stunning landscapes, remote wilderness, and endless opportunities for off-grid camping, having a self-contained camper means you can experience it all without relying on holiday parks or campsites. Campervan Village has you covered with fully equipped vans designed for hassle-free travel.
10 Easy & Budget-Friendly Camping Meals for Your Campervan Adventure
Heading out on a campervan trip? Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time camper, cooking in your van doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. With the right ingredients and a few simple recipes, you can enjoy delicious meals without the hassle. Here are 10 cheap & easy camping dishes perfect for the budget traveler looking for quick and satisfying meals while on the road.
The Best Free Camps in New Zealand's North & South Island
New Zealand is a camper's paradise, especially for those seeking freedom camping. Whether you're exploring the North or South Island, the country offers scenic spots where you can camp for free or at minimal cost. Here's a guide to some of the best freedom camping spots to help you plan an unforgettable journey.
Discover Freedom Camping in New Zealand
Embark on a thrilling journey through the diverse and breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, with its abundant freedom camping sites - a journey offering an inexpensive and immersive way to explore its many wonders in your campervan rental from Campervan Village.
Freedom camping in New Zealand allows you to camp on public land at no cost unless local laws or signage explicitly prohibit it. It's a time-honored and budget-friendly way to experience the diverse beauty of the country. However, it's crucial to select designated freedom camping sites. These sites, managed by either the Department of Conservation (DoC) or the local/regional council, are scattered throughout the nation, allowing explorers to experience New Zealand's charm while respecting local regulations and the environment.
In this article, we delve into the essence of freedom camping, how to do it responsibly, and uncover some of the best free campsites in New Zealand.
Queenstown to Glenorchy
The road to Glenorchy is short but perhaps one of the most scenic routes on the South Island of New Zealand. The drive will take you to Middle-Earth, the filming location for many scenes from ‘The Lord of the Rings’ film franchise. Along the way, this picturesque road will take you north of Queenstown, following Lake Wakatipu and eventually, the Glenorchy region.
Places to check out around queenstown
Just 20 minutes from Queenstown, this charming gold rush village offers a fascinating glimpse into New Zealand's mining history. Park your campervan in the designated areas and explore the well-preserved Chinese settlement, pan for gold in the Arrow River, or wander the historic main street lined with heritage buildings. Arrowtown is particularly spectacular in autumn when the trees display their golden colors.
Whether you're visiting in winter for skiing or summer for hiking, the drive up to Coronet Peak offers spectacular views of the Wakatipu Basin. The sealed road is suitable for campervans and provides access to numerous walking tracks and viewpoints. In winter, it's a prime spot for skiing and snowboarding, while summer brings opportunities for mountain biking and paragliding. The sunset views from here are particularly memorable.
The scenic 45-minute drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy is a must-do campervan journey. This stunning road hugs Lake Wakatipu, offering countless photo opportunities and rest stops along the way. Continue past Glenorchy to Paradise, where you'll discover filming locations from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. The journey showcases some of New Zealand's most spectacular scenery, with multiple camping spots available for overnight stays.
Located on a peninsula jutting into Lake Wakatipu, the Queenstown Gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling town center. With nearby parking for your campervan, you can easily spend hours exploring the beautiful botanical gardens, playing frisbee golf, or enjoying a picnic with lake and mountain views. The gardens are particularly beautiful in spring when the flowers bloom and in autumn when the trees change color.
Soaring 450 meters above Queenstown, the Skyline Gondola offers breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu, The Remarkables mountain range, and Coronet Peak. Park your campervan at the convenient base station and ride the Southern Hemisphere's steepest cable car to the top. Experience the thrill of the luge tracks, enjoy a meal at the panoramic restaurant, or simply take in the spectacular alpine scenery that makes Queenstown famous.
The stunning Lake Wakatipu forms the heart of Queenstown, with numerous lakeside parking spots perfect for your campervan adventure. Take a stroll along the waterfront, enjoy a picnic at one of the many beaches, or experience the lake's beauty aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship. The lake's distinctive 'Z' shape creates a "tide" that local Māori legend says is caused by the heartbeat of a sleeping giant.
