The Cook Strait ferry is expensive, frequently disrupted, and unnecessary for most South Island trips. Here’s why flying direct to Christchurch is the smarter move for campervan travellers.
Singapore Airlines, Emirates, and Jetstar fly direct to Christchurch. Skip Auckland, skip the ferry, and start your New Zealand trip where the scenery actually is — the South Island.
Waipara, Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Nelson craft beer, Central Otago Pinot Noir, Kaikoura crayfish — New Zealand’s best food and wine regions by campervan in 10-12 days.
Hobbiton, Mount Doom, Edoras, Arrowtown, Weta Workshop — every major Lord of the Rings and Hobbit filming location in New Zealand, accessible by campervan.
SH35 around the East Cape is NZ’s most remote and authentic coastal drive — Maori culture, empty beaches, the world’s most easterly lighthouse, and Gisborne surf. 3-5 days.
Glowworms at Waitomo, geothermal Rotorua, Lake Taupo, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, and Wellington — the best of the North Island’s volcanic heart by campervan in 7-10 days.
Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga, 90 Mile Beach, ancient kauri forests — the best of Northland by campervan in 7-10 days from Auckland.
The ultimate New Zealand road trip — Christchurch to Auckland across both islands. Ferry, Tongariro, Rotorua, Taupo. 14-21 days, backpacker budget guide included.
Kaikoura whales, Marlborough wine, the Marlborough Sounds, and Abel Tasman beaches — the best of the South Island’s east coast by campervan in 6-8 days.
Arthur Pass, glaciers, Haast Pass, Queenstown, Milford Sound — the great South Island loop by campervan. 10-14 days, freedom camping throughout, built for independent travellers.
