In Auckland, you're never far from breathtaking scenery, beautiful beaches, invigorating walks, idyllic holiday islands, outstanding food and wine, great shopping and exciting nightlife.
The beautiful legends of New Zealand and the inception of its two main islands are told as part of the traditional Māori people, who settled in the country long before the Europeans first arrived. According to the Māori, the North Islands were formed after the brothers of Māui, a demigod, fought over a great fish that he pulled from the sea. The fish was chopped into pieces, creating what is now known to be Te Ika-a-Māui, the traditional name of the island group. Though the tales may only be myth, the breathtaking beauty of the North Island is definitely not.
There is no better place to start your unique road trip adventure than in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city and the gateway to the North Island. Though it’s known as the entrance to many of the North island’s destinations, this metropolis is a popular destination all on it’s own. Explore Auckland with visits to the museums for Māori cultural performances, to the Auckland Zoo to get in touch with the local wildlife, and to many other landmarks, all perfect for a day out with the family. Whether visiting the islands of the Hauraki Gulf to bask in the scenic beauty, or venturing up to the Sky Tower for a heart-stopping bungee jump, there are many activities to enjoy in Auckland.
Drive out of Auckland in any direction in your campervan, and you will find more of what the North Island has to offer! Visiting Northland and the Bay of Islands provide splendid opportunities to see dolphins up close. The relaxing beaches and spas of The Coromandel are truly worth the long road trip, as are the Hamilton - Waikato, with stunning beaches, nature reserves and the famous Hobbiton; the movie set where the Lord of the Rings trilogy was shot. While you’re there, don't miss the thermal mud pools of Rotorua, and Lake Taupo, the home to stunning and starstudded night skies.
Explore ethereal landscapes and majestic scenery, and be immersed in unique Māori and modern culture with a self-drive adventure in a campervan or motorhome hired from Apollo Motorhome Holidays. If you’re visiting from the South Island, we have a branch there too.
Auckland Transfer Information:
If you’re flying into Auckland airport, International Terminal: Once you clear customs, exit the terminal from door 8 and make your way to the Off-site Transfer Zone; cross the pedestrian crossing and it’s just a short 5-7 minutes’ walk under the covered canopy walkway, behind the Te Arikanui Pullman Hotel. Refer to the attached map and follow the orange dotted line from door 8 (or door 4), making your way to the area marked Off-site Transfer Zone and Rental Car drop off. Request a pickup on the shuttle by calling through to Aeroparks and let them know you need to be collected from the International Terminal. Phone number for Aeroparks is 0800 237 672 or +64 27 414 4712. Pick-up is between 8am and 4pm daily.