North Island : Beaches and Geysers

Stage 1 : Auckland

You've finally arrived in Auckland, the City of Sails. Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand but it is easy to explore and a very pleasant place to visit especially in summer with its many inner city beaches and beautiful North Shore bays. It is also popular for its forest walks and cycle trails, many located less than 30 minutes from the city centre. Although the easy accessibility to nature is part of Auckland’s attraction, it is also a cosmopolitan city with many restaurants, bars and shops. Camping: Manukau Top 10 Holiday Park : powered site, $48 per night

To Do: Climb the Sky Tower, go out on an America’s Cup boat, visit Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium or the Auckland Zoo, explore the west coast beaches, climb Mt Eden volcano and go wine tasting on Waiheke Island.

Stage 2 : Auckland - Coromandel (2h40 - 178km)

Pick up your campervan in the morning and head out on the open road to the Coromandel Peninsula. This area has it all! For nature lovers this is a wild destination with vibrant colours and green tropical forests covering most of the territory. Stop off at one of the many white sand beaches surrounding the peninsula and go for a swim in the turquoise waters. For families this is a relaxing destination with many activities, beaches, walks, train rides, mini-golf, ...while backpackers and casual travellers will enjoy the rustic, relaxing atmosphere of this pristine destination. Camping: Hot Water Beach Top 10 Holiday Park : powered site, $46 per night

Stage 3 : Coromandel - Rotorua (3h30 - 222km)

The smell of sulfur and view of Lake Rotorua mark your imminent arrival in Rotorua, New Zealand’s geothermal mecca with plumes of steam and hot geyers coming out of the ground. Why not soak in natural hot pools or take a mud bath! With its beautiful green and blue lakes and vast forests, it is a premier destination for walkers and bikers. The Maori culture is strong here with Maori representing one third of the inhabitants of the city. Take the opportunity to taste traditional food, listen to their stories and legends and appreciate their art and music. Camping: Cosy Cottage Thermal Holiday Park, Rotorua: powered site, $44 per night

Stage 4 : Rotorua - Taupo (1h10 - 82km)

The small town of Taupo is named after the lake that it sits beside. Lake Taupo is the largest lake in the country, it was created by a gigantic volcanic explosion several thousand years ago. Taupo today is a major tourist centre, it attracts those who love water sports and fishing, walkers, cyclists and travellers from all walks of life. It is also an excellent starting point for the famous "Tongariro Crossing" one of the finest walks in the world, see the famous "Huka Falls" and explore geothermal parks such as Wai-O-Tapu. Camping: All Seasons Holiay Park, Taupo : powered site, $42 per night

Stage 5 : Taupo - Waitomo (2h30 - 164km)

Waitomo is in the centre of the North Island and is best known for its beautiful glow worm caves. It is also a region steeped in nature with beautiful hilly and wooded landscapes. For those who love caving, canyoning and rafting, this is a must. Camping: Camp Kiwi Holiday Park : powered site, $24 per night

Stage 6: Waitomo - Auckland (2h40 - 182km)

Head back to Auckland where you drop off your campervan. Fly home with your images and memories of beautiful New Zealand. Camping: Manukau Top 10 Holiday Park : powered site, $48 per night