Hello!

After a lovely one-month trip around New Zealand, we’re offering some camping equipment for sale: - 3-person tent - inflatable mattress (2p) + pump - 2 sleeping bags - cookware set: stove, gas, pot + lid, pan, colander... - various accessories: cutting board, kitchen utensils...

Everything’s in good condition and will be available in Auckland around April 5–7!

More photos on request!

Hi there,

We’re spending 18 days in New Zealand from 05/04 to 05/21, arriving in QUEENSTOWN and leaving from AUCKLAND. Any ideas for a road trip that covers the highlights of both islands but only changes hotels every 3–4 nights? Thanks.

hi After reading quite a few posts and buying a guidebook, I’m still struggling to finalize my suitcase. Given that we’ll be visiting both islands during our road trip and suitcases aren’t exactly expandable, I’ve noted that temperatures can be changeable—but should I pack more winter clothes than summer ones? Thanks for your help

Hi there, I’d love to hear your thoughts on a trip to New Zealand in a campervan. Is it a good idea to mix hotels and a car on the North Island and a campervan on the South Island? Or should I do the whole trip in a campervan—though visiting big cities seems trickier that way. Other questions: which companies do you recommend, and what are the least tiring or most sensible routes? 😄 Thanks for sharing your experiences and ideas!

Hi everyone, I’ve got a problem… I don’t even know if it’s a small one or a big one. Back in May, I booked our flight tickets to go to New Zealand, and I just realized I misspelled my husband’s first name: Giiles instead of Gilles… I booked through Lufthansa, and on the outbound trip, there’s a Shanghai-Auckland flight operated by Air New Zealand, and on the return, an Auckland-Hong Kong flight operated by Cathay Pacific. The rest is with Lufthansa. We’re leaving from Nantes in February-March 2026. Have any of you run into this kind of issue, and if so, how did it go? It’s really freaking me out. Lufthansa added a note in our file about the ‘i’ instead of ‘l’ mistake, and they told us it’s not a problem for them, but what about Air New Zealand and Cathay Pacific…??? Air New Zealand and Cathay Pacific say they can’t do anything because the ticket was booked through Lufthansa. And Lufthansa added a note to our file, but will that be enough, or are we going to get turned away in Shanghai, Hong Kong, or Auckland?? After another call to Lufthansa, they’re implying that a correction isn’t possible and the solution is to buy a new flight ticket for 2800 €. Thanks for sharing your experiences. I’m lost and don’t know what to do.

Hi everyone,

For a combined trip to New Zealand and eastern Australia, which time of year would you pick for photography and videography?

Thanks for your help

I'm looking for a travel companion for New Zealand from December 13th to January 5th (give or take 3 days) for a mix of hikes and city discoveries, with room for spontaneity along the way and meeting new people. With a rental car or campervan. Nothing booked yet.

I love road trips and meeting people.

Hi, I’m traveling to New Zealand in January 2026 with Lufthansa. To check the allowed baggage dimensions, I went to my "booking" account on the Lufthansa website. And that’s when I discovered that my last layover, the Zurich-Bordeaux flight operated by Swiffairlines, was canceled. I never received an email, and even worse, it’s not even noted on my booking. So I contacted Lufthansa. They told me that for now, there are no other flights but that there will be by the time I leave. They advised me to call them every week to get a flight. What do you think of their response? Has this ever happened to you? Emilie

We’re crossing New Zealand next April and we’re wondering which to choose between exploring Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. The first is more well-known, famous, and popular, a UNESCO natural heritage site, while the second can be just as spectacular—bigger, harder to access, and less touristy. Thanks for your thoughts!

Hello, This is about reselling hotel room reservations:

Queenstown: 3 nights in a Premier studio at Hurley's of Queenstown from January 28 to February 2, 2026 876 € for 3 nights

Lake Tekapo: 3 nights in a deluxe double room with breakfast at Galaxy Boutique Hotel from February 8 to 11, 2026 1,185 € for 3 nights

Both establishments are fully booked for these dates.

Thanks

Hi there, Planning a trip to AOTEAROA in Feb 2026, I’m starting to gather info. After several attempts searching in local bookshops and online, it seems this guide is no longer published—meaning it’s impossible to find a new French copy. You can find used ones online, but only in English... Lonely Planet has released a new "version" of their New Zealand guide, but it’s not really a "Guide" anymore—it’s called "Best Itineraries."

So, my question: Does anyone have a French-language Lonely Planet New Zealand guide from a not-too-old edition? For sale second-hand?

Or

Any recommendations for another guidebook-style book from a different publisher?

Thanks in advance!

Claude

Ah! New Zealand, the ultimate road trip destination. If you've been dreaming of trying out a campervan adventure, it's definitely one of the best places in the world to take the plunge. With its diverse landscapes—white sand beaches, volcanoes, glaciers, fjords, and glacial lakes—the country also boasts top-notch infrastructure for campers, making it ideal for campervan circuits, even for beginners!

Why is New Zealand the perfect country for your first campervan trip?

Safe and Scenic Roads

New Zealand offers a well-maintained road network, usually not too busy outside major cities. This is a huge plus if you're new to driving a campervan. The routes often feature spectacular viewpoints. You'll also find a vast network of campgrounds, and while freedom camping is regulated, there are still plenty of spots where you can sleep for free. Speed limits are reasonable, and the driving culture is pretty relaxed.



Adapted Infrastructure

There are plenty of campervan rental companies offering different models, from converted vans to large family motorhomes. You'll find rental depots in major cities (Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown), along with shuttle services between the airport and the depot. Campgrounds in New Zealand, whether private or managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC), are easy to find and well-marked. Plus, since New Zealand is a country of campers, you'll often get helpful tips from the locals.

Diverse and Accessible Landscapes

Beaches, volcanoes, deep fjords, or subtropical forests—you can experience a completely different setting in just a few hours of driving. No need to be a 4x4 expert: most roads leading to these stunning sites are campervan-friendly. This variety of landscapes, combined with easy access, makes New Zealand a top choice for a first road trip experience.



The Most Beautiful Places to Discover in a Campervan

To give you an idea, here’s a selection of must-see spots to inspire your next adventure.

1. The Coromandel Peninsula (North Island)

Just a few hours from Auckland, the Coromandel Peninsula is famous for its white sand beaches, hot springs, and lush vegetation. Hot Water Beach is a must-visit—dig your own "thermal bath" on the shore at low tide. You’ll easily find campgrounds by the ocean, perfect for your first taste of campervan life.

2. Rotorua and the Geothermal Wonders (North Island)

A little further south, Rotorua is the geothermal heart of New Zealand. Geysers, bubbling pools, and sulfur lakes with amazing colors—there’s no shortage of things to do. It’s also a major hub for Māori culture. Take the time to visit a traditional village or watch a haka performance. In the evening, relax at a campground with natural hot pools.

3. Tongariro National Park (North Island)

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this volcanic park is a paradise for hikers, especially with the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Even if you're not an experienced hiker, you can enjoy stunning views from the roads or short marked trails. The campgrounds in the area will immerse you in a postcard-worthy setting.

4. Abel Tasman, Coastal Gem (South Island)

After taking the ferry from Wellington to Picton, head to Abel Tasman National Park. Its golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coastal trails are perfect for unwinding. One of the perks of a campervan is exploring at your own pace, choosing spots near the beaches or deeper in the forest.



5. Punakaiki and the Pancake Rocks (South Island)

As you drive along the West Coast’s thick rainforests and wild beaches, stop at Punakaiki to see the Pancake Rocks—surprising rock formations that look like stacks of pancakes. A marked trail runs along the coast, letting you watch waves crash into the "blowholes" (marine geysers). Spending the night at a seaside campground, lulled by the sound of waves, is an experience not to be missed.

6. The Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers (South Island)

Further south, the glacier region is a must for lovers of breathtaking landscapes. You can admire the icy giants from a distance on an easy trail or take a helicopter to fly over them—or even walk on them. The campgrounds in Franz Josef or Fox Glacier let you wake up in an alpine atmosphere, contrasting with the lush vegetation around you.

7. Queenstown and Wanaka (South Island)

Queenstown, on the shore of a sparkling lake surrounded by majestic peaks, is known as the adventure capital: bungee jumping, paragliding, rafting—anything’s possible. If you prefer a quieter vibe, Wanaka is just as charming, with its beautiful lake and accessible walks. The road between these two towns is stunning, with plenty of perfect spots for a picnic stop.

8. Te Anau and Milford Sound (South Island)

New Zealand’s fjords are world-famous. Te Anau is the gateway to exploring Milford Sound or, for something wilder, Doubtful Sound. A cruise through these deep fjords, surrounded by towering cliffs, is one of the highlights of any trip to New Zealand. Staying overnight in a campervan in Te Anau saves you a long round trip in a day and lets you set off at dawn for more adventures.

9. Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook (South Island)

In the heart of the Southern Alps, Lake Tekapo charms with its unique turquoise color and its picturesque church by the water. The area is known for its starry skies (it’s an International Dark Sky Reserve). Mount Cook, the country’s highest peak, stands majestically in the background. Several campgrounds offer views of these mountains.

Practical Tips for a Successful Campervan Road Trip

Where to start? Between choosing the right vehicle, the best time to go, parking rules, and tips for where to sleep, here are our practical tips to plan your road trip stress-free.

Duration and Itinerary Choices

Less than 15 days: Focus on one island to avoid spending too much time on the road.

More than 15 days: Consider a North-South combo with a one-way trip (e.g., Auckland to Christchurch).

Book Early

In peak season (November to March), demand is high, especially for family-sized vehicles. Book your campervan ideally 6 to 8 months in advance.

Opt for full insurance to avoid high excess fees and hassles in case of issues. Standard bank insurance rarely covers campervans.

Choosing the Right Vehicle

Watch out for campervans over 3 years old—they can be "tired" in terms of both equipment and driving. If your budget allows, go for a newer model for better reliability and comfort.

Check the depot’s opening hours for pick-up. If you arrive late or after a long trip, it’s better to spend the first night in accommodation rather than driving straight away.

Where to Spend the Night

Freedom camping: Allowed in some remote areas but heavily regulated. Fines for breaking the rules can reach $200. Use comprehensive apps to identify legal spots and avoid penalties!

Basic campsites / DOC: Basic facilities but often in idyllic settings. These are campgrounds managed by the Department of Conservation, perfect for getting close to nature.

Private campgrounds: More expensive but offer hot showers, electricity, playgrounds for kids, pools, and laundry. Ideal for recharging—both your campervan’s batteries and your own.

Respect Nature

New Zealand is known for its pristine landscapes. Manage your waste, use designated dumping areas, and follow local signage. New Zealanders care deeply about keeping their environment clean and warmly welcome responsible tourists. For support, consider a local French-speaking agency like Frogs, which can help with administrative steps, planning your itinerary, and of course, renting a campervan.

We’ll be in New Zealand starting March 15th. We’re considering renting a car from Christchurch to Auckland. We’ve read that a lot of ferries have been canceled—is that true? Would it be better to rent one car in the South Island and another in the North Island? Thanks, and happy New Year!

Hi! If this can help connect, I’m heading to New Zealand in May. I’d love to find someone for a short or long trip—it all depends! I’d like to visit the South Island for some amazing hikes. Ideally, a Quebecer so we can meet up beforehand. Have a great day!

Hi everyone, I’m heading to NZ at the end of January. It’s peak season—do you think it’s necessary to book activities in advance (like a cruise to Milford Sound), or is it not essential? Thanks

Hello, What a fantastic 2025 trip!

I’m looking for one or more travel companions to explore both islands from mid-September to mid-October (right after winter). Goal: Discover, wander without rushing or stress. Soak it all in and feast our eyes. Hikes (intermediate level), visits, and more...

Route not finalized—there are so many magical spots to visit and fly over. (For me, arrival and departure from Auckland.) Transportation not set yet... I love taking local transport (train, bus, plane, boat). A car is possible but not 100% certain. I want to go with the flow. Accommodation: Guesthouses, hotels, Airbnb (no camping).

A trip that brings joy and lets us enjoy ourselves without restrictions. Looking forward to hearing from you! Paace e salute😄

Hi there,

I’m planning to leave mid-December for 3 weeks to a month in Asia (see my other post) or in New Zealand, and possibly Australia as well.

I’m traveling with a backpack, on a tight budget, using local transport, but for these destinations—especially New Zealand—renting a car is an option.

I’m looking for a female travel companion to share this adventure.

Feel free to message me privately. See you soon

Bonjour, au mois d'octobre prochain nous devrions réussir à aller à Papeete avec French Bee s'il n'y a pas de problème de dernière minute. Nous restons en PF un mois avec 3 autres couples en louant 3 semaines un catamaran aux îles sous le vent.

Nous pensions poursuivre vers la Nouvelle Zélande où nous avons loué un camping-car 3 semaines. Nous avons pris nos billets Papeete-Auckland avec Air New Zealand et ce vol vient d'être annulé et nous devrions recevoir un avoir.

J'ai essayé de savoir si cet avoir pouvait être remboursé même après plusieurs mois et voici leur réponse :

"Oui il existe un règlement européen, le UE 261/2004. Il concerne les retards et les annulations de vols ne vols opérés à partir d'un pays de l'UE ou exploités par un transporteur de l'UE. Votre réservation avec nous étant à partir de Papeete, ces règles ne s'appliquent pas. Bien que Tahiti soit un territoire français, il n'est pas considéré comme un pays de l'UE. Les conditions du tarif s'appliquent donc. Pour répondre à votre question, vos billets basés sur des tarifs non remboursables, resterons non remboursables."

Pensez vous que cette réglementation puisse évoluer?

Notre retour devait se faire par Singapour avec Singapore Airlines, nous risquons d'avoir le même problème.

Salutations distinguées a toute la communauté J'ai besoin des informations pour démarrer ma procédure en destination de la nouvelle Zélande ou de l'Australie pour cela j'ai rattaché mon CV en pièce jointe quelqu'un peut me trouver une occupation SVP

Boujour les baroudeuses et les baroudeurs fous !

Je me suis attaquée au Te Araroa trail l’année passée. Ce trail - peu connu - traverse les deux îles de la Nouvelle-Zélande, sur une distance de 3’000 kms.

C’est splendide, c’est unique, c’est hors des sentiers battus, c’est génialissime c’est... enfin bref ! Si vous êtes curieux d’en savoir plus et de découvrir mes péripéties sur ce trail épique parcouru en solitaire en 4 mois, n’hésitez pas à jeter un coup d’oeil à mon blog. https://www.lesvoyagesdelise.com

Vous y trouverez aussi tout un tas de conseils et de trucs et astuces avant de vous lancer vous aussi, dans l’aventure.

Je réponds à toutes vos questions avec une joie immense donc n’hésitez pas à m’en poser !

Belles échapées à toutes et à tous !

Lise Blanc

Bonjour,

je suis à la recherche de personnes qui doivent partir en Nouvelle Zélande dans le premier trimestre 2021, voyage touristique en camping car. Pouvons nous échanger sur les modalités de ce voyage, Je souhaiterai éviter certains pièges, n'ayant pas trop l'habitude de ce genre de gros voyage. Aujourd'hui, nous avons réservé uniquement les vols aller retour pour 2 personnes. Beaucoup de sujets à régler : en autres : > location camping car, >itinéraires à privilégier, >excursions à réserver lesquelles ? etc.....

si par bonheur, quelqu'un lisait ce message et était en cours de programmation, cela serait top de pouvoir échanger.

merci par avance pour votre aide. Jean

Bonjour Je souhaiterais connaitre les meilleures possibilités pour aller d'Ivato en nouvelle Zelande . Merçi

Bonjour à tous, nous avons débuté depuis fin Janvier un voyage de cinq mois à destination de la Nouvelle Zélande via Singapour et que nous envisagions de poursuivre vers la Polynésie, mais pour l’instany nous sommes confinés à Auckland. Pour relater ce voyage, nous avons débuté un blog que voici: https://poronihia.com/ Bonne lecture Michel

Lorsqu'on souhaite séjourner longtemps en Nouvelle-Zélande, qu'est-il le plus avantageux financièrement entre l'achat ou la location d'un moyen de transport de type van ou voiture ?

Mon fils étant en nz depuis bientôt 6 mois , et avec les restrictions que l'on connait, j'aimerais savoir quelles compagnies desservent encore l'Europe Paris ou Barcelone, il voulait a l'origine passer voir ses copains au québec, mais même en mai je crois que ce sera barré.

Bonjour, Après avoir passé 6 mois en Australie, à présent la Nouvelle Zélande. Nous sommes 2 backpeckeurs qui arrivent le 12 Mars a Christchurch afin de passer un mois et prendre l'avion à Auckand le 12 Avril direction la Thailande. Nous comptons sur vous afin que vous nous éclairiez sur nos interrogations : - faut t'il que nous ayons le billet retour, c'est a dire notrz billet direction la Thailande avant de nous rendre sur le territoire de la Nouvelle Zélande? - notre question principale est: est-il plus avantageux financièrement de louer ou d'acheter un moyen de transport (van ou voiture). Il faut savoir que nous ne sommes pas compliqué, nous avons habité pendant 6 mois dans un van donc c'est vraiment pour voyager au moins chère et en même temps êtres libre et de bouger d'un endroit à un autre quand bon nous semble. Je vous remercie pour vos réponses! 🙂

Bonsoir j'envisage de partir 3 semaines en Nouvelle Zélande courant juin juillet en fonction des prix des vols, et je suis preneuse de tout..... hébergement, sites à visiter, moyen de transport, bon plan etc...... Merci à la communauté pour toutes infos🙂

Bonjour, Mon fils est parti le 18/02 en Nouvelle Zélande avec un PVT et son passeport valide. Le 28/02 la préfecture, par erreur informatique a déclaré son passeport perdu. Il devient donc invalide et fiché interpole. Mon fils se trouve donc en NZ avec un passeport invalide donc en situation irrégulière. Il doit embaucher dans 4 jours en présentant son passeport et son visa. Avez vous une idée de la marche à suivre pour se sortir d'une telle situation? Merci de votre aide

Salut à tous !

J'aimerais savoir ce que vaut Kiwi experience pour parcourir la Nouvelle Zélande avec ces fameux pass de bus, et avoir des retours d'expérience là dessus. J'ai du mal à trouver des avis "récents" surtout.

Si c'est bien et quels sont les inconvénients ? On m'a expliqué que je pouvais m'arrêter autant de nuits que je le veut sur chaque étape en fait, tout dépend de comment je m'y prend.

Merci bien, j'attends vos conseils et retours ;)

PS : j'ai 21 ans

Robin

Bonjour,

je recherche des adresses d'hébergements simples mais sympas sur l'île nord en chambres familiales : - 1 vers coromandel - 1 vers Rotorua - 1 pour faire la randonnée du Tongariro merci Lise