The attractions of inland New Zealand are many, which is why lots of travelers end up forgetting about the North Island. This is a mistake since the Northern region contains some of the absolute best beaches in the world, included stretches of undeveloped coast that can truly take your breath away with their beauty. From the tropical paradise known as the Bay of Islands to the Coromandel peninsula, this is a scenic sub-tropical paradise that is well worth exploring. Anyone on a campervan hire new zealand adventure would be missing out if they didn’t venture into the North. Should you decide to take this worthy journey, make sure to check out these great places to stay along the way.
Duke of Marlborough
Located right in the heart of the beautiful Bay of Islands, the Duke puts you within walking distance of terrific beaches, a range of marine life including dolphins, and the string of tropical islands that give this region its name. The hotel itself is known for its period décor and its balconies overlooking the bay and promenade. This has been a top rated resting spot since the 1830s and has played host to many thousands of travelers over the years looking to explore the pleasures of the bay of Islands.
Arcadia Lodge
The dining area on the balcony at Arcadia Lodge is legendary, with tables overlooking a vast panorama of sub-tropical North island splendour. The rooms here are affordable and comfortable, with nice touches such as jars of cookies and books on the local wildlife adding flavour to your stay. This has long been noted as a prime resting point for travellers in the Russell region, so anyone on a campervan hire new Zealand trip would do well to spend a night or two to unwind and recharge at the Arcadia.
Allegra House, Paihia
Located in gorgeous Paihia, the Allegra House puts you within close range of a gorgeous beach as well as the legendary wharf that is the starting off point for many cruises. Right from your room you can watch as the sun sets over the water each evening, and all of the rooms are fitted with a great balcony overlooking the bay. The grounds are comfortable as well, featuring a stunning garden and friendly staff who will make you feel right at home.
Beachside Holiday Park
Sitting on the outskirts of Paihia, this comfortable and well attended camp looks out over a beautiful bay with an ideal pebbly beach perfect for scenic long walks. This is a bird watcher paradise with a wide range of rare species calling the area home. The rooms have all been updated and there is a communal cooking area that really adds a nice touch, plus a herb garden you are welcomed to pick from for your meals. Campervans are welcome on all the sites, and many of them offer water views. Unlike some of the more run down holiday parks in the region, this one is well-maintained and comfortable, offering travellers some much needed comfort and rest in the midst of a long journey.
Bethells Beach Cottages
Just outside of the amazing city of Auckland lies the Bethells Beach Cottages which, just like the name implies, put your right on the beach for your stay. With your feet in the warm sands, you can look up upon mountain vistas and crashing waves all around you. The location has a remote feel even though it rests within close range of Auckland, and the breakfasts here are known to be fresh and delicious. Each room features a kitchen, so you can cook your own meals in your room before heading out to watch the stunning sunsets over the water. Bethell’s beach is a glorious place to spend a few days of rest while travelling the North Island.
The Crown Hotel
If the Hawk’s Bay region is on your destination list, then you should definitely look into spending some time at the Crown. This charming residence puts you right in the heart of the region’s great vineyards, its unspoiled beaches, and many miles of hiking trails. The seaside town of Napier is a short drive away. Overall the Crown is a great place to pull up your campervan and spend a couple of days hiking, swimming, sampling wines, and exploring the coast. Many of the rooms have water views and there is free parking for your campervan so you can get off the road for some much needed rest.
No campervan hire new zealand journey is complete without a journey into the scenic and enchanting sub-tropical paradise of the Northern Island. There is much to see and do here, as well as many great places to stop and get some rest along the way.
