Experience the Wilderness of New Zealand

Day 1: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

The start of our journey was nothing short of magical. After picking up our vehicle in Christchurch, we hit the road straight away, heading towards Lake Tekapo. The drive was scenic, and we made sure to stop at Rakaia Gorge halfway. It was stunning. Once we arrived, we took some time to explore the Church of the Good Shepherd, which has the most jaw-dropping views of the lake. Then we visited Jack Rabbit Cafe, which is a must do! After a peaceful day, we camped at Lakes Edge Holiday Park. The perfect spot to kick off our adventure.

Highlights: Rakaia Gorge, Jack Rabbit Cafe, Church of the Good Shepherd.

Campground: Lakes Edge Holiday Park.

Day 2: Lake Tekapo to Queenstown

After an overnight stop in Lake Tekapo, we made our way to Queenstown. The drive was beautiful, and once we arrived, we couldn’t resist playing a round of golf at Jack’s Point. Queenstown has this unique charm, and we spent the evening by the lake, the sunset views here are absolutely magical. But no trip to Queenstown would be complete without a visit to Ferg Burger! Trust me, it's the best burger you'll ever have.

Highlights: Jack's Point Golf, Sunset by Lake Wakatipu, Ferg Burger.

Campground: Kingston Campground (free camp).

Day 3: Queenstown to Moke Lake

Queenstown is the perfect base to explore the surrounding areas, and Moke Lake was next on our list. The Moke Lake Loop Track was a fantastic hike, and it felt like the kind of place you could stay for hours just soaking in the peace and quiet. The sunset there was something else, unbelievable. For anyone heading here, definitely check out Moke Lake Horse Treks too! There’s no reception, which meant we could really disconnect.

Highlights: Moke Lake Sunset, Moke Lake Loop Track.

Campground: Moke Lake Campground.

Day 4: Moke Lake to Lake Pukaki

After a morning hike, we headed toward Lake Pukaki. Aoraki/Mount Cook was towering in the distance, and the drive through Lindis Pass was just breathtaking. We hiked the Hooker Valley Track, which was incredible. By the time we got to Lake Pukaki, we were in awe of the crystal-clear water. If you’re camping here, 'No More Pines' free camp is the best in the world. I even took a chilly sunrise swim in Lake Pukaki, it was worth it!

Highlights: Aoraki/Mount Cook, Hooker Valley Track, Sunrise Swim at Lake Pukaki.

Campground: 'No More Pines' free camp.

Day 5: Lake Pukaki to Paraparaumu

Today was a big driving day, we covered 670 kilometres, crossing from the South to the North Island. The Interislander ferry offered stunning views as we sailed across the Cook Strait. We arrived in Paraparaumu by sunset, ready to stretch our legs at the beautiful Paraparaumu Beach.

Highlights: Interislander Ferry, scenic drives.

Campground: Paraparaumu Beach Free Camp.

Day 6: Paraparaumu to Mount Taranaki

We had a wild day of weather driving toward Mount Taranaki. The Curtis Falls hike was an adventure we’ll never forget. It was absolutely insane, with the waterfall roaring as we explored. Later we enjoyed drinks at Stratford Mountain House, just taking it all in. The bad weather meant our fingers were crossed for clear skies tomorrow to see Mount Taranaki!

Highlights: Curtis Falls Adventure, Stratford Mountain House Drinks.

Campground: Stratford Mountain House Carpark Free Camp.

Day 7: Mount Taranaki

Mount Taranaki was one of the highlights of our trip. We visited Lake Mangamahoe in the afternoon for a quiet retreat. The sunset over the lake was beyond words. If you ever come to this part of New Zealand, North Egmont Retreat Campground has the best views of the mountain.

Highlights: Sunset at Lake Mangamahoe.

Campground: North Egmont Retreat Paid Campground.

Days 8 & 9: Mount Tongariro

In the morning, we did the Pouākai Tarns Circuit hike at sunrise. It was difficult but worth every step. Then, we drove from Mount Taranaki to Mount Tongariro. The scenic drives offering the perfect backdrop. At Mount Tongariro, we explored Tawhai Falls and Meads Wall. The landscape here is truly one of a kind, and it’s perfect for a quick detour before getting back to the adventures ahead.

The next day, our friends did the famous Tongariro Crossing, but we stuck to exploring Whakapapa Village and its surroundings. The views were stunning, and it was the perfect day to just wander and discover.

Highlights: Tawhai Falls, Meads Wall, Pouākai Tarns Circuit Hike.

Campground: Tongariro Holiday Park Paid Campground.

Day 10: Mount Tongariro to Lake Ōkaro

After leaving Mount Tongariro, we headed to Lake Ōkaro, stopping at Kuratau Lagoon along the way. Swimming in the crystal-clear waters was a dream. It’s one of those places you want to keep to yourself, but it's too good not to share. The sunset at Lake Ōkaro was something special.

Highlights: Swimming at Kuratau Lagoon, Lake Ōkaro Sunset.

Campground: Lake Ōkaro Paid Campground.

Day 11: Lake Ōkaro to Raglan Beach

Raglan is one of New Zealand’s hidden gems. We stopped at the Waimangu Volcanic Valley and the Blue Spring, the volcanic environment was breathtaking. Once we arrived at Raglan Beach, we couldn’t wait to hit the waves. Raglan is known for its surf, and we were ready for it!

Highlights: Waimangu Volcanic Valley, Surfing in Raglan.

Campground: Raglan Beach Holiday Park Paid Campground.

Day 12: Raglan to Te Arai

Today was all about the beach! After an awesome surf session in Raglan, we made our way to Te Arai. Te Arai Beach has this serene vibe that instantly captures your heart. We ended the day with a magical moonrise swim at Te Arai Beach. If you’re into beach walks, this place is perfection.

Highlights: Surfing at Raglan, Moon-Rise Swim at Te Arai.

Campground: Te Arai Campground.

Day 13: Te Arai

Te Arai is a place we just couldn’t get enough of. We spent the day at Te Arai Links, enjoying a round of golf and the amazing food at the restaurant. The views were incredible, and we ended the day with another stunning sunset.

Highlights: Golf at Te Arai Links, Te Arai Restaurant.

Campground: Te Arai Paid Campground.

Day 14: Te Arai to Auckland

Our final day began with a beautiful sunrise at Te Arai. It was the perfect end to an unforgettable road trip. After one last swim, we headed to Auckland to drop off the vehicle.

Highlights: Sunrise at Te Arai.

Final Thoughts:

What a journey this was! From the rugged beauty of Fiordland to the serene beaches of Te Arai, this trip had it all. The Polaris 6 made every moment easier and more comfortable, and we truly felt connected to the landscape.

If you want to know more about our trip, check out our Star Story