Kiwi Motorhomes Blog

Hire a campervan: Destination Queenstown and Milford Sound

Your Queenstown and Milford Sound motorhome adventure awaits! With our top-quality motorhome rental services, you have the freedom to pick up your home-on-wheels from either Auckland or Christchurch, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey. Whether you’re planning to explore the vibrant energy of Queenstown or the serene beauty of the surrounding areas, hiring a motorhome with us ensures that you travel in comfort and style. For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the Queenstown adventure, we highly recommend including a sat nav to navigate through the scenic routes effortlessly and considering our bikes for hire to explore the local trails and hidden gems, for an even more relaxing experience, you can upgrade to E-bikes. Are you ready embark on a journey that promises the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, all at your own pace?

Discover Queenstown by Campervan

Nestled amidst the majestic landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island, Queenstown stands as a premier destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Renowned for its breathtaking scenery, thrilling outdoor activities, and vibrant local culture, this picturesque town offers a unique blend of excitement and relaxation. One of the best ways to explore Queenstown and its surrounding beauty is by campervan, providing unparalleled flexibility and the freedom to immerse oneself in the heart of New Zealand’s stunning wilderness.

Campervanning in Queenstown is not just about accommodation on wheels; it’s about crafting your own adventure at your pace. The flexibility afforded by a campervan allows travellers to wake up to a new view every morning, from the serene lakeside to the rugged mountain ranges that define the region.

Queenstown where to stay: Driftaway Queenstown

Perfectly positioned on the lakefront, the brand-new Driftaway Queenstown campsite has all the amenities you could desire. The perfect way to watch the sun set – hire a private hot tub which are located on site.

Best activities in Queenstown

For a touch of nostalgia and a different perspective of Queenstown’s landscape, a voyage on the RealNZ TSS Earnslaw Steamship is a must. This iconic century-old steamship offers a unique journey across Lake Wakatipu, providing passengers with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and estates.

After a day full of adventures, Queenstown’s main town awaits with its vibrant food and drink scene. The town is a melting pot of culinary delights, offering everything from cosy cafes to gourmet restaurants and lively bars. Whether you’re in the mood for local fare, international cuisine, or a refreshing craft beer, Queenstown’s culinary offerings are sure to satisfy your cravings. The town’s bustling atmosphere, coupled with its stunning lake and mountain views, makes dining out an experience in itself.

Queenstown ariel view
Queenstown at Dusk
Photo credit @ Motion Bros

Cycling in Arrowtown

A must-do activity while campervanning around Queenstown is cycling in Arrowtown, a charming historic gold mining town just a short drive away. The area boasts a network of trails that cater to all levels of fitness and adventure, with the Arrow River Trail being a particular highlight. This scenic ride takes you through stunning landscapes, past the Arrow River, and into the heart of Arrowtown’s rich history. Cycling here offers a refreshing physical challenge and provides a unique way to connect

Cycling in Arrowtown
Biking
Arrowtown River Trail
Photo credit @Destination Queenstown
Arrowtown Historic Cottage
Historic Building in Arrowtown Photo credit @ Destination Queenstown

 

Driving the Scenic Route to Glenorchy in your Motorhome

Another adventure not to be missed is the drive to Glenorchy, located at the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu. This scenic route is renowned for its awe-inspiring views, with every turn presenting a postcard-worthy landscape. The road to Glenorchy epitomises the beauty of New Zealand’s South Island, offering vistas of towering mountains and crystal-clear waters.

When you arrive in the village of Glenorchy, be sure to check out the lagoon walk and visit the iconic Glenorchy shed on the waterfront. If you’re looking to explore the glaciers and mountains more, Heli Glenorchy can whisk you away to the breath-taking, Mt Earnslaw Glacier. This spot is used in many movies including the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Earnslaw Burn
Earnslaw Burn Photo credit @ Miles Holden
Queenstown and Milford Sound motorhome
The Red Shed in Glenorchy. Photo Credit @ Destination Queenstown
Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway
Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway Photo credit @ Miles Holden

A Motorhome Adventure to Milford Sound

An expedition to Queenstown would be incomplete without a journey to Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Often described as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’, this fjord offers a landscape that is nothing short of breathtaking. The journey to Milford Sound is an adventure in itself, with the road winding through some of the most spectacular scenery on the South Island, including mirror-like lakes, towering cliffs, and dense rainforests. The drive is a thrilling precursor to the incredible sights that await.

Upon arriving at Milford Sound, visitors are greeted by the majestic Mitre Peak, rising dramatically from the dark waters to pierce the sky.

Visitors can jump on a cruise and take to the water to see the sights. Cruising through the fjord, you’ll encounter a series of waterfalls cascading from sheer rock faces, some of which are over a thousand metres high.

Whether you’re kayaking beneath towering waterfalls, spotting wildlife, or simply soaking in the views from a cruise, Milford Sound is a highlight that encapsulates the raw, unspoiled beauty of New Zealand. The journey to and from Queenstown, with its stunning landscapes and the freedom to explore at your own pace, makes a trip to Milford Sound a quintessential part of the campervanning experience in New Zealand.

 

Milford Sound from a Motorhome window
Milford Sound from a Motorhome window. Photo credit @ Fin Matson

 

Milford Sound.
Milford Sound. Photo credit @ Great South

Milford Sound where to stay: The Milford Sound Lodge

The only way to stay right in the heart of Milford Sound is to stay at The Milford Sound Lodge. Experience the dark sky like never before and be surrounded by untouched NZ rainforest. Be sure to book a motorhome site ahead of time, or upgrade to a luxury riverside chalet.

Milford Sound Lodge
Milford Sound Lodge. Photo credit @ Tim Roxborogh

Queenstown, with its mix of adrenaline-pumping activities, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, is a destination that truly has it all. Driving a motorhome in this part of New Zealand offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace, making it possible to experience the best of Queenstown and its surroundings. From cycling in Arrowtown and driving the scenic route to Glenorchy, to cruising on the TSS Earnslaw and indulging in the local food scene, the adventures are endless. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to embark on a campervanning journey that promises unforgettable memories in the heart of New Zealand’s natural beauty. Reach out today and allow us to help plan your special Queenstown and Milford Sound motorhome trip.