The next stop required a bit of driving. We passed Auckland, coming from the North, and drove around the Fith of Thames (sea arm) to Coromandel Peninsula, known for beautiful beaches and interesting hikes in the inland.
We had a night rest in Thames, the gateway and biggest town (8000 inhabitants) on the peninsula.

Again it’s time to mention that freedom camping is the most fun in NZ, be it in remote nature or even in cities. It simply is the best way of traveling with a campervan. Freedom, flexibility, independence…and cheap!

And we have to praise the always excellent equipped and big playgrounds and usually sparkling clean public facilities (restrooms). A blessing not just for the kids! Theses places commonly come along with barbecue stations and sitting areas, clean & save and a hang out for young and old!


A gorgeous botanical treasure at bit inland, the Rapaura Watergardens, is a photographer’s and nature lover’s paradise. A heaven of tranquility!