Whether you start from the winterless bays of the North Island and move south or begin in the snowy mountains of the South Island and head in the opposite direction, there is a recurring theme throughout New Zealand. That of spectacular and stunning scenery.

Truly a country with everything to offer, the Land of the Long White Cloud as it is nicknamed, has become one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. Standing aloft the Franz Joseph Glacier, a few hours from Queenstown, looking out across a vast expanse of ice, it’s not hard to see why.

How to get around:

It is a country wonderfully geared to the traveler and you cannot journey more than a few kilometers before encountering a lookout point or scenic stop. Like any tourist hotspot, a visitor to New Zealand could, if they wished, rely entirely on organised coach trips, content to sit back and relax in the capable hands of the tour guide. For many this is the perfect way to see the country, you’ll tick all the major boxes no problem. But for the complete experience there is really only one way to go. Campervan.

As common a sight as the sheep in the fields, or Hobbits in Middle Earth (ok they’re a bit harder to spot), campervans rule the long, winding roads. If you’re visiting for a week or three, you’ll want to use all the time available and that means not wasting time hunting for hostels or waiting for coach drivers.

Where to go:

Starting from Auckland on the North Island, the country’s largest city, first stop is the Bay of Plenty, perfect for wind surfing, kayaking and if you’re lucky the occasional dolphin sighting.

On the road to Rotorua, adventure capital of the North, you can investigate the Waitomo caves, take in the pancake rocks and wallow in mud baths and hot springs. When you do reach Rotorua you’ll know about it. The faint smell of rotten eggs is unmistakable (significant geothermal activity has resulted in high level of hydrogen sulphide emissions). Do not be put off. A few minutes rolling down hills in a zorb or careering round corners in a luge and the smell soon grows on you, and not in an uncomfortable fungal way!

Before taking the ferry crossing from the capital Wellington to the South Island, you’ll travel through wine country. Designate a driver, and take advantage of the fantastic tastings on offer in Marlborough and Martinborough. The locals are welcoming and though some may treat you to an rather intimidating, close-up performance of the Haka, they are a largely friendly bunch.

On the South Island you’ll meet residents who have never been to the North. They’ll question why you ever went there and assure you that their Island already has everything you could want. With the incredible Franz Joseph and Fox Glaciers, the picturesque Lake Wanaka, and the gorgeous beaches of Hokitika, this is a convincing argument.

No trip to New Zealand is complete without a few days in Queenstown. This is party central, bars and restaurants line the streets and the atmosphere, particularly in ski season, is constantly at fever pitch. Throw in the world’s highest bungy jump, white water rafting and the famous Fergburger (take my word for it and try one) and you might seriously consider never leaving.