Epic campervans live up to their name in every way Exploring New Zealand’s South Island solo in a campervan became an adventure that defied an itinerary, writes Rachel Roberts Could I be in the middle of a fever dream? I’m sure I’m looking at what appears to be a stuffed possum defiantly gripping a miniature rifle. Above me, a giant eagle is frozen in the air and time; its strong talons gripping a rigid rabbit. But no, this is reality. I’ve stumbled upon the surreal scene at the Otira Stagecoach Hotel, a place crammed to the rafters with extraordinary curios and abuzz with other equally agog travellers. The spur-of-the-moment stop, made just off State Highway 73 before entering the stupendously scenic Arthur’s Pass – one of the many headline tourist attractions on New Zealand’s South Island – is a perfect example of the spontaneity and freedom a road trip facilitates.
Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Sign up to our daily newsletter , get the latest news and reviews from our specialist arts writers Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting… My eight-day journey had begun in Christchurch, where I met my four-wheeled ‘companion’ for the trip, a smart, brand-new two-berth EPIC+ campervan. A tad worryingly, her name was Break a Leg, but my apprehension faded as the patient Flynn took me through an in-depth orientation.
The summary provided is a brief introduction to a larger text. It focuses on the author’s experience learning to drive a van and the author’s focus on comfort and convenience. Here’s a breakdown of the summary and some potential directions for expansion:
* **”The view from the road was always spectacular”**: This statement sets a positive tone and hints at the author’s enjoyment of driving.
This is a significant change from the past, where anyone could camp anywhere they wanted. The new rules are part of a larger effort to manage the increasing pressure on New Zealand’s natural resources. This pressure is driven by a growing population and tourism, which has led to concerns about overcrowding and environmental damage.
The landscape was a tapestry of rolling hills, lush green meadows, and sparkling rivers, all bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun. It was a scene straight out of a postcard, and I was captivated. The drive was a journey of discovery, a chance to reconnect with the beauty of the natural world. It was a reminder that even in the midst of our busy lives, there is still so much to appreciate and marvel at.
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Driving Break a Leg was a dream, thanks to the automatic gearbox and the roadside signs anticipating every corner and gradient. EPIC is hands down one of the more stylish campervan operators in the country, which elevates the whole experience. **Expanded Text:**
Driving Break a Leg was more than just a journey; it was a dream come true.
Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The following morning, I reluctantly scratched my plan to visit Milford Sound in the south because it would have meant another super-long drive. With the help of the receptionist, a local full of insider tips, I sketched out a revised itinerary, one with a maximum of five hours of motoring a day. Solo travel means you come up against yourself and your limits, and you can either fight against them or relax and let the journey unfold organically. I chose the latter and didn’t regret it. The drive from Cromwell to Frans Josef was a case in point. This is glacier and cloud-grazing mountain territory, but the heavens opened, obscuring much of the view. My idea to take a helicopter tour 6,000ft above the Fox Glacier was a bust, but the compensation was the wondrous waterfalls that thundered into life, including Fantail Falls on the famous Haast Pass, its 15-metre mountain-side descent throwing up fizzy evaporation above. The rain also lent an other-worldly atmosphere to the coastal section of the drive, where Jurassic-sized ferns and plants fought for space.
The town was bustling with life, but the air was thick with a sense of unease. The locals were worried about the possum population, which had exploded in recent years. Possums, they said, were a menace, devouring everything from fruit trees to gardens. I met a farmer, John, who was struggling to protect his apple orchard.
The town is known for its abundance of marine life, particularly its abundance of seals, dolphins, and whales. The town is also known for its stunning natural beauty, with its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque harbor. Kaikoura is a small town, with a population of around 1,000 people. The town is located on the South Island of New Zealand, about 3 hours drive from Christchurch.
