The Top 10 New Zealand Cities for an Affordable Road Trip

New Zealand is one of the most popular destinations for road trippers in the world, and with so many incredible places to explore, it’s easy to see why. But, while heading out on a road trip through New Zealand is undeniably exciting, finding the perfect balance between unforgettable attractions and affordability can be pretty tricky.

This is especially true when you consider that, according to Tourism New Zealand, the average tourist spends $3,832 per holiday across a trip that lasts an average of 19 days.

So, to make things easier to plan and to help you create an adventure that keeps costs low, we conducted extensive research into New Zealand’s major towns and cities and have identified the top 10 destinations that score highly in both affordability and tourist appeal.

We researched data to reveal the best cities for tourists that can be done on a budget. We created an index to score the most populated cities on factors: cost of average travel ticket, cost of a bottle of water, average person living costs, monthly searches for travel demand worldwide and travel popularity on TikTok. The scores across each category were added up to reveal the total out of 100. Take a look:

Top 10 affordable cities in New Zealand for your next road trip

1. Christchurch, Canterbury

Coming out on top as the most affordable city with high tourist scores, Christchurch, which is also the largest city on the South Island, has plenty of budget-friendly experiences to offer. The Christchurch Botanic Gardens is a particularly highly-reviewed destination on both TikTok and TripAdvisor, and it’s a wonderful place to find a quiet escape without venturing too far from the heart of the city.

For those who prefer a little history and culture, a visit to Quake City offers a chance to understand more about the earthquakes that shook the region in 2011, while a visit to the Cardboard Cathedral is a must for anyone who appreciates architecture. Take the time to visit C1 Espresso while you’re in Christchurch, too, where your coffee is delivered through pneumatic tubes!

2. Dunedin, Otago

Often referred to as the “Edinburgh of the South”, Dunedin is the perfect destination for travellers seeking coastal landscapes with an urban feel added in. Tunnel Beach is one of the most well-reviewed attractions in Dunedin, and it is perfect for anyone looking to spend the day exploring the dramatic cliffs and the secret tunnel that leads to a secluded sandy beach. Or, for a more laid-back experience, why not take a dip in the St Clair Hot Salt Water Pool with its stunning views across the South Pacific Ocean?

One of Dunedin’s more unique attractions is Baldwin Street – the world’s steepest residential street that provides you with both a fun challenge and an excellent photo opportunity! The Organ Pipes track is another favourite, especially amongst TikTok influencers, and it gives you the opportunity to take in some of the most amazing views of the city and its surrounds.

3. Napier, Hawke’s Bay

With the lowest cost of living for single people in New Zealand, Napier needs to be on the must-visit list for any budget-conscious explorer! This city is best known for its Art Deco architecture, which is ideal for snapping some Instagram-worthy photos of your trip, and for animal lovers, a visit to the National Aquarium of New Zealand allows you to get up close and personal with a whole host of marine life.

Something else no trip to Napier is complete without is a trip to Bluff Hill Lookout, where you’ll find panoramic views of the city. Likewise, a stroll along Marine Parade makes for an unforgettable experience, and you’ll get to stop and admire the attractions along the way, including the iconic Pania of the Reef statue and the Centennial Gardens.

4. Auckland, Auckland

During our research of the top 10 budget-friendly cities in New Zealand, Auckland came out as the most popular location on TikTok and for search demand online. This is most likely due to the eclectic mix of activities on offer here, most of which won’t strain your budget!

Looking for some incredible panoramic views of the city? Take a hike up Mt. Eden, One Tree Hill, or visit the Sky Tower. Interested more in art? Visit the Auckland Art Gallery. Or perhaps a gentle stroll through Albert Park is your idea of the perfect day. Whatever your preference, Auckland has something for everyone.

Naturally, you’ll need to eat while you’re here, too, and there’s no better destination than Viaducy Harbour, where you’ll find a great selection of waterfront dining options. Ponsonby, with its trendy boutiques and chic cafes, is another attraction that only adds to this city’s atmosphere and appeal.

5. Tauranga, Bay of Plenty

The perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, Tauranga is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in New Zealand, as well as breathtaking waterfalls. A good place to start your visit here is Mount Maunganui Beach, which has been highly reviewed by both influencers and previous visitors and offers you the chance to soak up the sun, catch some waves on your surfboard, or simply enjoy a stroll along the sandy shore.

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, a hike to the nearby Kaiate and Omanawa Falls are ideal options, and you can also cool off with a dip in the waters they cascade into. When you’re ready to eat, Bobby’s Fresh Fish Market is the place to go, and you should definitely order the famous fish and chips before heading to Heartwood Hollow to admire the Hobbit-inspired hotel.

6. Queenstown, Otago

A playground for thrill-seekers and wine lovers alike, Queenstown is another budget-friendly city in New Zealand with plenty of highly-reviewed attractions to enjoy. Cloudy Bay and Mount Rose Vineyard have been regularly reviewed on TikTok, and they are the perfect places to sample some exquisite local wines against the backdrop of stunning landscapes. Afterwards, unwind at the Onsen Hot Pools, where you can relax in a private pool overlooking the mountains.

Looking for something more adventurous? Head to the Kawarau Bridge or hike the Queenstown Hill Walk for views right across the city and beyond. Once you’ve exhausted yourself and need to rest your aching muscles, make the trip to Bob’s Cove, another highly-reviewed attraction, where you can take a refreshing dip in the cool waters.

7. Rotorua, Bay of Plenty

Rotorua has risen to popularity on TikTok and across review sites, and a big reason for this, aside from its affordability, is its geothermal wonders. One of the best places to enjoy these is the Polynesian Spa, where you can sit back and relax in naturally heated mineral waters. And, after a long soak at the spa, a trip to the Volcanic Hills Winery offers you the chance to taste local wines while enjoying panoramic views of Lake Rotorua.

For the more adventurous road tripper, a hike through Kuirau Park gives you the opportunity to see Rotorua’s steaming geothermal activity from a different angle. Likewise, a trip on the Skyline Gondola and Luge will provide you with spectacular views of the city, and for a truly magical experience, a nighttime walk through the Redwoods Treewalk sees the forest illuminated by lanterns!

8. New Plymouth, Taranaki

New Plymouth offers explorers a fantastic mix of city life and natural beauty while keeping your costs low. One of the standout spots here is the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, an architectural masterpiece that has become a particular favourite with photographers and is highly rated by social media creators. Another beautiful area to visit for photography is Pukeara Park, and it also makes a great space to visit if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the inner city.

For the more adventurous traveller, New Plymouth’s Mount Taranaki Suspension Bridge is a must-visit attraction, particularly if you’re looking for some of the most amazing views in the region. Or, if you prefer to keep your feet closer to the ground, the 13km Coastal Walkway is ideal for walking or biking along the shore, with the Tasman Sea on one side and the silhouette of Mount Taranaki on the other.

9. Palmerston North, Manawatu-Wanganui

Though it might be smaller and less “touristy” than some other New Zealand cities, Palmerston North is packed with a variety of budget-friendly attractions. The He Ara Kotahi Bridge and Path is one of the most popular spots here, and with separate paths for walking and cycling, it’s a peaceful way to spend a day. Likewise, the Victoria Esplanade is another family-friendly destination and with its fun playground and miniature railway, it’s a particularly good attraction for families with young children.

If you’re a sports lover, the New Zealand Rugby Museum is a must-visit, and you’ll find everything you could ever want to see about the country’s favourite sport. Despite its quieter atmosphere, Palmerston North is also an excellent city for those who crave a bit more excitement, with attractions such as the Roberston Holden International Speedway offering a thrilling experience for motor racing fans.

10. Wellington, Wellington

While you might think that a visit to the capital of New Zealand would put a significant dent in your travel fund, there are some experiences in Wellington that are surprisingly inexpensive. Some of the best-reviewed attractions here across social media and TripAdvisor include taking a ride on the Wellington Cable Car and strolling through the Botanical Gardens. A visit to the Te Papa Museum (the National Museum of New Zealand) is also highly recommended, as it’s packed with interactive and engaging exhibits that tell the story of the country’s heritage.

No visit to Wellington is complete without a trip to Cuba Street either, which is lined with unique shops and buzzing cafes. Or, if you’re looking for a slightly more relaxed vibe, head over to Willis Lane, where you’ll find shops and restaurants with a chilled atmosphere. Also, if you’re a film enthusiast, you cannot leave Wellington without visiting the Weta Cafe, where you can get a behind-the-scenes look at the special effects that brought the Lord of the Rings films to life!

Final Thoughts

From the electric atmosphere on the streets of Wellington to the relaxing beaches of Tauranga, there’s something for every budget traveller in New Zealand and one of the best ways of exploring everything on offer is by renting a campervan. At Travellers Autobarn, you’ll find a range of campervans to suit every need and preference, and with unlimited kilometres as standard, you can take your time and plan the perfect New Zealand adventure without worrying about additional costs. With your campervan hire sorted, all that’s left to do is start looking forward to a truly unforgettable experience.