We’re about to share our Top Tips for hiring a campervan in New Zealand. Why? Well, we absolutely love New Zealand, spending several British Winter’s touring across the North and South Island by campervan.
Not only have we hired big family motorhomes, but also a smaller, cosy campervan, as well as buying our own van and converting it into a campervan. We also owned our own motorhome hire business in Wales for 9 years, so I guess you can say, we know our onions!
So, if you’re thinking of hiring a campervan in New Zealand, look no further. Not only do we have a lifetime of experience of motorhome touring in Europe, but we’ve also got to know an awful lot about motorhome travel down under.
In our opinion, combining your transport with your bed for the night, amongst the surreal scenery that Maori call Aotearoa or “The Land of the Long White Cloud”, is just the best experience.
For us and many others, a campervan tour of New Zealand is the most incredible way to get the most from this extraordinary country.
A perfect Campervan Country
New Zealand is around the same size as the UK, however, it has a tiny population of just 4.6 million. Compare that to our huge population of nearly 70 million people and you’ll see how different New Zealand is to Britain.
As you’ll imagine, there’s plenty of open space, very few people across most areas and miles of road to yourself. In other words, this is perfect campervan country. When you take to the road in New Zealand, it seems every other vehicle is a motorhome, as it’s just the best way to see the landscapes on offer.
So here’s our warts and all take, on what to expect when hiring a Campervan in New Zealand there’s also our Planning a Trip blog that you may find useful.
How to Find a Campervan Hire Company in New Zealand
Firstly, when hiring a Campervan in New Zealand, hires are known as “Rentals”. Campervan’s are known as either a campervan, camper or motorhome.
Generally, size will be determined by Berth rather than a van type, usually ranging from 2-6 Berth.
That means it sleep’s 2-6 people, but may not mean the same number of seatbelts! So do check the seatbelt to berth ratio. You don’t want to be turning up with 5 people and only 2 seatbelts.
Remember: Just because it’s a 2-berth Campervan, this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s small. Also, a 5-berth motorhome won’t always mean it’s big.
Confusing yes, but don’t panic just read on.
Hiring a Campervan – Size
Explaining size and an example of how sleeping capacity and seatbelt quantity varies.
You can hire a Toyota Hi-Ace hi-top which has 5 seatbelts and sleeps 5 people. Similarly, you can rent a Mercedes Sprinter, long wheelbase that sleeps 2 people with 2 seatbelts, although the size of the Sprinter is far bigger than the Hi-Ace.
With the above in mind, if you’re unsure, check the vehicle dimensions and look at the layout plans. Remember sleeping capacity doesn’t necessarily equate to van size.
Any YouTube video’s could be useful too.
Googling “Campervan hire New Zealand”
A Google search, will produce a load of rental companies, many being agency or comparison sites. Click on them, and they’ll bring up a selection of rental companies throughout New Zealand.
We prefer to check out the rental companies own websites. We feel this gives a better idea of what they can provide and the nitty gritty details.
Also, it helps to see if they’re the type of company we want to hire from. Not forgetting, they may have a deal or better price if booking direct. If they haven’t, then contact them and ask. If they don’t, just ask for them to throw something in that won’t really be a cost to them. So if they’ve got extras, such as a Sat Nav or outdoor table and chairs, ask for them to include those in the price. You never know until you ask.
There are several rental companies which dominate the market, and many more small operators, as well as individuals who hire out their own motorhome (unsure how this works with insurance etc).
Our list of the most familiar rental companies
For those who don’t mind blowing the Budget
What the “blow the budget” companies offer
When hiring a Campervan in New Zealand, there are campervans from these companies to suit everyone.
From individuals and couples to families, these specialise in newer models and lower mileage. They may even have a new fleet each season, check before you book on things like age and mileage.
If you want a big motorhome, these are the main companies to look at. The larger motorhomes will come with hot water, heating and a shower room, as well as lots of other comforts. They will generally be well equipped with fitments similar to what you’d have in a motorhome in Britain.
Smaller campervans, may have cold water only and no shower room. So, it will mean using the kitchen sink for washing and a stowaway portable toilet for the emergency night-time dash.
Of course, the downside is, the bigger and newer the motorhome, the more expensive it will be to rent.
In addition, the rental company will possibly be more fussy when you return it. This may sound great, but you may also feel more obliged to be extra careful, which can then make the experience a little less relaxed.
Price Savy – Small Campervans and People Carriers
What these companies offer
Geared for couples, singletons or friends, these may be older vehicles or have higher mileage. Although, you could be lucky and get a newer model, especially if they’ve just introduced a new layout to the fleet.
Fuss-free, functional and easy to manoeuvre due to the compact sizes. These will generally be equipped with cold water only, a portable toilet for night time and some campervans will not allow for standing up.
If you do want to stand up make sure you get a Hi-Top type campervan.
Expect bright colours to attract that youthfulness in you too. Check before booking on what age vehicle you’ll be allocated. At least ask if it’s possible to book one of their latest vans.
If you are booking direct, try and get some sort of extras thrown in before doing the deal. In our experience you will usually get something to seal the deal.
Which Company We Used – Hiring a Campervan In New Zealand Top Tips
When hiring a campervan in New Zealand we used Travellers Autobarn for a 5 week tour. We also hired one from them for a 6 months road trip across Australia. We found them fab. The campervans were easy to use, although basic, they were strong and reliable, and just as important, the company were easy going to deal with.
They were also very reasonably priced to rent, and really helpful and approachable throughout. Our adult Son’s joined us at various times and slept in the roof bed, which was fine.
It’s the Toyota Hi-Ace Kuga model we rented, which has 3 seats in the cab and a spare sleeping area in the Hi-Top section.
other motorhome hire companies – More Budget types
What they offer
Exactly what it says on the tin. The likes of Wicked were known for attracting a young rental market and backpackers. These offer small campers, cars and people carriers and their bright decals are definitely easy to spot. Some are covered in graffiti artwork, so you’ll get noticed out on the road.
Mighty do have some big motohomes on their fleet now as well as smaller campervans.
Our Son hired a Wicked campervan and was initially horrified at what he was going to be living in for his 10-day trip. In the end, he completely loved it!
If budget brigade is all you can afford, batten down the hatches and get used to it. Soon you’ll adjust and have a sense of sheer accomplishment at the end.
Note: Some companies offering the more budget prices often buy stock from the motorhome companies which change their stock regularly. So, you may get a former “blow the budget” motorhome then on the fleet of a “budget” motorhome company, once it’s run it’s hire course for the original operator.
How Clean will the campervan be?
Now we’re super fussy, so our standards are very high.
When hiring a campervan in New Zealand, we’ve cleaned it before emptying our bags and filling the cupboards with the food shop.
Maybe that’s just us being a bit too fussy, but you may want to do the same. We like to buy anti-bacterial wipes at the supermarket and give the van a good wipe over before getting started.
Although standards are generally very good, they may not be up to your expectations. So be flexible and expect a little spring clean if it’s not quite to British standards.
Check under the seats before you drive off, we had the last occupants bedding and we know that’s not unusual.
Do You Need to Book?
Don’t underestimate the popularity of campervan rentals in New Zealand. Before the lengthy border closure, New Zealand was extremely popular with international tourists, so booking well ahead was absolutely advisable, if not compulsory.
But, New Zealand then closed its borders for a very long time, from 19th March 2020 until 31st July 2022. As a result, this Summer season is only the 2nd Summer when international tourists have been able to return.
We don’t know how this has affected the motorhome hire industry or indeed campsites and the tourism sector overall. If pre-border closure numbers are returning in full and if demand is as strong as before then booking is certainly essential.
Peak season is New Zealand Summer, which is December to March. Off-peak is much quieter but still relatively popular, unlike many destinations around the world, New Zealand is one country where touring by campervan is big way to travel.
Many people seem to want to rent one, even if they’ve never emptied a portable toilet in their life.
Is Campervan Hire a cost effective way to travel?
Hiring a Campervan in New Zealand, isn’t necessarily a cheap option. But, it is a brilliant way to travel here, because it’s a very motorhome-friendly country. Also, it’s so beneficial being elevated as you tour, so you can make the most of the scenery.
It’s also both your transport and accommodation rolled into one, with cooking and washing facilities and the freedom to choose where to go and when. Best of all, it’s just such a great way to see New Zealand. Imagine pulling over next to some magnificent beach, popping the kettle on and enjoying the view from your holiday home on wheels.
It’s such a convenient way to travel with clothes, outdoor gear, food and necessities with you as you travel. Driving from place to place, there’s no having to pack and unpack those suitcases each night.
Where to Collect and Drop off
Auckland in the North Island and Christchurch in the South Island are the two main pick up/drop off locations for rental companies.
There aren’t many companies which provide other locations. Jucy did have a base in Wellington, the capital, but this may have closed since the pandemic, also Queenstown, the adventure capital of the South Island which we think is still open.
It’s possible to pick up and drop off at different locations, but this will generally cost you more.
For example, you could arrive in Auckland, collect a camper and travel the North Island before venturing on the ferry from Wellington, crossing the Cook Strait to Picton in the South Island.
You could then drop off at Christchurch and catch a flight home from there. Instead of having to make the journey back up to Auckland or vice-versa.
Extra costs – Hiring a Campervan In New Zealand Top Tips
- Security bond – On collection a credit card is needed, which is swiped for a pre-authorisation of a set amount. Usually, it’s around $3000 but this can vary.
- It’s for instances when the camper is brought back damaged or if it wasn’t returned at all. If the camper came back with damage, the insurance excess and/or damage repair amount, would be taken off this to cover the rental company expenses.
- Insurance Excess/Bond Reductions – Most rental companies will offer an option to reduce these amounts. For example, they may offer a fee of say, $20 per day to reduce the bond, to possibly half or $30 per day to reduce it to zero.
- So, for example, if a bond was $3000, by paying an extra $20 per day, it may reduce to $1500. They’ll still want to swipe your credit card on collection too.
- Check what’s available with the rental company and what risks there are, so you don’t get caught out. Oh and check the figures of course! Remember, these are just examples.
Terms and Conditions
- Important – DO always read the individual rental company terms & conditions before booking. Also, double check what the hirer is liable for, in the event of any damage or an accident.
- Usually, there are some areas of the campervan that ARE NOT covered, regardless. For example, damage to an Over-cab or Roof. As well as driving onto a beach, resulting in being stuck in the sand. It’s wise to read what’s excluded. There may be some weird and wonderful exclusions, and it’s impossible to take a guess.
- Equipment – Many rental companies charge extra for bits & pieces that you may think would be included as standard. Items such as: Outdoor table & chairs; Sat Nav; Portable Heater; BBQ; USB Cables. These are just some items that may be available to add on to the basic price. If booking direct, it’s always worth asking if they’ll give extra item’s for free!
- Extra Drivers – Usually only 1 driver is included in the rental price. However, if you book direct and if it’s for a long rental period, it’s worth asking if they’ll throw an extra driver option in for free. After all, if you don’t ask you won’t get! Otherwise, if you want more than one driver and if you have to pay, it will probably be an extra charge on a daily rate.
- Unlimited KM – It’s usual for rentals to be unlimited KM, however, do check before you drive off into the sunset.
- A Different Drop off to Pick Up – Expect an extra charge for this. Although it may be calculated in the initial quotation price.
Age restrictions – Hiring a Campervan In New Zealand Top Tips
If you’re under 25 years of age or over 70, then you may not be able to hire at all. Additional costs or restrictions to what campervan type you can rent or both may come into effect. It’s a case of checking with the rental companies. In some instances, with the budget rentals in particular, they may offer rentals to under 21’s.
Convictions or Points on a Licence
Be honest about what you have. Ask what the implications are, if any and don’t try to hide it. Each rental company will tell you what they allow, so be open and ask.
Wild Camping in New Zealand – Yes or No?
New Zealand is a great wild and open country to explore. It’s all about nature, scenery and the phenomenal natural beauty that just seems to be around every corner. In order to immerse yourself within the glorious surroundings, the authorities do offer a form of Free Camping, similar to a French Aire system but this is not wild camping.
Actual Wild Camping is rarely tolerated, if you do just park up be sure to clear up after you. Do double check, as it’s very confusing where you can park legally overnight. Leave NO trace and don’t overstay your welcome. If in doubt, don’t take a chance. In our experience, locals do not take lightly to wild camping in a motorhome, so do respect the rules.
Freedom Camping – Aires in New Zealand
Parking outside of a campground in an authorised location is known as Freedom Camping. To park up overnight at a designated area, the campervan must be certified as “Self-Contained”. There will be a sticker on the back window to confirm this and a certification identity on the windscreen.
It ensures that there is an onboard waste tank, fresh water tank and a toilet, enough for up to 3 days use for all occupants. Basically, it ensures the occupants aren’t using the outdoors as a loo and disposing waste water properly.
All Freedom Camping areas will be marked with a sign. This will display any restrictions or notices about the parking. Parking is usually permitted for up to a set period, for example 24 or 48 hours. The sign will tell you exactly how long.
Parking is often free to use, but can also be charged, especially, in a city or popular tourist location.
Where to Empty the toilet and fill the fresh
New Zealand is great, similar to many parts of Europe, it offers emptying facilities outside of campgrounds.
Look for the signs in or around main towns to identify a motorhome service area. Here, you can empty the waste, toilet and fill up the fresh water.
Most facilities don’t have a drive over drain like Europe, instead they use a long waste pipe which will be rolled up in the campervan. This you attach to the waste outlet on the van, and place in the dedicated waste drain provided at the dump area.
Of course, if you are staying on a campground, they will have a similar area.
What are Campsites like? Hiring a Campervan In New Zealand Top Tips
New Zealand has a wide variety of campgrounds on offer. They can be very basic, with just nature to admire, or full of facilities from jumping pillows to thermal pools.
Most larger sites have a camp kitchen. These are a great area to cook up the evening meal before relaxing and chatting to fellow cooks and travellers.
Many campgrounds are dated compared to Europe, but it’s New Zealand and that’s all part of the enjoyment.
If you want the best on offer, in terms of modern amenities, the Top 10 Holiday Parks are a group of campsites with more facilities, often having refurbished toilet blocks and camp kitchen area.
If you’re touring around it’s more economical to buy the membership card for around $50. This then gives a 10% discount off site fees and it’s also valid for 2 years.
If back to nature is more your thing, you can’t go wrong with the fabulous environments offered by the Department of Conservation Campsites , having a unique selection of beautiful locations across New Zealand.
There’s a wealth of choice from small private campgrounds to larger chains. Holiday Parks New Zealand have a network of sites across the country.
peak season travel
If you’re touring during peak season, and don’t want a disappointment of ‘No Vacancy’, then book ahead.
A pitch in New Zealand is called a “Site”. With a choice of “Powered Site”, that’s a pitch with electric or Non Powered for no electric.
Most will have BBQ areas and a laundry. Sometimes you’ll need a $1 coin for a shower (gives around 3 minutes).
Are Campsites Reasonable?
We’ve tried a mix of Freedom Camping and campsites. Then budget further on a site by alternating between a powered and non-powered site (pitch). Overall campsites can be pricey, but the DOC campsites can be a good value alternative along with Freedom Camping.
In a rental camper, the chances are you’ll have to hook up to a powered site every couple of days. This keeps the charge on the leisure battery.
What Do Campsite Prices Include?
Campsite pricing usually includes 2 people and the site for the campervan. Electric will be extra and a shower may be extra again, in the form of a coin operated timer outside the shower door.
Yes, you need to plan this part carefully, to avoid trying to conceal your modesty, whilst wedged between the shower door and the coin machine!
If there’s a camp kitchen, the use of this will be included.
Although it may only be $1 per shower, if there are a few of you in your family, these soon add up over the length of the trip.
Which side of the road do you drive on?
Here’s the good bit, it’s the same as the UK. It’s one of the few countries to drive on the left.
What are roads like?
Roads are generally quiet with country roads covering large areas. It’s very busy around cities but otherwise, driving is easy and stress-free.
Distances are fairly long because of the lack of motorways or dual carriageways. So, it can take some time to do a relatively short journey compared to driving in the UK or Europe.
There shouldn’t be much in the way of traffic jams though. In many areas it will be just you and the scenery for company.
New Zealand does have some gravel roads and hire companies may not allow hirers to drive on these. They are dusty and often long but sometimes lead to incredible locations.
Are there Toll Roads? Hiring a Campervan In New Zealand Top Tips
Yes, there are 3 and all in the North Island. Tolls cost between around $2.30 and $5.60 which you pay by phone or online. We would do this as soon as we stop incase we forget. You don’t want the rental company to receive a fine, they’ll bill you and add on an admin fee!
- The Northern Gateway
- The Tauranga Eastern Link
- The Takitmu Drive
The rental company will usually provide you with an App.
How to find campgrounds
The Travellers Autobarn App we used was superb. You can download it on their Wi-Fi on pick up and it then provides you with everything you could possibly need to know! Other hire companies offer similar Apps.
Search for campgrounds, freedom camping spots, toilets and laundry to name a few. There’s also pricing, reviews and daily offers from campgrounds, super easy and super efficient!
Just make sure you’re phone sim allows roaming in New Zealand and check how much the allowance is.
Mobile Data – Hiring a Campervan In New Zealand Top Tips
You can buy a data Sim in New Zealand from a mobile phone store. Your UK provider may include some data roaming, but check first and double check how much they allow. This is not the same as roaming in Europe.
Double check on phone calls & texts too, there may be limits on what you can use abroad.
Do remember to check on other countries you land at en-route to NZ. For example, we couldn’t use ours in Dubai. So, if you’ve checked for NZ and it’s fine to use, it doesn’t always follow for where you may stop before and after you get there.
It can cost a fortune so don’t make a mistake.
Where to put Suitcases
We use fold away, adventure type travel gear, instead of traditional bulky suitcases.
Yes, you have to think of everything, and a hold-all type bag is great. We have ones with the added convenience of integrated wheels. We can pull them along for the airport, and then fold them away for storage inside their own carry bag when not in use.
If you opt for a bag instead of a suitcase, these fit easily under a seat in the campervan.
We have seen suitcases on the pitch outside a rental camper at night time. Not ideal, but if you have to take a traditional suitcase, just think about where you’re going to keep it.
Is NZ camper-friendly?
New Zealand is super camper-friendly. Far more so than the UK, and equal to the big camper loving nations in Europe, such as France.
It’s an outdoor lovers paradise, and New Zealander’s love campervan life themselves.
Do you feel safe in New Zealand?
New Zealand is a very safe country, with little in the way of violent crime. We have always felt extremely safe there, but like anywhere we visit we always recommend taking correct, sensible precautions. Don’t let you’re guard down just because you’re travelling.
It’s always advisable to keep any valuables out of sight. Don’t leave anything on display to attract attention, and always lock the campervan doors & windows.
As with anywhere, when you park up, look around. If you don’t feel right about where you are, move on. It’s not recommended to just sleep anywhere, and we were told not to do this by locals.
Conclusion – Hiring a Campervan In New Zealand Top Tips
Hiring a campervan in New Zealand is easy and fun to do.
Campervans and motorhomes are everywhere and Freedom Camping spots can be full to the brim. Campsites are a hive of activity, so there’s always a great atmosphere in peak season.
Relax, enjoy the space and facilities of the amenities, and get chatting to those fellow travellers.
If you’ve never set foot in a campervan before, you’ll wonder why on earth you’ve waited this long!
New Zealand is just a relaxed place to tour with magical scenery, it’s a perfect motorhome destination. We’re sure you’ll love it as much as we do.
[…] a wonderful New Zealand trip and do read our Top tips for trip and hiring a motorhome in New […]
[…] you’re wanting to book a motorhome hire in New Zealand, the majority of hire companies are in Auckland and Christchurch. Although Jucy rentals did have a […]