Note: Price match must be for the same vehicle, supplier and travel dates. T&Cs apply.
Over 20 motorhome rental companies operate in New Zealand. Check prices and availability with our comparison tool. Auckland (North Island) and Christchurch (South Island) are the most popular starting points for an NZ road trip holiday.
Ace
6-Berth Volkswagen Crafter
6 adults
Toilet
Shower
Automatic
Not all vehicles may be available. Use the search tool to check availability for your travel dates.
Freedom camping is generally permitted in New Zealand. However, while allowed, it is strictly regulated. Rules and guidelines must be followed at all times and can vary depending on the area and any council bylaws (local laws) that may apply.
In general, to freedom camp anywhere in New Zealand, your vehicle must have a self-containment certification.
If you are unsure of the rules that apply in a specific area, it is best to visit the nearest i-SITE (visitor information centre) and ask about any local regulations or bylaws.
Yes, many companies have depots in both the North and South Islands and allow one-way trips.
If planning this type of trip, you will need to pay the cost of the ferry. Our support team can help with your booking.
Additional one-way fees may apply. The comparison tool will automatically factor this into your total.
If you wish to go freedom camping in New Zealand, your vehicle must be self-contained and certified.
This means you must be able to live in the vehicle for 3 days without needing additional water or needing to dump the waste.
In addition, the vehicle must have:
The vehicle must have been checked by a qualified officer to ensure that it meets these requirements. Self-contained motorhomes have a sticker displayed on the vehicle proving their certification.
New Zealand has plenty of options for camping available. These range from privately owned holiday parks to DOC (Department of Conservation) campsites.
A stay at a holiday park will usually cost between $30-50 (NZD) per night, depending on the area. A stay at a DOC campsite can range from $5-15 per person per night.
DOC campsites can be a little more basic. However, many do have amenities available. These include toilets, showers, rubbish bins and communal kitchen facilities in some cases.
Yes, many companies allow a bike rack to be fitted to the vehicle. Please note that these may not be compatible with all makes and models, and usually must be arranged in advance.
All drivers must have a current and full driver’s licence to hire a vehicle. Foreign licences are acceptable if they are in English or are accompanied by an accredited English translation. Otherwise, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.
Yes, a large number of rental companies allow for one-way rentals.
One-way rentals may not be available between all routes, and additional fees apply, depending on the pickup and drop-off locations. Our comparison tool will automatically factor in any additional fees and show you which vehicles are available on your preferred route.
Because there is no tax on diesel fuel in New Zealand, the government imposes a Road User Charge (RUC) instead. This is a set amount per 1,000 kilometres, depending on the size and weight of the vehicle.
For companies that offer diesel vehicles, you will need to pay an RUC based on kilometres travelled. Our comparison tool will tell you if this applies to your chosen vehicle.
Check the rental terms for specific charges regarding your chosen vehicle.
Yes, unlimited kilometres are generally included for standard vehicle rentals in New Zealand. The comparison tool will show you whether your preferred vehicle has unlimited or restricted kilometres.
Most campervan rental companies in New Zealand require the driver to be 21 years of age or older to access their full range of vehicles.
Some companies will rent to drivers between 18 and 21, but only certain models may be available. In those cases, additional insurance may be required.
Enter the driver’s age into our search tool and we will filter available vehicles to match.
Note: policies vary from supplier to supplier. Always check the T&Cs for your rental.
Franz Josef Glacier is an eleven-kilometre long glacier located in Westland Tai Poutini National Park on the south island of New Zealand. It is known in Maori as Kā Roimata-a-Hine Hukatere, the frozen tears of Hine Hukatere.
The glacier stands 3,000 metres above sea level and rises up into the Southern Alps. The glacier is easily accessible via a 1.5-hour walk from the carpark at the base. It is a great destination as part of your New Zealand road trip.
Popular with both tourists and locals, the track heads through lush forests and offers splendid scenery of golden shores and crystal waters. The trail is in excellent condition. However, it’s a long walk and requires planning. It may take 3-5 days to finish the whole route.
Located on the East Coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, Hot Water Beach is a great stop on your North Island road trip. The beach is unique, as the water is heated by two underground fissures. Many people come to dig holes in the sand and relax in the warm thermal waters.
Milford Sound is, perhaps, New Zealand’s most famous tourist attraction, despite being one of the country’s least explored corners until the 20th century.
Carved by ice age glaciers, Milford is a proper fiord – an inlet of the Tasman Sea.
Queenstown is known for being a winter holiday destination, but it offers attractions year-round.
In winter, enjoy the ski-fields and breathtaking alpine views, while in the summer take in the long sunny days and relaxed atmosphere of the area.
Located 20 kilometres out of Taupo on the North Island of New Zealand is Mount Tongariro, a compound volcano over 1,900 metres tall. The mountain is located within Tongariro National Park, a popular tourist destination that is home to the Tongariro Crossing, one of New Zealand's most famous hiking trails.
The region is home to many campsites, making it a great stop on your campervan holiday.
