Note: We compare multiple individual companies – each has its terms and policies. Use the below answers as a general guide, however always check the terms of your rental, as details of may vary from company to company.

 

Does my rental come with unlimited kilometres?
Major motorhome hire companies in New Zealand generally provide unlimited kilometres; our search tool will show you if a vehicle does not have unlimited mileage included.

 

What driver license do I need to drive a motorhome in New Zealand?
Your home driving license is usually sufficient, provided it is in English or accompanied by a certified English translation (an International Drivers Permit is also acceptable to be presented with non-English language licenses). Your license will need to be a full (non-provisional), valid license without restrictions.

 

Is short-term campervan hire available?
Yes, however, minimum hire periods apply depending on the time of year and company you choose. Enter your travel dates into our search tool to compare what’s available.

 

What is the minimum age to drive a motorhome?
While most companies will require a minimum driver age of 21, there are a few companies that will rent to those aged 18 and a few others with a minimum age of 25. Enter the driver’s age into our search tool, and we will automatically filter vehicles to match.

 

Can I access the Internet while travelling?
Many companies offer to purchase a Wi-Fi/GPS unit and a data package, details of what is available vary between companies. New Zealand also has public wifi in many places (including caravan/holiday parks), but remote areas are often without coverage.

 

Can I take the campervan off-road?
In general, vehicles are not allowed on unsealed roads (excepting those for campground access) or beaches. If you do travel under these circumstances, you are giving up insurance protection thus becoming liable for any damages.

 

Are one-way rentals available?
One-way rentals are readily available – they’re highly popular for those who wish to explore both islands. Worthy of note is that you will need a ferry booking for two-island itineraries and that a fee usually applies for any one-way rentals in the range of $100-$300 (our search tool already includes it in the price it shows).

New Zealand is ideal for road travel – minimal traffic, easy navigation – and with so many natural wonders, self-touring by campervan is a highly accessible way to explore this island country’s varied attractions.

Most visitors will arrive at the largest city in the country, Auckland.

In addition to being worth a few days of your attention on its own, Auckland is ideally situated to discover much of the North Island – the balmy Bay of Islands, geothermal areas near Rotorua or the Coromandel Peninsula.

New Zealand has a strong camping tradition, meaning there is a wide range of options for your overnight stay. Be aware that peak times (public holidays, school holidays) do fill up early for camping reservations. Full-service holiday parks (caravan parks) with toilet and shower facilities are readily available in well-travelled areas for $15-40/night.

Department of Conservation (DOC) and privately owned RV campsites usually come with a bit lower cost ($0-$15/night) but have more basic facilities.

Freedom camping (camping outside of a designated site) is allowed in certain areas and restricted in others. It must be in a certified, self-contained vehicle such as a larger model of a motorhome.

Tip #1: Book Early
Camping is highly popular with both locals and visitors to New Zealand and vehicles book up quite a bit in advance, especially during the summer months. You’ll have more vehicle options to make comparisons and be able to find ways to save if you start the process with several months notice.
Tip #2: Compare to Find Deals and Cheap Rentals
Meaningful savings are possible through comparison research, long-term rental deals, and with off-peak specials. Using our flexible comparison tool will allow you to investigate the prices and features of the campers from over twenty companies.Tip #3: Plan to Cook Your Meals
Not only does cooking for yourself allow you a great deal of flexibility, but it’s also considerably cheaper to purchase groceries than eat out in a restaurant. Even the most basic campervans will come with cooking equipment- usually a gas cooktop, cooler or fridge, and the necessary utensils.