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Compare Campervan Hire Nelson

Camper Champ compares multiple campervan rental companies across New Zealand, including in Nelson.

A wider range of providers offer motorhomes in Wellington and Christchurch.

Popular Campervans in Nelson

Find perfect camper for your travel needs.

All Types

Discover NZ 2 1 Deluxe

2 1 Deluxe

Discover NZ

Automatic/Manual
Tui Trail Explorer 6-Berth

Trail Explorer 6-Berth

Tui

Manual
Backpacker Sleepervans Sleepervan

Sleepervan

Backpacker Sleepervans

Automatic
Discover NZ 4-6 Berth Imala Deluxe

4-6 Berth Imala Deluxe

Discover NZ

Automatic

Not all vehicles may be available. Use the search tool to check availability for your travel dates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you sleep anywhere in a campervan in New Zealand? Is freedom camping allowed?

Freedom camping, or the ability to sleep anywhere in a campervan in New Zealand, is allowed but heavily regulated by individual councils. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the specific rules and guidelines of the region you're visiting before settling in for the night in your campervan. The Department of Conservation (DOC) maintains a comprehensive network of RV-friendly campsites across the country, offering an ideal place for responsible and self-sufficient camping.

These DOC campsites typically provide basic amenities, so campers need to be well-prepared and adhere to responsible camping practices. This includes properly disposing of waste, respecting the environment, and adhering to any local restrictions or requirements.

For a more comfortable camping experience, Camper Champ suggests staying overnight in campgrounds specifically designed for RVs. These campgrounds provide convenient amenities such as electrical and water hook-ups, which enable campers to use their vehicle's onboard facilities like refrigerators, lights, electrical appliances, and showers. Additionally, these campgrounds often feature dump stations for the proper disposal of wastewater and sewage.

Besides practical amenities, many campgrounds also offer a range of recreational activities and facilities to enhance your overall camping experience. These may include swimming pools, playgrounds, and dedicated recreation areas. Some campgrounds even feature on-site stores, cafes, and rental facilities, allowing campers to purchase supplies or rent equipment like bikes or kayaks.

When planning your campervan trip in New Zealand, make sure to research the specific regulations in the areas you'll be visiting and choose a campground or campsite that best suits your needs and preferences. By doing so, you'll contribute to responsible and sustainable tourism practices while enjoying the natural beauty and outdoor activities New Zealand has to offer.

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.

Can bike racks be fitted to the campervan?

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.

How long should I plan for a motorhome holiday to the South Island?

A good idea is to plan for a minimum of 7 days. However, even a 2- or 3-week road trip around the South Island will easily be filled.

Popular attractions include Mount Cook, UNESCO-designated Fiordland National Park with Milford Sound, Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier, and the adventure capital of Queenstown.

Can I rent a campervan in New Zealand if I’m under 21?

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.

Campervan Rental Reviews

Attractions

Popular Attractions around Nelson

The Abel Tasman National Park Coast Track

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.

Nelson Market

Held in Montgomery Square every Saturday, Nelson Market is a vivid event, filled with vendors and customers. Tourists come here for fresh food, handmade souvenirs, unique atmosphere, and an unforgettable experience.

Harwoods Hole Walk

The Harwoods Hole Walk takes visitors through a fantasy-like beech forest, over granite rocks and boulders to the entrance of an enormous sinkhole.

The hole is 176 meters deep. It is New Zealand’s deepest vertical shaft and one of the deepest natural sinkholes. It’s not an easy walk, so take care and consider your level of fitness before embarking on the trek.

Tahunanui

Known as the gem by the sea, this fabulous sand stretch is Nelson’s beach suburb, and it’s perfect for an active day of beach fun. In Tahunanui, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for swimming, jogging, roller-skating, surfing, windsurfing, paddle boarding, or just sunbathing.

Golden sands and clear waters add up to a perfect relaxed day by the sea. A selection of cafes, bars and restaurants makes Tahunanui a great place to spend a whole day with family or friends.

World of WearableArt and Classic Cars Museum

The museum opened in 2001 and has been a well-known tourist attraction ever since. The exhibit shows a collection of wearable art, as well as a collection of vintage cars.

The Wearable Art collection consists of colourful masks, headwear, bright costumes, many of which have won the Wearable Arts Awards. The car collection includes over 140 veteran, vintage and classic cars.