Campervan rental New Zealand: What you need to know

There’s no better way to experience a New Zealand road trip than from the comfort of a campervan or motorhome. With open roads, ever-changing scenery and so many incredible places to stop, a campervan lets you explore New Zealand on your terms.  

In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about hiring a campervan in New Zealand, from choosing the right vehicle and planning your route to budgeting tips, road rules and what to pack. Let’s hit the road! 

Why choose a campervan for your NZ adventure

New Zealand is made for campervan travel. It’s compact enough to explore in a few weeks but packed with enough variety to keep things interesting. Snowy mountains, quiet beaches, geothermal hotspots and national parks are all within a few hours' drive. 

Travelling by campervan means you can be spontaneous. Stay longer in the places you love, take the scenic route, or find a peaceful spot to watch the sun go down without worrying about getting back to your hotel. No fixed check-ins, no need to unpack and repack between stops, and no missing the good spots because you're rushing to your next booking. 

It’s also practical. With transport, accommodation and cooking facilities all rolled into one, it often works out cheaper than booking everything separately. And because many of the country’s best campsites are located in remote, scenic areas, it gives you access to places that other travellers might miss. 

Campervan hire New Zealand: Vehicle types explained

If you’ve never hired a campervan before, choosing the right one can feel a bit overwhelming. The good news is, there’s a vehicle to suit just about every kind of trip, whether you’re travelling as a couple, with the kids, or on your own.  

Budget campervans 

Ideal for couples or solo travellers, smaller vans are great for short getaways or low-fuss road trips. Apollo’s HiTop Camper includes a comfortable double bed, storage, a gas stove, and basic kitchen gear. While these vehicles aren’t self-contained, they’re a good match if you plan to stay at holiday parks or campgrounds with shared facilities. Compact, fuel-efficient and easy to drive, they’re a popular choice for travellers who like to keep things simple. 

Mid-range campervans

For a little more space and flexibility, a mid-range camper like Apollo’s Euro Tourer is a great next step. It’s fully self-contained, with an internal toilet and shower, plus a well-equipped kitchen. This option is still designed for two adults, but gives you more comfort and the ability to stay in freedom camping areas where certified facilities are required. It’s a practical choice for longer trips or travellers who like a few more home comforts on the road.  

Larger motorhomes

Travelling with family or friends? Time to go big! Apollo’s Euro Deluxe is a six-berth motorhome with a full kitchen, bathroom, lounge area and permanent beds. It’s designed with longer journeys in mind and works well if you want more space to relax without needing to pack up and shift things around each day. Self-contained and fully equipped, this is a great option if you’re planning to explore both islands or travel over a few weeks. 

What does ‘self-contained’ mean?

In New Zealand, a self-contained campervan is one that meets specific waste and water storage requirements set by the national standard. These vehicles must have an onboard toilet, fresh water supply, wastewater tank and a way to dispose of rubbish hygienically.  

If you’re planning to freedom camp, this certification is essential. Many of New Zealand’s most scenic free camping areas only allow vehicles that meet this standard.  

What to look for in the best campervan company New Zealand 

Choosing a campervan rental company is about more than just the vehicle. You want to find a provider who can offer you trusted reliability, support, and a smooth experience from booking to drop-off. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you book. 

Reputation and reviews 

Start by checking customer feedback. Reviews can give you a good sense of how well a company maintains its vehicles, handles bookings, and responds when things don’t go to plan. A company’s about us page often shares more about their background and how long they’ve been in the business, which can add confidence too. 

Campervan range

A good rental provider will offer a range of campervans and motorhomes to suit different group sizes, budgets and travel styles. Having options means you’re more likely to find a setup that works for your plans, whether that’s a compact van for two or a larger model for family travel. 

Insurance and roadside assistance

Even the best-planned trips can run into the occasional hiccup. Look for companies that offer a choice of insurance cover and access to 24/7 roadside assistance, especially if you’re planning to travel through remote regions. Knowing support is available if you need it can go a long way in reducing travel stress. 

Inclusions

Not all rental quotes are created equal, so it pays to check what’s included in the daily rate. Bedding, kitchen gear, camping chairs, GPS, cleaning fees and extra driver charges can all make a difference to your total cost. Some companies provide these as standard, while others offer them as paid add-ons. 

Transparency 

Look for clear pricing and well-explained terms, with no unexpected add-ons at the time of pickup. A well-designed booking process, helpful pre-travel information and responsive customer service are all signs that a company is set up to support you before and during your trip. 

Driving in New Zealand: Road rules and safety tips 

Driving in New Zealand is fairly straightforward, but there are a few things to keep in mind.  

• Licences: You don’t need a special licence to drive a rental campervan in New Zealand. If you have a valid overseas drivers licence in English (or an official translation), you’re good to go.  

• Left-hand side: New Zealanders drive on the left. Take extra care at roundabouts and one-lane bridges. 

• Weather: Roads can get icy in winter, especially in the South Island. Always check road conditions before heading off. 

• Freedom camping: Only camp overnight in designated areas. Fines apply if you park somewhere you're not supposed to. 

• Fuel: Fill up regularly, especially in rural areas where petrol stations can be few and far between. 

• No off-roading: Campervans are not built for 4WD tracks, so stick to sealed or well-maintained roads. 

Costs to expect: Budgeting for campervan travel in NZ

Knowing what to budget for can help you plan better and avoid surprises. 

• Rental rates: Prices vary by season. Summer is the busiest and most expensive, while winter offers good value if you’re well prepared for cooler weather. 

• Fuel: Costs vary but can add up quickly. Budget for longer distances, especially if you're travelling the South Island. 

• Campsite fees: Paid campsites range from $15–$60 per night, depending on location and facilities. Freedom camping is free, but only in approved areas. 

• Ferries: If you’re crossing between islands, the Interislander and Bluebridge ferries charge per vehicle and passenger. 

• Extras: Things like camp chairs, tables, extra drivers, and GPS units can all add to the cost—decide what’s worth adding when you book. 

Booking your campervan: When and where

To get the best value and choice of vehicles, it’s worth booking your campervan as early as possible, especially if you’re planning to travel during the summer months (December to February), or over long weekends and school holidays. Demand is high during these periods, and popular pick-up locations and vehicle types can book out quickly. 

The best place to start your journey often depends on the route you have in mind. 

• Auckland is a great choice for exploring the North Island or for one-way trips that head south. You’ll have easy access to destinations like the Coromandel, Rotorua, and the Bay of Islands. 

• Christchurch is the most popular starting point for South Island road trips. From here, you can head to places like Aoraki/Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo or over to the West Coast. 

• Queenstown works well for shorter loops through Fiordland, Wānaka and the Southern Lakes region, with plenty of scenic overnight stops close by. 

If you’re flexible, consider travelling outside peak times or mid-week. Not only will you often find lower rental rates, but campgrounds and freedom camping spots are likely to be quieter too. Planning ahead also gives you time to take advantage of any seasonal deals or travel packages that may be available. 

What to pack for a New Zealand road trip

When you're travelling by campervan, packing smart makes a big difference—especially with New Zealand’s varied weather and long stretches between towns. While Apollo provides the essentials in your vehicle, there are a few personal items that are worth bringing along. 

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, particularly if you plan to explore trails or nature reserves. You’ll also want a warm jacket, as even summer evenings can get cool. A raincoat or windbreaker will come in handy year-round, and packing clothes you can layer will help you stay comfortable as conditions change. 

Don’t forget the practical extras like sunscreen, insect repellent, a torch or headlamp, and a few entertainment options such as books, games or a deck of cards are great for quiet evenings.  

READ MORE: For more helpful tips on what to pack for your New Zealand campervan road trip, take a look at Apollo’s guide to what to pack. 

Campervan travel tips NZ: How to plan your route

Having a rough travel itinerary in mind helps you make the most of your time, especially if you’re covering longer distances or visiting during the busy summer months.  

North Island highlights

The North Island combines cultural experiences, geothermal wonders, beaches and vibrant cities, often all within a few hours' drive of each other. 

• The Bay of Islands in Northland is perfect for coastal camping, with historic sites, boat cruises, and quiet beaches dotted along the route. 

• In Hawke’s Bay, you’ll find fresh produce, vineyards and family-friendly coastal campsites, plus one of the country’s best-known cycle trails. 

• Wellington and the Wairarapa offer a nice balance of city stops and countryside. You can explore galleries, walkable towns, and relaxed coastal drives with a few great food stops along the way.  

South Island favourites

The South Island is known for its dramatic scenery – mountains, lakes, glaciers and remote coastlines. A campervan lets you reach some of the most memorable places without needing to backtrack. 

• Nelson and Marlborough are ideal for sunshine-filled days, access to Abel Tasman National Park, and scenic wine country stops. 

• In Canterbury, you’ll find alpine towns, lakes, and wide open plains. It’s a versatile base for exploring both mountains and coast. 

• Fiordland and the Southern Lakes region is home to Milford Sound, Queenstown and Wānaka. It’s a highlight of many campervan road trips, with loads of freedom camping and holiday park options near lakes and trails. 

Planning your travel itinerary

Not everyone has unlimited time to explore, and that’s completely fine. Whether you’ve carved out a week or a few weeks, it’s helpful to have a rough idea of what’s realistic within your timeframe. Here are a few suggested trip lengths and what you might be able to see and do in each, with sample itineraries to get you started. 

• 7 days: Stick to one island and choose two or three regions to explore in more depth. In the North Island, you could follow this Wonders of the Winterless North route for a mix of beaches, culture and food. If you’re heading south, the Captivating Catlins loop is ideal for travellers looking to get off the beaten track. 

• 14 days: Two weeks gives you time to move at a more relaxed pace and fit in more regions. You could travel through the central and lower North Island on this King of the North route, or explore the South Island’s mountain passes, glaciers and coastal towns with this 14-day winter road trip. 

• 17 days or more: With more time, you can cover both islands or take on a full loop of the South Island. This Auckland to Christchurch road trip is a great option for travellers heading north to south. For a complete circuit of the South Island, the 21-day Christchurch round trip ticks off iconic destinations, with plenty of room for side trips. 

Ready to start exploring?

New Zealand is one of the best countries in the world to explore by campervan. With so much packed into a small space, and loads of freedom to shape your own itinerary, it’s an easy, flexible way to see the country. 

Before you hit the road, download the thl Roadtrip App. It’s loaded with handy tools like campsite finders, travel tips and how-to guides to help along the way. 

Book your campervan online today with Apollo and get set for a road trip that runs on your own time, with everything you need right there with you.