Travel New Zealand

in a campervan

New Zealand almost feels like it was made to be explored by motorhome or campervan.

For many, it’s an essential component of a once-in-a-lifetime adventure down under.

  • Combine accommodation and transport in one
  • Save unpacking and repacking
  • Travel flexibly – nap and eat anytime you like
  • Camp for free and wake up in stunning spots
  • Connect with nature
  • Explore New Zealand like a local

Unsure if hiring a campervan or motorhome is for you? Read about the benefits and limitations of all modes of transport in New Zealand, including campervans, hire cars, domestic flights, trains and buses.

Plan your trip

Where to park your van

We generally recommend a combination of freedom camping and paid camping at campgrounds and holiday parks.

This affords you the best of both worlds.

Freedom camping

Freedom camping is a great way to save money while travelling in New Zealand.

  • Stay for free
  • No need to book
  • Some beautiful, remote locations
  • Limited facilities (if any)
  • Unable to reserve your spot in advance
  • Unable to remove your van from your park
  • Parks can be by busy roads
A white campervan travelling on a road, next to a beautiful blue lake, with autumn leaves on trees.
Photo: Miles Holden.

Campgrounds & holiday parks

Campgrounds and holiday parks bring comfort and security to your camping experience.

  • A guaranteed booking
  • Great facilities
  • Top up water and electricity
  • Dump waste
  • Come and go as you like
  • Can be expensive
  • Bookings reduce your ability to be flexible

Campervan

packing list

Travelling in a motorhome is great – but it’s even better when you pack a few specific items.

We’ve spoken to a wide range of experts to bring you the ultimate camper packing list!

Save money and

Choose the right camper

Picking the right campervan or motorhome rental is a big decision.

Prices, inclusions and limitations can vary significantly so it’s important you make the right choice.

Wide range
A person sits in the back of a camper van parked in a grassy field overlooking the ocean and mountains.
Mint green box that says 'support NZTT' inside.

Camplify

Book a campervan directly from a Kiwi owner. NZ’s peer-to-peer RV hire platform allows you to pick up a wide range of campervans from local owners across the country.

Budget to Luxe
Two couples at the door of their caravan watching the night sky.

Pick My Camper

Compare and book campervans across NZ’s top rental brands – all in one place. Save on Maui, Britz, Mighty, JUCY, Spaceships, Hippie, Star and more. Learn more.

Promo code: NZTT

Budget
Two couples at the door of their caravan watching the night sky.

Travellers Autobarn

Another great rental option for people 18+, Travellers Autobarn has both self-contained and non-self-contained vans.

Budget
Two couples at the door of their caravan watching the night sky.

Spaceship

Spaceship offers budget-friendly campervan hire from Auckland and Christchurch. Perfect for younger drivers and budget-travellers.

Quality Budget
A white Get Lost campervan with open doors in a dry field at Birdlings Flat, New Zealand, under a blue sky.

Get Lost in NZ

Hire a modern campervan from Christchurch. Comfortable, reliable and easy to park – perfect for solo travellers and couples. Learn more.

Promo code: NZTT

Quality Budget
Couple relaxing in a Mojo Campervan in New Zealand.

Mojo Campers

Save money on quirky, comfortable, budget campers. Based in Hamilton, with deliveries to Auckland. Learn more.

Promo code: NZTT

Budget to mid
Interior view of a campervan kitchen and dining area with a window overlooking a beach.

JustGood Campers

Departing from Auckland and Christchurch, JustGoodCampers are dedicated to helping you see our beautiful country in reliable comfort. Learn more.

Promo code: NZTT

Budget to Mid
Green JUCY campervan parked on the side of a mountain road in New Zealand.

JUCY

Grab a budget-friendly campervan and explore the best of New Zealand (and Australia). Learn more.

Promo code: NZTT

Budget to Mid
Tui Campers van parked beside the beach.

Tui Campers

Choose from a range of vans, with pick up in Auckland and Christchurch, and delivery NZ-wide. Learn more.

Promo code: NZTT5

Mid
Numerous wekas surround a white motorhome on a sandy track with native New Zealand flora under a clear sky.
'10% off' written in black inside a mint green circle.

Tab & Mike’s Motorhomes

Book Molly the motorhome, fully kitted-out for your next NZ adventure! Learn more.

Mention NZTT in the comments

Budget to Luxe
A white campervan crossing a small bridge in Orere Point.

Apollo

Save on the full range of Apollo motorhomes and vans. Learn more.

GEt your code in our free Facebook Group

Mid to Luxe
A couple sitting on deck chairs, out on the grass, in front of their white Star RV campervan.
'5% off' written inside a mint green circle, advertising a discount on New Zealand Travel Tips.

Star RV

Choose a modern, comfortable motorhome or campervan to explore New Zealand and/or Australia. Learn more.

Promo code: NZTT

Luxury
Inside a Kiwi Motorhomes van - the kitchen and dining area.
'5% off' written inside a mint green circle, advertising a discount on New Zealand Travel Tips.

Kiwi Motorhomes

Book a luxury 4 or 6-berth motorhome from Auckland or Christchurch and explore in style. Learn more.

Promo code: NZTT5

Check out our favourite New Zealand campervan companies or book directly below…

Let us help you

Pick the Perfect camping spot