Exploring New Zealand by campervan is a great way to discover the two main islands, the North Island and the South Island.
North Island is well known for its rugged coastline, beaches and hot springs. The stunning Tongariro National Park is perfect for hiking. If you prefer to relax at the beach then why not stop off at one of the beaches in the Bay of Islands.
The South Island is famous for its outstanding beauty. Here you will find lots of untouched natural wonders. Visit the West Coast which is famous for mountains, rainforests, glaciers and lakes. The South Island has a sparse population, therefore, you won’t have to worry about large crowds.
Tip: By booking your campervan in advance, you will benefit from cheaper daily rates and you can choose from a wide selection of campervans. Book now to avoid any disappointment.
Would you like to enquire about a motorhome or do you need further information before making a booking? You can contact us without obligation either from Mon - Fri 8:00 - 16:00 by phone or at any time via our online contact form.
Useful Tips for Camping in New Zealand
The best time to rent a campervan in New Zealand is during the summer which is from December to March. You can drive a campervan in New Zealand if you have a full UK driving licence and UK passport and you are aged 18 or over.
Outdoor ActivitiesDuring the summer months you can enjoy lots of different outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming and mountain biking.
Beach HolidaysNew Zealand’s coast is dotted with numerous beautiful beaches, which are known for their golden sand and turquoise waters. You can take a walk along one of the beaches or sit back after a long drive and watch the sunset.
Winter HolidaysDuring the winter New Zealand doesn’t generally get too cold. The average temperature ranges from 12°C - 16°C, which means you can enjoy your holiday during the low season. This is the perfect time of year for nature lovers who can enjoy views of snow-capped mountains and rugged landscapes.
Best Campervan Routes
Here at Camperdays we aren’t only campervan experts, as we also like to give our customers helpful tips so that they can get the most out of their holiday. Below you will find a small list of fantastic campervan routes in New Zealand:
Coromandel to Rotorua
Do you love being by the sea? If so, discover the Coromandel Peninsula and visit the beautiful Cathedral Cove and Te Hoho Rock on the North Island. You can then drive to Rotorua and relax in one of the hot springs.
Forgotten World Highway
This route stretches over 96½ miles and it runs between Stratford and Taumarunui on the North Island. Here you can explore heritage sites or go hiking in nature reserves. By driving to Strathmore Saddle, you will get great views of volcanoes.
Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook
This route is on the South Island and you can visit Lake Tekapo, which is one of the most beautiful lakes on the island. Tekapo is a great place to stop off and spend the night stargazing or relaxing in a hot spring. After a relaxing evening go on a short drive to visit the Mount Cook National Park.
Driving in New Zealand
In New Zealand they also drive on the left just like in the UK. Lots of roads are hilly, narrow and winding, therefore, it may take longer to drive to some places.
The roads in New Zealand are very busy during summer and early autumn (December-April). Make sure to take extra care when driving in winter in case of snow and ice.
The following speed limits apply when driving in New Zealand: motorways and outside built up areas 100 km/h (62 mph) and in urban areas 50 km/h (31 mph) or 70 km/h (43 mph), but make sure to always look out for road signs that show the speed limit for that area.
Things To Do and See
Hot Water Beach, Coromandel: All you will need to do is take your spade with you and dig yourself a spa. Natural hot water will flow through the sand, which is perfect for sitting back and relaxing. It is recommended to go there within 2 hours of low tide so that your freshly dug spa won’t be washed away. This is truly a relaxing experience.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing: This is one of the best walks in New Zealand. On this route you will see rugged volcanic terrain and unforgettable views of Mount Ngauruhoe, as well as craters and lakes. The walk takes around 6-8 hours and the total distance is 12 miles.
Mount Ruapeh’s Crater Lake: Mount Ruapehu is an active volcano in the Tongariro National Park. You can start your hike from Iwikau Ski Village and hike to Waterfalls Trail and then to Knoll Ridge. The walk takes around 5 hours and the total distance is 6½ miles.
Maitai Bay: This beach is popular with a lot of New Zealanders. It offers crystal clear waters and soft white sand, which makes it the ultimate summer escape. Enjoy lots of activities such as swimming, snorkelling and kayaking.
Campsites in New Zealand and the surrounding area
Your stay for the first night
- Auckland
- Auckland
- Auckland
- AucklandHamiltons Gap
- Auckland
- Auckland
Yes, you can legally camp in any local authority area unless camping is prohibited in that particular are provided your vehicle is certified self-contained.
Campsites without power will cost between £6.50 and £16.00. Campsites with power will cost between £7.50 and £19.00. Prices also vary depending on the campsite location and facilities.
If you would like to start a campfire you will need to obtain a fire permit.
Book now your motorhome holiday in New Zealand
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Compare the prices for different campervans, locations, and dates in our price comparison tool and find the most affordable option for your trip.
- Expert advice
We will help you find the perfect campervan for your trip
- Wide selection
Our partners are available across the globe at more than 700 locations
- No hidden costs
We guarantee clear pricing and 100% transparency