Planning Your Campervan Trip in New Zealand

Campervanning has long been a favored way to explore New Zealand, particularly for budget-conscious travelers. This popularity is partially due to “freedom camping,” a system that allows overnight parking in designated areas across the country at no extra cost.

Having journeyed extensively through Aotearoa (New Zealand’s Māori name) in my own van, I’ve enjoyed many nights at free camping sites. Some are nestled beside the ocean, while others are perched high in the mountains. Even urban free camping spots offer an adventurous experience, leaving more budget for exploring the diverse terrain of New Zealand.

Renting a van from a variety of rental providers gives you the chance to experience this lifestyle on a shorter trip. However, rising fuel and rental fees, along with recent changes to freedom camping laws, indicate that campervanning is no longer the inexpensive travel option it once was.

Comparing the Costs: Campervan vs. Car Rental

Initially, embracing the van life in New Zealand was about freedom and affordability. Recently, however, it has evolved into a lifestyle that bears a significant financial burden. During peak summer season, from late December to late February, campervan rentals can cost anywhere from NZ$200 per day for budget models to over NZ$500 for larger motorhome-style vehicles.

Additional costs may also arise with campervan rentals. Diesel vehicles tend to be cheaper to refuel (approximately NZ$1.75/liter), but come with Road User Charges (RUCs), which rental companies pass on to consumers, typically ranging from NZ$0.07 to NZ$0.09 per kilometer.

In contrast, petrol vehicles won’t incur RUCs, but refueling can become expensive, especially when navigating New Zealand’s hilly landscapes, where petrol prices are around NZ$2.53/liter as of publication. Consider using the Gaspy app to discover the lowest fuel prices.

Rental cars are considerably cheaper, averaging NZ$80 per day in peak season, and offer the benefit of comfortable nightly accommodations. It can sometimes be nearly as cost-effective to rent a car and stay in hotels, although larger cities like Wellington or Auckland can pose greater financial challenges due to high hotel prices and parking fees often exceeding NZ$50 per night.

Nonetheless, campervans can provide advantages. Having your own kitchen allows for meal preparation, reducing dining expenses. Traveling by car entails restricted flexibility due to necessary bookings at accommodations. With a campervan, your journey becomes part of the adventure.

Once parked in one of New Zealand’s breathtaking locations, with easy access to hikes, swimming, sunsets, and scenic views, there’s little else needed for enjoyment.

What About Buying a Campervan?

If you’re planning an extended stay of several months or more, purchasing a used campervan for under NZ$8,000 might be feasible. These vehicles frequently change hands among travelers. However, be mindful of additional costs such as insurance (approximately NZ$120/month), registration (around NZ$10/month for petrol vehicles), and potential maintenance, which could run into the thousands for high-mileage vehicles.

Can You Park a Campervan Anywhere in New Zealand?

Historically, campervan travel was a convenient budget option thanks to freedom camping, which allows for free parking at designated campsites. However, legislative changes taking effect from December 2024 will require that only motorhomes with plumbed toilets be classified as self-contained to qualify for freedom camping. This change sets a new standard for legal freedom camping.

Although some areas will still permit freedom camping for non-self-contained vehicles, these locations are limited and typically found in more remote regions.

Most smaller campervans do not meet the self-containment requirements, usually relying on portable toilets. Consequently, you’ll need a larger and typically more expensive motorhome to enjoy the flexibility of freedom camping in most places. Furthermore, fines for non-compliance have surged from NZ$200 to NZ$400.

If you plan to freedom camp, it’s wise to temper expectations. Many freedom camping sites resemble parking lots where overnight stays are allowed, but you must vacate by 9 AM the following morning. Personally, I’ve spent nights in lackluster parking lots or unremarkable fields.

That said, some freedom camping spots are spectacular. A standout favorite is the Te Kopahou Visitor Center carpark in Wellington, just a 15-minute drive from the city center, yet situated right against the wild coast. Another option is the Castle Point carpark in the Wairarapa region, blessed with stunning lagoon views and a charming lighthouse. Popular freedom camp spots can fill quickly, necessitating early afternoon arrivals, as reservations are unavailable.

How to Find Affordable Camping in New Zealand

Utilizing camping apps such as Rankers or Campermate is the simplest way to locate campgrounds. These user-friendly, free mobile applications help you discover both free and paid campgrounds, while also indicating nearby dump stations for wastewater disposal.

Campgrounds vary from free options to higher-end sites costing up to NZ$60 per person per night. Most campgrounds don’t require advance bookings, except during late December to early January when local summer holidays boost occupancy rates. Even then, spaces are usually available in less popular campgrounds situated farther from beaches or lakes.

The Department of Conservation (DOC) maintains a nationwide network of campgrounds, some at no charge. Many others charge between NZ$10 and NZ$15 per night for standard campsites (accommodating both campervans and tents), typically providing a reliable water source and long-drop toilets. Numerous DOC campgrounds are available for online booking, helping you avoid cash transactions on-site.

For facilities like hot showers and laundry, consider New Zealand’s holiday parks. Known for excellent amenities, these well-appointed campgrounds often boast prime locations. Notable holiday park chains include Tasman Holiday Parks and Top 10 Holiday Parks, with the latter offering a membership option for discounts on stays.

If you have a certified self-contained campervan or motorhome, consider joining the membership-based program Okay2stay. For NZ$50, you can access over 100 locations nationwide that permit free parking, promoting local businesses by purchasing their goods like wine and produce. This initiative provides an excellent means of connecting with local growers while ensuring your kitchen remains stocked.

How Much Time Do I Need for a Campervan Trip Around New Zealand?

Driving through New Zealand often takes longer than one might expect. The country is roughly the size of Italy but boasts a population of just over five million, leading to vast distances—especially on the South Island. Roads tend to be narrow and winding, so ample time for scenic stops should be factored in.

Larger motorhomes are restricted to 90 km/h, even on 100 km/h roads, and you may find achieving that speed is challenging in hilly areas.

The minimum duration for a campervan trip in New Zealand is one to two weeks, ideally focusing on just one island. Typically, campervan rental companies offer pick-up and drop-off services in Auckland or Christchurch, with a limited selection servicing Queenstown and other smaller towns. This setup positions Auckland and Christchurch as default starting and ending points.

If your schedule allows for three weeks or more, consider starting from Auckland and traversing both islands. Ensure to book ferry tickets between the islands in advance, as spots can fill quickly during peak season, and double-check whether your rental vehicle can be transported.

One Final Cost: The Environmental Impact of Campervan Travel

In many regions, campervans can exert pressure on the environment. Although most van travelers embark on their journeys for love of nature, inadequate facilities at freedom camping spots may lead to waste issues, prompting significant legislative adjustments in 2023-2024.

Consider exploring less-visited regions such as Taranaki on the west coast of the North Island or the East Cape and Gisborne area. Such locations often have fewer crowds and greater receptivity towards campervans.

Regardless of destination, it’s crucial to respect the environment. Avoid obstructing traffic if you’re holding up vehicles behind you, utilizing laybys or roadside pull-outs when necessary. Additionally, if you opt for free camping, support the local community by visiting nearby cafes, shops, and small businesses.

Above all, cherish the journey. Traveling in a campervan offers the chance to embrace the unknown, encouraging a fluid itinerary and a receptive mindset.