Campervan — New Zealand's Classic

New Zealand and campervans go together like sheep and green hills. Over 60% of all international visitors explore the country by campervan or rental car — it is by far the most popular and flexible way to travel.

Why Campervan?

New Zealand is perfectly built for campervans: short distances (rarely more than 5 hours drive between highlights), over 250 holiday parks with hot showers and kitchens, hundreds of DOC campsites in national parks, and a "dump station" infrastructure every 50–100 kilometers.

Campervan Providers

• Budget: Jucy (from 50 NZD/day, small green vans, popular with backpackers), Wicked Campers, Escape Rentals
• Mid-range: Britz, Mighty, Apollo — fully equipped with kitchen, bed, sometimes shower/WC. From 100 NZD/day.
• Premium: Maui, Wilderness — motorhomes with all comforts. From 180 NZD/day.
• Used Purchase: Backpackers often buy used vans in Auckland and sell them in Christchurch (or vice versa). Backpacker boards in hostels, Facebook groups, and Trade Me (NZ-eBay). From 3,000–6,000 NZD for a roadworthy van with self-contained certificate.

Accommodation Options

• Holiday Parks: 40–60 NZD/night. Electricity, kitchen, hot shower, washing machine, often pool or spa. Top 10 Holiday Parks is the largest chain.
• DOC Campsites: 8–15 NZD/person/night. Basic (pit toilet, cold water), but beautifully located — right by the lake, beach, or rainforest.
• Freedom Camping: Allowed at designated spots, BUT only with "self-contained" vehicle (own toilet, wastewater tank). Without self-contained, fines of 200 NZD apply. The CamperMate app shows all legal spots.