Getting Around
Campervan Rental in New Zealand
Everything you need to know about hiring a campervan or motorhome in NZ — companies, prices, freedom camping rules, holiday parks and tips.
Campervanning is one of the classic ways to see New Zealand — wake up to a new view every morning, cook your own meals, and go wherever the road takes you. But it's not always as cheap as people assume, and there are rules you need to know before you park up for the night. Here's the practical guide.
Small campervan (2-berth sleeper van): $50–$130 per day depending on season
Mid-size campervan (2–3 berth, kitchen/toilet): $100–$200 per day
Large motorhome (4–6 berth, full bathroom): $180–$350+ per day
Peak season (Dec–Feb): Prices can be 50–100% higher than winter
One-way fees: Picking up in one city and dropping off in another often costs $50–$200 extra
JUCY — the green-and-purple vans you'll see everywhere. Popular with younger travellers, good value for basic 2–3 berth campervans. Known for the "JUCY Crib" — a compact sleeper car that's cheaper than a full campervan. Depots in Auckland, Christchurch and Queenstown.
Wicked Campers — the cheapest option, recognisable by their painted vans. Very basic, older vehicles. Fine if you just need somewhere to sleep and a way to get around, but don't expect luxury. Auckland and Christchurch.
Britz — part of the Tourism Holdings group, one of NZ's biggest operators. Good range of 2–6 berth vehicles, well-maintained fleet. Depots nationwide. Britz is the sweet spot between budget and premium — reliable vehicles at reasonable prices.
Mighty Campers — same parent company as Britz, slightly more budget-focused. Good mid-range option with a big fleet and multiple pickup locations.
Maui — also Tourism Holdings, the premium brand. Newer vehicles (typically under 2 years old), full bathrooms, more space. If you want comfort and don't mind paying more, Maui is the pick. Auckland, Christchurch and Queenstown.
Wilderness Motorhomes — NZ-owned, premium quality. All vehicles are under 3 years old and fully self-contained. Excellent reputation. Christchurch and Auckland only. Best for couples and families who want a comfortable road trip.
Freedom camping means parking your campervan overnight in a public place for free. It sounds ideal, but there are strict rules you need to follow:
New Zealand has excellent holiday parks (also called motor camps) in every town and most popular spots. They're purpose-built for campervans and offer powered sites, dump stations, kitchens, showers, laundry and often WiFi. A powered site typically costs $35–$55 per night for two people. Top 10 Holiday Parks is the biggest chain and maintains consistently good standards. Many holiday parks also have cabins and motel units if you want a roof over your head for a night.
DOC (Department of Conservation) campsites are another option — usually in national parks or scenic reserves, cheaper ($8–$25 per night), but more basic. Some have only a long-drop toilet and no power. Perfect for the off-grid experience.
