Renting a Camper in New Zealand: Models, Providers, and Prices
Everything from choosing the right vehicle to insider tips you won't find in any travel guide!
Freedom on four wheels! An amazing 54% of all international backpackers choose a campervan for their New Zealand trip. Imagine waking up with a view of snow-capped mountains and ending your day with a beach sunset.
With a camper, you have the ultimate freedom on your Work & Travel adventure. Often the most breathtaking landscapes in New Zealand are off the beaten path – your own camper takes you there.
What’s in this guide for you? Everything from choosing the right vehicle to insider tips you won’t find in any travel guide!
Good to know:
Need help finding the right camper? Contact us.
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Step 1 - Campervan Types
The big question first: What different types of campervans can you find in New Zealand? And which model is right for your Kiwi adventure? Find out right here!
Basic Sleeper/Minivans
These minimalist vehicles, like an ordinary station wagon, are essentially regular cars with converted sleeping spaces (or without sleeping space but with a tent) – perfect for budget travelers.
Pros:
- Cheapest entry price (starting at 35-45 NZD per day)
- Low fuel consumption (approx. 8-10L/100km)
- Easy to drive and park
- No sanitary facilities
Cons:
- Minimal storage space
- Lack of comfort
- No real cooking facilities
- No sanitary facilities
Tip:
Use the CamperMate App for over 1,500 legal camping spots nationwide.
Equipped Self-Contained Campers
Self-contained vans like the Toyota Estima are the backbone of the backpacker community. With the Self-Contained certificate, you are welcome even on free DOC campsites (Department of Conservation).
Pros:
- Good value for money
- Self-Contained certification
- Simple cooking facility
- More comfortable bed
Cons:
- Compact space
- No standing height
- Simple furnishings
- Chemical toilet often inconvenient
Highroof Campers for More Comfort
Very popular among travelers with a slightly higher budget. Models like the Toyota Hiace, with standing room and better features, are generally ideal for longer trips.
Pros:
- Standing height (approx. 2m)
- More storage space
- Better equipment (fridge, stove)
- More comfortable living experience
Cons:
- Higher price (from 90-130 NZD per day)
- Higher fuel consumption (12-15L/100km)
- Harder to park
- Limited driving characteristics
Fully Integrated Motorhomes
The luxury choice for travelers with a more generous budget who don't want to compromise on comfort. However, this often becomes extremely expensive in New Zealand (especially in peak season).
Pros:
- Maximum comfort with shower and WC
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Spacious living area
- Separate sleeping areas
Cons:
- High rental price (from 150-250 NZD per day)
- High fuel costs (15-20L/100km)
- Challenging on narrow roads
- Limited access to remote locations
Need Help?
No problem. We'll find the best deals for you with a price guarantee. Either for rental, or purchase with a buyback guarantee at the end of your trip (up to 70% cheaper for longer stays)
Step 2 - Seasonal Prices & Travel Time
Let's move on to the key topics about prices: Seasonal price differences and the optimal travel time. Here's an initial overview. The costs for a campervan fluctuate significantly depending on the season. According to data from Compare and Choose, you can save up to 60% in the off-season compared to the peak season.
(Average prices are for a self-contained campervan)
| Season | Period | Average Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| High Season | October - February | 85-120 NZD/day | Very limited |
| Low Season | March - September | 40-70 NZD/day | Very good |
| School Holidays | April, July, October | 65-90 NZD/day | Limited |
Insider tip: The best months are March/April and October/November.
The weather is still pleasant, prices are moderate, and the crowds are missing. Note the climate differences: The North Island is subtropical, while it can get quite cold on the South Island, especially in winter (June-August).
Reward
And if it gets a bit chilly on the road - here's a suitable solution:
Step 3 - Campervan Booking
Once you’ve made your decision, it’s time for booking. There are a few things to keep in mind. Let’s have a closer look at everything.
Step 1: Plan Your Budget
Before booking, budget carefully! A realistic monthly budget is about 2,500-3,500 NZD including all costs. Consider the season and prices in the peak season.
- 50-90 NZD per day for a self-contained van
- 15-20 NZD daily for campsites
- 20-30 NZD daily for fuel
- 300-500 NZD emergency reserve for repairs
Step 2: Provider Comparison
There are now an incredible number of rental offers in New Zealand. Here is a rough initial overview to help you get a feel for what to consider.
| Provider | Advantages | Disadvantages | Average Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jucy | Modern fleet | High deductible | 75-100 NZD/day |
| Britz/Maui | High quality | Premium prices | 110-180 NZD/day |
| Escape | Unlimited kilometers | Older vehicles | 65-90 NZD/day |
| Wicked | Very affordable | Mixed reviews | 39-70 NZD/day |
| Spaceships | Good for beginners | Small living space | 55-85 NZD/day |
| KiwiQuest (purchase) | Up to 70% cheaper for longer stays | Higher upfront investment | ~30-45 NZD/day |
Insider tip: Try Transfercar for camper relocations from 1-5 NZD per day! The catch: Limited time and set route.
Step 3: Choose Insurance
Make sure you're properly insured from the start! In New Zealand, basic insurances often include high deductibles of 2,000-4,000 NZD. Most providers offer insurance directly at the rental.
"A small accident on a gravel road almost ruined my trip. The 150 NZD for the all-inclusive insurance was the best investment of my journey."
- David, 24, from Cologne
"My insurance more than paid off when I caused a parking damage during my semester abroad. It saved me costs of over 1,500 euros and a lot of stress."
- Laura, 28, from Frankfurt
But beware: Most insurances do not cover damage on unpaved roads. Important for remote adventures and good to know for planning your route!
Choose between:
- 1. Standard Insurance (Deductible ~3,000 NZD)
- 2. Medium Cover (~1,500 NZD)
- 3. All-inclusive (recommended!)
Step 4: Book Early
In the peak season (October - February), campervans are often fully booked months in advance. Book at least 3 months before your trip. Many are unpleasantly surprised to find no offers left.
Upon vehicle pickup:
- Document every scratch with photos
- Test all functions (fridge, cooker)
- Get a detailed explanation of the chemical toilet
- Check all tires and spare wheel
Miscellaneous - Renting vs. Buying
For Work & Travel travelers and tourists with more than a 3-month stay, a comparison is worthwhile. The guidelines given here are based on our booking data from the last 5 years:
| Option | 2 weeks | 1 month | 3 months | 6+ months |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (Regular) | ~1.100 NZD | ~2.400 NZD | ~6.800 NZD | ~13.000+ NZD |
| Rent (Budget) | ~900 NZD | ~1.900 NZD | ~5.400 NZD | ~10.000+ NZD |
| Purchase & Private Sale | Not recommended | Risky | ~4.500 NZD | ~5.000 NZD |
| KiwiQuest (Purchase) | Not recommended | Not recommended | ~3.800 NZD | ~5.500 NZD |
The KiwiQuest Camper Pre-order works as follows: You pay a risk-free deposit for a inspected vehicle. At the end of your trip, KiwiQuest guarantees buyback at a pre-agreed price. You save up to 70% compared to renting and start your camper adventure without time pressure or risk!
Miscellaneous - Tips & Tricks
Every traveler has their own preferences. It largely depends on how you envision your trip. Here are some tips and tricks for New Zealand planning.
Top Free Camping Spots
The CamperMate App is your digital travel guide in New Zealand. It shows not only camping spots but also toilets, showers, and WiFi hotspots.
Top 5 Free Spots Not in Any Travel Guide:
- 1. Moke Lake – Secluded with 360° mountain views, perfect for star photography
- 2. Gillespies Beach – Glacier and sea views, oftentimes with seals on the beach
- 3. Ahuriri Bridge – Turquoise waters and minimal light pollution (fantastic starry sky)
- 4. Lake Paringa – Quiet, natural, and limited mobile reception in this region
- 5. Pelorus Bridge – Filming location for "The Hobbit" with natural swimming holes
Practical Camper Hacks
Here are a few random tips and travel hacks for your journey to New Zealand. Got more tips? Share them in the comments below and we'll add them here!
- Fill up water canisters at every opportunity
- A foldable solar panel (80-150 NZD) makes you energy-independent
- Charge all devices while driving with the 12V socket
- Use McDonald's and libraries for Internet and power outlets
Miscellaneous - Experience Reports
“Instead of spending over 13,000 NZD on camper rental, I paid only about 5,500 NZD with KiwiQuest for the entire trip. The best part? The buyback guarantee removed the worry of having to sell the van at the end.”
– Sabrina, 24, from Lübeck
“What no one told us: The insurance didn’t cover damage on gravel roads! When we had a flat tire, we had to pay ourselves. Our highlight was free camping at Lake Pukaki overlooking Mount Cook.”
– Tobias & Michelle, 29
Conclusion
A campervan is your key to freedom in New Zealand – from waking up with a mountain view to sleeping under the stars on the beach.
For short-term travelers, rental companies offer flexible solutions, while long-term travelers can save significantly with KiwiQuest's camper pre-order. With a buyback guarantee and no risk, starting your adventure is particularly ideal for Work & Travel travelers.
Pre-order your campervan now and discover New Zealand your way!
Frequently Asked Questions
What other KiwiQuesters wanted to know...
User question:
What driver's license do I need for a campervan?
User question:
What does “Self-Contained” actually mean?
User question:
How do I save on fuel costs in New Zealand?
User question:
What is the difference between DOC sites and Holiday Parks?
User question:
What to do in case of a breakdown or accident?
User question:
How does the campervan pre-order with KiwiQuest work?
User question:
What are the visa options for German backpackers?
What else is there?
We wish you an amazing adventure!
Welcome to Team KiwiQuest!
Team KiwiQuest
