Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to NZ Motorhome Rentals – search and save on your campervan adventure in the stunning South Island of New Zealand. With over 34 suppliers to compare, we are proud to bring you the best deals on 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 berth motorhomes to make organising your vacation easy and enjoyable.
Here you will find our Frequently Asked Questions page (as well as some bonus top driving a motorhome in New Zealand tips). If after perusing this page your question remains unanswered please refer to the contact us page.
As New Zealand’s premier motorhome comparison service, we have been offering our customers premium service since 2002. Find your perfect home on wheels to tour New Zealand on your terms, with flexible pick up and drop off, NZ Motorhome Rentals has got you covered!
NZ Motorhome Rentals Top Campervan Driving Tips
#1 Book your New Zealand Motorhome early
As the New Zealand based campervans are snapped up by holiday makers, many motorhome suppliers increase their prices. So to ensure best value for money we recommend you book your motorhome as early as possible.
#2 Maintain flexibility with dates
Occasionally, the difference between a good rate and a great rate on your rental campervan can be picking up and returning your motorhome a day earlier or later. We recommend doing your research and being mindful that beginning or ending your motorhome adventure on a New Zealand public holiday will likely limit availability of campervans and increase the cost of motorhome hire.
#3 Do your due diligence and test the rate for alternative pick-up and drop-off locations
The best availability for campervan hire in New Zealand is in the main centres of Auckland and Christchurch due to larger fleets at these locations. In smaller New Zealand towns with campervan availability, there is a lower degree of competition and in effect higher prices.
#4 Read and then re-read your supplier’s terms and conditions
Ensure that you read (in sufficient detail) the terms and conditions of your motorhome supplier and your rental agreement. Each individual motorhome supplier has a different policy on insurance requirements, how deposits are handled, specific travel ranges within New Zealand and a multitude of other important items for you to consider.
#5 Have your license translated into English
If you are from a non-English speaking country then be sure to have a version of your licence translated to English on hand or an International Driving Permit (IDP).
#6 Expect to find New Zealand’s data dead zones
New Zealand has a number of data dead zones where there simply is no cell phone coverage. So we recommend taking the opportunity to soak up the serenity and an absence of notifications without adding a dose of extreme stress and doubt about where you are – download your Google maps and ensure that you have a paper map on hand!
#7 Campervan travel takes time – allow for that
New Zealand features a number of winding very scenic roads – you’ll want to take the time to enjoy the scenery whilst on route to your attractions and camp grounds. You’ll also be driving a larger heavier vehicle so allow time to take it slow.
Remember, if there is traffic building behind you whilst you’re operating your hire motorhome on New Zealand roads, pull over and allow the traffic to pass by. We recommend checking out the Driving In New Zealand Guide.
FAQ
Please note the following: Our service aggregates and compares individual motorhome suppliers in New Zealand, each company with its own terms and conditions and camper hire policy. The below questions and answers are a high level guide only.
We stress it is vital that you read the terms and conditions and rental agreement provided by your chosen supplier as policies may be different depending on the supplier you have selected.
Can I pick up my hire motorhome in the South Island and drive it to the North Island and vice versa?
Generally, yes you can. Many campervan hire companies in New Zealand maintain a supply of campers in both the North and South islands of New Zealand and can accommodate one-way trips. However, please note that you will need to book a spot on the Interislander ferry to cross Cook Strait (campervans don’t swim well). For inter island rentals, use our search widget to assess availability by customising your search settings.
At what New Zealand locations can I pick up and drop off my campervan?
Our site aggregates and compares motorhome suppliers who keep a healthy supply of campervans in both the North and South Islands of New Zealand. In the North Island supply is located in Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton, Rotorua, Taupo, Tauranga and Whitianga. While in the South Island supply is located in Christchurch, Queenstown, Blenheim, Dunedin, Greymouth, Nelson and Picton. Availability depends on the location you select for pick up and drop off and the time of year you are planning to visit New Zealand. Use our search widget to customise your search requirements and plan your adventure.
Do I have unlimited kilometres with my rental campervan?
Generally motorhome suppliers provide unlimited kilometres. Search results generated using our search widget will indicate to you whether or not unlimited kilometres are being offered. Do read the terms and conditions in detail to confirm whether unlimited kilometres are offered.
Do I need a valid drivers licence to operate a motorhome on New Zealand roads?
Absolutely. You need to ensure that your home country drivers licence is considered valid in New Zealand. Generally international full drivers licences (full drivers licence meaning there are no restrictions) are considered valid to operate motorhomes on New Zealand roads provided that your licence is in English or is paired with a certified English translation. An International Drivers Permit may also be accepted.
What is the lowest possible age to drive a campervan?
Generally, motorhome suppliers require the driver to be a minimum of 21 years of age. Some suppliers will allow 18 year old drivers whilst others require drivers to be a minimum of 25 years of age. Use our search tool to verify your age and confirm that you meet the age standard set by your chosen supplier.
