Camper Champ compares multiple campervan rental companies in Auckland. Campervans can be picked up from depots a short drive from Auckland Airport, which serves both domestic and international travellers.
Rental prices for campervans in Auckland start at about $50/day for compact vehicles and can go up to $550/day or more for large and luxurious motorhomes. Seasonality also impacts pricing with the most expensive rates around December and January and lower rates in the winter months.
Motorhome travel is big in New Zealand, and the North Island is no exception. To meet ever-increasing demand, the country has developed world-class RV infrastructure—ample scenic campsites and convenient dump points/water refills wherever you roam.
One-way rentals are also an option with many travellers choosing to drive down to Wellington, Christchurch on the South Island or alternatively to Queenstown.
Renting a tricked-out camper is the most cost-effective and convenient way to explore Auckland and the North Island. Here are the top reasons why you should rent a campervan for your upcoming adventure:
Cost-effective: The traditional hotel and hire car combo will cost you a pretty penny in New Zealand. A motorhome, however, lets you combine your accommodation and transport expenses into one.
Convenient: Instead of doubling back to your hotel each day, you can pull up at the closest campsite to retire for the night. Plus, you’ll have all your essentials within easy reach.
Flexibility: No need to draw up a complex itinerary of transport connections and hotel reservations. With a mobile home, you can meander around the North Island on a whim.
Get close to nature: Mother Nature is New Zealand’s biggest drawcard. And the best way to bask in her glory is by exploring in a campervan. Wouldn’t you rather sleep under the stars than stare at a stuffy hotel ceiling?
Easy access to amenities: A campervan puts everything you need within arms reach. Feeling all sweaty after a tough day on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing? Freshen up with a quick shower and change of clothes.
When driving around Auckland in a campervan rental, remember these important tips:
“The winterless north,” as some call it. In this itinerary, we follow the 800 km Twin Coast Discovery Highway up the east coast and back down the less developed west coast with plenty to see and do.
MORE: 7-Day Auckland ItineraryNew Zealand has an unforgettable abundance of breathtaking scenery, welcoming and friendly locals, and a vast variety of fun activities, including some high-octane thrills. Wherever your trip takes you, you’ll enjoy tasty food and drink and experience a vibe unlike anywhere else on earth.
MORE: 7-Day Auckland ItineraryYou'll be swept away by the natural beauty of the North Island. And with a campervan as your trusty steed, you'll have the freedom to wander wherever the wind takes you, seeking out adventure and relaxation at your own pace on this 14-day North Island adventure.
MORE: 14-Day North Island ItineraryYou need a full, unrestricted car license to hire a camper in Auckland. If your license isn’t in English, you’ll also need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). Most rental companies won’t offer campervans to drivers under 21. However, some agencies are more lenient. JUCY, for example, will rent vehicles to drivers aged 18 and/or with a restricted New Zealand license or an Australian Green P licence.
Freedom camping, or the ability to sleep anywhere in a campervan in New Zealand, is allowed but heavily regulated by individual councils. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the specific rules and guidelines of the region you're visiting before settling in for the night in your campervan. The Department of Conservation (DOC) maintains a comprehensive network of RV-friendly campsites across the country, offering an ideal place for responsible and self-sufficient camping.
These DOC campsites typically provide basic amenities, so campers need to be well-prepared and adhere to responsible camping practices. This includes properly disposing of waste, respecting the environment, and adhering to any local restrictions or requirements.
For a more comfortable camping experience, Camper Champ suggests staying overnight in campgrounds specifically designed for RVs. These campgrounds provide convenient amenities such as electrical and water hook-ups, which enable campers to use their vehicle's onboard facilities like refrigerators, lights, electrical appliances, and showers. Additionally, these campgrounds often feature dump stations for the proper disposal of wastewater and sewage.
Besides practical amenities, many campgrounds also offer a range of recreational activities and facilities to enhance your overall camping experience. These may include swimming pools, playgrounds, and dedicated recreation areas. Some campgrounds even feature on-site stores, cafes, and rental facilities, allowing campers to purchase supplies or rent equipment like bikes or kayaks.
When planning your campervan trip in New Zealand, make sure to research the specific regulations in the areas you'll be visiting and choose a campground or campsite that best suits your needs and preferences. By doing so, you'll contribute to responsible and sustainable tourism practices while enjoying the natural beauty and outdoor activities New Zealand has to offer.
If you are unsure of the rules that apply in a specific area, it is best to visit the nearest i-SITE (visitor information centre) and ask about any local regulations or bylaws.
Yes, many companies have depots in both the North and South Islands and allow one-way trips.
If planning this type of trip, you will need to pay the cost of the ferry. Our support team can help with your booking.
Additional one-way fees may apply. The comparison tool will automatically factor this into your total.
If you wish to go freedom camping in New Zealand, your vehicle must be self-contained and certified.
This means you must be able to live in the vehicle for 3 days without needing additional water or needing to dump the waste.
In addition, the vehicle must have:
The vehicle must have been checked by a qualified officer to ensure that it meets these requirements. Self-contained motorhomes have a sticker displayed on the vehicle proving their certification.
There are no campervan rental companies based within the terminal at Auckland Airport. However, most depots are just a short drive away (2–30 km).
Many suppliers offer a complimentary shuttle service with your rental; however, the shuttle must be booked in advance. For cases in which a shuttle is not provided, there are public buses, shuttles, and taxis available.
There are a number of pet-friendly campervan rental companies in New Zealand that allow you to travel with your dog or cat. Approval must be obtained in advance and this will usually incur a fee to cover the extra cleaning cost. Contact our support team to check if it’s possible to take a pet on board a specific vehicle.
Note: policies vary from supplier to supplier. Always check the T&Cs for your rental.