A limited number of campervan hire companies offer vehicles in Dunedin. We recommend checking the availability of motorhomes in Christchurch.
Not all vehicles may be available. Use the search tool to check availability for your travel dates.
Freedom camping is generally permitted in New Zealand. However, while allowed, it is strictly regulated. Rules and guidelines must be followed at all times and can vary depending on the area and any council bylaws (local laws) that may apply.
In general, to freedom camp anywhere in New Zealand, your vehicle must have a self-containment certification.
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.
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.
All drivers must have a current and full driver’s licence to hire a vehicle. Foreign licences are acceptable if they are in English or are accompanied by an accredited English translation. Otherwise, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.
A good idea is to plan for a minimum of 7 days. However, even a 2- or 3-week road trip around the South Island will easily be filled.
Popular attractions include Mount Cook, UNESCO-designated Fiordland National Park with Milford Sound, Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier, and the adventure capital of Queenstown.
Note: policies vary from supplier to supplier. Always check the T&Cs for your rental.
Discover NZ is a privately owned Nelson-based motorhome hire company established in 2003 with depots on the North Island and South Island. The company has newer-model vehicles for groups of 2–6. Most are self-contained and come with some additional luxuries.
Another part of the Tui family, Sleepavanz is aimed at the backpacker market. It supplies the sleepervan style of camper at a budget price point.
