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Compare Campervan Rentals in Christchurch

Campervan rental in Christchurch is easy with our time-saving comparison tool. Compare major brands to get better prices and peace of mind with hassle-free bookings.

As the South Island’s most populous city, Christchurch is a vibrant urban hub with a slew of worthwhile attractions. It also offers a convenient base to explore the wonders of New Zealand’s South Island. Epic glacial landscapes and picture-perfect lakes lure outdoor explorers to this stupendously scenic place.

Despite the destruction of two devastating earthquakes (2010 and 2011), the town still clings to its English roots. Quaint British-inspired buildings lie peppered around town, along with leafy gardens and world-class museums.

Campervan travel is big in New Zealand—and the perennially popular South Island is no exception. World-class infrastructure meets demand, including dump stations and water refill stations. And with an endless selection of stunning campsites, the South Island is an RV dream destination.

One-way rentals are also an option with many travelers choosing to drop their vehicle off in Queenstown, drive to Wellington on the North Island or alternatively all the way up to Auckland.

Popular Campervans in Christchurch

What’s your Camper Champ style? Find your perfect camper by browsing through the different classes.

Discover New Zealand your way by choosing a class of campervan that suits your travel needs.

Apollo 2-Berth Euro Tourer

2-Berth Euro Tourer

Apollo

Automatic
Jucy Cabana

Cabana

Jucy

Automatic
Apollo 6-Berth Euro Deluxe

6-Berth Euro Deluxe

Apollo

Automatic
Backpacker Sleepervans Sleepervan

Sleepervan

Backpacker Sleepervans

Automatic
Britz 4-Berth Discovery

4-Berth Discovery

Britz

Automatic
Britz 6-Berth Frontier

6-Berth Frontier

Britz

Automatic
Budget Campers Budget Finder

Budget Finder

Budget Campers

Manual
Cheapa Campa Cheapa 2-Berth

Cheapa 2-Berth

Cheapa Campa

Automatic/Manual
4 Berth Euro

4 Berth Euro

Apollo

Automatic
Lucky Rentals Lucky Rover

Lucky Rover

Lucky Rentals

Automatic
Portable toilet only
Maui Platinum River

Platinum River

Maui

Automatic
4 Berth Double Up

4 Berth Double Up

Mighty

Automatic
Jucy Cabana

Cabana

Jucy

Backpacker Sleepervans Sleepervan

Sleepervan

Backpacker Sleepervans

Budget Campers Budget Finder

Budget Finder

Budget Campers

Lucky Rentals Lucky Rover

Lucky Rover

Lucky Rentals

Spaceships Rocket 2-Berth

Rocket 2-Berth

Spaceships

Apollo 6-Berth Euro Deluxe

6-Berth Euro Deluxe

Apollo

Britz 6-Berth Frontier

6-Berth Frontier

Britz

Maui Platinum River

Platinum River

Maui

Mighty 6-Berth Big Six

6-Berth Big Six

Mighty

Pacific Horizon 6-Berth SAM Premium

6-Berth SAM Premium

Pacific Horizon

Not all vehicles may be available. Use the search tool to check availability for your travel dates.

Christchurch Airport Campervan Hire

Can I rent a campervan at the airport in Christchurch?

Yes, you can. All the major cities in New Zealand, such as Auckland and Wellington in the North Island, Christchurch and Queenstown in the South Island, have depots located at the airport.

Several more companies offer their airport rentals as “serviced non-depot locations”, meaning that although they do not have a physical depot at the airport, they will arrange to bring the vehicle to you.

The Self-drive Holiday in Christchurch

Renting a camper in Christchurch is the most convenient and cost-effective way to explore the South Island. Here’s why you should consider a campervan for your next adventure:

  • Affordable: Forget about paying for a separate rental car and hotel. The campervan covers both expenses for one reasonable daily rate. New Zealand's numerous free camps further facilitate low-cost campervan adventures.

  • Less driving: You won't need to book and travel to a hotel after each day's adventure. Simply roll into the nearest campsite instead.

  • Flexible: There's nothing quite like the feeling of freedom that comes with a self-contained campervan. Don't stress about complex itineraries; just follow the whims of the road.

  • Get back to nature: Staring at a stuffy hotel ceiling isn't the ideal way to pass an evening. Wouldn't you rather relax amid breathtaking surroundings with a campfire under the stars?

  • Convenience: Fresh clothes, a fridge full of food, and all your essential possessions will be right there when you need them—plus, no more packing and unpacking each day.

When driving around Christchurch in a campervan rental, remember these important tips:

  1. Vehicles in New Zealand are driven on the left side of the road.
  2. Seatbelts and child restraints are compulsory.
  3. Livestock use the roads. Occasionally you may come across a sheep or cow using the main road.
  4. A maximum speed limit of 62 mph applies to open roads and 31 mph in urban areas in NZ unless indicated otherwise. Speed limits do change depending on vehicle weight. School zones also have speed limits reduced to 25 mph during certain hours on school days. Always pay attention to posted speed limit signs and adjust your speed accordingly.
  5. Some railway crossings in rural areas are not indicated by warning lights. Approach these with caution and prepare to stop.
  6. Most popular tourist areas in NZ have dedicated parking for motorhomes that are longer and wider.
  7. There are 3 toll roads in NZ: the Takitimu Drive Toll Road (formerly Route K), the Tauranga Eastern Link Toll Road and the Northern Gateway Toll Road, north of Auckland.
  8. Carry your driver's license or IDP with you when traveling.
  9. The blood alcohol content limit in NZ is 0.05%.

Travel tips for Christchurch

How can you save money on a campervan vacation in Christchurch?

Savvy budget travelers can reduce their expenses with the following money-saving hacks:

  • Get in early: Booking ahead will save you stacks of cash as campervan rental companies set prices based on availability.

  • Avoid the peak: School holidays, Easter, and Christmas/New Year get super busy in New Zealand. Travel outside these dates to save.

  • Compare companies: Don’t settle for your first quote. Use a comparison tool like Camper Champ to compare dozens of New Zealand rental companies in a single click.

  • Go small: A petite, budget-friendly campervan will come in at a fraction of the cost of a large motorhome.

  • Examine the extras: The best campervan rental companies include essentials like cooking equipment and camping chairs. That way, you won’t have to purchase them yourself.

  • Extend your stay: Most rental agencies reduce rates for rentals of a week or more. You’ll lower your daily rental expenses and get better bang for your buck.

  • Stay south: Venturing onto the North Island will set you back a sizeable sum in ferry and/or one-way drop-off fees. Most travelers stick to the south.

  • Return to Christchurch: Dropping your motorhome off at a different location (i.e., Queenstown) entails a significant one-way fee. Double back to Christchurch and save.

  • Make a rough plan: Explore the island in a circular route to minimize backtracking and save on fuel. The GASPY mobile app lets you compare gas prices between service stations.

  • Unleash your inner Masterchef: Self-catering will save you a small fortune in New Zealand. Good thing your campervan comes with a kitted-out kitchen.

  • Free camp: New Zealand is famously free-camping friendly. Stunning free spots lie scattered throughout the South Island.

  • Walk: Hiking—or tramping, as the locals call it—is the best way to savor the South Island’s immense natural splendor. And it’s free.

When is the best time to go campervanning in Christchurch and the South Island?

The most popular season to visit the South Island is summer (Dec-Feb) when balmy days make outdoor adventures a dream. However, the warmer months also attract the thickest crowds, so rental and campsite availability dry up and prices soar.

  • Christchurch average highs and lows in summer: around 73° / 52° F.

Autumn (Mar-May) is an awesome time to visit, although it gets a tad chilly towards the end of the season—remember to bundle up. March has the most favorable weather, while April and May see the fall foliage bring a kaleidoscope of color to the Central Otago region.

  • Christchurch average highs and lows in autumn: March 68° / 50°F, April 63° / 45°F, May 57° / 39°F

Winter (June to August) is the peak ski season. Stacks of travelers visit Queenstown and Wanaka to carve fresh tracks, but the rest of the island seldom sees RV travelers. Icy winds and regular rainfall become common along the coast, while the high-altitude regions remain frigid throughout the season.

  • Christchurch average highs and lows in winter: around 54°F / 32°F

Spring sees the South Island bloom. Gorgeous gardens in Christchurch, Otago, Dunedin, and Alexandra delight the horticulturist at heart. A thick layer of snow still smothers the Southern Alps, and the ski season doesn’t stop until mid-October. Thicker crowds (and higher prices) return around mid-November.

  • Christchurch average highs and lows in spring: September 54°F / 32°F, October 63° / 43°F, November 66° / 46°F

The South Island hosts a plethora of exciting festivals and events, primarily in the warmer months.

  • Rhythm & Alps Music Festival (Wanaka, December)

  • Twisted Frequency Festival (Golden Bay, December)

  • Beach Break (Nelson, January)

  • World Buskers Festival (Christchurch, January)

  • Electric Avenue Festival (Christchurch, February)

  • Hokitika Wildfoods Festival (Hokitika Beach, March)

  • Marchfest (Nelson, March)

  • Marlborough Wine Festival (Marlborough, May)

  • Victorian Fete (Oamaru, November)

How long do you need in Christchurch and the South Island for an RV vacation?

One to two weeks is enough time to travel around the South Island in a campervan. Although visiting all the destinations in this guide would require more time, a week or two is plenty to discover the highlights.

But what about the North Island? Should you combine North and South into one epic, trans-New Zealand adventure?

It's possible, but you'll have to fork out for the Wellington-Picton ferry and/or a pricey one-way drop-off fee. Plus, you'll need at least a month to do the whole country justice (preferably more). Most campervan travelers prefer to focus on one island at a time.

Parking a Campervan in Christchurch

What are some of the best places to park a campervan in Christchurch?

Christchurch is a small city (population 381,000) with mild traffic and plenty of places to park. Parking in the CBD is relatively straightforward—there are over 10,000 spaces to choose from.

Indoor, council-run parking is available at the Lichfield Street, The Terrace, and the Art Gallery car parks for $4.10 per hour—remember to check height restrictions. The Christchurch City Council also offers on-street parking right around the city for $4.60 per hour. All-day parking in the CBD typically costs between $18 and $25.

The Council maintains a handy database of the top off-street car parks in the city. Wilson Parking also provides a list of its privately-run facilities. Another helpful resource is Parkopedia, which covers private and council-run on and off-street spaces with real-time availability.

If you don't fancy paying, Hagley Park and the Botanical Gardens provide free parking with a three-hour limit.

Got a large motorhome? Check out the council-run Manchester Street car park, which has plenty of space for big rigs (daytime parking only, and fees apply).

Where can you park an RV overnight in Christchurch?

While New Zealand is famous for being free camp friendly, you can't pull up and sleep anywhere.

A non-self-contained camper (tent camping or a campervan without a toilet, wastewater, and trash amenities) may only overnight in a designated campground with appropriate facilities.

Certified self-contained campervans (with the official sticker) can stay for a maximum of two nights in most public Christchurch car parks. See the Council website for a map outlining where you can and can't stay overnight.

Some of Christchurch's most popular paid campgrounds include Tasman Holiday Park, Amber Kiwi Holiday Park, and North South Holiday Park.

How much does campervan entry to a national park in NZ cost? Are any permits required?

National Park entry is free in New Zealand, but you must pay for ticketed attractions, tours, and some campsites.

The Department of Conservation (DOC) divides its campsites into categories. Prices range from free to $23 per adult per night, depending on the location and on-site amenities. Expect luxury extras like powered sites and hot showers at the upper end of the scale.

Free camping in a national park is only allowed where signage explicitly permits it. You'll almost always need to be certified self-contained.

If freedom camping isn't your thing and you plan to visit numerous national parks, you should consider investing in a DOC Campsite Pass. For $95 per adult, you get a 30-day pass to almost all DOC-run campsites.

For individual campsite bookings and the Campsite Pass, kids aged 5 to 17 pay half the adult rate and infants under five are free.

Most DOC campgrounds must be booked online, even if you have a Campsite Pass. Others operate on a first-come-first-served basis—get in early and have a backup plan.

Top 10 Campervan-friendly Campgrounds near Christchurch

The South Island has a plethora of picture-perfect campgrounds. Here are some of our campervan-friendly faves:

French Pass Campsite

French Pass Campsite is the perfect base for travelers seeking to soak up the splendor of Marlborough Sound. Enjoy uninterrupted views of turquoise-tinged waters as they flow past your campervan, and listen to the sounds of gently rolling waves.

Price: from $16 per adult per night

Amenities: restrooms, showers, non-potable water, bbq

Hans Bay - Lake Kaniere Camping Area

Hans Bay is a tranquil waterfront spot within easy reach of Hokitika Gorge. While this basic DOC-run campground doesn't have much in the way of amenities, nobody ever complains about the view. Plus, the adjacent lake is perfect for a refreshing dip in the summer months.

Price: from $8 per person per night

Amenities: restrooms, non-potable water

Marfells Beach

We love a good beach camp, and Marfells delivers the goods with unbeatable ocean views. Located on the northern tip of the island, it's a convenient option for campervan travelers heading towards Marlborough Sounds. Need something to read? Check out the cute little book exchange.

Price: from $10 per person per night

Amenities: restrooms, non-drinkable water

Milford Sound Lodge

Though a bit on the expensive side, this strategically-located site is the only place to camp within Milford Sound. The amenities are excellent, but most people come for the million-dollar views.

Price: from $30 per person per night

Amenities: restrooms, showers, potable water, trash cans, bbq, camp kitchen, laundry, WiFi, powered sites

Purakaunui Bay

On the southern end of the island, this spectacular beach camp is all about those sweeping coastal views. Keep an eye out for curious sea lions who come to frolic on the soft golden sand. Stacks of space and a remote location make this a great place to get away from it all.

Price: from $8 per person per night

Amenities: restrooms, non-potable water, fire pits

Pelorus Bridge Campground

Pelorus Bridge Campground serves as a great base to explore Marlborough District and beyond. The scenic site straddles an emerald green river where the barrel scene from The Hobbit was filmed. On-site amenities offer more luxury than most DOC-run sites.

Price: from $20 per site per night

Amenities: restrooms, showers, non-potable water, camp kitchen, powered sites

Punakaiki Beach Camp

Punakaiki is a popular seaside holiday park offering magnificent ocean views. While most sites don't directly overlook the beach, the ocean is never more than a short stroll away. Pop into the tavern next door for a cold beer or hearty meal.

Price: from $18 per person per night

Amenities: restrooms, showers, potable water, trash cans, barbecue, camp kitchen, laundry, WiFi, dump station, powered sites

Rakaia Gorge Campground

A short drive west of Christchurch, Rakaia Gorge Campground offers excellent amenities and lush landscapes for a reasonable nightly price. Campers park minutes away from the turquoise Rakaia River, which they can admire via a scenic walkway.

Price: from $15 per person per night

Amenities: restrooms, shower, potable water, trash cans, camp kitchen, dump station

Wanaka Top 10 Holiday Park

This well-appointed Top 10 branch offers top-tier amenities within easy reach of the South Island's favorite lake. #ThatWanakaTree is just a few minutes away, and this luxurious locale even has an on-site spa.

Price: from $46 per site per night

Amenities: restrooms, showers, drinkable water, bbq, camp kitchen, laundry, dump station, powered sites

White Horse Hill Campsite

At the end of the scenic drive to Mount Cook, this popular DOC spot offers epic Southern Alps views. Plus, some of the South Island's most magnificent hikes, including the Hooker Valley Track, start right from the campsite.

Price: from $18 per person per night

Amenities: restrooms, potable water, trash cans, camp kitchen

The Christchurch Experience

From historical sites to tranquil gardens and intriguing museums, this enchanting South Island city has plenty of places to explore.

To appreciate the magnitude of the 2010/2011 earthquakes, visit Christchurch Transitional Cathedral. Constructed of cardboard and other temporary materials, this interim temple temporarily replaces the damaged Christchurch Cathedral. For more earthquake insights, pop into Quake City and the Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial.

Not all historic buildings collapsed in 2011. The Isaac Theatre Royal is a restored performing arts center with a grandiose Edwardian style. At Riccarton House, an elegant Victorian-era homestead overlooks lush lawns. Then you've got the Victoria Clock Tower, an ornate stone spire built to celebrate the Queen's 60th Jubilee. To combine history and shopping in one outing, check out the colorful New Regent Street pedestrian mall.

Due to its British influence, Christchurch (A.K.A., the "Garden City") is famed for its gorgeous verdant parks. The best is the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, home to an impressive selection of native trees and flowering plants. Surrounding it lies Hagley Park, a sprawling recreational space with leafy gardens and sports facilities. Small, scenic parks line the tranquil Avon River, which snakes through the city's heart.

Christchurch has a respectable array of pristine natural spaces, too. Hikers and mountain bikers adore the undulating terrain at Port Hills. To spot squawking birdlife, try the marshy Travis Wetland Nature Heritage Park instead. Godley Head offers pristine coastal views, while the sandy Sumner Beach is your best bet for a dip.

Keen to take a peek at native New Zealand animals? Then try the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. Or better yet, take a side trip to the nearby village of Akaroa to spot endangered dolphins frolicking in the bay.

If museums appeal, Christchurch has a respectable collection to choose from. Favorites include the International Antarctic Center, the Canterbury Museum, and the Air Force Museum of New Zealand. Creative types mustn't miss the Christchurch Art Gallery.

The antiquated Christchurch Tramway is a lovely old restored tram traversing many top city sites. A hop-on / hop-off ticket is a fun and convenient way to explore. For a bird's eye view of the city, jump on the Christchurch Gondola.

Exploring the South Island from Christchurch

The strategically-situated city sits within a day's drive of all the South Island's jaw-dropping attractions. As a result, it's a convenient base to rent an RV and explore.

North of Christchurch

You don’t have to venture far from the city to marvel at the majestic Southern Alps.

Cruising two hours from the downtown area gets you to Arthur’s Pass National Park, a dramatic expanse of towering mountains and quirky alpine villages. If you don’t fancy hiking trails, the drive into the park is among New Zealand’s most scenic.

Further west lies Hokitika Gorge, where a serene aquamarine river sits enshrouded by verdant rainforest. Rent a kayak to make the most of the experience. On the west coast, the seldom-visited Paparoa National Park is famed for its pancake-like stack of rocks.

Nelson Lakes National Park offers more splendid Southern Alps scenery—think beech forests, ice-capped mountains, and shimmering lakes. Up on the north coast, Abel Tasman National Park is a sun-lovers paradise of picturesque sandy beaches and dramatic granite cliffs. Don’t miss the iconic Split Apple Rock.

To the east, the Marlborough District is awash with scenic vineyards producing world-class Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. Ditch the van for a day and join a boat or kayak tour through Marlborough Sounds. With 932 miles of coastline, this labyrinth-like network of sunken river valleys is a sight to behold.

South of Christchurch

Directly west of the city lies Lake Tekapo, a tiny township straddling a spectacular lake of the same name. Soak away your stress in the bubbling Tekapo Springs or spot intergalactic constellations at the Mt. John Observatory. Snapping a pic of the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd is a quintessential South Island experience.

Beyond the lake, the ominous Mount Cook pierces through the horizon. Glaciers cover around 40% of this wild, outlying region, including the 6.5-mile-long Franz Josef Glacier. Helicopter and hiking trips through Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and Westland Tai Poutini National Park let you experience these Lord of the Rings-inspired landscapes firsthand. Hikers shouldn't skip the mind-blowing Hooker Valley Track.

To the south lies Mount Aspiring National Park, where undulating trails tramp between towering peaks and lush river valleys.

The township of Lake Wanaka affords sweeping views of the Southern Alps, which cast a mirror image on its clear shimmering waters. A cragged crack willow, affectionately known as #ThatWanakaTree makes for an Insta-worthy photo opp (Roy's Peak is another excellent vantage point). If you're visiting during the ski season, Treble Cone is a top spot to carve fresh powder tracks.

A quick drive south gets you to Queenstown, A.K.A, the "Adventure Capital of the World." Adrenaline-pumping pursuits include bungee jumping, river rafting, jet boating, sky diving, paragliding, and sledging, to name a few.

On the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, the quaint town of Glenorchy offers similar scenery with a more laid-back vibe. Hardy hikers mustn't miss the world-famous 20-mile Routeburn Track.

Milford Sound is well worth the detour. The snow-capped Mitre Peak protrudes through the center, while lanky waterfalls plummet into pristine fjords. Jump on a boat tour to marvel at the scenery while cruising past colonies of cuddly penguins and fur seals.

Over on the east coast, Dunedin is a lovely harborside town with Victorian and Edwardian architecture. On an adjacent peninsula, Larnach Castle harks back to the town's Scottish heritage. Dunedin is also your best bet for spotting the technicolored Southern Lights.

Not far north, Moeraki Boulders Beach lures curious onlookers with its perfect spherical-shaped rocks.

To spot cute little kiwis in the wild, jump on a ferry towards the remote Stewart Island.

Top 10 Attractions around Christchurch

Not sure where to go on your South Island campervan adventure? We’ve put together a shortlist of the top 10 attractions.

Abel Tasman National Park (433 km north)

Abel Tasman is home to the South Island's most spectacular coastal scenery, from pristine golden sand beaches to jagged granite cliffs. Don't miss a photo op with the appropriately named Split Apple Rock.

Akaroa (81 km east)

An easy detour east of Christchurch lies Akaroa, a tiny town on the Banks Peninsula brimming with French-inspired architecture. The highlight here is Akaroa Harbor, where you can swim with endangered Hector's dolphins as they frolic in the bay.

Hokitika Gorge (281 km west)

Fluorescent blue water flows through Hokitika Gorge, a South Island hotspot for hiking and kayaking adventures. Cross over the suspension bridge for an uninterrupted view of this mind-boggling natural attraction.

Lake Tekapo (226 km west)

Azure waters of the glacier-fed Lake Tekapo lap against a tiny town of the same name. The snow-capped Mount Cook looms in the distance, best viewed from the Mt John Summit Circuit Track. Hot springs, an observatory for stargazing, and a photogenic old church enhance the magic.

Lake Wanaka (425 km south)

The South Island’s most iconic lake became Instagram-famous for a solitary cracked willow tree. After photographing the gnarled #ThatWanakaTree, head up to Roy’s Peak for sweeping Mount Aspiring views. Skiers shouldn't miss nearby Treble Cone.

Marlborough Sounds (377 km north)

Perched on the island's northern tip, Marlborough Sounds is a maze-like network of dramatic sunken valleys. Take a boat tour or rent a kayak to experience this scenic stretch of coastline. Thirsty? The nearby Marlborough Wine Region produces top-quality white wines.

Milford Sound (757 km south)

Some say Milford Sound is the eighth wonder of the world—and who are we to disagree? Take a boat cruise (or splurge on a scenic flight) to admire this fabulous fjord flanked by rainforests and waterfalls.

Mount Aspiring National Park (477 km south)

A Southern Alps highlight, Mount Aspiring National Park sets the scene for Peter Jackson's classic Lord of the Rings movies. Glacial landscapes, deep gorges, and abundant birdlife await in this vast, untapped expanse.

Mount Cook (322 km west)

New Zealand's highest mountain rises 3,724 meters into the sky. Admire its majestic presence on a rugged hiking trail or a winding scenic drive. Thrill seekers could embark on an unforgettable heli-hiking tour of the nearby Franz Joseph Glacier.

Queenstown (483 km south)

Nicknamed the “Adventure Capital of the World,” Queenstown is the go-to destination for all adrenaline-inducing pursuits. From white-water rafting to bungee jumping and death-defying jet boat rides, you’re sure to get your heart pumping here.

Christchurch Road-trip Itineraries

The South Island is a vast land of stunning landscapes—from the majestic Southern Alps to the rugged coastline and pristine lakes. The best way to explore this beautiful region is by campervan, allowing you the freedom to go where you want and stay as long as you like. Check out our range of campervan-friendly itineraries to enhance your holiday experience.

New Zealand South Island: 7-Days through the Wild South

New Zealand South Island: 7-Days through the Wild South

There’s so much to see here, and truth be told, you won't fit it all in 7 days. Aotearoa (the Maori name for NZ) is a traveler’s paradise, especially if you like the outdoors. This itinerary is a great way to spend seven memorable days in NZ’s south island, starting and ending in Christchurch, because it has an international airport and plenty of campervan rental services.

MORE: 7-Day South Island Itinerary
14-Days Exploring the Wonders of New Zealand’s South Island

14-Days Exploring the Wonders of New Zealand’s South Island

The South Island of New Zealand offers the outdoor-loving tourist snow-capped mountain peaks, enormous glaciers, deep fjords, golden beaches, lush rainforests, and turquoise lakes, sperm whales, yellow-eyed penguins—and memories to last a lifetime.

MORE: 14-Day South Island Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of licence do you need to hire a campervan in Christchurch?

Travellers must hold a full, unrestricted car license to hire a campervan in Christchurch. Non-English licences need an accompanying International Driver’s Permit (IDP).

Many campervan agencies refuse to rent vehicles to drivers under 21. One notable exception is JUCY, which rents campervans to customers over 18 and/or with a restricted New Zealand or provisional Australian license.

Can you sleep anywhere in an RV in New Zealand? Is freedom camping allowed?

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 these can vary depending on the area and any council bylaws (local laws) that may apply.

Generally 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 center) and ask about any local regulations or bylaws.

Can I pick up my RV in the South Island and drop it off in the North Island or vice versa?

Yes, many companies have depots in both the North and South Islands and allow one-way trips.

If planning this you will need to pay the cost of the ferry, our support team can help you book this.

Additional one-way fees may apply, the comparison tool will automatically factor this into your total.

Are one-way RV rentals possible in New Zealand?

Yes, a large number of rental companies allow for one-way rentals.

This may not be available between all routes and additional fees apply depending on the pick-up and drop-off location. Our comparison tool will automatically factor in any additional fees and show you which vehicles are available on your preferred route.

How long should I plan for a motorhome vacation to the South Island?

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.

Does my campervan rental come with unlimited miles?

Yes, generally unlimited miles are included for standard vehicle rentals in New Zealand. The comparison tool will show you if your preferred vehicle has this included or if the mileage is restricted.

Campervan Rental Christchurch Reviews