Imagine escaping to New Zealand, where the air is crisp, the views are often astonishing and new adventures await around the next bend. Hiring a campervan or motorhome is your ticket to an extraordinary experience — and you'll be free to explore this intriguing country at your own pace.
In this blog, we help you plan your perfect Aotearoa New Zealand road trip. We discuss RV travel differences between Singapore and NZ, budgeting for your road trip and essential travel advice you need to know if you’re a Singaporean. We also share some classic Kiwi expressions and what they really mean in English.
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Contents |
Travel differences between New Zealand and Singapore
Your island nation of metropolitan Singapore is a vastly different world from the wide open spaces of rural New Zealand.
Singapore's compactness and efficiency mean that public transport is primarily used for urban commuting. Motorhome travel isn’t viable unless you travel north to other countries like Malaysia or Thailand.
In contrast, New Zealand’s comparatively long distances between towns make it a haven for adventuring off-the-beaten-track by recreational vehicle. It may feel like a complete novelty to embark on a road trip inside a fully equipped home on wheels where you can take your time to explore.
NZ offers a well-established roading network with main state highways constructed to handle larger vehicles like campervans. Expansive landscapes with incredible natural scenery and the freedom to stop and take it all in can be a liberating experience.
Picture yourself waking up to panoramic landscape vistas and creating memories that will last a lifetime — a world away from the familiar urban sights of Singapore.
What makes a Kiwi road trip so compelling is the:
- Vastness of nature and incredible scenery — contrasted with the lack of people, yet plenty of sheep
- Opportunity to experience other seasons and what they bring — like snow in winter and falling leaves in autumn
- Feeling of escape — to the laidback New Zealand lifestyle in comparison to the busyness of home
- Thrill of touring New Zealand attractions at your own pace
- High likelihood of discovering hidden gems.
Distances are longer than you think
New Zealand has a significantly larger land mass than Singapore. Roads are often winding and curvy, particularly through mountainous regions and along coastlines. This means that journeys can take longer than expected when driving a motorhome — so give yourself extra time on the road.
You’ll find higher open road speed limits in New Zealand than Singapore. A few select highways have a limit of 110km/h. However, many motorhomes in New Zealand have a speed limit of 90km/h that you need to keep to.
Planning your itinerary carefully and factoring in extra travel time is essential. New Zealand only has relatively short motorways entering the larger cities of Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin. Once you exit the larger cities, you’ll find uncrowded streets and wide open spaces.
Check out our guide to driving a motorhome in New Zealand for the first time.
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New Zealand |
Singapore |
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Approximate land mass (sq mi) |
103,483 |
284 |
Be ready for different kinds of roads
You’ll be accustomed to smooth, well-maintained roads in Singapore. New Zealand also has a network of dependable and sealed main roads.
Gravel roads, however, may be something you haven’t yet come across. In New Zealand, you may encounter gravel roads — especially while exploring more rural areas or venturing off the main highways. It can be a fun and exciting way to experience a different side of driving.
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Tips for driving on gravel roads Driving on gravel is a lot different to driving on tarmac. It’s critical to:
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Just like in Singapore, you'll be driving on the left-hand side of the road. However, the types of roads you’ll encounter may differ from what you’re used to back home. Be ready for:
- Coastal routes — they’re often winding and dipping around dramatic cliffs and bays to stunning views
- Mountain passes — offering eye-catching scenery with steep inclines, sharp turns and challenging passes
- Gravel roads — in more remote areas, notably near the entrances to national parks
- Narrow road widths.
Choosing a modern and well-equipped motorhome is a wise decision. A vehicle that can handle New Zealand's varied terrain will make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable.
Discover how easy it is to drive a Wilderness motorhome.
Expect unexpected weather
New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable and prone to change quickly. It’s not uncommon to experience sun, rain and wind on the same day in Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch.
Check the local metservice daily to know what’s on the horizon. You can also view this reliable weather forecast using the mobile app from the App Store or Google Play.
Be aware that in winter and spring especially, your campervan holiday may encounter:
- Heavy rain — causing floods, road closures and detours
- Wind — making it challenging to drive high-sided vehicles like campervans and motorhomes
- Fog — reducing visibility during mornings, which makes it vital to drive cautiously
- Snow and ice — creating hazardous driving conditions from black ice, especially on the South Island.
Understand the country’s seasonal weather patterns to determine the best time to visit New Zealand from Singapore.
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Choosing which season to travel around NZ is easy for me — autumn. The weather in March and April is often calm with less wind. Fewer people are on the roads, campgrounds are usually emptier and outdoor activities like kayaking can be cheaper. Craig McClelland — Wilderness’ Lead Content Creator |
Understanding freedom camping in New Zealand
If you’ve camped in Singapore, you’ll know that camping mostly takes place in specific areas within designated parks. Basic facilities like toilets and water sources are often provided — although the quality of amenities can vary.
These camping facilities have similarities with New Zealand’s regional parks and Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites, where some sites are set up for campervans and motorhomes.
However, while Singapore’s camping areas are usually located within urban parks, New Zealand’s are mostly away from built-up areas — especially freedom camping spots.
Freedom camping means camping for free in a certified self-contained (CSC) recreational vehicle on designated public land — while respecting the environment and following local regulations. Kiwis are passionate about protecting their environment, so freedom camping in NZ comes with a few rules.
Freedom camping in New Zealand
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Legality |
Freedom camping is generally legal but with restrictions and conditions |
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Certification |
Your RV must be CSC to freedom camp |
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Designated areas |
Often restricted to specific signposted sites with limits on the number of nights |
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Restrictions |
Local councils can impose further restrictions or even ban freedom camping in certain places |
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Fines |
Penalties for illegal freedom camping can be substantial |
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Enforcement |
Enforcement can be less rigorous in some areas, but it's not worth risking due to the heavy fines |
Ensure you know the rules and stick to them to avoid picking up an unwanted fine. Download freedom camping apps like CamperMate and Rankers Camping NZ to help you find the sites and follow the local regulations.
Find out everything you need to know in our essential guide to freedom camping in NZ.
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Camping etiquette — Singapore versus NZ While both countries emphasise respect and consideration for fellow campers and the environment, there are some notable differences in camping etiquette, including:
By understanding these differences, you’ll be able to follow NZ’s camping etiquette and contribute to a positive and respectful camping experience.
Learn about hiking etiquette in New Zealand. |
How to plan your New Zealand campervan trip
Planning begins long before you board the ten hour direct flight from Singapore to Auckland or Christchurch. Be sure to book your recreational vehicle, map out your itinerary and secure popular campground sites as early as possible.
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Long flight — short drive Following a long-distance flight like one from Singapore to New Zealand, it’s best to only drive a short distance. Better still, check into a nearby airport hotel in Auckland or Christchurch and pick up your recreational vehicle early the following day — when you’re well-rested and ready to go adventuring. Keep to relatively short driving days to get the most out of a New Zealand motorhome experience. |
Know your travel style
How do you prefer to travel? Do you dream of peaceful nights under the stars or the buzz of city life? Are you interested in local culture or prefer interacting with native wildlife?
You can make the most of your New Zealand RV holiday by recognising your travel style. Create an itinerary around a few wish list items, like:
- Spending a day driving to Milford Sound from Te Anau — where you’ll find numerous scenic rest stops along the way and boat cruises once you reach Milford
- Whale watching — near the extraordinary Kaikoura coastline
- Taking your photo with That Wānaka Tree in the southern adventure town of Wānaka
- Day hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in the North Island of New Zealand — one of the world’s most amazing one day walks
- Visiting impressive Doubtful Sound — on a day trip that includes three boat cruises
- Bungy jumping — off the Auckland Sky Tower or the home of the commercial bungy, the Kawarau Bridge Bungy near Queenstown
- Disturbing your senses at Rotorua’s Hell’s Gate mud spa
- Walking some of the Abel Tasman Coastal Track — in the Nelson Tasman region of the South Island
- Exploring Wellington’s quirky laneways — searching for the country’s best craft beer.
Check out our Wellington motorhome holiday guide to learn more about the country’s capital city.
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Aotearoa New Zealand Were you aware that New Zealand has two official names? You’re probably familiar with New Zealand but the indigenous Māori people have another name for their home — Aotearoa. It translates into Land of the long white cloud. |
Choose the perfect season for your adventure
New Zealand offers something special every season, so the best time to visit depends on your interests and priorities.
Summer
Peak tourist season takes place over the summer months. Relatively hot temperatures are the usual, and long sunny days make summer ideal for swimming, hiking and exploring. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time of year to visit NZ. You may find the heat similar to Singapore’s consistent year-round temperatures but without the humidity.
Check out our ten reasons to travel New Zealand by campervan in summer.
Spring or Autumn
The shoulder seasons from September to November and March to May in NZ offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds and better deals on motorhome rentals and activities. Spring is a great time to see gardens in bloom, though it does bring wind — while autumn offers stunning foliage and outdoor photography opportunities.
Find out about planning a New Zealand motorhome adventure in spring and exploring NZ in autumn.
Winter
June to August brings winter so you can expect colder temperatures and even snow — particularly in the South Island.
Winter is the time for skiing, snowboarding and other winter sports. Queenstown and Wānaka are popular destinations for international snow enthusiasts, as they offer world-class slopes and a lively après-ski scene.
Discover the ideal clothing to pack for each of New Zealand’s seasons.
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Pack or suitcase space is a valuable commodity. Try using packing cells and rolling your clothing, as this compresses your gear and removes air pockets — reducing the overall volume of your clothes. Craig McClelland |
Book your dream camper
Choosing the right campervan or motorhome for you and your travel group is crucial. Establish how many travellers you have and whether you’ll need a two or four berth motorhome.
If you’re travelling solo or as a couple, a two berth campervan or a compact motorhome will be perfect. However, if you’re a family of four or a pair of friends, you’ll need a four berth like this King/Twin for 4 — or The Suite for extra luxury.
Book early to get the best deal and secure the model and features you want. This is especially important if you intend to travel during the peak summer months of December to February — and even as temperatures get warmer in November.
See our guide on choosing a Wilderness motorhome.
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Central heating for warmth Not all campervan and motorhome rentals in New Zealand are warm when the sun goes down. Choose one with full insulation, double glazed windows and central heating that distributes warm air throughout the interior. It’s a must during the colder winter months but also essential in spring, autumn and even summer — when cold nights are always possible. |
Plan your route
Most Singaporean visitors to New Zealand who hire a motorhome pick it up from Christchurch.
New Zealand’s South Island has dramatic landscapes reminiscent of a smaller version of the Himalayas — with stunning turquoise lakes and vast, sparsely populated areas.
It’s where you can spot native wildlife like whales, Hector's dolphins, kiwis, weka and yellow-eyed penguins. The south also features more national parks than up north, so if you’re into day hikes with magic panoramas, consider visiting Fiordland National Park and Mount Aspiring National Park.
The North Island offers a captivating mix of geothermal wonders and rolling green hills — including the Hobbiton movie set from Lord of the Rings.
In the north, you can learn about Māori culture and traditions, taste some of the best seafood and wine on the globe and explore charming historical towns like Russell in the Bay of Islands.
When planning your journey, consider what you'd like to experience and how much time you have available. Whether you're drawn to the otherworldly landscapes of the North Island or the breathtaking mountain vistas of the South, expect a remarkable NZ campervan adventure.
You may decide to travel from:
- Christchurch to Milford Sound returning to Christchurch — spending time on the West Coast crossing the Haast Pass
- Christchurch to Queenstown returning to Christchurch — via glacial-fed lakes and majestic mountains
- Christchurch to Nelson returning to Christchurch — detouring to the Abel Tasman National Park and Golden Bay
- Christchurch to Auckland — beginning in colder temperatures and moving slowly north to the warmer parts of the country
- Auckland to Christchurch — seeing parts of both islands and taking your motorhome rental across Cook Strait on the ferry.
Decide what additional items you’ll need
When comparing campervan and motorhome rental companies, it's worth checking what extras they offer and whether any are included in the hire price. Think of it like choosing options on a new car — you may want the extra features that'll improve the comfort of your trip.
A few useful extras include outdoor tables and chairs for enjoying those stunning views and a barbecue for dining outdoors.
If you're planning an adventure in the South Island, see if the motorhome hire company has a bike rack for exploring the mountains on two wheels. Check if the rental operator offers child seats if you have young children.
If you plan to explore both main islands, book your ferry crossing well in advance, and you’ll likely pay less. The earlier you book, the more availability and the better the price. Some rental companies can even help you arrange ferry tickets.
Find out how to travel with a motorhome on the NZ Cook Strait ferry.
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Kiwi tea habits You may be used to the vibrant kopi culture and enjoy an occasional teh tarik. If so, you’ll be happy to know that many New Zealanders also consume black tea — but with a few differences, including:
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Budgeting for your New Zealand motorhome road trip
Just like choosing a hotel in Singapore, hiring a campervan or motorhome in New Zealand will be a significant expense on your trip. Prices vary depending on the vehicle's size, features and quality — similar to how hotel rates differ based on the room type and amenities.
When selecting a campervan rental, consider your budget and style of travel, just as you would when choosing accommodation in Singapore.
Campervan costs
If you only need a compact campervan or motorhome, you may find something for around NZ$70 per day — similar to a deal on a three star mid-range hotel in Singapore.
By contrast, a luxury motorhome hire during peak season in the New Zealand summer may cost you over NZ$800 a day. Most RV hire prices fall somewhere in between, so it's worth comparing prices from different rental operators and checking for deals on various dates and pick up locations.
The range of campervan prices in New Zealand is comparable to hotel room prices in Singapore — from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious suites with the advantage that it comes with transport. So, it comes down to finding the right vehicle for your needs and budget.
Learn more about how much it costs to rent a motorhome in New Zealand.
Camping costs
New Zealand has a wide variety of camping grounds. You’ll find everything from basic DOC sites to holiday parks with added features, like swimming pools and playgrounds.
Freedom camping is also an option — and, as the name suggests, it’s free. Alternatively, a powered site at a holiday park may cost you up to NZ$60 per person. That's similar to what you may spend on a nice meal at an average-quality restaurant in Singapore.
New Zealand’s vast network of DOC camping sites is unique. Often located in stunning places, they’re typically much more affordable than commercial campgrounds. Book early to stay over the peak months of December to February, as the most popular campsites fill quickly.
See our guide to motorhome camping in New Zealand.
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Plugging into New Zealand While New Zealand and Singapore use the same voltage, the plug types are different — so you won't need a voltage converter, but you’ll have to pack a plug adaptor. New Zealand has type I plugs with three flat pins in a triangular arrangement, while Singapore uses type G plugs with three rectangular pins. Therefore, you'll need a plug adaptor to use your Singaporean electronics in New Zealand. You can easily find these adaptors at electronics stores before leaving Singapore, in Changi Airport or at Auckland or Christchurch airports after you arrive in New Zealand. |
Fuel costs
Fuel will be a significant part of your New Zealand road trip budget. Distances are much longer than anything you’ll find in Singapore, and mountain roads and scenic detours can consume fuel faster than expected.
At the time of writing, diesel was around NZ$1.75 per litre, and petrol was about NZ$2.50 a litre — significantly cheaper than current prices in Singapore.
One way of contributing to the upkeep of New Zealand's roads is the collection of road user charges (RUC) on diesel vehicles. At the end of your RV road trip, you’ll have to pay these charges based on how far you drive and the weight of your motorhome.
Singapore utilises an electronic system with gantries to collect RUC, while New Zealand uses a distance-based system with charges paid per kilometre travelled.
At Wilderness, our RUC recovery fee is $0.084 cents per kilometre. It's like a toll road system but applies to all roads, not just some motorways.
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Spy on the petrol stations For the best prices, fill your tank at petrol stations in larger towns or cities — and download the Gaspy app to find up-to-the-minute gas prices while you’re on the road. |
Food costs
How much you spend on food will depend on how often you cook in your motorhome kitchen and how frequently you dine out.
Just like in Singapore, supermarkets are plentiful throughout New Zealand, so you'll have no trouble stocking up on supplies for your campervan adventure. However, food costs may be higher than you’re used to back home.
For the best grocery deals, shop at larger supermarkets like Pak'nSave. In smaller towns, you may only find one small local shop with slightly higher prices.
Visit a few farmers’ markets to try local produce and mingle with New Zealanders. They're a great way to experience quality regional flavours and find fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Asian grocery stores are becoming increasingly common in New Zealand — especially in cities and larger towns. You can find some of the ingredients you may use back home and purchase fresh fruit and vegetables.
Download our motorhome recipes for the road and start planning your RV meals now.
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New Zealanders and coffee Plenty of cafes across New Zealand serve up excellent brews because Kiwis are serious about their coffee. If you’re used to the diverse coffee scene in Singapore, exploring Kiwi coffee culture will be a fun part of your travels.
On average, NZ coffee prices are fairly reasonable, offering good value for your money. It may even be a welcome change if you’re used to the prices of trendy cafes in Singapore — and a great way to get your daily caffeine fix while exploring the country. |
Payment methods in New Zealand
Visa and Mastercard credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout New Zealand. American Express and Diners Club may also be used at some larger businesses, such as petrol stations and supermarkets.
Wise international debit cards work just as well as any Visa or Mastercard in New Zealand. They’re a smart way to minimise currency exchange fees while accessing your funds overseas.
New Zealanders still commonly make EFTPOS transactions with their debit cards, though increasingly more locals use contactless payment methods like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
If you usually use PayWave or PayPass in Singapore, you'll be happy to know that these contactless payment methods are also widely accepted across NZ. Look for the contactless symbol on the payment terminal — then tap your card or mobile wallet to pay.
You can also still pay by cash, especially to smaller retailers. It’s wise to have some New Zealand dollars on hand for when you find yourself in small rural towns.
Exchanging currency
When it comes to currency exchange, you have a few options. You could:
- Exchange Singapore dollars for New Zealand dollars before your trip — at a money changer back home or online
- Withdraw New Zealand dollars from ATMs after you arrive — but compare options because exchange rates and fees vary.
While using your Singapore credit or debit card directly can be convenient, be aware of potential foreign transaction fees. Check with your bank before departing Singapore to understand the fees involved.
Essential travel information as a Singapore traveller visiting NZ
Just like planning any overseas trip from Singapore, there are a few essentials to sort out before you embark on your New Zealand campervan adventure. Be sure you have your:
- Passport — valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from New Zealand
- NZeTA visa waiver — this simple online application allows Singaporean citizens to visit New Zealand for up to three months
- Driver licence — you can self-drive an RV in New Zealand for up to 12 months with your valid Singapore driver licence and without an international driving permit or any special licence
- Travel insurance — while not compulsory, it’s highly recommended as it can cover unexpected medical expenses, accidents, theft and other unforeseen events.
Always read the fine print of your motorhome rental insurance and look closely over the terms and conditions of your rental contract — to help ensure a worry-free holiday in New Zealand.
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Preparing for NZ customs New Zealand is very strict about what you can bring into the country, so it's important to know their biosecurity rules. Declare anything that may be a risk — even if it seems harmless, like fruit, vegetables or plant seeds. It's better not to risk a hefty fine. Double-check your passport's expiry date well in advance of your trip. It must be valid for at least three months after your planned departure date from New Zealand. If it expires sooner, you'll need to renew it before travelling. Give yourself time to organise this, as passport renewals sometimes take a few weeks. Learn more about applying for a Singapore passport. |
Understanding the New Zealand tongue
With English being one of Singapore’s four official languages and Singlish used daily, you’ll be able to communicate with New Zealanders easily. However, it may sometimes feel like Kiwis are speaking their own brand of English, as the accent and slang can be confusing. Even minor differences in vocabulary can lead to some head-scratching moments.
This useful list will help you decipher Kiwi English nuances and avoid awkward misunderstandings on your New Zealand motorhome adventure.
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Singapore travel language |
New Zealand travel language |
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Hiking |
Tramping |
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Campsite |
Holiday park |
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Free camping |
Freedom camping |
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Icebox |
Chilly bin |
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Food |
Kai |
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Hello |
Kia ora |
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Friend |
Bro |
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Convenience store |
Dairy |
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Dead end |
No exit |
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Boondocks |
Wop-wops |
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Petrol station |
Gas station |
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Holiday home |
Bach |
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Ok |
Sweet as |
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Sweet potato |
Kumara |
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Swimwear |
Togs |
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Flip flops |
Jandals |
Have a question about travelling in New Zealand by campervan? Post a comment below, and we’ll answer it for you.
See our top ten tips for planning your first NZ motorhome road trip.
