Are you dreaming of snow-capped mountains under a sun-drenched sky — with dramatic coastlines and unexpected adventures around every bend?
New Zealand is calling, and hiring a campervan or motorhome is the perfect way to answer. Imagine the freedom of exploring this stunning country at your own pace, stopping wherever you like and waking up to views that will simply take your breath away.
If you’re a UK traveller, New Zealand offers a familiar left-side driving experience along with landscapes that feel otherworldly and reassuringly reminiscent of home. It may seem like a long way to travel — but your reward is an experience of a lifetime.
In this blog, we help you plan your perfect NZ road trip. We discuss RV travel differences between the UK and NZ, budgeting for your road trip and essential travel advice you need to know if you’re a UK citizen. We also share some classic Kiwi expressions and what they mean in UK English.
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Contents |
Motorhome travel differences between New Zealand and the UK
Brits are recognised for their long and storied history of epic journeys — from intrepid explorers charting unknown territories, like Captain Cook, to families packing up the car for holiday road trips.
Modern UK culture has given the world popular adventure travel shows like Top Gear and Rob Stein’s overseas food adventures. The call of the open road is deeply ingrained, and New Zealand's vast wilderness is made for road trips.
What makes a Kiwi road trip so compelling is the:
- Promise of breathtaking scenery around the next bend
- Thrill of exploring New Zealand at your own pace
- Likelihood of discovering hidden gems.
The New Zealand open road is an adventure filled with mystery and excitement — where remarkable travel memories are created.
Distances are longer than you think
New Zealand may appear small on a map, especially compared to the vastness of nearby Australia — but driving times can be longer than you might assume.
Aotearoa New Zealand has a slightly larger land mass than the UK, but roads are often winding and curvy, especially through mountainous regions and along coastlines. This means that journeys can take longer than expected, particularly when driving a recreational vehicle.
The maximum speed limit on many single-carriageway roads in NZ is similar to the top speed in the UK — 100km/h, which is the equivalent of 62mph. However, your average speed is likely lower due to the nature of New Zealand’s roads and because many motorhomes have a 90km/h speed restriction.
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.
Check out our guide to driving a motorhome in New Zealand for the first time.
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New Zealand |
United Kingdom |
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Approximate land mass (sq mi) |
103,483 |
93,628 |
Prepare for a variety of road types
New Zealand has a well-maintained network of sealed roads, so it’ll feel familiar behind the wheel. You'll be driving on the left — just like back in the UK. However, the types of roads you encounter may differ from what you’re used to. Be ready for:
- Coastal routes — these are often narrow and huge coastlines, winding and dipping around dramatic cliffs and bays to stunning views
- Mountain passes — that offer fantastic scenery but have steeper inclines, sharper turns and more challenging passes than in the UK, particularly when driving larger vehicles like motorhomes
- Gravel roads — which you may encounter in more remote areas, notably near the entrances to national parks and off-the-beaten-track
- Narrower road width — even main highways when compared to UK roads.
Slower speeds and extra caution are necessary on gravel as it can be uneven and easy to lose traction.
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
Like in the UK, 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 get your pulse on what’s in the atmosphere. You can view this dependable weather forecast on the Metservice website or via the mobile app from the App Store or Google Play.
Particularly in winter and spring, 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 the United Kingdom.
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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 |
Wild camping is less regulated
If you choose to wild camp, or freedom camp as the locals call it, on your New Zealand motorhome holiday, you’ll find it less restrictive than in the UK.
Kiwis are passionate about protecting their environment — reflected in the nation’s freedom camping rules. While freedom camping is generally more accepted than in the UK, you still need to know some key points.
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Freedom Camping |
UK |
NZ |
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Legality |
Generally illegal except in specific areas, like parts of Scotland |
Generally legal but with restrictions and conditions |
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Certification |
No specific certification is required for wild camping |
Must be certified self-contained (CSC) to freedom camp |
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Designated areas |
Limited to designated campsites or with landowner permission |
More widespread freedom camping areas, but often restricted to specific signposted sites with time limits |
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Restrictions |
Varies by region, with some areas having complete bans |
Local councils can impose further restrictions or even ban freedom camping |
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Fines |
Fines can be issued for illegal camping |
Penalties for illegal freedom camping can be substantial |
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Enforcement |
Enforcement varies by region |
Enforcement can be less rigorous in some areas, but it's not worth risking with heavy fines in place |
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 — the UK versus NZ While both countries value respect and consideration for others, there are a few key differences in camping etiquette, including: • Campfires — often restricted or banned in the UK, they’re accepted in fire pits or designated areas in New Zealand, but always check for fire ban signs • Noise — quiet hours are generally strictly enforced in the UK, whereas there can be a more relaxed attitude in NZ, especially in freedom camping spots • Privacy — in the UK, people tend to value personal camping space, while a communal and social atmosphere is common at NZ campsites • Rubbish — most UK campsites have designated bins and recycling facilities, while at NZ freedom camps, you're expected to pack out all your rubbish and leave no trace. Learn about hiking etiquette in New Zealand. |
How to plan your New Zealand campervan trip
Flying halfway around the globe will take you one to two days of flying and transit time. Before then, you should have your NZ campervan holiday well planned — including an RV booked, a route decided upon and your itinerary built.
Know your travel style
By understanding how you prefer to travel, you can create a motorhome itinerary that better suits you. Do you dream of peaceful nights among nature or the buzz of city life? Are you interested in local culture or outdoor hiking adventures?
Recognising your travel style will help you make the most of your New Zealand campervan experience. Put together an itinerary around a few wish list items, like:
- Exploring Wellington’s quirky laneways — searching for the country’s best craft beer
- Whale watching — near the extraordinary Kaikoura coastline
- 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
- Disturbing your senses at Rotorua’s Hell’s Gate mud spa.
Check out our Rotorua motorhome holiday guide to learn more about this unique 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. Travellers from the UK usually make the most of getting away from the Northern Hemisphere’s wintery weather — making December through February popular months to visit NZ.
Summer
Peak tourist season is not surprisingly over the summer months. Hotter temperatures are the usual and long sunny days make it ideal for swimming, hiking and exploring. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
Find out our ten reasons to tour New Zealand by motorhome 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 photography opportunities.
Discover how to plan a New Zealand motorhome adventure in spring and see why exploring NZ in autumn is a great idea.
Winter
June to August brings winter so expect colder temperatures and even snow — especially in the South Island.
Winter is the time for skiing, snowboarding and other winter sports. Queenstown and Wānaka are popular destinations for snow enthusiasts from the UK, as they offer world-class slopes and a lively après-ski scene.
The subtropical climate in Northland sees warmer winter temperatures than the rest of the country. The region has the mildest winter climate in NZ. Compared to parts of the UK, average daytime temperatures are similar to autumn or early spring. You’ll probably need a jacket for the occasional winter shower, but it usually doesn’t take long for the sun to break through again.
Learn what 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 party is a pivotal decision.
Begin by settling on the number of travellers and whether you’ll need a two or four berth recreational vehicle. 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 as early as possible to obtain the best deal and secure the model and features you want. This is particularly important if you intend to travel during the peak summer months.
See our guide to choosing a Wilderness motorhome.
Plan your route
Most UK visitors to New Zealand who hire a recreational vehicle pick up their campervan or motorhome from Auckland, Christchurch or Queenstown.
The North Island offers a captivating mix of geothermal wonders, unique Māori culture, and rolling green hills — including the Hobbiton movie set from J. R. R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings. It's like combining the Scottish Highlands with Iceland and adding a touch of Cornwall.
The South Island is where you'll find more dramatic landscapes reminiscent of the French Alps — with stunning turquoise lakes and vast, sparsely populated areas. Imagine the Lake District but on a much grander scale.
When planning your journey, consider what you'd like to experience and how much time you have. Whether you're drawn to the otherworldly landscapes of the North Island or the breathtaking scenery of the South Island, your campervan adventures in NZ will be unforgettable.
You may decide to travel from:
- Christchurch to Christchurch — to spend time near the West Coast glaciers and Milford Sound
- Christchurch to Auckland — to start in the colder temperatures and move slowly north to the warmer parts of the country
- Auckland to Christchurch — to see parts of both islands and take your motorhome across Cook Strait
- Auckland to Auckland — with a focus on regions like Northland, The Coromandel and the Bay of Islands.
Think about what extras you’ll need
When you're 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 want the additional 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 al fresco dining — to go with your evening cup of tea.
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Kiwis and tea Both Kiwis and Brits love a good cuppa, but there are a few subtle differences in tea-drinking habits, such as: • Types — black tea remains popular in both countries, though herbal and fruit teas are gaining popularity, especially in NZ • Strength — in New Zealand, people generally prefer tea a little weaker than in the United Kingdom • Milk — both nations enjoy a splash of milk in their tea, but Kiwis tend to use less • Sugar — while still the most popular sweetener in both countries, alternatives are becoming more common • Drinking time — the tradition of afternoon tea exists in both countries, but it's perhaps more ingrained in British culture as Kiwis tend to be more casual about their tea drinking. The enjoyment of tea unites both nations. However, Kiwis have developed their own unique tea culture, which has subtle differences in taste and customs. |
If you're planning a winter adventure in the South Island, see if the hire company has snow chains — or a bike rack for exploring lower heights on two wheels. Check if the rental operator offers child seats if you have little ones.
If you plan to explore both main islands, book your ferry crossing well in advance, and you’ll likely pay less. It's a little like booking train tickets in the UK during a bank holiday — the earlier you book, the greater the availability and the better the price. Some rental companies can even help organise ferry tickets.
Discover how to travel with a motorhome on the NZ Cook Strait ferry.
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The unofficial capital of NZ A small town in the Bay of Islands holds a special place in New Zealand's history. It was the country's first permanent European settlement and its first capital — known as Kororāreka, which means sweet blue penguin. Once a bustling whale port with a Wild West feel, Russell was named after Lord John Russell, a prominent British politician who served as Secretary of State for the Colonies at the time. Russell lost capital status to Auckland in 1841 but retained all its charm and historical significance. |
Budgeting for your New Zealand motorhome road trip
Hiring a vehicle will be one of your biggest expenses for a New Zealand motorhome trip. Similar to choosing a hotel in the UK, prices vary depending on your preferred level of comfort and features.
Campervan costs
If you're content with a compact campervan or motorhome, you may find something for around NZ$70 per day — less than you’ll probably pay for a budget hotel room across the UK.
At the other end of the scale, a luxury motorhome hire during peak season in the New Zealand summer may set you back over NZ$800 a day. Most options fall somewhere in between, so it's worth comparing prices from different rental operators and checking for deals on different dates and pick-up locations.
Generally, the range of campervan and motorhome prices in New Zealand is comparable to similar rentals in the UK. It really 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 range of camping grounds. You’ll find holiday parks with all the bells and whistles, like swimming pools and playgrounds, to basic Department of Conservation (DOC) sites.
Freedom camping is also an option — and is free, as it suggests. Alternatively, a powered site at a holiday park may cost up to NZ$60 per person. That’s similar or slightly pricier than what you might find for a commercial campsite in the United Kingdom.
The vast network of DOC camping sites in New Zealand is a real novelty. Often located in stunning locations, they are usually much more affordable than commercial campgrounds. Book early if you plan to stay over the peak months, as popular spots fill quickly.
See our guide to motorhome camping in New Zealand.
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Plugging into New Zealand New Zealand uses the same voltage as the UK, so most electronic devices don't need a voltage converter. However, the countries’ plug sockets are different. New Zealand uses type I plugs with three flat pins in a triangular arrangement, while the UK uses type G plugs with three rectangular pins. You'll need a plug adaptor to use your UK electronics in New Zealand, but you can easily purchase one from the airport before departure or on arrival. |
Fuel costs
Fuel will be a significant part of your New Zealand road trip budget. While distances may be shorter than you're used to in the UK, those winding mountain roads and scenic detours can consume gas 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 — prices slightly higher than those in the UK.
Another factor is road user charges (RUC) on diesel vehicles. It’s a way of contributing to the upkeep of New Zealand's roads. At the end of your road trip, you pay based on how far you drove and the weight of your motorhome.
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 eat out.
Like in the UK, supermarkets are readily available throughout New Zealand, but expect food costs to be more than you’re used to back home. In smaller towns, you may only find a small local shop with slightly higher prices. For the best grocery deals, shop at larger supermarkets like Pak'nSave in the bigger cities.
You can find Kiwi versions of some UK favourites in New Zealand bakeries — like pies, sausage rolls, scones and even Chelsea buns. For a selection of some delicious pies in the South Island, visit Miles Better Pies in Te Anau. Up north, call into Patrick's Pies Gold Star Bakery — which has won NZ’s supreme pie award nine times.
If you fancy sampling local produce and mingling with the locals, visit a few farmers’ markets. They're a great way to experience quality regional flavours and find fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Download our motorhome recipes for the road and start prepping your food schedule now.
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Kiwis and coffee Kiwis love their coffee as much as the British. You'll find plenty of cafes in New Zealand serving tasty cuppas, but be aware of a few key differences. In the early 2000s, antipodean influences played a significant role in bringing flat white coffee to the UK market. New Zealand flat whites tend to be slightly smaller and have a thinner layer of microfoam than those in the UK. You’re probably used to asking for skim milk in the UK. If you want low fat milk with your latte in NZ, ask for trim milk. Iced coffee is usually just chilled black coffee with ice, but the term can sometimes refer to a ready-to-drink coffee beverage from the supermarket in the United Kingdom. On average, coffee prices are slightly cheaper in New Zealand than in the UK — especially compared to London prices. |
Essential travel information as a UK traveller visiting New Zealand
Before embarking on any overseas travel, there are always several important tasks to check off your to-do list. Make sure you have your:
- Passport — valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from New Zealand
- Visa — as a UK citizen, you can enter New Zealand on a visa waiver for a holiday of up to six months
- Driver licence — you can drive a recreational vehicle in NZ with your valid UK driver licence for up to 12 months without needing an international driving permit or any other 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 what’s covered under your motorhome rental insurance to help ensure a worry-free holiday in New Zealand.
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Sail smoothly through 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 than that, 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 renewing or replacing a UK passport. |
Understanding the New Zealand tongue
Although you share the same language as New Zealanders, sometimes it may feel like Kiwis speak in their own code. Even minor differences in vocabulary can lead to some head-scratching moments.
This handy list will help you decipher the lingo and avoid awkward misunderstandings on your New Zealand motorhome adventure.
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UK travel language |
New Zealand travel language |
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Hiking |
Tramping |
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Caravan park |
Holiday park |
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Wild camping |
Freedom camping |
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Cool box |
Chilly bin |
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Food |
Kai |
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Hello |
Kia ora |
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Pal |
Bro |
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Corner shop |
Dairy |
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No through road |
No exit |
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The middle of nowhere |
Wop-wops |
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Petrol station |
Gas station |
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Holiday cottage |
Bach |
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Sweet potato |
Kumara |
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Swimsuit |
Togs |
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Flip flops |
Jandals |
Is it time to pack your sense of wonder and start preparing for your New Zealand campervan holiday?
