Choosing the Right RV Rental in New Zealand

Planning an adventure through New Zealand's surreal landscapes begins by finding your ideal recreational vehicle. At first, it can seem daunting when you’re presented with everything from spacious motorhomes to compact campervans — but we can help guide you towards the right choice.

In this blog, we talk about the various types of RV rentals available, their key features and the benefits of choosing a self-contained motorhome. We also provide insights into essential considerations like budget, travel style, comfort and drivability — so you can make a more informed decision.

Compare the most common types of RVs in New Zealand

The options for recreational vehicles (RVs) for hire in New Zealand are as diverse as the topography.

A basic knowledge of the different types of RVs available is vital for selecting one that aligns closest to your travel style and needs. Each kind offers unique benefits — from roomy motorhomes equipped with all the comforts of home to agile campervans that can be perfect if you’re a solo traveller.

Motorhomes

The ultimate in comfort and convenience, motorhomes are relatively larger vehicles that come fully equipped with a living room, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. The key features of motorhomes are:

• Spacious living areas — with more room to relax, dine, chat and sleep
  
  
• Comfortable beds — that are often fixed with proper mattresses
  
  
• Well-equipped kitchens — potentially with gas hobs, an oven and a fridge
  
  
• Variety — you’ll be able to choose between a range of different layouts and sizes
  
  
• Self-sufficiency — most are certified self-contained (CSC), meaning you can legally freedom camp.

See Wilderness’ range of motorhomes for hire.

Campervans

Offering a blend of freedom and affordability, campervans are relatively smaller vehicles with basic cooking facilities and makeshift bedding that use the space for multiple purposes. The main attributes of campervans are:

• Manoeuvrability — they’re easy to drive on narrow, winding roads
  
  
• Easier to park — their relatively smaller size allows you to park in regular parking spots
  
  
• Lower cost — typically a budget-friendly option with more affordable daily rental rates.
  
  

A couple of notable rental operators with campervans for hire are Mad Campers and JUCY Rentals.

Caravans

Traditionally, the classic Kiwi holiday experience was taken in a caravan. Many New Zealand families would, and still do, hook up their caravan to the car towbar and make a beeline for their favourite beach campground in summer.

Although not likely the most straightforward option if you’re travelling from overseas, renting a caravan as a resident New Zealander is an option. The benefits of camping in a caravan are:

• Having a full kitchen and comfortable bed — making it feel like a real home on wheels
  
  
• Freedom to explore — uncouple the caravan from your towing vehicle, and you’re free to explore minus the extra weight and without having to stow everything away before day trips
  
  
• Variety — of layouts and sizes, with additional space often created by an awning
  
  
• Affordability — with lower rental costs compared to motorhomes.
  
  

Camplify is probably the most well-known brand that has caravans for hire in New Zealand and globally.

Converted vans

Exploring New Zealand in a converted van is usually reserved for the young — and the young at heart.

Converted vans are modified after their initial manufacture, so although they’re essentially campervans, each is often one-of-a-kind with a unique personality and even a name. Hiring one can be an unusual yet rewarding way to tour the country. The advantages of renting a converted van are:

• A more personalised travel experience — if you can find a converted van for hire designed in a style that suits your character
  
  
• Potential for longer off-the-grid travel — some converted vans are set up with solar panels, water tanks and a fixed toilet to legally free camp.
  
  

Only a few operators in New Zealand hire out converted vans, with Quirky Campers one of the most prominent.

Check out this related blog on campervans versus motorhomes versus RVs.

Non self-contained versus self-contained motorhomes

In New Zealand, the difference between a non-self-contained and a self-contained RV is whether you can take it off-grid for at least three days and be self-sufficient.

To be self-sufficient and meet the laws for freedom camping in NZ, your motorhome needs to be certified self-contained (CSC) and have a:

• Fixed toilet — with a holding tank or container to store wastewater
  
  
• Fresh water storage — enough capacity for four litres a day per traveller
  
  
• Grey water storage — a tank with sufficient capacity to collect all your sink and shower water
  
  
• Sealed rubbish bin — that will store garbage securely.

The benefits of hiring a CSC recreational vehicle

Be sure to proactively ask the rental operator if their RVs are certified as being self-contained. The additional freedom and flexibility you’ll enjoy by freedom camping with a CSC motorhome is unquestionable, with benefits that include:

• Legal access to freedom camping spots — where nature is the dominant feature rather than other campers
  
  
• Saving money — by not having to pay campground fees
  
  
• Minimising your environmental impact — you’ll be managing your own water and waste without disposing of it at freedom camping locations
  
  
• Peace of mind — you have everything you need to camp self-sufficiently for three days or more.
  
  

Find out more about self-contained motorhomes in our guide on freedom camping in New Zealand.

The difference between premium, mid-range and budget RV rentals

Sometimes, it’s not easy to see the difference from the outside between premium, mid-range and budget RV rentals in New Zealand.

Premium RV rentals

A premium rental is a relatively new vehicle from a reputable motorhome brand that is fully winterised and has an intelligent layout that offers ultimate comfort. The RV has been exceptionally well-maintained and professionally cleaned — and comes with little surprises.

The beds are ready-made with comfy mattresses, the kitchen is fully equipped and may even come with a large fridge-freezer and oven.

In addition, you should expect outstanding customer service and 24/7 on-road assistance. You may also receive complimentary extras like an airport pick up and drop off — plus coffee and travel tips  upon arrival at the operator’s base.

Premium RV rentals usually have relatively high daily hire rates. However, rather than just looking at the motorhome, it’s also worth considering the overall experience you’ll receive from the provider — which is often reflected in their reviews.

Discover the ultimate luxury motorhome for hire in NZ — The Suite.

Mid-range RV rentals

You’ll find a lot of RV rentals in the mid-range competing for your business. You can expect motorhomes and campervans that are:

• Comfortable without being luxurious — a cosy living space and a well-equipped kitchen plus a functional bathroom
  
  
• Well maintained and modern enough to only be a few years old
  
  
• Generally affordable, practical and reliable. 
  
  

Mid-range RV rentals mostly have lower prices than premium recreational vehicles. They may also come with less refined customer service and charge for accessories that are usually free with premium motorhomes.

Budget RV rentals

Search for a budget rental campervan to maximise your adventure yet minimise your spending. Expect mainly campervans and converted vans aimed at younger demographics — with basic but functional features in a relatively smaller space.

You’ll likely come across older campers with higher mileage in the low-cost market, but these RVs are perfect if you’re on a very tight budget.

Take our RV rental quiz to help you decide whether a premium, mid-range or budget recreational vehicle is best for your upcoming travel adventure.

How to choose the right RV for your New Zealand road trip

Choosing the right recreational vehicle for your New Zealand adventure is like finding the ideal hiking boot — it has to fit your travel style and support your travel party.

But with a kaleidoscope of motorhomes, campervans, caravans and converted vans available to select from, where do you begin? It’s vital to align your RV with your budget, travel group, travel style, ideal amenities and features, and driving preferences.

1. Know your budget

How much do you want to spend on transport and accommodation? How many days do you wish to hire an RV?

Once you’ve determined these figures, you can quickly work backwards. Divide your total spend by your ideal number of days. This amount will be the maximum cost of your daily transport and accommodation.

Besides hiring the RV, your daily transport and accommodation costs should also include:

• Petrol or diesel — plus AdBlue, road user charges (RUC) and road tolls if expected
  
  
• Camping — fees can vary depending on whether you plan to primarily camp at commercial campgrounds, Department of Conservation (DOC) sites, regional parks or freedom camping spots
  
  
• Insurance — most RV rental companies will have standard, less excess and no excess options
  
  
• Extras and accessories — anything from child restraints to ferry tickets.

2. Confirm your travel group

One of your most important aims should be to find an RV that ideally fits your travel group.

If you’re a group of one or two, you’ll only need two single beds or a double. However, if your travel party consists of four or more people, you’ll need at least two double beds. Check how many berths your prospective RV has — you’ll find anything from two to seven in New Zealand.

Extra beds can take up a lot of usable space in recreational vehicles, so you may want to seek out a motorhome that features a drop down bed. This relatively new innovation is a real game changer for RVs as it means the bed can be stored in the ceiling when not in use — freeing up precious space.

Find your ideal Wilderness motorhome rental.

3. Determine your travel style

Discuss with your travel party how you want to holiday by RV in New Zealand.

Are you naturally relaxed or adventurous as a group? Do you intend to venture off-the-beaten-track? Is your preference for freedom camping off-grid or staying in campgrounds with full facilities? Will you explore the North or South Islands — or both?

Decide whether you prefer a relaxing, easy-going vacation or a fast-paced, energetic holiday. 

Motorhomes are more comfortable if you plan to travel longer distances — and their spacious layouts prioritise comfort and ease of use. Premium motorhomes with central heating, insulation and double glazing are ideal for winter travel through the mountains.

If you’re planning to mostly freedom camp, motorhomes offer more space for greater comfort — even when it’s raining. You’ll likely experience fewer feelings of cabin fever in a motorhome than a campervan should rain affect your holiday on consecutive days.

Campervans are better suited to traversing narrow, winding roads and may more closely fit your group if it likes to explore. But remember that the smaller your campervan, the more time you’re likely to spend outdoors or prefer to rely on campground facilities.

Caravans offer the balance of being able to set up camp and check out the surrounding areas in your towing vehicle.

Take our fun quiz to see which New Zealand camping styles suit you.

4. Decide what amenities and features you need

Think about what features and amenities will keep your travel party content throughout your motorhome holiday.

What type of beds will provide your travel party with the most rest and comfort? Does your group require a separate toilet and shower? How basic or well-equipped does the kitchen need to be? Are you comfortable accessing the kitchen from the boot, like with many converted vans?

Also, consider whether you need extras and add-ons such as onboard WiFi, a barbecue, outdoor chairs and table, snow chains and a bike rack.

5. Work out your driving preferences

New Zealand has diverse terrain and winding roads that can be challenging to drive. Therefore, knowing what you need to drive comfortably is essential.

Compact motorhomes,  campervans and converted vans are surprisingly manoeuvrable and have a smaller turning radius than larger RVs. This makes them ideal for navigating tight corners and finding parking spots in towns.

Towing a caravan isn’t as easy and requires some experience — particularly if you’re reversing or manoeuvring across hilly terrain.

Motorhomes generally have more powerful engines than campervans and converted vans, so they can cruise comfortably on the open road and easily tackle hills. Converted vans and campervan hires can struggle on steep inclines — especially if they have a full load of passengers.

If you decide to rent a caravan, the speed and power of the towing vehicle and the caravan's weight will limit you.

Due to their larger size and more robust suspension, motorhomes typically offer smoother rides. On the other hand, campervans and converted vans can be bumpier as they’re usually smaller and have more basic suspension.

The drive while towing a caravan depends on the caravan’s suspension — but you’ll likely feel more vibrations and bumps than when driving a motorhome.

Learn about driving a motorhome in New Zealand for the first time.

Finding your ideal RV rental involves considering your group’s budget, travel style and driving preferences — as well as what you want in an RV hire.

Take a look at the range of Wilderness motorhomes for hire.