We're Camperland, your friendly New Zealand campervan crew based in Christchurch and Queenstown! We're here to help you have an epic road trip.
Our main depot is in Christchurch at 300 Hasketts Road, Yaldhurst, Christchurch 7678, New Zealand. We also have a depot in Queenstown at 1 Gray Street.
Head to our website, pick your dates, choose your camper, and you're good to go! If you have any questions, you can always give us a call.
It depends on the season and location. In Christchurch, it's a minimum of 1 day from June to September, and 5 days from October to May. In Queenstown, it's always a minimum of 5 days.
Yes, you can! The minimum rental duration for a one-way trip is 5 days.
Yes, we do. Cancellations within 14 days of pickup incur a NZ$250 fee. If you cancel within 7 days, it's 50% of the total rental cost. No-shows or day-of cancellations mean you forfeit the entire rental cost.
Yes, when you book directly, we require a deposit of $250 to secure your campervan.
Weaccept credit or debit card (VISA or MASTERCARD) payments. Just a heads up, there's a 2.9% credit card processing surcharge.
Changes are subject to availability and may result in a change in price, but we'll always do our best to accommodate you!
Your rental includes unlimited kilometers and 24/7 roadside assistance.
- What kind of campervans do you have?
Currently, our fleet consists of the Camperland Trio campervan, a modern Toyota Hiace with a 2023+ fit-out. It's a real beauty!
- How many people can the Trio sleep?
The Trio comfortably sleeps three people and has seating for three as well.
- Are your campervans self-contained?
Yes, every single one of our campers is certified self-contained. That means you get to enjoy the freedom of camping in some of New Zealand's best spots!
- What amenities are in the Trio?
The Trio campervan is equipped with everything you need for a comfortable trip. You'll find all the essentials: a fridge, a sink with a fresh water filtration system, a portable cooker, and a microwave. For added convenience, a portable toilet and shower are also available as an optional add-on. Not only that, but we've included a sunroof so you can stargaze from the comfort of your bed. With a solar panel for power and a reversing camera, your journey will be both comfortable and stress-free.
- Is there a toilet and shower in the van?
A toilet and the shower are optional and can be added to your rental for an additional fee.
- What kind of power system do the vans have?
Our vans come with a dual power system, including 240V plugs, USB ports, and a solar panel to keep your batteries charged up.
- What's the fuel consumption like?
The Trio uses unleaded fuel and has a fuel consumption of about 12-14L/100km.
- Do the vans have air conditioning and heating?
The front cabin has A/C, and we offer a free winter comfort kit on request, which includes a heater and hot water bottles to keep you cozy.
- How old are your campervans?
Our Trio campervans are Toyota Hiace models from 2019 or newer with a modern 2023+ fit-out.
- What is the height of the vehicle?
The Trio is 2.9 meters high, so keep an eye out for low-hanging signs and trees!
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Do I need a special license to drive a campervan?
Nope! A standard full driver's license from your home country is all you need, as long as
it's in English. If not, you'll need an official English translation or an International Driving
Permit. -
Which side of the road do you drive on in New Zealand?
Wedrive on the left side of the road. "Driver to the center line, passenger to the
pavement!" is a great way to remember. -
What's the speed limit?
Speed limits are typically 100km/h on open roads and 50km/h in urban areas, but always
pay attention to the signs. -
What about roadside assistance?
We've got you covered! All rentals include free 24/7 roadside assistance. The number is
in your rental documents and on a sticker in the van. -
Is there a mileage limit?
Not with us! All our rentals come with unlimited kilometers, so you can drive as far as
your heart desires. -
What should I do in a breakdown?
First, pull over somewhere safe. Then, call the 24/7 roadside assistance number
provided in your documents. -
What if I run out of fuel?
Call the 24/7 roadside assistance number for help. If you return the vehicle without a full
tank, we'll refuel it for you, but there's a charge of NZ$2.90 per liter plus a NZ$50 service
fee. -
What happens if I get a ticket or fine?
Any fines or tickets received during your rental period are your responsibility. We'll pass
on the details to the relevant authority, and they will contact you directly. -
Are the roads difficult to drive on?
New Zealand roads are often narrow and winding, so we recommend taking it slow,
taking regular breaks, and enjoying the view. -
What about car parks?
Most car parks are a good size for our campervans, but always be aware of the vehicle's
height and length before attempting to park.
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What are your protection options?
Weoffer Basic, Enhanced, and Premium Protection plans. They affect your security bond and damage liability.
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What's the difference between the protection options?
Basic Protection comes with a NZ$3,500 security bond. Enhanced Protection reduces the bond to NZ$0 for a daily fee. Premium Protection also has a NZ$0 bond and includes coverage for one single-vehicle rollover and write-off. .
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Can I get a booster seat for my child?
Yes, we offer booster seats for children aged 4-7 years for a NZ$40/hire fee.
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What other extras can I add?
You can add a camping table (NZ$30/hire),campingchairs(NZ$15/hire), snow chains (NZ$40/hire), a portable power station (NZ$30/day), and more!
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What if I need to return the vehicle dirty?
Weask that you return the vehicle washed and vacuumed. If not, a cleaning fee of NZ$100 applies. Excessively dirty vehicles will incur a minimum NZ$200 charge.
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How do I book an Essentials Kit?
The Essentials Kit can be added during the booking process on our website. It's a one time fee of NZ$45 and covers up to three people.
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Can I get snow chains?
Yes, snow chains are available to rent for NZ$40 per hire. They're a must for alpine areas in winter!
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How do I get a portable shower?
A solar camping shower can be added as an optional extra for NZ$20 per hire.
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Do you offer long-term rentals?
Yes, please contact our friendly team directly for more information.
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What if I have a question that isn't on this list?
Feel free to contact us! You can call us at 0800 200 666 or send us an email at info@camperland.co.nz. We love talking about campervans and road trips!
Welcome to the land of breath taking landscapes and… roundabouts. Driving here is part of the adventure, and we want to make sure yours is safe, fun, and unforgettable for all the right reasons. This isn’t a scary legal textbook; it’s your mate’s inside advice for nailing the NZ roads.
Let’s get the big one out of the way first. In New Zealand, we drive on the left-hand side of the road.
It feels weird for about five minutes, then it becomes second nature. Here’s how to remember:
- "Driver to the centre line, passenger to the pavement." Your co-pilot is now your official "Keep Left" reminder.
- When you’re pulling out of a car park or a quiet street, take a deep breath and consciously think "LEFT."
- ProTip:The white line in the middle of the road should be on the driver's side. If it's on the passenger side, you're on the wrong side!
Our roads are like our hiking trails– they’re not always wide and straight, but they lead to the most amazing places.
- Take Your Time:There’s no rush. The speed limit is a maximum, not a target. Slower speeds give you more time to react and more time to gawk at the view.
- Use Slow Vehicle Bays: See those little pull-off areas on uphill stretches? If you notice a few cars behind you, be a legend and pull over to let them pass. It’s the Kiwi way.
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One-Lane Bridges: They’re a thing here! The rule is simple:
- Red arrow:YOU MUST GIVEWAY. Stop before the bridge.
- White arrow:You have the right of way (but still approach with caution).
Your camper is bigger than a car. It’s taller, wider, and heavier. It’s your home on wheels! Just keep these things in mind:
- Mind Your Height: Know how tall your van is (we’ll tell you!) and watch for height restrictions in car parks or under bridges.
- Allow More Space: You’ll need more room to brake, more space to corner, and a wider berth when passing. Take it easy.
- Wind is Your Nemesis: One specially windy days (especially on coastal roads like Kaikōura), slow down and keep a firm grip on the wheel. Gusts can push you around a bit.
NZ weather can change in a heartbeat. Sunshine to sideways rain to sunshine again is a standard Tuesday.
- Check the Forecast: Use MetService or the NZTA Journeys website before you set off for the day.
- Drive to the Conditions: If it’s raining, slow down and increase your following distance. If it’s foggy, use your headlights (low beam, not full beam!). If the road is icy, consider waiting for it to thaw.
- AlpinePass Warning: Passes like the Crown Range near Queenstown can get ice and snow, even in spring and autumn. Always check conditions.
This is the most important advice we can give. Road fatigue is real.
- The2-HourRule: Stop for at least 15 minutes every two hours. Get out, stretch your legs, have a coffee, and take a photo. There’s a great café or a stunning lookout around almost every corner.
- Share the Driving: If you can, swap drivers every few hours.
- NoRush,NoRegrets: Your itinerary is a guide, not a contract. If you’re tired, stop. The road will still be there tomorrow.
We hope you never need this, but it's good to know.
- 111 is the emergency number for Police, Fire, and Ambulance. It's free from any phone.
- For breakdowns: Your rental includes 24/7 roadside assistance. The number is right there in your rental documents and on the windscreen sticker. We’re here to get you back on the road.
- For non-urgent police matters: Call 105.
- I have my valid driver's licence (and international permit if required).
- I know my left from my right.
- I've downloaded the MetService and Campermate apps.
- I have a plan to take breaks every two hours.
- I know my campervan's height.
- I've got the emergency breakdown number saved in my phone.
You've got this. Millions of people do this every year and have the time of their lives. Just stay alert, stay left, and soak it all in.
Let's talk about the not-so-glamorous but absolutely ESSENTIAL part of your Kiwi road trip: self containment. It sounds complicated, but it’s really just a fancy term for "your campervan has a bathroom and you promise not to be a grub." Master this, and you get the keys to some of the most incredible, wallet-friendly camping spots in the South Island.
Imagine your campervan is a superhero. Its superpower? Carrying everything it needs to survive—and leave no trace—for days on end. Officially, it means our vans are certified to have:
- Afresh water tank: For drinking, washing, and pretending you're a master chef.
- Agrey water tank: For the dirty dishwater. This doesn't just get tossed out the window onto a unsuspecting fern.
- Atoilet: The star of the show. For... you know.
- Asealed rubbish bin: For all your snack wrappers. Keeps the cheeky Kea birds from throwing a party.
In short, it means you can be totally self-sufficient. You're like a turtle with a much, much better view.
Forget Willy Wonka. The real golden ticket in NZ is a green self-containment label/sticker on the windshield. This isn't a participation trophy; it's proof that a proper inspector has given our van a thumbs-up and said, "Yep, this loo and tank system is good to go."
Whenyouseethis blue badge of honour in your Camperland wheels, you know you're legit.
- MoreEpic Spots: This little sticker is your access pass to hundreds of breathtaking freedom camping spots that are strictly "No Loos, No Views."
- Avoid Fines: Councils don't mess around. Getting caught freedom camping without this sticker can lead to a ticket that seriously cramps your holiday budget. Don't let your worst souvenir be a fine!
- Good Karma: It means you're respecting our badass environment. We're pretty fond of our clean green reputation and want to keep it that way.
| Freedom Camping (The Wild Child) | Holiday Parks (The Fancy Cousin) | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free or darn cheap. | Costs actual money. |
| Location | Jaw-dropping, middle-of-nowhere perfection. | Convenient, often in towns. |
| Facilities | You, your van, and your sense of adventure. | Power, showers, laundry, WiFi... the works. |
| Vibe | Serene, secluded, "pinch-me" moments. | Social, "I really need to shower" moment. |
Pro Tip: The best road trip mixes both! Go wild for a few nights, then hit a holiday park to recharge your devices, your water tank, and yourself.
Wegive you the certified wheels, but we need you to be the responsible hero.
- Read the Signs: If a sign says "Self-Contained Vehicles Only," it means YOU. If it says "No Camping," it means EVERYONE. This is not a suggestion.
- Dump Responsibly: You wouldn't empty your toilet at home in your neighbour's garden. The same logic applies here. Only empty your tanks at designated dump stations. The Campermate app is your best friend for finding these.
- Leave It Better: Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but... well, nothing. Pack out all your rubbish.
Every single one of our campers comes with that magic blue sticker. No ifs, no buts. We've handled the certification so you can focus on more important things, like deciding between wine in Central Otago or beer in Queenstown.
We'll give you a full rundown of how everything works at pickup. Don't worry, it's easier than assembling flat-pack furniture.
Aself-contained campervan is your ticket to a truly authentic South Island adventure. Let's get you on the road.
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Kia Ora, Future Road Tripper!
So, you’ve booked your wheels and are ready to explore the South Island. Awesome! Driving here is part of the adventure, but it’s a little different from anywhere else. Consider this your unofficial, not-at-all-boring guide to conquering New Zealand roads like a pro.
The Lowdown on Driving in NZ
We Drive on the Left Side of the Road.
This is the big one. The left side. It’s the correct side. Just remember: "Driver in the middle, passenger on the pavement." Repeat it until it becomes your mantra. Your co-pilot’s main job is to gently remind you of this, especially after a coffee stop.
Our Roads are… Characterful.
Think of them less as highways and more as scenic trails with tarmac. They are often narrower, windier, and have more one-lane bridges than you might be used to. This isn't a bad thing! It just means you need to:
- Take Your Time: This isn't a race. The journey is the destination. Seriously.
- Pull Over: If you’ve got a line of cars behind you (we call that a "Kiwi convoy"), use the slow vehicle bays to let them pass. It’s the polite thing to do and will earn you good karma.
- One-Lane Bridges: See the signs? The bigger, red arrow means you have to give way to oncoming traffic. The little white arrow means you have right of way. When in doubt, slow down and check.
The Weather: Four Seasons in One Day
Pack your sunscreen and your raincoat. Maybe at the same time. NZ weather is famously unpredictable, especially in the South Island.
- Check the Forecast: Use MetService or NZTA Journey Planner before a big drive, especially if heading over alpine passes like Lewis Pass or the Crown Range.
- Drive to the Conditions: If it’s pouring, slow down. If there’s ice or snow, be extremely cautious or wait for it to clear. There’s no shame in delaying for a cuppa.
Freedom Camping: The Rules of the Road (Side)
We have a whole page on this, but the golden rule is simple: Only freedom camp in areas that explicitly allow it, and only if you have a self-contained van (which all ours are!).
- Look for the Signs: "Self-Contained Vehicles Only" = your green light. "No Camping" = keep driving, champ.
- Dump Stations are Your Friend: Never empty your toilet or waste water anywhere but a designated dump station. The Campermate App is genius for finding these.
- Leave No Trace: Take all your rubbish with you. Let's keep our backyard beautiful.
What to Pack for Your Campervan Adventure
Besides your sense of adventure, here’s the essentials:
- Layers, layers, layers: Merino wool is your best friend.
- Sturdy walking shoes: For those impromptu waterfall walks.
- A good rain jacket: See "four seasons in one day" above.
- Sunhat and sunscreen: The NZ sun is fierce, even when it's cold.
- A reusable water bottle: Tap water here is delicious and free!
- Your favourite playlist/podcasts: For those long, beautiful drives.
- A physical map or downloaded offline maps: Because mobile coverage can be patchy in the mountains (it's part of the charm!).
Your Campervan Trip Bible: Must-Have Apps
- Campermate: The #1 app for campervan travellers. Finds freedom camping spots, holiday parks, dump stations, showers, and cheap groceries. Download it. Now.
- https://www.metservice.com/: The most accurate weather forecasts for NZ.
- NZTA Journeys: For real-time traffic and road condition updates (roadworks, closures, etc.).
- Google Maps (Offline): Download the areas you’ll be travelling in.
Quick Fire Kiwi Lingo Lessons
- Jandals: Flip-flops. Essential footwear.
- Tramping: Hiking. Go for a tramp!
- Dairy: A corner store or convenience store. Not just for milk.
- Heaps: A lot. "There's heaps of cool spots to see."
- Sweet as: Cool, awesome, no problem. The highest form of approval.
Remember, You've Got This (And Us!)
Driving a campervan here is one of the coolest ways to see the country. Just take it slow, be prepared, and embrace the adventure. If you ever feel unsure, just pull over, put the kettle on, and enjoy the view.
And if you have any questions at all—no matter how silly you think they are—our team is here to help. We’re locals, and we love sharing our tips.
Ready to hit the road?
