When I first set off for my New Zealand trip, I was quite overwhelmed just thinking about what awaited me. I didn’t really go with a structured plan, so I was free to explore at my own pace and take in the country spontaneously. While this slightly frightened me, I knew it was a great opportunity in my life and that I would grab it with both hands. Luckily, the plane journey there was a long one, so this gave me plenty of time to think about how I would be getting around New Zealand. The solution? Hiring a campervan to journey around the amazingly beautiful country.
This guide will talk about my 30-day New Zealand trip where I took a campervan to the roads and saw the world through my own eyes. Continue reading to find out more!
Why I Chose a Campervan
I found that hiring a campervan was a fantastic way to explore New Zealand, as it combines all my transport needs with a very ideal accommodation situation. I got the flexibility to chase the country’s famous landscapes, cook my own meals and wake up to breathtaking views without having to be stressed about hotel check-ins and outs. It’s also very cost-effective, as all you really need to purchase is petrol and food along the way, negating the need to splash out on any expensive transport.
I always heard that New Zealand is built for campervan travel and this is absolutely true. The country features a well-maintained network of Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites, powered holiday parks and free camping spots. The only dilemma is making sure that you hold the appropriate license before travelling. Camper vans come in all different sizes, so if your van is over a certain weight limit, you need a Category C1 licence or bus driver training from Lifft Group.
Benefits of Travelling New Zealand by Campervan
Connection to Nature
With your transport and kitchen bundled into one vehicle, I found that I naturally stopped dining out as frequently, relying instead on stocked groceries and local markets. This stripped my travel experience back to its basics and connected me intimately with the land. There was no better feeling than waking up with a cup of coffee and a lot of beautiful nature positioned right in front of me.
Environmental Respect
Throughout my stay, I always stayed at Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites and eco-friendly freedom camping spots around New Zealand. This allowed me to quickly learn the importance of ‘Leave No Trace’ principles. You see firsthand how delicate ecosystems are protected by community-driven sustainability.
Slow Living
Rather than packing and unpacking at different hotels, you wake up beside mirrored alpine lakes and rugged coastlines so you can travel New Zealand at your own pace. The rhythm of van life teaches you to adapt your route to sudden weather changes instead of fighting them, so you can gain more respect for your surroundings. During my trip, I found that New Zealand gave me some of the best morning experiences I could ask for, as a I cooked breakfast on a portable hob and enjoyed a beautiful coffee to perk me up.