New Zealand Caravans And The Outdoors

Camping is a popular way to see the wonders of New Zealand without seeing your wallet dwindle. Camping facilities (known as holiday parks) vary in size from grassy plots to sprawling compounds. Motor parks and camps usually feature tent sites (from NZ$10 per person) and caravan (campervan) sites (from NZ$20). Some also feature on-site caravans for rent. Most parks charge for tent and caravan sites per person. Many also offer cabins or flats with singles (from NZ$30), doubles (from NZ$45), and tourist flats (from NZ$75) and bunk rooms (from NZ$20) with varying amenities (e.g., kitchens, linens). The DOC runs campsites scattered in the middle of nature. For more information, see Camping, 35. Though frequently illegal, it is also possible to camp for free in New Zealand.

In New Zealand, renting a caravan (campervan) will always be more expensive than camping or hostelling, but the costs compare favorably with the price of renting a car and staying in hotels. Rates vary widely by region, season (summer months are the most expensive), and type of caravan. A no-frills, two-berth caravan can cost as little as NZ$55 per day in low season (NZ$120 in high season), whereas a luxury six-berth camper will run closer to NZ$125 per day (NZ$250 in high season). To arrange a caravan rental, check with your local Automobile Association, contact a major international firm, such as Avis, Budget, or Hertz, or select one of the options listed below. In any case, it always pays to contact several different companies to compare vehicles, amenities, and prices. Those who plan to travel by RV in New Zealand or do a lot of camping may choose to join a network like the Top 10 Holiday Parks, 294 Montreal St., P.O. Box 959, Christchurch 8015, to reap consistent 10% discounts at member parks. (☎0800 867 836; www.topparks.co.nz. Membership fee NZ$30.)

Auto Europe (NZ ☎0800 223 5555, US 888-223-5555, UK 0800 169 6414; www.autoeurope.com) rents caravans in New Zealand.
Maui Rentals: New Zealand, 36 Richard Pearse Dr., Mangere, Private Bag 92133, Auckland (New Zealand ☎0800 651 080, elsewhere 09 275 3013; www.maui-rentals.com). Offers diverse RV and camper rentals.
United Campervans (www.campervan.co.nz) is a family-run business that rents 2- to 6-berth caravans.