How to Make a New Zealand Motorhome Your Home Away from Home

While there are several ways to travel across New Zealand, a motorhome definitely one of the most unique ways to do it. In New Zealand camper areas are available in various options. They include those with an automatic or manual transmission, and a petrol or diesel engine. In terms of capacity, the campers can accommodate 2-6 passengers. Some motorhomes are as tiny as a car, while full-size models have everything you need, including a shower and fridge. Typically you can rent a motorhome for five or more days. However, during peak seasons such as Christmas, you must rent it for a minimum of 10 days. Typically a regular driver’s license is sufficient for driving a motorhome in New Zealand. Usually drivers must be at least 25 years old.   

The major rental depots in New Zealand are Christchurch and Auckland, and are frequently nearby airports. You can find depots in other cities, such as Wellington and Queenstown. While you might be able to rent a motorhome for a one-way trip, usually a fee is required for such rentals.  When renting a motorhome you’ll typically be required to receive 30 minutes of instruction so you’ll be aware of the operation of the vehicle. Be certain that before you depart that the fuel tank is full. When traveling between North Island and South Island, you’ll need to book the ferry trip on the Cook Straight, which is a 3-hour trip. Each vehicle aboard the ferry is required to pay a fee.

If you won’t take out an insurance policy that provides full coverage, then you must secure a bond. Typically the bond‘s value is equal to the different on the insurance option that you selected. Usually this excess is around $2,500. The bond is typically refundable if the motorhome wasn’t in a vehicular accident or robbery, and is returned in an excellent condition. It’s important to review the insurance provided by your credit card company, or you could add the bond to your travel insurance. Several travel insurance companies will cover a bond for renting vehicles, however motorhomes are frequently excluded.   

In terms of camping grounds, it’s advisable to search for a full-serviced site. Usually this type of site will contain various features, including a drain and water, and a power point that’s plug-in. In terms of a kitchen, typically there’s a communal kitchen for guests staying at the site. You can also find bathing and laundering services if you don’t find the motorhome to be comfy enough. Game rooms are also common at such sites. Now, one of the most important issues: what’s the bottom line? Typically the rate is $10-17. And before holidays and peak seasons, you should definitely book your reservation early enough. This will help guarantee that you have a spot when you arrive at the site.

A motorhome is definitely an option that you should consider when you travel in New Zealand. By considering all the above-mentioned issues, you’ll be well on your way to staying in a home away from home—a motor home, that is. 

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