Queenstown is the perfect starting point for a campervan adventure, but careful planning is the key to a great trip. Here are some tips to get you under way.
Hire the right campervan
A wide range of vans and motorhomes are available to rent in Queenstown. Use our campervan booking tool to choose the one best suited to your needs and budget. Most rental companies will collect you from Queenstown Airport and deliver you back again at the end of your trip.
Safety first
Familiarise yourself with New Zealand's road rules. We drive on the left and some of our roads are narrow or windy, so it might take you longer to cover the distance to your destination than you expect. If traffic is backing up behind your motorhome, please find a safe spot to pull over and let it past. Then, you can relax and enjoy your drive. If you're a visitor to New Zealand, this web page is full of helpful information and this video will give you an idea of what to expect.
Pack wisely
Pack light but don't forget essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, a raincoat and warm clothing. Even in summer, New Zealand's weather can change quickly. And, of course, you'll need a good camera to capture those magic moments.
North, south, east or west?
Whichever direction you point your campervan, you are sure to have a wonderful adventure. Queenstown provides easy access to some of New Zealand's most iconic attractions, such as Milford Sound, Fiordland, and the Mount Cook National Park. However, you'll also find lots of interest within the Queenstown Lakes District and neighbouring Central Otago and Southland. As well as spectacular scenery, expect exhilarating activities, fabulous food and wine, and fascinating history. Explore our region here. The New Zealand Transport Agency's Journey Planner tool will help you calculate travel times and assess road conditions.
Where to park for the night
Download the CamperMate app to find a place to stay. Commercial camping grounds and holiday parks are a safe choice if you are wanting to spend a night in a town. They offer laundry, bathroom and kitchen facilities. If you book a powered site, you will be able to plug in your campervan to recharge batteries and use more electrical equipment. The Department of Conservation also offers camp sites in beautiful locations around New Zealand. These are usually quite basic and reasonably priced. If your campervan is certified self-contained, you may be able to freedom camp. You'll find the latest information about this on the Queenstown Lakes District Council website.
Be a responsible camper
Renting a motorhome will allow you to get up close to nature. However, New Zealand's beautiful landscapes are fragile. We support the Tiaki Promise and ask that you care for our home by treading lightly, respecting wildlife, and disposing of waste responsibly.
Be flexible
Embrace spontaneity and be open to detours. One of the greatest advantages of hiring a campervan is the ability to go where you like and stop when you please. Some of the best experiences happen when you least expect them. Enjoy your road trip!
Images: Miles Holden
