Hiring a campervan offers the ultimate flexibility, letting you immerse yourself in Queenstown’s natural beauty while exploring at your own pace. With a campervan, you can go from alpine lake shores to mountain trails without worrying about accommodation availability. You can also save on costs by combining your transport and lodging, cooking your meals on the road, and taking advantage of free or low-cost campsites around the region. Plus, having everything with you makes it easy to change plans based on weather or spontaneous adventures!
- Campervan rental companies in Queenstown
- Finding the right campervan
- Queenstown campervan sites
- Campervan parking in Queenstown
- Camping rules in New Zealand
Campervan rental companies in Queenstown
Queenstown has a variety of companies specialising in campervan rentals, catering to both luxury and budget travellers. Popular providers include JUCY Rentals, known for its brightly coloured campervans; Maui Motorhomes and Britz, both offering a range of modern and well-equipped motorhomes; and Apollo Campervans, which offers a variety of sizes and amenities. These companies all have rental offices conveniently located near Queenstown Airport, making it easy for travellers to get started on their journey without delay. For travellers looking for local options, Kiwi Campervans and Mad Campers offer flexible rental packages tailored to explore New Zealand’s beautiful South Island.
Finding the right campervan
Campervan rentals in Queenstown offer a range of choices. Each vehicle type comes with its own set of benefits, so there’s something for every preference and budget.
1. Budget Campervans
Budget campervans are the most affordable choice, often compact vehicles with basic facilities like a bed and a small kitchenette. They’re great for travellers looking to save money and who don’t need luxury amenities. Some of them are not self-contained, which means you’ll have to stay in non-self-contained campgrounds (no freedom camping).
- Cost: Prices range from NZD 50–100 per day in the off-season (May–September) and NZD 100–150 per day in peak season (December–February).
- Example Providers: JUCY Rentals, Mad Campers
- Features: Basic amenities, sometimes no toilet or shower. Some have their kitchenette inside while in others, it’s only accessible by the open back door.
2. Mid-Range Campervans
Mid-range campervans offer more space and often have self-contained certification, meaning they come equipped with a toilet, fresh water, and waste tanks. These vehicles are ideal for travellers who want a bit more comfort without breaking the bank.
- Cost: Prices range from NZD 150–250 per day in the off-season and NZD 200–300 per day in peak season.
- Example Providers: Britz, Apollo, Travellers Autobarn
- Features: Comfortable sleeping space, basic kitchen facilities, self-contained certification, often accommodating up to four people.
3. High-end campervans and motorhomes
High-end campervans and motorhomes offer a luxurious travel experience with extra amenities like a full kitchen, shower, heating, and expanded living areas. These are ideal for those wanting a premium, hotel-like experience on the road.
- Cost: Prices range from NZD 300–500 per day in the off-season and NZD 400–600+ per day in peak season.
- Example Providers: Maui Motorhomes, Let’s Go Motorhomes
- Features: Spacious interiors, premium amenities, self-contained certification, luxury options suitable for families or couples wanting added comfort.
Queenstown campervan sites & campgrounds
Campervan sites in Queenstown
Queenstown has several campgrounds that are ideal for campervan travellers.
- Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park offers scenic views and close proximity to the town centre, with powered sites, kitchen facilities, and hot showers.
- Creeksyde Holiday Park is another popular choice, known for its unique eco-friendly design, well-maintained amenities, and convenient location.
- Driftaway Queenstown, near Lake Whakatipu, provides a quiet lakeside escape and is just a short drive from central Queenstown. It was fully renovated in 2022.
- For those looking to save on costs, DOC (Department of Conservation) sites around Queenstown offer low-cost camping options with more basic facilities, but still provide access to beautiful natural surroundings.
To help you find a campsite, use the application Campermate.
Campgrounds near Queenstown
Outside Queenstown, there are many excellent campground options.
- Glenorchy Holiday Park, located about a 45-minute drive away, is perfect for those wanting to explore the Routeburn Track and other popular hiking routes.
- 12 Mile Delta is another scenic DOC site, providing a rustic lakeside experience close to the Queenstown-Glenorchy Road.
- For wine enthusiasts, Kawarau Bridge Campground near Gibbston Valley gives easy access to the vineyards and wineries in the area.
- Arrowtown Holiday Park offers a peaceful setting with historic charm just 20 minutes from Queenstown, making it an ideal base for exploring both Arrowtown and Queenstown.
- Kingston Holiday Park, 30 minutes from Queenstown towards Te Anau, offers a quieter lakefront stay.
Campervan parking in Queenstown
While campervans are convenient, parking them in Queenstown’s busy town centre can be challenging, particularly during peak travel seasons. Designated parking areas for campervans are available, but it’s important to note that free parking is limited.
- Boundary Street Carpark offers affordable parking with easy access to the main areas.
- Man Street Carpark also provides convenient campervan parking and is close to Queenstown’s shops and restaurants.
- For travellers just looking to stop by briefly, Park Street has short-term parking where visitors can admire Lake Whakatipu and grab a quick bite.
Additionally, some rental companies provide designated parking areas for their vehicles. While overnight parking is restricted within the town centre, several nearby campgrounds offer safe and convenient spots to park and explore Queenstown by foot or public transport
Camping rules in New Zealand
New Zealand has strict freedom camping regulations to protect its pristine landscapes. Rules vary by region, but the general guidelines are:
- Self-contained campers have more freedom and can camp where freedom camping is allowed, often with specified areas for self-contained vehicles. A self-contained camper is equipped with essential facilities that allow travellers to camp without impacting the environment. These vehicles are certified by the New Zealand Self-Containment Standard with a sticker. Again, Campermate and signage are a good resource to find where camping is allowed.
- Non-self-contained campers are restricted to staying in designated campgrounds or holiday parks with necessary facilities, such as toilets and cooking areas.
Penalties for illegal camping can include fines if travellers camp outside designated zones, so it’s essential to check signage and local council regulations. Head to the QLDC Council website for official information on responsible camping in the Queenstown Lakes District region.
When travelling, we invite you to embrace the Tiaki Promise - to care for New Zealand and to practise the Leave No Trace principles by disposing of waste in the proper facilities.
Ready to hire a campervan in Queenstown?
A campervan offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore at your own pace, camp under the stars, and access off-the-beaten-path locations. Whether you’re planning a short trip around Queenstown or a road trip across the South Island, a campervan is your ticket to a truly memorable Kiwi adventure. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare to create incredible memories in one of the world’s most beautiful travel destinations!
