How to Rent an RV in New Zealand

See more of New Zealand in an RV.

For visitors or tourists who want to see the New Zealand countryside and never have to unpack more than once, an RV rental is the answer. You can tour and sightsee all over New Zealand, park the RV in a nearby campsite or RV park, spend the night and be off to see more the next day. New Zealand is scenic and the roads have relatively little traffic compared to the United States.

Things You'll Need

• Valid driver's license
• Major credit card such as Visa or MasterCard

Instructions

1. Find a motor home or RV rental company in the area where you will be starting your trip. New Zealand Travel Services offers rentals out of most major New Zealand cities.

2. Reserve the type of RV that suits you best using a rental company's online booking system or by calling a service agent ahead of time. Make sure to find an RV that will sleep the number of people you will be traveling with comfortably. Also, if you would prefer a vehicle with a restroom and kitchen facilities, then that is another factor to consider. It is important to make a reservation for your RV rental because at times of peak travel, many RV's and motor homes will already be spoken for.

3. Purchase insurance if needed. Additional services such as insurance are often wise to get when renting a vehicle, especially in a foreign country. As an alternative, you can also check with your current auto insurance company to see if your RV rental would be covered under your current policy. If your current auto insurance company covers rental vehicles (even out-of-the-country) then you will not have to purchase additional insurance. However, if your insurance policy does not cover this, then it would be wise to purchase additional insurance through the RV rental company.

4. Put a deposit down on your RV rental. A major credit card is often required for both the rental and the deposit.

5. Arrive at your destination, pick up your RV rental and away you go.

Tips & Warnings

• The Independent Traveler website suggests finding out if your rental facility will require you to have an International Driving Permit. These can be easily obtained at your local AAA office with your passport prior to your departure if needed.

• Just remember that in New Zealand you drive on the left, versus the right in the U.S.

References

• New Zealand's Motor Home Companies: Motorhome Rentals
• Independent Traveler: International Car Rental Tips