Driving the South Island in a Campervan

Freedom and Flexibility on the Open Road

A campervan road trip through New Zealand’s South Island is an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re exploring glaciers, stunning fiords, or golden beaches, traveling by campervan offers flexibility and freedom to immerse yourself in nature.

Campervan Rentals

Choosing a Rental Company

• Popular options: JUCY, Britz, Maui, Escape Rentals, Apollo, and Spaceships.
• Consider your budget and needs (self-contained vs. non-self-contained).
• Look for companies with good reviews, 24/7 roadside assistance, and clear insurance policies.
• Websites like JUCY, Britz, and Maui provide detailed information on vehicle options and pricing.

Self-Contained vs. Non-Self-Contained

• Self-contained vehicles (with a toilet and greywater tank) allow you to stay in freedom camping areas.
• Non-self-contained vehicles are more budget-friendly but require you to stay at campgrounds with facilities.

Booking and Insurance

• Book in advance, especially during peak season (December–February).
• Carefully review insurance options and consider comprehensive coverage to avoid unexpected costs.
• Familiarize yourself with New Zealand’s driving rules and road conditions.

Vehicle Features to Consider

• Sleeping space (ensure it’s comfortable for your group size).
• Cooking facilities (stovetop, fridge, utensils).
• Storage space for luggage and food supplies.
• Heating for colder regions like Fiordland and the Southern Alps.
• Shower/toilet if you want added convenience for remote areas.

Camping Sites in the South Island

Types of Campsites

1. Department of Conservation (DOC) Campsites
   • Located in scenic natural areas.
   • Vary in facilities (some are basic, others have toilets and water).
   • Affordable, usually around $8–$15 per night per person.
2. Holiday Parks
   • Offer full amenities: showers, laundry, kitchen, WiFi, powered sites.
   • Good for families or those wanting extra comfort.
   • Examples: TOP 10 Holiday Parks, Kiwi Holiday Parks.
3. Freedom Camping
   • Allowed only in designated areas for self-contained campervans.
   • Check local council regulations before parking overnight.

Apps and Resources for Campsites

• CamperMate and WikiCamps NZ help find campsites, dump stations, and reviews.
• The DOC website provides official information on campsites.

Booking Tips

• Holiday park campsites: Book in advance, especially in peak season.
• DOC campsites: Often first-come, first-served, so arrive early in busy areas.

Road Trip Planning

Popular Routes

• The West Coast: Rainforests, glaciers, and rugged coastline.
• Queenstown & Fiordland: Adventure activities and breathtaking Milford Sound.
• The Southern Scenic Route: Wildlife, coastal landscapes, and historic towns.
• Abel Tasman National Park: Golden beaches and scenic kayaking.

Flexibility & Planning Tips

• Be prepared to adjust your itinerary based on weather and road conditions.
• Allow extra driving time—New Zealand’s winding roads take longer than expected.
• Leave space for spontaneous stops at hidden gems.

Essentials to Pack

• Warm clothing & layers (weather changes quickly).
• GPS or offline maps, as cell coverage can be limited in remote areas.
• Groceries & water—stock up before heading to remote locations.
• Insect repellent (for sandflies, especially on the West Coast and Fiordland).

Must-Do Activities in the South Island

Outdoor Adventures

• Hiking: Choose from easy walks to multi-day treks in places like Aoraki/Mount Cook, Abel Tasman, and Fiordland.
• Kayaking: Explore Abel Tasman’s coastline or the Milford Sound fiords.
• Glacier hiking & helicopter tours at Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.
• Adventure sports in Queenstown: Bungee jumping, jet boating, and white-water rafting.

Scenic Attractions

• Milford Sound & Doubtful Sound: Must-visit fiords with towering cliffs and waterfalls.
• Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park: New Zealand’s tallest peak and stunning alpine scenery.
• Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki: Famous for their turquoise waters and stargazing in the Dark Sky Reserve.
• Wanaka & Arrowtown: Quaint towns with picturesque landscapes.

Wildlife Encounters

• Whale watching in Kaikoura.
• Penguin viewing on the Otago Peninsula.
• Seal spotting along the West Coast.

Important Considerations

Driving in New Zealand

• Drive on the left side of the road.
• Roads are often narrow and winding, so drive carefully, especially in alpine areas.
• Watch for one-lane bridges and wildlife (like sheep crossing rural roads).

Weather Preparedness

• The South Island’s weather is unpredictable—pack for rain, wind, and sudden temperature changes.
• Snow and ice can be an issue in winter—check road conditions before heading to alpine areas.

Freedom Camping Etiquette

• Respect the environment—only camp in designated areas.
• Dispose of waste properly at dump stations.
• Follow local regulations to avoid fines.

Final Tips for an Amazing Campervan Trip

• Plan ahead but stay flexible—some of the best experiences come from unexpected discoveries.
• Check fuel levels often—gas stations can be far apart in remote regions.
• Use local visitor centers for up-to-date travel and weather advice.
• Enjoy the journey—a campervan road trip in New Zealand is about experiencing the incredible landscapes at your own pace.

With the right planning and a spirit of adventure, your South Island campervan road trip will be an unforgettable experience!