Know-How
A few guide lines for your campervan or motor home experience. Please contact us if you have any questions.
Arrival in NZ
After a long trip, we recommend spending your first night at an airport or city hotel. Another option is to pick up your campervan and check-in at a campsite close-by. After long haul flights you can feel very tired and dizzy (jetlag). Take it easy on your first couple of days.
Campervan Pick-Up
The transfer from Christchurch and Auckland airport or airport hotels is usually included in your booking. We can advise you about your transfer options.
To arrange a pick-up you simply call your campervan company and they will send one of their friendly staff to collect you. There are telephones in the airport arrivals area. You will need to provide your name, number of people and pick-up location (airport terminal or hotel).
At the company’s depot you will settle any outstanding payments and sign the official contract. Make sure you understand the entire contract and clarify any queries you may have before signing.
All drivers of the campervan need to be present at the time of pick-up and hold a valid driver’s licence which will be recorded for insurance purposes. A valid driver's licence with English translation is also sufficient if you do not carry an international driver's licence.
On pick-up you will also arrange the security bond. Depending on your choice of insurance cover the bond ranges from NZ$Nil to NZ$7500 and will be deducted from your credit card, paid in cash or your credit card details will be held on file. We will inform you about your bond and insurance options.
One of the staff will provide a complimentary vehicle consultation. This includes an explanation of all the interior and exterior features as well as driving tips for your campervan. Please allow some time for this and make sure you understand how your campervan works before leaving the depot. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
If you notice any defects or shortcomings please mention them straight away.
Most vehicles are usually provided with full gas, water and fuel tanks.
Camper Drop-Off
Make sure you return your campervan reasonably tidy and with a full fuel tank.
The vehicle can be returned during business hours only.
The security bond will be refunded on drop-off if the vehicle is in good condition. Please note that in the case of credit card refunds the campervan companies are not responsible for currency fluctuations and it usually takes up to 3 weeks until the amount is credited to your account.
The campervan company will arrange your transfer to the airport or hotel.
Insurance
The standard hire rates include a general insurance with a high excess (insurance contribution). You have the option of choosing extra insurance cover for an additional daily cost to reduce your excess. The additional insurance might also provide better coverage and extra equipment. You can usually decide and purchase additional insurance cover on pick-up of your campervan. We will inform you about your options.
We highly recommend the purchase of private travel insurance before departing to New Zealand.
Repairs & Accidents
You may undertake on-road repairs, or replace broken equipment, up to NZ$100 without authorization from the camper company. The amount will be reimbursed on presentation of a receipt unless you were responsible for the breakage. Please contact the company before making any larger repairs or if you have a bigger problem with your vehicle.
In the case of an accident, please contact the camper company immediately. We also recommend contacting the local police (via police phonebook or 111) straight away and in an emergency dial 111.
Traffic Rules
Stay left! New Zealand is one of the many countries with left hand traffic. Most people get used to it reasonably quickly. Take it easy and drive slowly while getting used to the traffic regulations and your vehicle. Make sure you wear your seatbelt and watch your speed. The national speed limit is 100km/h on highways and 50km/h in residential areas – unless indicated otherwise.
There is usually not much traffic and the majority of roads are in great condition.
Be aware of vehicles behind you and let them pass if there is an opportunity.
Ferry between Picton & Wellington
If you plan to visit both islands on your trip you will be using a ferry service between Picton and Wellington. You can choose between two service providers: Interislander and Bluebridge.
They are both very similar. Although they can get very busy during the summer months – it is usually not a problem to book a ferry crossing on the day or a couple of days in advance. You can book via phone or in any i-Site (information centre) throughout the country. Evening fares are usually cheaper. Booking online can be overpriced. We can advise you on ferry crossings if required.
Campervan Equipment
Most campervans are equipped with everything you need. Generally you will find bedding, towels, kitchen equipment, some cleaning equipment, cloths line & pegs, etc.
We will indicate the equipment provided with your campervan.
Luggage
Suitcases can take up a lot of space in your campervan. Therefore it is easier if you travel with soft foldable bags instead of firm suitcase. If your pick-up and drop-off depot is the same you have the option of storing your suitcases at the camper company for the duration of your campervan holiday.