Before you go
You've booked. Here's how to start your trip right.
A little preparation makes a big difference, especially when you're arriving from the other side of the world. Here's everything you need to know before you pick up your camper, so your adventure starts relaxed and worry-free.
Arrive rested
Here's our honest advice, from experience: don't rush it.
If you've just flown halfway around the world, you'll be tired, probably jet-lagged, and about to drive on the left-hand side of the road, maybe for the first time. That's a lot at once. So we'd genuinely recommend spending your first night in an Auckland hotel, getting a good sleep, and picking up your camper the next day when you're rested and ready.
Your trip is the adventure. The first night is just about arriving well. Start fresh, and you'll enjoy every day that follows so much more.
Watch before you go
Nobody wants to read a manual while they're tired and eager to hit the road. So we've made a set of short, simple videos that show you exactly how everything works. Watch them before you arrive, or pull them up anytime along the way.
- Your camper, room by room — a full walkthrough of where everything is
- Using the dump station — emptying grey water and the toilet, step by step
- Filling up water & checking your tanks
- Heating & gas — staying warm and cooking on the road
- Self-containment explained — what the green warrant means for freedom camping
- Your pick-up checklist — everything to know before you drive off
No jet-lagged instructions needed. It's all here whenever you want it.
Driving in New Zealand
A few things that catch first-time visitors out:
We drive on the left. Take it slow for the first hour or two until it feels natural, and take extra care at intersections and when pulling away. Distances take longer than they look: our roads are winding and scenic, not straight motorways, so plan for drives to take longer than the map suggests. Watch for one-lane bridges (give way as signed), and take care on gravel roads. There's no rush. The best trips here are the slow ones.
For the official rules, the NZ Transport Agency has a clear guide for visitors: nzta.govt.nz/visiting-new-zealand
Freedom camping
Being self-contained means you can stay at designated freedom camping spots across New Zealand, with your own toilet and water on board, and save on campground fees.
A few things to know: since June 2026, self-contained vehicles need a green warrant to freedom camp, and you'll need to display the card where it's required. Both our campers are certified and ready. Always check local signs and council rules, as they vary from place to place and fines are real. When your tanks need emptying, you'll use a dump station (there are plenty, and they're free), and our short video walks you through it.
Handy official sources:
Department of Conservation for where you can stay: doc.govt.nz
Apps like CamperMate and Rankers show campsites, toilets and the nearest dump station.
What to bring
We pack almost everything, so you can travel light. Just remember:
- A full driver's licence in English, or an international driving permit if it's not in English
- Layers — New Zealand can give you four seasons in one day. And don't worry about packing anything fancy for the road; comfortable travel clothes are all you'll want after a week of hiking, driving and beach mornings.
- Comfortable shoes for the walks that lead to the best views
That's about it. The bedding, kitchen, chairs and the rest are already waiting in your camper.
Paying & staying connected
Contactless payment works almost everywhere, so you'll rarely need cash. For staying online, pick up a local SIM or eSIM at the airport, and remember coverage can drop in remote areas (part of the charm). If you'd like reliable internet even off-grid, you can add Starlink to your booking.
Travel with care
New Zealand stays beautiful because people look after it. Take your rubbish with you, stick to the tracks, camp only where you're allowed, and leave every place better than you found it.
It's called Tiaki: caring for people, place and culture, so Aotearoa stays just as wild for those who come after you. You can read the promise here: tiakinewzealand.com
Looking for route ideas?
This page is about getting ready. For where to actually go, the hidden gems and the trips worth taking, have a look at our blog.
Read the blogStill have a question?
There's always a real person on the other end. Just ask.