Kiwi Motorhomes Blog

11 ways to save money during your New Zealand campervan or motorhome trip

  1. When planning your epic motorhome adventure in New Zealand, look at options for a one-way hire from North Island (Auckland) to South Island (Christchurch). We sometimes have one-way hires available at a very special rate. This will save you a lot of money by only paying for one ferry crossing if you plan on exploring the North & South Islands, not paying for additional diesel or Road User Charges, and eliminating the need to double back to the pickup location.  Sometimes you can even save money by flying out of Christchurch if you fly into Auckland or vice versa.
  2. When researching, always look for a new or very late-model fuel-efficient motorhome. Imported motorhomes from the UK can be very fuel-efficient saving your dollars during your trip.
  3. Spend time doing your research on freedom camping spots throughout NZ.  Our team can help you with an itinerary and app suggestions that can help you find camping spots, commercial campgrounds & dump stations on your journey. If you are planning on spending most of your time freedom camping, ensure the motorhome has adequate solar panels for maintaining the house battery during your hire. See Kiwi Camp for accessing cheap charging ports, showers, laundry, and dump stations which are located nationwide.   person sat in a chair next to a motorhome
  4. Always plan to arrive early at freedom camping spots, as these are limited and work on a ‘first come, first served’ basis, especially if they beachfront like the iconic Waihi Beach.
  5. Spend some time researching your ferry crossings. When you make a booking with us, we may be able to offer you a discount or free ferry with your hire (conditions may apply). We can also help you make a ferry booking and suggest itineraries for your visit.
  6. Take advantage of campground & Department of Conservation (DOC) memberships. Top 10 Holiday Park memberships offer discounted campsites and DOC offers discount options for certified self-contained motor homes (blue sticker and certificate of Self-containment).
  7. Fuels companies in New Zealand often offer a membership card which give the user access to discounts and special offers. Check out this website to compare the offers: https://www.comparefuelcards.co.nz/
  8. Some supermarkets offer a free loyalty card which has special offers for the holder. Countdown offers “One Card” that gives you discounts in-store and fuel savings, and Pak n Save offers savings on Z fuel stations. Out of the two main supermarkets, Pak n Save typically offers the best overall savings (please note this is dependent on what specials are being promoted at any given time).
  9. Saving money on entertainment: when you book with us, we include various family toys (e.g., board games, boogie boards, books, and DVDs) in your motorhome. We can also include bike hire in your booking, be sure to speak to our team to include this in your trip. lounge area of a campervan
  10. Book your motorhome and campervan early so you can take advantage of any early bird discounts, you will also get to choose the most suitable motorhome layout for your family. Early bird bookings also apply for many campgrounds and ferry companies, see Interislander & Bluebridge ferry companies.
  11. Be sure to add up the extras. When you are comparing motorhome rentals, be sure to include any additional or hidden costs before you book. When you book with Kiwi Motorhomes we do not charge for:
    • No additional drivers fee
    • DVD’s, games and books
    • Free airport & airport hotel pickup/drop off’s (11.00am-4.00pm)
    • Unlimited kms (RUC’s, NZ road user charges are additional)
    • No cleaning fees
    • Bank secure payment system and direct bank payment options
    • 7 days WhatsApp customer service number (8.00am -6.00pm)
    • 24/7 Emergency WhatsApp number
    • 24/7 AA Roadside Assistance
    • No booking fees
    • Children’s car seats & booster seats
    • Outdoor camping table and chairs
    • All required linen & bedding
    • Camping starter pack for kitchen and bathroom (dishwashing liquid, toilet paper, toilet chemicals

So reach out today and we look forward to guiding you through the booking process and supporting you during your stay.