New Zealand is an island nation located in the south-western Pacific Ocean. The geographical outlay of New Zealand comprises of two main landmasses (the North Island and the South Island) and an umpteen number of smaller islands. New Zealand’s divine and breathtakingly beautiful landscape includes sweeping coastlines, vast mountain chains, deeply indented fiords, steaming volcanoes and lush green rain forests. New Zealand, simply is a paradise for people looking for peace of mind, mental & physical rejuvenation and relaxation. The country also is a great playground for thrill seekers and adventurers. Immaculate climate with little to no seasonal variation makes New Zealand an ideal year-round holiday destination for people of all ages and from all walks of life.

The ultimately relaxing and rewarding way to enjoy the holidays is to self drive through the New Zealand’s stunning landscape. Almost all of the New Zealand’s roads are scenic with a very low traffic when compared to international standards. Even though New Zealand is a pretty small country it can take many hours or at times, a day in some cases to drive between cities and other destinations of scenic interest, making self driving a more worthwhile option. Journey through hilly or winding terrain or thick forest roads or a sea shore or narrow secondary roads can be a great photographic session chronicling the journey.


Camper vans are ideal modes of transportation in a New Zealand trip since they can be used for cooking and sleeping too. No need to camp at night in a jungle. Its very easy and affordable to hire a camper van online or at hundreds of camper van hire outlets. Economy class camper vans are fully furnished with curtains, floor carpet and a weather proof awning for standing room. Furniture typically includes a comfortable sofa, a double gas cooker, one double bed or two single beds, a general storage cabinet, a reading table and a grill for BBQ. During the night time one can sleep with all doors closed and use the mosquito net for fresh air. The mosquito net is usually stitched in such a way that it covers the passenger’s window. The camper van will also have a cabinet with kitchen utensils and a water dispenser. Economy as well as Thrifty or budget camper vans interior are similar, however the Economy camper is usually a newer vehicle with more powerful engine and more space with luxurious amenities. Optional extras for hire include a refrigerator, solar shower, out door table with chairs, DVD player with movies, linen pack and a tent for hire. The camper van prices start at $50 per day depending on the vehicle and the duration of hire. The longer the tour plan the cheaper the hire rates.

Camper vans with multiple berths are also available to accommodate the entire family comfortably. Payment of an advance is standard practice. During the touring trail if there is any damage to the vehicle, damage charges could run steep and it is better to get an insurance at the time of hire. The insurance will cover both single vehicle and multiple vehicle accidents. Hire Depots can be found in Auckland, Wellington, Queenstown and Christchurch.

New Zealand’s tourist routes are generally of a high standard. To help the tourists, all the roads, including those in remote locations, are signposted. Tourists from North America should remember to drive on the left side of the road. Tourists can legally drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months with a valid driver’s licence from their home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP).