Motorhome in New Zealand, what you need to know
The motorhome is the perfect way to travel in a country like New Zealand. Indeed, nature is omnipresent and this country is very well organized to welcome this means of discovery. However, driving in motorhome can not be improvised. A minimum of preparation is necessary to succeed this trip. So if you are tempted by this adventure, here it is a little practical guide that will certainly help you.
Discovering New Zealand in motorhome: How to prepare it?
Before traveling by motorhome in New Zealand, here are some criteria to consider. The first is to choose your motorhome. If you do not have a motorhome, you can rent one or even buy one. Moreover, several people choose this last alternative as a measure of economy, especially when they plan to make a long trip. As regards the model of the vehicle, there are three. There are the converted vans : small and cheap, but on the comfort side, it is possible not to be satisfied. Then, there are the camper vans : more comfortable than the converted vans, they have more space to have various equipment. Finally, there are the MPV : they are recent and very well-equipped. The only problem is the price.
For traveling by motorhome in New Zealand, the second criterion to consider is driving. In New Zealand, you drive to the left. But do not worry, you get used to it very quickly. Moreover, the roads in New Zealand are asphalted and with a very good quality, except for a few gravel roads. The speed limit is generally 100 km/h on main roads, or outside inhabited areas. Since New Zealand is made up of two islands, to move from one island to another, there are two ferry companies between the city of Wellington and the city of Picton. It is also better not to drive at night, because in New Zealand, nocturnal animals can go out from anywhere. Do not forget your «international driving license», because the police will ask for it during roadside checks. Finally, think of bringing one or even two cans of gasoline in reserve, because in this country, the distances between two gas stations are often very long.
Motorhome travel in New Zealand : parking areas
In New Zealand, there are several types of parking areas:
- First, private campgsites. For these types of parking, overnight stays must be booked in advance. Their advantages are that they offer a peaceful and natural atmosphere as well as great comfort. There are showers with hot water, fully equipped kitchens, washing machines, and so on. Some places even have shops, swimming pools and playgrounds for children.
- Then, there are the DOC or the Department of Conservation sites. These places are surrounded by nature and offer a relatively good level of comfort. They are equipped with toilets and some picnic tables. On the other hand, the best point is that they are very affordable. On these sites, no need for booking, but priority is made according to the order of arrival.
- Finally, there are the resting areas that are usually situated on the roadside. For the most part, they have toilets and picnic tables. Normally, it is permitted to park for free over these areas for the night.
So, are you ready for traveling by motorhome in New Zealand?
Do not forget to see our other articles concerning traveling by motorhome such as: «Going to Italy by motorhome» ; «Destination Spain by motorhome» ; «Portugal by motorhome: perfect destination!».
Enjoy your trip with CaraMaps!