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Home/Useful Information/Car & RV Helpful Information/New Zealand Car And Motorhome Hire Helpful Information

New Zealand Driving Guide

We recommend staying one night in your arrival city before picking up your car or motorhome, as driving whilst tired is ill-advised. Your documentation will provide full details on when to pick up your car or motorhome, and where. 

Driving in New Zealand

It is legal to drive in New Zealand with a valid UK photocard driving licence. Thankfully, you will be driving on the same side of the road as in the UK. As in the UK, seatbelts are mandatory and you are required to obey speed limits, take extra care when driving.  

Road signs are written in English and are measured in kilometres. Please be advised that the roads can be quite narrow and winding, so please allow for extra time when travelling. 

Please be aware that some car hire and motorhome companies do not allow you to take your car/motorhome on the Wellington – Picton ferry (and vice versa). Your consultant will be able to provide you with more information and assist with booking the ferry. 

If you are travelling with children, it is your responsibility to familiarise yourself with the local car seat/seat booster guidelines. Most airlines do allow you to check a pram and car seat in addition to the child’s hold luggage allowance. Alternatively, you can request the appropriate car seat from your consultant at any time, subject to availability. 

Motorhomes in New Zealand

Freedom camping is only permitted in a Department of Conservation (DOC) campsite. There are a variety of campgrounds in New Zealand, from caravan parks to staying in one of the many regional park areas. You may see areas referring to a certified self-contained (CSC) motorhome, this will refer to a motorhome or caravan that can be sufficiently lived in and contains fresh water for drinking and cooking. 

Booking a campsite in New Zealand is entirely dependent on the campground you wish to stay in. Most DOC campsites are generally on a first come, first served basis, whereas you can usually prebook commercial campgrounds. Please refer to the local authorities’ rules and regulations on campsites before you travel. 

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