When coming to New Zealand you will be astounded by many things: stunning views, amount of sheep, sparsely populated cute towns ,number of camper-vans, and gas prices … But soon you will realize that all of it makes NZ a very unique place …and that the best and most convenient way to travel around New Zealand is by van. This country has one of the best, if not the best campground systems, geared not so much towards tents, but towards backpackers, and travelers, who fancy to sleep in a van. Although hotels and B&B do exist, you kind of stand out (not in a cool way) if you’re not touring this beautiful country hauling your bed and kitchen on 4 wheels. So, what are your options exactly, and how much all this fun cost?

To Rent or to Buy?

   I wanted to max out my stay in NZ to 3 months (standard tourist visa) and after long calculations I decided to go ahead with purchase of a van. Rental in a high season can be very expensive- depending on which months, it can vary from 65$-120$ a day in high season (Oct.-April), and 19$-60$ in a low season (May-Sept). Towards the end of my trip, after I sold my van, I rented one from www.spaceshipsrentals.co.nz for only 19$ a day. It was great stress-free experience, at great price. Because I also ‘lived’ in a rental, I can share my personal tips. Pros of renting a van: If you are traveling with someone, splitting costs might not be too bad. You can get road service from most companies (and flat tire is almost a given somewhere off the main roads). Rentals are pretty well maintained with regular oil changes and check-ups (contrary to vans for sale but only see mechanic when situation is dire). You don’t have to worry about WOF inspections and about selling the vehicle when your trip is coming to an end.  They all come fully equipped with sheets, bed and cooking essentials. Cons: the cost (when you're staying in NZ for at least a month and come in high season), you might want to be really careful with scratches and dents (or pay extra for insurance, hence higher cost once again). You’re responsible for any other damage, or missing parts. Less freedom (some companies forbid driving on gravel roads with low clearance). You can't really make it your own, as everything is equipped for you with. There are few marketplaces online available for sales. I used www.backapckaerboard.co.nz for both purchase and sale. There are many groups available on Facebook as well. Major cities host auto trade shows where you can physically view and inspect vehicles before committing. I bought my 20-year-old Toyota Estima for 4500NZ$ (3000US$). I purchased it in Feb. which is still considered a high season which left me with little room for negotiation. This was one and only van I looked at. I emailed a bunch of people but after asking some questions, this one seemed like ‘the one’. It was definitely not an Instagramable, shiny van with cute decor, but rather beat up, slow yet reliable one I just don’t know much about cars, so I had to go with my gut. With that being said, I would still highly recommend paying roughly 100$-150$ for an inspection at an auto-shop before buying any car…Checking expiration date on WOF (Warranty of Fitness) is also important. Ever vehicle in NZ has to pass this control test (standard test making sure all mechanical was built to code, and car meets safety standards) in order to be allowed on the roads. In case car fails the test, you as owner are responsible to fix anything that needs to be fixed. Most WOF inspections are good for 12 months.Buying and Selling Van:The couple I bought my van from, came to NZ on a month-long Honeymoon.

Process of buying was as easy, as trip to the post office. Literarily. Both parties just have to fill out a form. You then have to pay registration fee called Reg, if it’s about to expire soon (as of 2019 REGO cost roughly 100-120$ for 6 months, and could be transferred to another buyer), plus 9$ for transfer of the vehicle…and you’re done. You own a van in a foreign country. Now, let it set it, because no changing mind…until you’re ready to sell after your adventures.  Selling my van was another story, not as smooth and easy, but something to be expected in low season. I was leaving late May (already end of busy season), and although I started posting ads month in advance, I got zero calls untill my last week. Needless to say, desperate times call for desperate measures. I lower the price to last and final 2300NZ$ (1500US$) and ended up selling my ‘home’ to lovely French couple. In 3 amazing months of van life I got no flat tires, changed oil once (90$ I am a responsible owner after all…) had battery checked a bunch (it died on me twice but both time ‘something’ was charging), I had slight mice problem, and few really cold nights. So, over all I paid 4500NZ$ for the van, and sold it for 2200NZ$ after expenses. Considering I spent 82 days living in it, it cost me average 27$ a day to own it. Price not beat in high season. Would I recommend buying a van over renting? In a high season October-February - definitely. March-September. Probably not, although you can score some amazing deals and turn around profit before you leave.

Finding Campgrounds:

   Department of Conservation offers over 200 either free, or very inexpensive campgrounds all around NZ. Most have loos, some don’t (that’s where owning self-contained vehicle is a must. There are heaps (very Kiwi word) of camping apps available. My favorite was Camper Mate as well as Kiwi Campers. They indicate all free or paid campgrounds, some local tips, pus you can read most recent reviews. I stayed at numerous paid, privately owned campgrounds as well. They were very cheap (from 5$-14$) and most had hot showers (what a luxury), washing facilities, charging stations, Wi-Fi and kitchen. I found these campgrounds to be a wonderful experience. Most were family run places, appointed in a beautiful quiet farm setting, with less crowds, more comfort, and great facilities. Many free DEC run campgrounds fill up quite early (some have limited parking space so first come, first serve), and become very crowded so that’s why spending few bucks every now and then, and helping the locals is a good idea.

Self-Contained vs Not:

   What is a self-contained vehicle? Well it’s a vehicle which has everything one needs to be completely self-reliant. To pass the inspection and get the blue sticker van has to fulfill these requirements have • Grey/black waste water tank • Fresh Water tank with sink • Sealable trash can • Toilet (portable or fixed) that can be used inside the vehicle, even when the bed is fully set up. With really many options where to spend a night, I’d recommend self-contained van, otherwise porta potties are available almost at every campground. I definitely had many  favorites sites, I ended up staying at for multiple nights. But also, I had to stay at quite a few that looked nothing but a crowded, dirty parking lot. Some sites come with amazing views. Some with the sound of crashing waves, some with loud neighbors’ inches away instead. Some are right by the trailhead for sunrise hikes, some near the town or city. Some come with hot shower you will never take for granted again, when touring around beautiful NZ, living best adventure in a camper-van- because-home is where you park it. Note to all travelers: NZ is such a beautiful and clean country. Let’s help it keep it that way but practicing ‘leave to trace behind’ rule. Every year thousands of tourist flock to NZ for adventure of a lifetime, and to make sure that is still a viable option years from now, tourists should respect all rules and laws, and cherish the very fragile, and unique environment.