Campervan Hire Auckland

Driving a campervan around Auckland requires more than just entering a destination into Google Maps and hitting the road. While the city itself is relatively small, its surrounding landscapes quickly transform into country roads with steep hills and tight turns. It’s also common to encounter single-land bridges and blind corners, especially if you’re heading into rural areas.

While the posted speed limit may be 100 km/h, it’s okay to go slower if you need to. Locals are used to slower-moving tourists and generally appreciate it when drivers pull over to let faster vehicles pass, as it isn’t just courteous but also ensures better road safety. Allow some extra time for your journeys, too, particularly if you’re heading into the Coromandel or anywhere off the main highways. And, of course, keep an eye on your fuel levels, as once you’re out in the rural areas, they can be few and far between.

Before you head out on the road, take the time to learn how everything in your campervan works, especially if it’s your first time in a self-contained vehicle. Make sure you know how to operate the fridge, water pump, stove, and toilet, and check that your wastewater tanks are securely closed and that you know how to find and use dump stations.

These are all things our expert team will help you with when you collect your campervan, and to give you extra peace of mind, Travellers Autobarn offers 24/7 roadside assistance. However, you’ll save yourself a lot of time and stress by getting familiar with your vehicle from the get-go.

If you’re planning to explore some of Auckland’s freedom camping spots, you’ll need to make sure you’re familiar with the rules and regulations. Auckland Council allows freedom camping for self-contained vehicles in a number of areas, but there are restrictions. For example, you can usually only stay for two nights in the same place, and you must vacate by a certain time the next morning. In most instances, you’re also not allowed to return to the same site within a 14-day period.

Self-contained vehicles must also have a valid green warrant sticker showing compliance with NZS 5465:2001, which basically means your camper must have a fixed toilet, fresh and grey water storage for at least three days, and a sealed rubbish bin. These rules are in place to protect the environment and make sure the space remains available for other travellers, and failure to follow these rules can result in fines. As such, it pays to do your research and double-check the signage wherever you park. Likewise, make sure you check the Auckland Council Freedom Camping Rules before you head out.

No matter where you’re coming from or how long you’ve been driving, satellite navigation or a global positioning system is an essential tool for getting around a strange city. This app ensures you will never get lost as you’ll have access to turn-by-turn directions, traffic updates in real-time, and even alternative routes if there’s congestion on your planned route.

Most smartphones come equipped with a mapping application that can do the same thing. Google Maps, which is compatible with both iOS and Android, is a free GPS program. After installing the app, all you have to do is punch in your coordinates and off you go. Alternatively you can hire from Travellers Autobarn a GPS or an Apple/Android Car Play Unit.

No matter what part of Auckland you want to explore, choosing the right campervan for your needs is the first step in making sure you create a comfortable, unforgettable experience. We offer a variety of models, from budget-friendly Chubby Campers that are perfect for solo travellers or couples, to larger Kuga and Hi-5 campers that are ideal for groups or longer holidays.

Also, if you’re planning to do a lot of freedom camping, you’ll need to go with a fully self-contained model. This is a non-negotiable as fixed toilet systems and adequate water storage are mandatory for freedom camping throughout New Zealand, and councils like Auckland are very strict about enforcing these regulations. Luckily, our fleet of self-contained vehicles complies with these standards, so you’ll be free to park up in a freedom camping spot, safe in the knowledge you’re in the right kind of vehicle.

When it comes to packing, think in terms of convenience, cleanliness, and comfort. Ditch the big suitcases in favour of soft-sided duffel bags or backpacks, which are much easier to stash inside your campervan (packing cubes are also a lifesaver for organising your clothes and supplies in smaller storage spaces). Be sure to include insect repellent, biodegradable wet wipes, a few rolls of toilet paper, bin liners, and refillable water bottles, along with solar lanterns and portable battery packs, all of which are incredibly useful when you’re freedom camping off-grid.

Don’t forget the incredible resources you have at your fingertips when travelling around New Zealand, either. Travellers Autobarn provides you with plenty of information on freedom camping in Auckland and several North Island road trip itineraries, which can help make planning your trip a lot easier. Likewise, the Auckland Council Freedom Camping site is an excellent source of information, with downloadable maps and guidelines on where you can and cannot stay.

Auckland Harbour Bridge
No trip to Auckland would be complete without visiting the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Spanning the Waitemata Harbour and connecting central Auckland to the North Shore, this bridge is home to the Auckland Bridge Climb and the only bridge bungee jump in New Zealand, making it an absolute must for any thrill seeker!

Auckland’s Sky Tower
Standing 328 metres over the city, Auckland Sky Tower is the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere and another unmissable Auckland attraction. The observation deck gives you incredible 360-degree views stretching as far as the Coromandel Peninsula on a clear day, and while the glass floors aren’t for the faint-hearted, they’re an unforgettable experience. Inside, you’ll also find a revolving restaurant, a cafe, and adrenaline-pumping activities like the SkyJump and SkyWalk.

Waiheke Island
If you’ve got a couple of days to spare, hop on the ferry from downtown Auckland to Waiheke Island. The ferry ride takes around 40 minutes, and once you’re there, you’ll be greeted by an idyllic mix of golden beaches, walking trails, and vineyards. Mudbrick and Cable Bay are particularly popular spots for travellers looking to enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting, while Connells Bay is perfect for walks, and Palm Beach is ideal for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water.

The West Coast
For a taste of Auckland’s natural beauty, head out to the West Coast and explore areas like Piha, Muriwai, and Karekare, all of which are some of the most famous beaches in the area and each with its own character. Piha, for instance, is best known for its surf scene and Lion Rock, while Muriwai is home to gannet colonies and fantastic coastal walks. Karekare, on the other hand, is quieter and more remote, meaning fewer crowds and opportunities to see some beautiful waterfalls.

Waitakare Ranges
Just inland from the West Coast beaches, the Waitakere Ranges give you the chance to explore rainforests with dozens of walking tracks and lookouts throughout. This area covers more than 16,000 hectares of native bush and is home to towering kauri trees, tui birds, and hidden swimming holes that are perfect for cooling off on a hot day. The Kitekite Falls Track and Arataki Visitor Centre are popular spots here, too, both giving you excellent views back towards Auckland.