DRIVING
Driving New Zealand in a Motorhome can be challenging and is probably different to what you're use to (if you are from overseas). We drive on the left-hand side of the road. Our roads are narrower, more winding and sometimes steeper than you might expect. Distances may seem short on paper, but our roads vary from motorways to unsealed gravel roads.
When you arrive in New Zealand you will almost certainly suffer jet lag unless you have come from Australia. Take extra care when driving. Frequent breaks are important to help you recharge. We recommend to spend al least the first night after arrival in a Hotel/Motel before you start your Campervan journey.
Be prepared and make sure you have a safe and enjoyable trip. Please make use of further information on driving in NZ.
www.drivingtests.co.nz/roadcode/tourist/
When picking up the vehicle a complete (not provisional) and valid driving licence must be presented. If this driving licence is not in English, an international driving licence or a valid, certified translation is required.
CAMPING
No doubt, New Zealand is a beautiful country. For us it is probably the best country in the world for a scenic road trip. As there are so many awesome places for camping in New Zealand, it is a traveller's paradise. Famed and loved for its picturesque diverse scenery and adventurous spirit, from alpine landscapes to golden sand beaches, take to the road and discover all that New Zealand has to offer. Many wanderlusters flock here to road trip across the country in an attempt to get amongst the incredible vistas and discover its hidden gems on their own terms and pace.
The best way to explore New Zealand is in a Vantastic Motorhome. Why? Well, our vehicles drive like a regular car, easy and fuel efficient. They are very compact with all you need and fully self-contained. That way you can explore the real New Zealand. Just "drive your own way“.
When it comes to camping in New Zealand you will have several options:
Department of Conservation (DOC)
No matter which camping style you are choosing, please help to keep our towns, cities, parks, beaches and native bush free from pollution and waste. Please also respect our unique flora and fauna. Be active and get involved in caring for the environment. It is everyone’s responsibility and obligation.
WEATHER
New Zealand's climate is dominated by two main geographical features: the mountains and the sea. We usually have mild temperatures, moderately high rainfall, and many hours of sunshine throughout most of the country. However, the weather can change unexpectedly, and you might experience all four seasons in one day. If you are planning to hike or undertake any other activities in the mountains, make sure you have checked the weather forecast and take appropriate clothing and equipment.
www.metservice.com/national/home
New Zealand's summer months are December to February, bringing high temperatures and sunshine. Days are long and sunny, nights are mild. This is by far the most popular season in New Zealand. A lot of tourists will arrive to soak up the New Zealand sun and many New Zealanders will take time off work to enjoy their summer holiday.
March to May are New Zealand's autumn months. While temperatures are a little cooler than summer, the weather can be excellent, and it is possible to swim in some places until April.
New Zealand's winter months of June to August bring colder weather to much of the country, and more rain to most areas in the North Island. Mountain ranges in both islands become snow-covered, providing beautiful views and excellent skiing.
Spring lasts from September to November, and New Zealand's spring weather can range from cold and frosty to warm and hot.
The UV rays in our sunshine are very strong due to relatively little air pollution. In order to avoid sunburn, make sure you are dressed appropriately, use sun screen, wear a hat and sunglasses. The highest UV rays usually occur between 11am – 4pm.
FERRY CROSSING
When on a Vantastic one-way rental you will be sooner or later boarding a ferry to cross Cook Strait. The ferry trip connecting New Zealand’s North and South Islands is approximately three hours of unforgettable and breathtaking scenery.
The ferries of INTERISLANDER and BLUEBRIDGE operate all year round but there are fewer sailings during the winter. If you are traveling in peak season (between December and March), you would need to book your ferry crossing well in advance. Outside these periods you can usually make a reservation one day in advance or on the spot.
I N T E R I S L A N D E R
www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz
B L U E B R I D G E
www.bluebridge.co.nz
ACTIVITIES
Your holidays in New Zealand probably won’t be long enough to discover all and everything. The hardest part will be to decide what to do first. After the stunning scenery and breathtaking landscapes, the main attraction of a New Zealand road trip is the activities.
Whether visiting an historical landmark to learn about our heritage, participating in a Maori cultural ceremony or meeting the locals on a fishing expedition, you'll love the feeling of doing something that you haven't done before.
If you are an adrenaline seeker you won’t be short of a thrill with Bungy Jumping, Skydiving, Jetboating and Zip Lining amongst on offer. Have you watched the Lord of the Rings? Are you a Middle Earth Fan? Locations thoughout New Zealand offer you the chance to see film locations for yourself. You can also take a tour around the Hobbiton Movie Set.
If you are after a taste of what is on offer, visit New Zealand’s award winning wineries. Buy and taste locally grown produce from the farmers markets or immerse yourself in wine & food festivals.
www.newzealand.com/int/things-to-do/
www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/things-to-do/walking-and-tramping/
www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/national-parks/
ENVIRONMENT
New Zealand is a country full of spectacular and diverse scenery. 80 percent of the local fauna & flora are unique.
From subtropical vegetation zones in the north to cool alpine zones in the south, everything is represented in Aotearoa, the land of the long white cloud.
Unfortunately, according to a report recently published by the New Zealand Ministry of the Environment, the paradise is under massive threat. Climate change, the spread of the dairy industry and CO2 emissions are the main reasons.
It is the duty of all of us to treat nature responsibly and sustainably. We want to make our contribution to the sustainable protection of nature and therefore support the project "Trees That Count" which was launched in 2016. This organization aims to plant 200 million native trees.
Vantastic New Zealand commits to plant one native tree for every 1000 kilometers driven. Per year this is about 200 trees.
