The Benefit of Hiring a Self-Contained Campervan in NZ

Want to have total freedom to roam the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand and camp where you like? If so, consider hiring a self-contained campervan for your next vacation.

There are many benefits of touring New Zealand in a self-contained campervan instead of a regular van or a different type of vehicle. In this article, we will go over some of the benefits, but first, let’s talk about the basics, starting with the definition of a self-contained campervan.

What Are Self-Contained Campervans?

“Self-contained campervan” is an official legal designation for a campervan which fulfils the following requirements:

• Freshwater tank: 12L per person (technically, per berth) for three days.
• Grey tank: 12L per person for three days.
• Black tank: for 12L per person for three days.
• Evacuation hose for a fitted or sealed portable tank.
• A toilet, sink, and rubbish bin which conform to regulations.
• Warranted under the NZ Standard for Self Containment of Motor Caravans and Caravans, NZS 5465:2001 (this is a must, even once other requirements are filled).

Your Campervan Must Have a Certification Sticker

Is the campervan you are driving self-contained? The only way to be sure is to look for the self-containment certification sticker. If you do not see this sticker, then the vehicle has yet to pass inspection.

You also do not want to travel without a sticker because it is possible that authorities might fine you for camping in a zone where only certified self-contained vehicles are permitted.

Top Benefits of Hiring a Self-Contained Campervan

Now you know what a self-contained campervan is, and you are aware of the importance of the certification sticker.

What doors does driving a self-contained campervan open for you is a vacationer in New Zealand? Let’s go over some of the top advantages.

1. Travel and camp (just about) anywhere in comfort.

First of all, a self-contained campervan is a campervan! That means that you can explore New Zealand by road without worrying about booking and paying for separate accommodations. Your vacation itself is self-contained.

2. Stay at campsites that require onboard toilets.

If you do not have an onboard toilet in your vehicle, you are prohibited from camping at sites which have signs telling you not to (typically spots without public toilets). This law exists in order to discourage pollution.

If, however, you are travelling in a self-contained campervan, by definition, it must include an onboard toilet. That means that if you are displaying the appropriate certification, you are free to park that campervan at any campground, whether it includes public toilets or not.

That opens up more opportunities, and may also help you to get away from some of the crowds since there are many people who will not be able to park and camp in those locations.

3. Protect the environment and public health.

The specific regulations governing inspection and certification for self-contained campervans ensures that they will help to safeguard both public health and the ecosystems through which you drive and park. So when you hire a self-contained campervan for your next trip, you will know that you are doing your part.

4. Pay less for camping opportunities.

There are more than 300 free campgrounds scattered around New Zealand. But not all of these have public toilets.

That means that it can be harder to save money on your vacation if you do not have a self-contained campervan. But with one, free opportunities abound.

5. Enjoy freedom camping.

Are you on public land? Do you see a sign that says you are not allowed to camp? If you have answered “yes” to the first question and “no” to the second, then you can freedom camp so long as you are in a self-contained campervan.

Again, if you do not have a campervan with this certification, you cannot do this (at least not in every region—there may be exceptions) because there are no public toilets. So the freedom that a self-contained campervan extends you goes far beyond campgrounds to include much broader access to public land for camping.

Self-Contained Campervan or Motorhome?

Now that you know that self-contained campervans let you park in more locations because of the onboard toilet, you might be wondering how a campervan compares to another option such as a motorhome which also can include all the same features and receive a certification. Which one should you choose?

Consideration #1: Driving and parking is easier and more accessible in a campervan than a larger motorhome.

From an access standpoint, a campervan is probably preferable to a motorhome in most cases. Because campervans are smaller vehicles, they can drive on roads which may be unsafe (or simply challenging) to drive in a larger motorhome.

Campervans also can park in smaller spaces than motorhomes. Not every campground can accommodate larger vehicles.

Consideration #2: A Motorhome Does Provide More Space and Amenities

On the flipside, a motorhome might be a more suitable option if you need more space than a campervan can provide and are looking for a additional amenities such as a shower and a fully-featured kitchen.

Conclusion: A Self-Contained Campervan Is Your Passport to Camping Freedom in NZ

While there are many lovely campgrounds with public toilets throughout New Zealand, there are many more camping opportunities—including freedom camping on public land—which are only available if you have a certified self-contained campervan with an onboard toilet.

So think about booking a reservation for a self-contained campervan now. It could be your ticket to exploring New Zealand with the highest degree of freedom, comfort, and flexibility.