Campervan travel in New Zealand in winter: is it worth it?
Thinking of hiring a campervan in New Zealand in winter? Here’s my advice to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Summer is the most popular season for a campervan trip in New Zealand, but campervanning in winter brings its own type of magic.
Snow-capped mountains, steaming hot pools, fewer crowds, and cheaper hire rates can make a winter campervan trip an enticing option.
However, winter in New Zealand—which runs from June through August—brings about some important things to consider.
I live in New Zealand and am an avid camper, and I’ll be the first to admit that campervanning in winter is not as comfortable as booking a car & staying in hotels. Simply put: winter campervanning is not for everyone, and that’s okay!
However, I actually love campervanning in winter in NZ. (Fewer crowds?! Cheaper prices? Yes, please!). It makes every day feel like an adventure, and can be a lot of fun—as long as you’re prepared and know what to expect.
In this guide, I’ll provide you with all of the information you need to decide whether a winter campervan trip in New Zealand is a good option for you.
*Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through an affiliate link, I’ll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I really appreciate your support!
Where to hire a campervan for your winter road trip
I use Motorhome Republic to compare prices on campervan rentals.
Their handy comparison tool makes it easy to see prices and ratings for NZ’s top campervan companies to help you get the best deal possible.
Pros of hiring a campervan in New Zealand in winter
There are fewer crowds.
Winter is New Zealand’s slow season, aside from ski destinations like Queenstown and Wanaka which stay busy throughout the winter.
This means that throughout much of New Zealand, you’ll find far fewer crowds at popular destinations and campsites. Sometimes, you can have campsites and hiking trails almost all to yourself.
I love visiting places when they’re not busy, so for me, this is a huge bonus for winter campervan travel.
You have ultimate flexibility in a campervan.
This pairs with the above—fewer crowds also means that you can be much more flexible with your trip plans.
Since campsites and activities won’t book out months in advance, you can usually get away with last-minute plans.
This is such a bonus for winter travel, when the weather can be fickle and itinerary adjustments may be needed.
Prices are lower.
Campervan rentals in New Zealand are not cheap. In peak summer, campervan prices can be downright astronomical!
In winter, though, you’ll get the best prices on campervan rentals compared to any other time of year.
Additionally, campgrounds often offer lower rates in winter compared to summer. Activity providers sometimes have discounts during winter, too.
Basically, if you’re travelling on a budget—or just like finding the best deals possible—then winter might be a great time of year for you.
Mountain scenery will be covered in snow.
If New Zealand conjures up images of snow-capped mountain scenery for you, then winter will make your dreams come true.
You’ll find snowy scenery all across the South Island in winter, particularly across the Southern Alps. In the North Island, Taranaki and Tongariro National Park offer up stunning snow-capped volcano views.
You don’t need to ski or snowboard to enjoy winter in New Zealand, but if you’re keen to hit the slopes, then you’ll have a blast on a winter trip.
Head to Queenstown to ski at the Remarkables or Coronet Peak, or visit one of Wanaka’s two ski fields: Cardrona or Treble Cone. Snow levels and timings vary each year, but July and August tend to be the most consistent months for good snow conditions on the ski fields.
It’s perfect hot pool weather.
New Zealand is home to numerous hot pools—including natural hot pools and more commercial ones—and winter is the perfect time to soak away your stresses in some steaming hot water.
If you’re interested in natural hot springs, you’ll want to head to the North Island. Rotorua and Taupo, in particular, boast numerous hot springs filled with natural, mineral-rich water.
In the South Island, I love Maruia hot pools (which have a campervan campsite onsite!). Hanmer Springs is another great place to visit, particularly for families. And if you plan to visit Queenstown, the Onsen Hot Pools are a real treat.
Later in this article, I’ve shared my favourite winter campsites—many of which are close to hot pools or have hot tubs onsite.
Cons of hiring a campervan in New Zealand in winter
It’s cold outside!
I know I know, this is pretty obvious—but winter in New Zealand can be cold, especially in the lower half of the South Island.
You’ll want to pack plenty of warm clothing layers and stay bundled up to keep warm.
If you plan to camp in the South Island, I suggest getting a campervan that includes the option of having a heater inside.
And if your van doesn’t include a heater option, make sure you have lots of warm blankets. A hot water bottle also works a treat on cold nights!
There are less daylight hours.
Daylight hours are limited in winter, with around 9-10 hours of daylight during winter days.
This means you’ll have less time for outdoor activities like hiking. But it also means more stargazing opportunities!
I almost never recommend that visitors drive after dark in New Zealand, but in winter, I really can’t stress this enough. Our roads can be twisty, narrow and steep, and many roads are not lit up with streetlights. In the South Island in particular, you should stay off the roads before sunrise and after sunset to avoid black ice.
In winter, make sure to plan your drive times and outdoor activities to coincide with daylight hours.
My motto when campervanning in winter is to take it slow. Plan to do less so you can make the most of the daylight hours you do have (instead of being behind the wheel all day).
Roads can be dicey.
If you plan to drive in alpine areas, you’ll need to be prepared to potentially deal with snow and ice.
You should carry chains in your van and know how to use them. Most campervan rental companies should be able to provide you with chains, so ask when you book your van.
Roads can close during winter (although to be honest, this can happen year-round!), so check your route for potential road closures. Some roads to be particularly cautious on include the Desert Road (North Island), and South Island roads like the Crown Range Road and Milford Road.
Some hikes & campsites will be closed or inaccessible.
You can still do many walks & hikes around New Zealand in winter, especially in coastal and low-elevation areas.
However, some hikes are not safe in winter unless you’re an experienced alpine hiker.
Most day walks/hikes in the North Island are still doable in winter, but the Tongariro Crossing is not safe for winter hiking unless you go with a guide.
In the South Island, it really depends on the year and snowfall levels, but some popular hikes like Roy’s Peak and Ben Lomond aren’t safe for most people to do, unless it’s a mild-weather year with little snowfall.
Many of the Great Walks aren’t safe to hike in winter, either (but some—like the Abel Tasman Track—are!).
The bottom line is this: don’t set out on a hike if it seems dangerous. When in doubt, check with the closest DOC visitor centre first!
I actually love hiking in New Zealand in winter. The trails are far less crowded than the rest of the year, and I much prefer hiking in colder temperatures than in sweltering summer heat.
As for campgrounds, many of them stay open during the winter months, but some do not. So, before you head out to a campsite, check their website or call ahead to ensure they’re open so you don’t arrive disappointed.
Tips for campervanning in New Zealand in winter
- If possible, take advantage of lower prices to splurge on a spacious van with a nice hangout space. And if you have the option to add a heater in your van, go for it.
- Be flexible–you might need to change your plans depending on the weather.
- Make the most of the sun while it’s out—time walks & hikes during the middle of the day when the sun is strongest so you can warm up your body.
- Plan some good, warming comfort food to make, and bring along plenty of tea & coffee for hot drinks. Sometimes, give yourself a break from campervan cooking by heading out to a cosy cafe or pub for a meal.
- Opt for a slower-paced itinerary than you might follow during warmer months. With limited daylight hours, you won’t want to be behind the wheel all day and then run out of time for hikes and other outdoor activities.
- While most people think of visiting wintery locations like Queenstown and Wanaka, I actually love visiting more “summery” coastal destinations in winter, as they’re far less crowded (and warmer than the mountains!). Northland, the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty, and Abel Tasman National Park are some of my favourite winter destinations in New Zealand.
Some great campgrounds for your winter campervan trip
These are some of my favourite campsites for camping in New Zealand in winter.
In summer, I love camping at DOC (Department of Conservation) campsites, which are usually bare-bones but in stunning locations.
In winter, however, I more often stay at holiday parks and private campgrounds that provide hot showers, kitchens, drying rooms, and hangout spaces.
Camping near hot pools, cosy cafes, or a good pub is an added bonus!
Tip: consider getting a Top 10 holiday park card to save money on any of the “Top 10” campsites recommended below!
Paihia Top 10 Holiday Park
📍Bay of Islands, North Island
Head to the “Winterless North” for some winter sunshine and coastal scenery.
The Paihia Top 10 Holiday Park is in a great location near the town of Paihia. It’s set amongst native bush and is right next to the water—and they hire kayaks onsite to boot!
From Paihia, you can hop on a ferry to Russell to explore the charming historic town (and get a pizza at Hone’s Garden while there!). Another fun option is to visit scenic Urupukapuka Island for a day walk, or take a scenic cruise to look for dolphins and other marine life.
Hot Water Beach Top 10 Holiday Park
📍Coromandel Peninsula, North Island
Camp just a short walk away from the Coromandel’s famous Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own hot pool in the sand!
This spacious holiday park has a large hangout space, spacious kitchen, and free hot showers. It’s easily one of my favourite campgrounds in the North Island and I highly recommend staying here.
You’ll also be just a short drive away from the trail to Cathedral Cove Beach, which is an awesome winter walk.
Athenree Hot Springs & Holiday Park
📍Athenree, Waihi Beach, North Island
The Athenree Holiday Park is a fantastic place to stay if you’re into soaking in hot pools. When you camp here, you get complimentary access to their two mineral hot pools, which are so lovely on a cold winter’s day!
This campground is located just a 10-minute drive from the lovely coastal town of Waihi Beach, where you’ll find some cosy cafes and local shops. Go for a long beach stroll along Waihi Beach, or try the gorgeous coastal track from Waihi Beach to Orokawa Bay.
Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park
📍Mount Maunganui, North Island
Mount Maunganui is a beautiful beach town and a busy summer destination, but I love visiting in winter when it’s peaceful and quiet!
The Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park is in an awesome beachfront location at the base of Mauao, the volcanic cone that gives Mount Maunganui its name.
Warm up with a beach walk and hike up Mauao, and then soak in the Mount Maunganui Hot Pools, located right next to the campground.
There are some awesome places to eat and drink in the Mount, too, including the General for brunch, Rice Rice Baby for Vietnamese food, and the Rising Tide Brewery for craft beer and dumplings.
Waikite Valley Hot Pools
📍Rotorua, North Island
At Waikite Valley Hot Pools, you’ll find a small campsite right next to some wonderful hot pools filled with natural, mineral-rich water.
The hot pools are open to the public, but the best part about camping here is that you get early-morning access to the pools before the public is allowed in!
When you’re not soaking in the hot pools, you can explore nearby to see some of Rotorua’s other geothermal wonders. Wai-o-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is just a short drive away, as is Waimangu Volcanic Valley.
For a free geothermal site close by, check out “Mud Pool” near Wai-o-Tapu, or visit Kerosene Creek to soak in a natural hot spring in the bush.
Ohakune Top 10 Holiday Park
📍Tongariro National Park, North Island
If you’re keen to see snow in the North Island, your best bet is to head to Tongariro National Park, which is home to two main ski fields on Mount Ruapehu: Whakapapa & Turoa.
Ohakune makes a great base for exploring the area, and the Ohakune Top 10 Holiday Park is nicely set up for winter campervanning.
Even if you’re not keen to hit the slopes, Tongariro National Park is stunning to see in winter.
While some hikes in the area aren’t safe to do without a guide—like the Tongariro Alpine Crossing—there are still plenty of trail options. The Taranaki Falls Track is one of my favourite winter walks in the North Island, and Tawhai Falls is another easy, gorgeous trail.
Belt Road Holiday Park
📍New Plymouth, North Island
Taranaki is an off-the-beaten-path destination that’s often left out of New Zealand itineraries. It’s well-worth visiting this region, though—it’s home to epic black sand surf beaches, forest trails, great food, and the impressive Mount Taranaki looming over it all (which looks extra epic in winter when it’s covered in snow!).
Base yourself at the Belt Road Holiday Park in New Plymouth, where you can easily jump off on day trips to explore the area. They even have ocean-view spa pools for hire, which feel delightful after a day of adventures around Taranaki.
Martinborough Top 10 Holiday Park
📍Wairarapa, North Island
If you like wine tasting and cycling, the Martinborough Top 10 Holiday Park might be your perfect idea of a winter camping escape.
Martinborough is home to numerous vineyards and is known in particular for its pinot noir. The vineyards here are all quite close to each other, and the area is mostly flat: this means that it’s the perfect place for cycling to vineyards!
The Martinborough Top 10 Holiday Park offers hire bikes onsite, making it so easy to hop on a bike and tour some vineyards. Try some wine, enjoy a long leisurely lunch (don’t miss a platter at Poppies!), and at the end of the day, you’ll return to your cosy campervan to relax and sleep it all off.
While many vineyards stay open throughout winter, I do recommend checking ahead of time to ensure your preferred vineyards are open, as some take a break during the slow winter season.
The Barn Cabins & Camp
📍Marahau, South Island
Camp right by the entrance to Abel Tasman National Park at the Barn, a cosy and welcoming campground with great facilities.
From this campground, you can easily access the Abel Tasman Coastal Track. And if you’d prefer to explore the park via water, you’ll find kayak and boat tour operators just a short distance away from camp.
Gentle Annie Campground
📍West Coast, South Island
Gentle Annie is a destination-worthy campground on the South Island’s wild West Coast.
This family-run campground is one of my all-time favourite camping spots in the South Island, and it’s just as beautiful in winter as it is in summer (and far less crowded to boot!).
You’ll camp right near a driftwood-strewn beach, which is ideal for a winter beach bonfire. The campsite has an outdoor pizza oven, a cosy cafe with good coffee, and beautiful wood fired hot tubs for hire. It’s a treasure of a spot and if you like getting off-the-beaten-path, you’re going to love it here!
Rainforest Retreat Campervan Park
📍Franz Josef, South Island
Explore Franz Josef by day and at night, enjoy the facilities at this luxe holiday park!
The campervan sites here are nestled amongst native bush, and the complementary sauna and spa pool are a real treat on a cold winter’s evening.
Fox Glacier Top 10 Holiday Park
📍Fox Glacier, South Island
The Fox Glacier Top 10 Holiday Park is located just a 10-minute drive from one of my favourite winter walks: Lake Matheson.
In addition to Lake Matheson, there’s plenty to do in the area, including the Minnehaha glow worm walk, the Fox Glacier South Side walk, or a heli-tour of the impressive Fox Glacier.
The campground itself is well set-up for winter camping, with a spacious camp kitchen and hangout area, and a hot tub for hire.
Maruia Hot Springs
📍Lewis Pass, South Island
Splash out on a campervan site at Maruia Hot Springs and get access to their onsite hot pools, steam room, sauna, and wellness activities.
The hot pools here are my favourite in the South Island, with native beech forest surrounding the property and a rustic, peaceful feel to the place.
Peketa Campground
📍Kaikoura, South Island
Kaikoura is a fantastic winter destination if you’re a wildlife enthusiast. This seaside town is known for its abundance of marine life, including dolphins, whales and seals—and winter is arguably the best time of year to spot whales here.
There are multiple options for camping in Kaikoura, but my favourite spot is Peketa Campground, located an 8-minute drive south of town. The campground’s beachfront location is simply stunning, and you’ll get both ocean views and snowy mountain views right from your campsite.
Post up for a couple of days to properly enjoy Kaikoura. Take a whale-watching cruise, walk the Kaikoura Peninsula Track to see seals and coastal views, and warm up at the cosy cafes in town.
Lake’s Edge Holiday Park
📍Tekapo, South Island
In the colder months, the lakeside town of Tekapo turns into a winter wonderland. Snowy mountains provide a stunning backdrop for turquoise-blue Lake Tekapo.
The Lake’s Edge Holiday Park offers up gorgeous views of the lake and mountains. It’s also just a short walk from the campground to Tekapo Springs hot pools.
At night, make sure to look up at the sky—Tekapo is a Dark Sky Reserve, and the stargazing here is incredible!
Driftaway Campground
📍Queenstown, South Island
Book a campsite at Queenstown’s nicest campground and enjoy Queenstown in winter.
This luxe holiday park also has lakeview hot tubs for hire—they’re the perfect way to relax after a day of hitting the slopes or exploring around Queenstown!
Wanaka Top 10 Holiday Park
📍Wanaka, South Island
The picturesque lakeside town of Wanaka is a fantastic winter destination, with 2 ski fields within close reach and snowy mountain scenery that’ll take your breath away.
Camp at the wonderful Wanaka Top 10 Holiday Park and enjoy the onsite hot tub and sauna after a day of hitting the slopes.
Glentanner
📍near Mount Cook National Park, South Island
In summer, I often camp at the White Horse Hill DOC campsite in the heart of Mount Cook National Park.
In winter, however, I usually prefer Glentanner for camping—it’s located just 20 minutes outside of the national park, and offers more facilities than you’ll find at the DOC campsite, including a camp kitchen, hot showers, running water, and powered sites.
Tasman Holiday Park Te Anau
📍Te Anau, South Island
The Tasman Holiday Park in Te Anau makes an excellent base for exploring Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park.
This campground has awesome facilities, but my favourite part about camping here is their complementary wood barrel sauna. It’s such a treat on a cold winter’s day! They also have freshwater hot tubs for hire, and let me tell you, they’re delightful.
When you’re not hanging out around camp, you can take off on a number of adventures. Explore the cute town of Te Anau, go for a winter day walk on the Kepler Track, or book a tour of Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound.
What to pack for your winter campervan trip
The key here is to pack layers and wear the right materials. Opt for things like merino wool layers, a Gore-tex jacket, and sturdy shoes with good grippy soles that will keep you warm and dry.
- A base layer set (I love merino wool)
- Warm socks (again, merino is my go-to!)
- Beanie
- Gloves
- Raincoat
- Thick, warm jacket
- A midlayer like a fleece pullover or zip-up
- Pants you can wear a base layer under if necessary
- Swimsuit for hot pools
- Hiking boots or walking shoes with good grip
- Flip flops/sandals for camp showers
- A couple of quick-dry towels
- Snow clothing/gear if you’re planning to ski or snowboard
- Headtorch (headlamp)
- Activities for the van: a kindle or other e-reader & deck of cards will keep you occupied on winter evenings in the van. I also like to bring along a board game sometimes (Catan is my favourite!)
- A hot water bottle is nice to have for staying cosy at night—you can easily buy these in NZ at places like Kmart or the Warehouse.
So, is it worth hiring a campervan in New Zealand in winter?
While winter campervanning can bring some challenges, a winter van life experience can also be really fun.
If you’re considering a winter campervan trip in New Zealand—and you’re up for an adventure—I say go for it!
Just make sure you’re prepared to be flexible with your trip plans, and pack plenty of warm and waterproof clothes.
Thanks for reading!
I truly hope this has helped you decide whether a winter campervan trip is for you.
If you have any questions or feedback for me, please leave a comment below or send me an email. I always love hearing from you!
Some campervan itineraries for you
If you’ve decided to go ahead and get that campervan booked, the next step is planning where you want to go.
Here are some campervan-friendly itineraries to help you get started.
