Frequently Asked Questions

BOOKING & RESERVATIONS

What currency are your campervan rental prices listed in?

All Waka Campa campervan prices are shown in New Zealand Dollars (NZD). If you’re browsing from overseas, your bank or credit card provider may automatically display an estimated conversion in your local currency, but the final charge at checkout will be processed in NZD.

How do I pay for my booking?

Full payment needs be settled 40 days before the pick-up date. For bookings made more than 30 days out from the start of the booking, we require a 20% deposit.

All payments can be made online via credit/debit card, and a 3.7% card processing fee applies. Alternatively, payments can be settled via bank transfer in NZD to our New Zealand bank account. We also accept Wise payments using our Wise payment link.

Dependent on the insurance option you select and at the time of vehicle collection, you will need to have sufficient funds on your card for the bond. The Funds will be frozen for the entire duration of your trip and will be released on return of the campervan. This isn't actually a transaction and will only show as “pending” on your account.

Do you hold a bond?

If your booking does not include our "Peace of Mind" Insurance, a bond/deposit will be required, and the booking will be classified as a “Risk Taker” booking.

See our insurance options for more details.

What is the cancellation policy?

In the unfortunate event that you need to cancel your reservation, the following cancellation policy applies:
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• More than 30 days → No fee applicable
• 30 to 22 days → 25% of total hire
‍• 7 to 21 days from pickup → 50% of total hire
• Less than 7 days from pickup → 75% of total hire
• Less than 3 days from pickup → 100% of total hire

Are insurance and roadside assistance included?

We offer 2 types of insurance packages: “Risk Taker” and “Peace of Mind”. See the insurance page for more details.
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Roadside assistance is included regardless of the selected insurance level.

What is not covered by insurance?

Certain exclusions apply, such as reckless driving, driving on restricted roads, or breaching rental terms. Full details are provided in your rental agreement.

What happens if I damage the vehicle?

If damage occurs or you get into a vehicle accident, notify us immediately. We’ll guide you through the process. Any applicable excess will depend on your chosen insurance option and the circumstances.

What licence do I need?

You can drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months if you hold:

• A current and valid full driver licence from your home country

• An International Driving Permit (IDP) if your licence is not in English

• Or an official NZTA-approved translation

For official government requirements, refer to the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA).

If you need a translation, we recommend 1world. Usually they can provide NZTA approved translation within 1-3 days by email. See process here: https://www.1world.co.nz/nzta-driver-licence

Can multiple people drive?

Yes. Additional drivers must be registered with the booking, and can only be added manually after a booking request has been made.

Can I pick up and drop off the vehicle in different locations?

Absolutely, either way between Auckland, Christchurch, and Queenstown. A one way fee applies. Contact us for more details.

What is your flexible pick up and drop off system?

We have a 24/7 self pick-up and drop-off system that you can access through our App. This allows you to complete your campervan collection and return process.

Through the App, you’ll receive step-by-step instructions, access details, helpful guides, and contact information to get you on the road quickly and confidently. It’s designed to give you greater flexibility, reduce waiting time, and make your travel experience as smooth as possible.

Do prices change by season?

Yes. Rates vary depending on season and demand. Booking early is the best way to secure the most competitive rate.

Can I modify my booking?

We understand plans can change. Contact us as early as possible and we’ll do our best to accommodate modifications, subject to availability.

Do you offer airport transfers?

Yes. We provide airport transfer support to make your arrival and departure smooth and stress-free.

Can you help with Ferry crossings?

Yes. We actually suggest you to book your Cook Strait crossing through us to get access to more flexible ferry tickets at a great price.
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Contact us for more details and pricing.

ABOUT OUR CAMPERVANS

What are your campervan options?

We offer two campervan options that are self-contained, easy to drive, and thoughtfully set up for 2-4 adults. The main difference lies in feature inclusions and overall finish.

• Explorer – Certified Self-Contained 4-Berth Toyota HiAce 2018-2025 Automatic Model, custom-designed and built in 2025 for comfort and convenience. It includes upgraded features and added touches to make your road trip feel effortless and well-equipped.

• Explorer Saver – Certified Self-Contained 4-Berth Toyota HiAce 2013-2015 Automatic Model, custom-designed and built in 2018 for more budget-friendly option that still provides all the essentials for a comfortable New Zealand adventure. It’s perfect for travellers who want the Waka Campa experience at a more accessible price point.

How does it look like inside?

We have interactive 360° virtual tours so you can explore the layout, storage, kitchen setup, sleeping area, and overall space. See below:

360° view of the Explorer

360° view of the Explorer Saver

What is the measurement of the campervans?

Our campervans are: 5m (Length) x 2.70m (Height) x 1.90m (Width).

How many people can sleep in the campervan?

Our campervans comfortably sleeps up to 4 adults and 1 child, on 2 double beds.

We're traveling with kids. Are child seats mandatory in New Zealand?

Yes. In New Zealand, children must be properly secured in an approved child restraint that is appropriate for their age and size. It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure all children are safely restrained while the vehicle is in motion.

Child seats are available on request and must be reserved in advance. Please let us know during booking if you are travelling with a child so we can ensure availability.

Here’s a helpful guide you can refer to: Child Restraints Requirements

Are beddings, linens and towels included?

Yes. Bedding, pillows, and linens are included so you can travel and rest comfortably. We also provide tea towels, but no bath towels.

1 Bedding Set includes: 1 double bed mattress (120cm x 180cm), 1 mattress protector, 1 fitted sheet, 1 duvet, 1 duvet cover, 2 pillows, 2 pillow cases

Will the campervan be filled with water and petrol when we pick it up?

Yes, we always make sure that the 50L fresh water tank and the petrol fuel are both full at pick up.

You can access fresh water at several places around New Zealand: holiday parks,

camping sites, dump stations, petrol stations, and other public facilities.

Does it have a kitchen?

Yes. Our campervans include essential kitchen equipment such as cooking utensils, crockery, and a gas cooker, allowing you to prepare simple meals on the road.

Does it have a fridge/freezer?

Yes. A fridge is included to keep your food and drinks fresh throughout your trip.

Does the campervan have a toilet?

Yes. Our campervans are equipped with an onboard fixed-flush toilet for convenience during travel.

Does it have a shower?

Our campervans include an outdoor shower option. The kitchen water tap can be pulled out and extended to the rear of the campervan, allowing you to use it as a convenient outdoor shower. It’s perfect for rinsing off after the beach, a hike, or a swim. Like this photo: Outdoor shower

Take note that we do not provide an outdoor shower curtain.

Is it allowed to shower like that in the open?

Showering outside in the open is generally fine as long as you’re considerate of the environment. Since it’s just water, it’s not a big issue.

If you're going to use soap or shampoo, it’s best to avoid letting it run directly into streams or rivers. We recommend using a small bucket to collect the soapy water and then dispose of it in the sink or designated disposal area.

If you’re in a spot with good drainage or a grassy area, that should work well. This way, you can enjoy your shower while keeping things eco-friendly!

Can you explain to us how we get warm water?

The water is at outside temperature. If you want to get warmer water, the van is supplied with a solar shower.

The solar shower is essentially a black bag to fill with water and heat up in the sun, with a hose and small shower head attached. The solar shower capacity is approximately 20 litres. It looks like this.

Is the solar shower pressurised?

No, the solar shower isn’t pressurised.

However, the pull out shower head (which is the kitchen tap) is connected to the fresh water pump and therefore pressurised.

Are gas canisters included in the campervan?

Yes, there are 2 gas canisters included with the campervan.

If you have a long booking or planning on using the gas stove a lot, we suggest purchasing extra gas canisters. They are sold at major stores in New Zealand like Bunnings and Mitre10.

How often do I need to empty the toilet?

The frequency depends on usage, but most travellers empty it every couple of days.

Dump stations are widely available across New Zealand.

How long does the fresh water last?

Water usage varies depending on cooking, cleaning, and shower use. On average, travellers refill every few days.

Fresh water refill stations are commonly available at campsites and designated locations.

Is the campervan suitable for winter travel?

Yes, our campervans can be used year-round. However, winter travel requires more planning, especially in alpine regions where weather conditions can change quickly.

We recommend checking forecasts regularly and allowing flexibility in your itinerary during colder months.

How does the heater work?

The cabin heater requires a 230V power supply, so it only works when the camper van is plugged in at a powered site. When not connected to external power, only the lights, USB ports, and fridge will operate, as the heating system cannot run on battery power alone.

Do you have bike racks?

No, we don’t provide bike racks. One or two bikes can fit inside with the rear seats folded (if up to 3 travelers, using the front seats only). See this photo for reference.

ON THE ROAD

Is it safe to drive a campervan in New Zealand?

Yes. Driving a campervan in New Zealand is safe, provided you understand the conditions and drive responsibly. Campervans are larger and heavier than standard cars, requiring wider turns, longer braking distances, and greater awareness of wind and road surfaces.

Before you travel, click to watch this video to know about driving safely on New Zealand roads.

What is it like driving in New Zealand?

Driving in New Zealand is one of the most scenic experiences in the world, but it can feel very different from driving on large multi-lane motorways overseas.

Many rural highways are narrow, winding, and shared with trucks and local traffic, so patience is essential. New Zealand is best explored at a relaxed pace. This is not a country for rushing.

While distances may appear short on a map, travel times are often longer due to terrain, road conditions, and changing weather.

Allow extra time in mountainous or coastal regions, and plan your journey with flexibility in mind.

What are the road conditions and weather like in New Zealand?

New Zealand’s road and weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly in alpine regions, coastal areas, and remote rural highways. Heavy rain can create slippery surfaces and surface flooding, strong winds may affect high-sided vehicles like campervans, and mountain passes can experience fog, snow, or ice during winter.

Before any long drive, check official road updates from the New Zealand Transport Agency and monitor local weather forecasts.

Conditions may differ significantly between regions on the same day, so planning ahead and adjusting your route or timing when necessary is essential for safe travel.

Do you have some driving tips?

We believe a great campervan journey starts before you turn the key. We’re here to help you explore New Zealand responsibly.

Here are some safety driving tips:

• Allow wider turning space

• Increase breaking distance

• Be mindful of vehicle height when passing bridges

• Watch for strong crosswinds especially on coastal roads

• Use passing lanes to allow traffic to flow

• Avoid blind side of big and heavy loaded trucks

• Do not drive when tired, take breaks in between

What are the road rules I should know about?

Understanding New Zealand road rules is essential before hiring and driving a campervan. Road laws may differ from those in your home country.

Taking the time to familiarise yourself with these rules not only helps you avoid fines and penalties, but ensures a safer, more confident journey on New Zealand’s unique roads.

• New Zealand drives on the left-hand side of the road. Keep left unless overtaking, use passing lanes when available, and allow faster vehicles to pass safely.

• Seat belts are compulsory for all passengers, and approved child restraints

are required where applicable.

• Speed limits are clearly signposted and measured in kilometres per hour

(km/h). The general maximum speed is 100 km/h on open roads and 50

km/h in urban areas, with lower limits around schools and special zones.

Always follow posted signs and adjust your speed to conditions.

• Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving is illegal, including adjusting

GPS or messages. Please pull over safely if needed.

• New Zealand has very strict drink- and drug-driving laws, with serious

penalties for breaches.

How much fuel am I likely to use in covering 100kms?

The average fuel consumption does vary by vehicle and driving style but for average use, you can expect about 8-12 L/100km estimate.

What fuel should we use and do you offer a fuel discount?

Fill up the petrol tank with Petrol 91 or with higher octane 95/98.

Waka Campa partnered with Mobil to offer its clients a fuel discount of 8 cents per litre at all Mobil stations nationwide.

How it works:

The process is very simple! All of our keys come with a barcoded key tag, so if you stop at a Mobil fuel station and pay at the pump, scan the key tag before you refuel. Alternatively, if you want to pay inside the store, fill up the vehicle with fuel and present the key tag to the staff before payment and you will receive a discount.

Is it necessary to book powered campsites in advance?

Although it isn't a bad idea, usually there is no need to book in advance. There is usually good availability at campgrounds. This way it provides better flexibility, and the ability to change plans based on weather, etc. You can always call the campgrounds a couple of days in advance to book a spot.

Can I park anywhere generally except at the places that have restrictions applied?

Yes, you can park anywhere unless there is a ‘no overnight camping/parking’ sign. You can use this app as a guide Campermate

Are we able to park the campervan in freedom camping areas?

Yes, you can freedom-camp as our campervans are all certified self-contained which is the requirement in New Zealand.

How long can I stay off-grid without plugging in?

This depends on your usage, particularly lighting, charging devices, and fridge use. The house battery charges while you drive, with the solar panel, and when connected to powered campsites.

Most travelers comfortably stay off-grid for short periods with mindful power use.

We recommend to plug into a powered site once a week for a full recharge. This ensures the fridge continues to run efficiently and helps maintain overall battery health, especially with frequent fridge use or in hot weather.