FAQ About Campervans

Can a Babyseat Be Fitted To Any Vehicle?
Babyseats and/or booster seats can be fitted in most vehicles. In some two/three berth models it must be fitted in the front passenger seat.
Can I Flatten The Battery?
Vehicles have two batteries: one to start the vehicle, the other to operate the living equipment. If you should flatten the 'house' battery, you can still start the vehicle.
What Equipment Will Be Included?
The exact features for each vehicle differ, but they all have fully equiped kitchens with all cooking equipment, bedding, towels, cutlery, etc. See each vehicle for full details.
Can I Choose an Automatic Transmission?
Yes, although the majority of campervans and motorhomes have manual transmission for robustness, flexibility and strength. There are vehicles with automatic transmissions- see vehicle details.
How Old Are Rental Campervans?
Most rental companies run two 'brands' or 'fleets' - their 'premium' brand of vehicles less than a few (usually 3) years old, and their 'budget' brand for their older vehicles (usually less than 5 years). Beware - there are some budget or backpacker-style rental companies which use 'ex-rental' and imported secondhand vehicles, often older than 5 years.
Where Can I Empty The Toilet And Grey Water?
Dump stations can be found on all campsites as well as various tourist locations by the roadside. A good roadmap should show all the locations. A voluntary contribution is requested sometimes when using roadside facilities.
Do I Need Snow Chains?
In winter (say, 01 May to 30 November), YES if you are travelling in the South Island. Possibly if you intend to cross the central North Island (Desert Road) in winter.
How Do I Make a Booking?
To protect yourself, you should obtain a quote for the travel dates/locations you require. The quote must have a reference number. The quote is not a booking. You must then make a booking (usually an online form or telephone call) and pay a deposit. You will then be sent a Booking Confirmation. Check all the details on the confirmation are as you expect.
Why Is There Such a Variance In Price Between Quotes?
Differences between quotes for the same dates from different companies are normally due to the quality and age of the vehicle or the terms of the insurance, or the number of "extras" that are included/excluded.
What Is The Difference Between 'United' And 'Alpha' Brands?
United branded vehicles are less than 3 years old and higher specification vehicles. Alpha branded vehicles are slightly lower specs and 3 to 5 years old.
How Much Are Fuel Costs?
Diesel is about 30% cheaper than petrol in New Zealand. The amount of fuel you use will depend on the size of the vehicle and the distance driven, but reckon on approximately NZ$8-15 per 100/km.
Can I Smoke In The Vehicle?
Smoking is prohibited in all vehicles.
What Does "Selp-Contained" Mean?
Self Contained means the vehicle is certified as meeting the ablutionary and sanitary needs of the occupants for a minimum of three days without requiring external services or discharge to waste. Fresh water is stored in tanks. Waste water is collected in a tank and disposed of at a dump station. Dump stations are found throughout New Zealand and at campgrounds