Driver Guide & Road Advice
Most people who hire from us have never driven a motorhome before. Almost all of them are fine within an hour.
Here is everything you need to know before you pick up the keys.
Do you need a special licence?
No. A full car licence is all you need.
Every motorhome in our fleet is under 6,000kg, which means a standard car licence covers it. There is no special category, no extra test, and nothing to apply for.
Two things we do need:
- Your licence must be full and valid, and you must have held it for at least two years
- Every driver must be 25 or older
If your licence is not in English, bring an International Driving Permit or an official translation.
For more details, see our guide on driving a motorhome on a car licence in NZ.
Can I add another driver?
Yes. They need to meet the same age and licence rules, and they need to be named on the rental agreement before you set off. Tell us when you book and we will sort it.
Is it hard to drive?
Not really. If you are comfortable behind the wheel of a car, you will adapt quickly.
The van is taller and longer than what you are used to, so you sit higher and you take corners wider. That is most of the difference.
We do a full handover when you collect the van, so you leave understanding how everything works rather than reading a manual in a car park.
New Zealand roads can be narrow, particularly on the coast and through the hills. Take your time. You are on holiday.
Which roads can I use?
Sealed roads, anywhere in the country.
Unsealed and gravel roads are not covered by the rental agreement. Some are genuinely fine and we will tell you which at handover, but as a rule, if the seal runs out, turn around.
This is not us being fussy. Gravel does real damage to a motorhome underneath, where you cannot see it.
Can I take it to both islands?
Yes, and plenty of people do.
The Interislander ferry runs between Wellington and Picton and takes motorhomes. Book it yourself, directly with Interislander, and book early over summer because the sailings fill up.
Fuel
All our motorhomes run on diesel.
You get the van with a full tank and you bring it back full. If it comes back with less, we take the cost of refuelling out of your bond, so it is worth stopping on the way in.
If something goes wrong
Call us.
Every hire includes 24/7 support and nationwide roadside assistance, and the number is in your rental documents. If it is mechanical we will get it repaired or get you another van as fast as we can.
You are never on your own out there.
Official road rules and resources
These are the ones worth having on your phone.
NZTA General Road Code
The complete guide to road rules in New Zealand
NZTA Driving in New Zealand
Essential information for overseas visitors driving in NZ
DriveSafe NZ
Practical safe driving guidance for New Zealand conditions
AA Time and Distance Calculator
Plan your daily driving distances — essential for motorhome trips
Driver Fatigue Information
Know the signs of fatigue and how to stay safe on long drives
Speed Limits in New Zealand
Open road, urban, and motorway speed limits explained
Alcohol and Drug Limits
Legal limits and what to know before getting behind the wheel
Holiday Driving Tips
How to stay safe during peak holiday periods on NZ roads
Motorhomes and Trailers Regulations
Rules specific to motorhomes, including weight and length limits
Seat Belts in Motorhomes
Who must wear a seatbelt and when in a motorhome
Ready to go?
Get a free quote and Nico will match the right motorhome to your trip. He replies personally, usually within a few hours.
Get a Free QuoteStill need a hand?
We're always just a call away. 24/7 support is included with every hire.