β Last Update: May 15, 2025 @ 11:16 am
If youβre planning a road trip around New Zealand, a Toyota Hiace campervan is one of the best vehicles you can buy.
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Itβs reliable, fuel-efficient, and easy to maintain. Whether you want a fully equipped camper or a simple setup, there are plenty of Hiace campervans for sale in New Zealand to fit your budget.
- Hereβs everything you need to know before buying one!
1. Why Choose a Toyota Hiace Campervan?
β Reliable & Long-Lasting: Toyota is known for making strong, long-lasting vehicles. Even older Hiace models with high mileage can run well if properly maintained.
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β½ Good on Fuel: Compared to big motorhomes, a Hiace uses less fuel. Diesel models are popular in New Zealand because they cost less to run.
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π§ Easy to Fix: Mechanics all over New Zealand can repair a Hiace, and spare parts are easy to find. This makes it a great choice for long road trips.
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π Compact but Comfortable: A Hiace is smaller than a motorhome but still has everything you needβbed, storage, and sometimes a kitchen or solar power.
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π Great for Freedom Camping: With a self-contained certificate, you can camp for free at many sites in NZ. This saves money and gives you more freedom to explore.
2. Where to Buy a Toyota Hiace Campervan in NZ
At Travel Cars NZ, dealers and private sellers can list their campervans for sale, therefore some Toyota Hiace could be available.Β
- Here are the latest Toyota Hiace campervan listings:

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π Additionally, you can also find Toyota HiacesΒ on Facebook Marketplace.
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3. How Much Does a Toyota Hiace Campervan Cost in NZ
βThe cost of a Toyota Hiace campervan in New Zealand varies based on various factors such as age, mileage, condition, and the extent of campervan conversion.
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Here’s an overview of the price ranges you might encounter:β
- Older Models (1990s to early 2000s): These vehicles, often with higher mileage, typically range from NZ$10,000 to NZ$15,000.Β
- Mid-2000s Models: Campervans from this era, with moderate mileage and well-maintained conversions, are generally priced between NZ$15,000 and NZ$25,000.Β
- Recent Models (2010s onward): Newer vehicles with lower mileage and modern amenities can command prices from NZ$30,000 to NZ$55,000 or more.
- Brand-New Models: Unconverted, brand-new Toyota Hiace vans suitable for campervan conversion start around NZ$47,000.
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π It’s important to note that these prices can fluctuate based on the specific features of the campervan, such as the quality of the conversion, included amenities, and overall vehicle condition. Additionally, market demand and availability can influence pricing.
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4. Should You Buy a Diesel or Petrol Toyota Hiace
If you’re deciding between a diesel or petrol Toyota Hiace in New Zealand, it comes down to factors like fuel efficiency, running costs, and how you plan to use the van.
- Diesel Hiaces are more fuel-efficient and can travel longer distances per liter, making them a great option for frequent travelers or those planning to drive long distances. However, diesel vehicles in New Zealand come with road user charges (RUC), which currently cost around $89 per 1,000 km. They also have higher servicing costs due to parts like turbochargers and diesel particulate filters needing maintenance. That said, a well-maintained diesel Hiace can easily last over 500,000 km.
- Petrol Hiaces, on the other hand, are generally cheaper to maintain. They donβt have RUC, and their servicing costs are lower because they have simpler engines with fewer expensive components. However, they are less fuel-efficient than diesel models and typically donβt last as long, with most reaching around 300,000 km before requiring major work.
π― So, if you’re planning long road trips and want the best fuel efficiency, diesel is a good choice despite the added RUC costs. But if youβre mostly driving short distances or using it in the city, petrol might be the better and lower-maintenance option.
5. How Important is a Self-Contained Certification
A self-contained certification is very important if you plan to use your Toyota Hiace campervan for freedom camping in New Zealand. It determines where you can legally camp and can also increase the resale value of your van.
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π For more information about Self-Contained in New Zealand you check the following article: Self-Contained in New Zealand: The Ultimate Guide
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π§βπ» FAQs about Toyota Hiace in New Zealand
Most Hiace campervans are converted to sleep 2-3 people, though larger models or high-top versions can accommodate up to 4 people with the right setup.
Diesel models: Around 8-10L per 100 km
Petrol models: Around 10-12L per 100 km
Fuel efficiency depends on factors like driving style, weight, and modifications.
Standard roof Hiace models do not allow standing room. However, high-roof or pop-top versions provide enough height to stand comfortably.
The Toyota Hiace Super Long Wheelbase (SLWB) or High Roof models are the best options for camper conversions due to their extra space. The DX and ZX models are also popular for their reliability and features.