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🚐 A Quick Intro about Vans in New Zealand
New Zealand is an excellent destination for travelling by van or campervan.
No matter you are planning a short-term holiday or a long-term adventurous trip, this guide will help you understand everything you need to know before deciding to hire or buy van!
1. Hiring a Van in New Zealand
When hiring a van in New Zealand, you can check each rental company’s website for different models and prices.
To save you time, we have created a search comparison tool that will give you the best price for your dates and pick-up/drop-off locations.
Below, we will talk more about hiring vans in New Zealand, but if you prefer to run a quick search, you can do so now.
1.1. Benefits of Hiring a Van Vs. Buying
Ideally, hiring is for short-term trips, at most 60 days.
The reasons are:
- Convenience: You can enjoy your trip without the burden of maintenance costs or the hassle of the reselling process in the last days of your holidays.
- Variety: You can pick the ideal one from the many different types of vans available for hire.
- Support: In the event of any car issues or unforeseen circumstances during your journey, rental companies are readily available to provide you with the necessary assistance, ensuring your peace of mind.
1.2. The 6 Most Popular Models When Hiring a Van
In New Zealand, we can categorize these models into 6 different ones; let’s check them out!
1⃣ Ford Transit
The Ford Transit is available in several models, each designed to meet different needs. The main variants include:
- Transit Cargo Van: Ideal for transporting goods with a focus on payload and space.
- Transit Custom Van: A smaller, more maneuverable version suitable for urban use.
- Transit Passenger Van: Designed to carry passengers and available in different seating configurations.
- Transit Connect: A compact option for lighter loads or fewer passengers.
- Transmission: Available with a 6-speed automatic or manual transmission, depending on the model and engine.
- Drivetrain: Options for rear-wheel drive (RWD), front-wheel drive (FWD), and all-wheel drive (AWD) are available to suit various driving conditions.
2⃣ Mercedes Benz Sprinter
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter comes in several models and configurations, making it suitable for a wide range of applications:
- Sprinter Cargo Van: Designed for maximum cargo space and load capacity.
- Sprinter Passenger Van: Ideal for transporting groups with multiple seating configurations.
- Sprinter Crew Van: Combines cargo space with seating for up to five people, suitable for both work and travel.
- Sprinter Chassis Cab: A customizable platform for various specialized applications, including campervans.
- Transmission: Equipped with either a 7-speed or 9-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and efficient performance.
- Drivetrain: Available in rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), providing versatility for different driving conditions.
3⃣ Nissan NV350
The Nissan NV350 is a versatile and reliable van that caters to a range of needs, from commercial use to recreational travel.
Its variants are:
- NV350 Cargo Van: Ideal for transporting goods and commercial use.
- NV350 Passenger Van: Suitable for carrying passengers with multiple seating configurations.
- NV350 Caravan: A flexible option for both cargo and passenger transport, often used for camper conversions.
- Transmission: Available with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and efficient performance.
- Drivetrain: Mostly available in rear-wheel drive (RWD), providing good traction and stability, especially when carrying heavy loads.
4⃣ Toyota HIACE
The Toyota HiAce is one of the most popular and reliable vans globally, known for its durability, versatility, and practicality.
It is a top choice in New Zealand for both commercial use and recreational travel.
The Toyota HIACE variants are:
- HiAce Cargo Van: Ideal for transporting goods and commercial use.
- HiAce Commuter Van: Suitable for carrying passengers with multiple seating configurations.
- HiAce Van: A flexible option for both cargo and passenger transport, often used for camper conversions.
- Transmission: Available with a 6-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission, ensuring smooth and efficient performance.
- Drivetrain: Mostly available in rear-wheel drive (RWD), with some models offering all-wheel drive (AWD) for better traction and stability in various conditions.
5⃣ Volkswagen Crafter
The Volkswagen Crafter is a highly versatile and reliable van, known for its spacious interior, advanced technology, and robust performance.
We can distinct the following types:
- Crafter Panel Van: Ideal for transporting goods and commercial use.
- Crafter Minibus: Suitable for carrying passengers with multiple seating configurations.
- Crafter Chassis Cab: A flexible option for various specialized applications, including camper conversions.
- Transmission: Available with a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and efficient performance.
- Drivetrain: Options for front-wheel drive (FWD), rear-wheel drive (RWD), and 4MOTION all-wheel drive (AWD) are available to suit various driving conditions.
6⃣ Volkswagen Transporter
The Volkswagen Transporter is a highly versatile and reliable van, celebrated for its practicality, modern features, and robust performance.
Their variants are:
- Transporter Panel Van: Ideal for transporting goods and commercial use.
- Transporter Kombi: Suitable for carrying passengers with multiple seating configurations.
- Transporter Shuttle: Perfect for transporting larger groups of passengers, often used for shuttle services.
- Transporter Campervan: A popular choice for camper conversions, offering flexibility for travel and adventure.
- Transmission: Available with a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission, providing smooth and efficient performance.
- Drivetrain: Options for front-wheel drive (FWD) and 4MOTION all-wheel drive (AWD) are available to suit various driving conditions.
1.3. Costs Involved When Hiring a Van in New Zealand
The cost to rent a van in New Zealand varies widely. Depending on the rental company, the type of van, and the season, you can expect to pay anywhere from NZD 50 to NZD 300 per day.
If you’re planning to hire a van for travelling with a camper set up, you can expect the following inclusions that will add up to the price of the rental:
- Bedding: Sheets, blankets, pillows
- Kitchen Equipment: Pots, pans, utensils, a small stove, and a fridge or cooler
- Additional Driver Fees: Some companies include this in the base rate, while others charge extra
📝 Mileage: The mileage policy is a crucial aspect to consider when renting a van. Some agreements offer unlimited kilometres, allowing you to drive without worrying about extra charges.
However, others may charge based on the distance you cover. It’s essential to check this detail before booking to avoid any surprises.
2. Buying a Van in New Zealand
If you plan to buy a van in New Zealand, we have numerous articles and guides on this topic, mainly on travel.
- If you’re planning to buy a converted van, you can check: Converted Vans & Small Campervans in New Zealand
- General information about Self-Contained Campervans in New Zealand
- If planning to buy in Auckland: Backpacker Vans in Auckland
- If planning to buy in Christchurch: Backpacker Vans in Christchurch
- General advice for a smooth buying process: 12 Tips for Buying a Campervan in New Zealand
2.1. Listings of Vans Available for Sale
At Travel Cars, we have vans for sale from private sellers and car dealers; most of them are converted vans into campervans.
You can find the available vans for sale below:
2.2. Insurance for Your Van
You do not need insurance when buying a van in New Zealand, but it can give you a lot of peace of mind.
At Travel Cars NZ, we have created a guide to drive you step by step on how to get van insurance in just under 5 minutes and for only the time you need, saving you hundreds of dollars.
🔍 Find more here: Car Insurance in New Zealand
🧑💻 Bottom Line
Hiring or buying a van in New Zealand doesn’t need to be a complex process; following the information and the necessary steps, you’ll find the ideal van for your adventure.
Remember to book in advance when renting or take some time to buy.
Safe travels!
