A campervan is one of the best ways to see Queenstown and the southern South Island. You can stay near lakes and mountains, change plans on the day and save on accommodation. But hiring a campervan in Queenstown works a little differently to a normal car rental, so it pays to know the options before you book.

This guide covers what campervan hire in Queenstown costs, where you can collect your vehicle, which size to choose, and how to avoid the common mistakes.

How much does campervan hire in Queenstown cost?

Prices depend on four things:

• Season. December to February is peak, and winter ski season is busy too. Shoulder seasons are usually cheaper.
• Vehicle size. A 3-berth costs less than a 6-berth.
• Rental length. Longer hires often get a better daily rate.
• Extras and delivery. Linen, insurance options and delivery charges can change the total.

At Southern Campers, rates start from [INSERT FROM $X PER DAY] and you deal directly with the owners, which keeps pricing simple. Check the Specials page for current offers, and use the Availability page to see your dates.

Tip: always compare the final price including insurance, bond, extra driver fees and delivery, not just the headline daily rate.

Pick-up options in Queenstown

Most people choose one of these:

1. Delivery to your accommodation. We can meet you at your hotel or rental home in Queenstown.
2. Airport delivery. We can arrange delivery to Queenstown Airport so you can start your trip as soon as you land.
3. Depot pick-up in Gore. Our base is at 15 Ontario Street, East Gore, Southland.
4. Dunedin or Invercargill pick-up. Useful if you are starting or finishing your trip elsewhere in the south.

We deliver to Queenstown, Dunedin and Invercargill for a small charge. Many of our customers rent a car to Queenstown or Dunedin and collect our camper from there because the savings are worth it.

Which campervan size do you need?

Our fleet includes 3, 4 and 6-berth campervans:

• 3-berth: Couples or solo travellers who want a compact, easy-to-drive option.
• 4-berth: Small families or two couples travelling together.
• 6-berth: Larger families and groups who want space to spread out.

Before choosing, think about luggage, how much time you will spend inside on bad-weather days, and how comfortable everyone is driving a larger vehicle on mountain roads. See the full range on our Our Campers page.

Best time to hire a campervan in Queenstown

• December to February (summer): Warm, long days, and the busiest and most expensive period. Book early.
• March to May (autumn): Cooler, colourful scenery and usually fewer crowds.
• June to September (winter): Ski season. Expect cold nights and possible snow or ice on the roads, so ask about winter driving tips.
• October to November (spring): Quieter roads and good value, with changeable weather.

What is included in your rental

Our campervans are modern, fully equipped and certified self-contained. Each one comes with a toilet, cooker, fridge, crockery, cutlery, bedding linen and cooking equipment. That means you can arrive, load your bags and start your trip.

Rules to know before you drive and camp

• Freedom camping is restricted around Queenstown. The Queenstown Lakes District Council introduced a new bylaw in December 2025, and fines start at $400. Read our full guide to freedom camping in Queenstown before you plan your nights.
• Drive on the left and allow extra time on winding mountain roads.
• Use holiday parks on busy nights. Book ahead in summer.
• Check weather and road conditions daily, especially in winter.

Why book direct with Southern Campers

• Deal directly with the owners, with no middlemen.
• Affordable rates compared with many larger rental brands.
• Modern, well-maintained, certified self-contained fleet.
• Flexible pick-up and drop-off to suit your travel plans.
• Open 7 days a week (closed Christmas Day).
• Friendly local advice for the southern South Island.

Sample routes starting in Queenstown

• Queenstown to Te Anau and Milford Sound. Mountains, lakes and Fiordland scenery.
• Queenstown to Wanaka and Central Otago. Wineries, orchards and lake views.
• Queenstown to Dunedin and the Catlins. A longer loop through the southern coast, with waterfalls and wildlife.

Frequently asked questions

Can I pick up a campervan at Queenstown Airport? Yes, we can arrange airport delivery to Queenstown. Contact us with your flight details when you book.

How much does it cost to hire a campervan in Queenstown? Price depends on season, size and length of hire. Check the Availability and Specials pages for current rates, or call us for a quote.

Do your campervans come with bedding and kitchen equipment? Yes. All bedding linen, crockery, cutlery and cooking equipment are included.

Are your campervans self-contained? Yes, all of our campervans are certified self-contained.

Can I hire in one city and return in another? We can work around your plans. Contact us to arrange a different pick-up and drop-off.

Book your Queenstown campervan today

Check availability on our Book A Camper page, or call 0800 787 688 (NZ) or +64 27 435 3799 (international). Our team is open 7 days a week.