Guide to Buying the Right Motorhome in New Zealand
Are you ready to experience the freedom of motorhome travel in New Zealand but feeling lost in the sea of options?
This comprehensive free guide addresses common questions and challenges potential RV buyers like yourself face. It’s packed with valuable insights — and was created to be your essential companion for navigating the New Zealand motorhome market.
Find out the key differences between the two main categories of RV — campervans and motorhomes. Learn about essential features like chassis, construction, engines and layout. Discover why storage, lighting, heating, ventilation, power, water and technology are vital considerations.
Understand more about ownership costs — both upfront and ongoing. Get practical advice from our top ten motorhome buying tips. Then, learn what will happen as you go through the purchase process.
In this guide, we cover:
- Putting together a realistic wishlist
- Choosing a motorhome type
- The main features to consider when buying a motorhome
- Ownership costs that can affect your motorhome choice
- Our top ten motorhome buying tips
- Purchasing your motorhome.
This motorhome buying guide is designed to help you navigate the exciting world of RVs by walking you through each essential consideration — so you can confidently choose the right model.
FAQs about buying the right motorhome in New Zealand
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Older motorhomes are generally cheaper to purchase initially. However, they may require more maintenance and repairs — which can add to your overall cost of ownership.
Newer motorhomes come with warranties and may have more modern features and technology, but they usually also come with a higher price tag. Consider your budget and priorities when deciding between new and used motorhomes.
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Different manufacturers excel in different areas, so there isn’t a best brand overall.
Your ideal motorhome brand and model will meet your needs, budget and preferences. Research various brands, read reviews and compare features to find what best suits you.
Some popular RV brands in New Zealand include Jayco, Bürstner, HYMER, Carado and Roller Team.
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The four main types of RV are campervans, semi-integrated motorhomes, integrated motorhomes and cabover motorhomes. Your travel lifestyle, needs and budget will help determine which kind of motorhome is best for you.
Campervans are popular for their compact size and manoeuvrability, while larger semi-integrated and integrated motorhomes offer more space and amenities. When evaluating each type, consider how many travellers you have, where you usually travel and what features are most important to you.
Download our guide about the types of new and used motorhomes in New Zealand.
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The layout of a motorhome can significantly impact its functionality and your personal level of comfort. The most important factors to consider are the:
- Bedroom — the number of berths, the type of bed or beds and how easy they are to access and make up
- Living space — the configuration of the dining seats and table
- Bathroom — whether it’s a combined bathroom or a separate toilet and shower, and has the storage and ventilation you need
- Kitchen — its size, features, appliances and storage
- Storage space — its overall capacity, accessibility and design
- Flow — the ease of movement within the motorhome, especially from the living area to the cab.
Discover the most overlooked features when buying a motorhome.
- Bedroom — the number of berths, the type of bed or beds and how easy they are to access and make up
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Yes, there can be significant differences in your driving experience between these two types of motorhomes.
Integrated RVs are usually larger and often built on a bus or truck chassis, while semi-integrated motorhomes are typically constructed on a van platform. Due to their size and weight, integrated motorhomes may require greater care when manoeuvring and parking — but they also offer a more elevated and expansive front view.
When choosing between integrated and semi-integrated motorhomes, consider your driving experience and your required comfort level.
For more information, read our blog on integrated versus semi-integrated motorhomes.
