Most unique caravans North Island NZ: special vans

Caravan rental in New Zealand is booming. This is a time of staycations and exploring the beauty and adventure that New Zealand has to offer – but with the comfort of home even out on the road. A touring caravan means you have the best of both worlds: a comfortable holiday space combined with the adventure of the open road. And there’s plenty to pick from with caravan hire on Camplify, as we’re New Zealand’s largest and fastest-growing campervan, motorhome and caravan sharing community, so you’re sure to find something to suit.

As caravans become more popular, their designs become more original and eclectic. Check out our top picks of the most unique caravans on New Zealand’s North Island, all available to hire on Camplify now.

J-Pod Outback, New Plymouth

This cutely uniquelittle pod van based in New Plymouth is perfect for overnight stays because of its quick set-up – all you have to do is park up where you want to camp, undo the door latches and jump into the double bed. But it’s a tiny van with a difference as it’s perfect for longer stays too: guests can extend the living space by adding on a tent rear extension, included in the hire price of the caravan.

The J-Pod comes with a fridge and an outdoor kitchen as well as its awning and annex and is fire-safety compliant with a fire blanket, fire extinguisher and smoke detector. It’s pet-friendly.

Gertrude, Tauranga

How cute is this caravan? Vintage van Gertrude is a 1962 Glenroy Shamrock based on the other side of North Island near Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty and is definitely one you won’t see anywhere else.

Owner Deane says Gertrude is “very light to tow”, so she’s a great fit for adventurers who want something moveable and easy. She comes with a range of mod cons including a fridge, heating, barbecue, camping table/chairs and even a TV. Gertrude can sleep up to four people and, like the J-Pod above, is pet-friendly.

Cozy Pop-Top, Dairy Flat

Another compact yet well-equipped pop-top, this caravan is based in Dairy Flat just north of Auckland. It’s an excellent option for a budget caravan holiday on the North Island, sleeping up to three in a comfortable double bed and a convertible couch, and coming equipped with a few board games and books for occasional quiet nights in. The caravan kitchen too includes a fridge, freezer, microwave and toasted sandwich maker; crockery, cutlery and cooking utensils are also provided.

What’s particularly noteworthy about this listing is that all you have to do is book the caravan and turn up – owner Damian and his team will bring the van to your chosen caravan park and set it up all ready for your holiday.

Thompsons Tourer, Paraparaumu

Fancy a New Zealand caravan holiday off the beaten track and off-grid? Book this 2011 Thompsons Tourer for a road trip with a difference on the North Island’s western side north of Wellington. It’s a unique space that’s fully self-contained for parking up and staying anywhere: no need to search for caravan parks with electric hook-up and hot showers if you hire this convenient and luxurious caravan.

The caravan sleeps up to six people if staying on a caravan park and using the additional outdoor living space, and up to four people if freedom camping. It comes with kitchen and bathroom facilities, central heating, a radio and a TV to make a true home away from home.

Hopara, Mount Maunganui

Over east again for our final North Island unique caravan – this gorgeous little Hopara at Mount Maunganui close to Tauranga. This is a 2019 LifeStyle Tear Drop Caravan X Line model, described by owner Mat as “the most unique 'tear-drop camper' rolling on Aotearoa's roads”, with everything you need and nothing you don’t. The Hopara comes with a double bed and a fully functioning kitchen, as well as a fridge, gas bottle and camping table and chairs included.

Ready to explore New Zealand by caravan rental? Have a look at all ourNew Zealand hire caravans – or see more unique caravans in our South Island blog.