Skip to Main Content
Book your spring holiday today!

Skipped to Main Content

Your Nelson Region adventure starts here.

New Zealand's largest Campervan, Motorhome and Caravan hire.

Your Nelson Region adventure starts here.

Nelson Region

Nelson Region Motorhome, Caravan & Campervan Hire

Where golden beaches meet ancient national parks, Camplify connects you with local owners offering motorhome hire in Nelson - a sun-soaked paradise of artisan culture, craft breweries, and outdoor adventures. As New Zealand's leading van-sharing platform, Camplify helps you find the perfect vehicle to explore the region where three national parks meet the stunning Tasman Bay.

Choose from a range of well-equipped motorhomes, campervans, and caravans across these sunny locations:

  • Nelson: The creative heart of the region with its vibrant arts scene

  • Motueka: Gateway to Abel Tasman National Park

  • Richmond: Perfect base for exploring the Tasman region

Why Nelson-Tasman is your ideal motorhome destination

The region's diverse landscapes make it perfect for van adventures:

  • Three national parks: Abel Tasman, Kahurangi, and Nelson Lakes

  • Golden Bay: Remote beaches and natural wonders

  • Artisan trail: Local food, wine, and craft beer

  • Cycling paradise: Great Taste Trail and mountain biking

  • Year-round sun: New Zealand's sunniest region

Our Nelson-based owners offer flexible pick-up options throughout the region, sharing their local knowledge to enhance your journey.

Experience more with Camplify Nelson: Local connections matter

Choosing Camplify in Nelson means tapping into the local outdoor lifestyle:

  1. Local experts: Our owners in in towns such as Nelson or Motueka know the best swimming holes, hidden trails, and secret camping spots
  2. Perfect match: Choose from compact campervans for beach hopping to spacious motorhomes for family adventures
  3. Always here: Our local NZ team provides 24/7 support

Looking for a van?

Here's some of our Nelson Region favourites. If you can't find something below go to view all vans and find the perfect caravan or motorhome for your holiday.

Can't find what you're looking for?

View all vans

Why choose Camplify for your Nelson adventure

From kayaking in Abel Tasman to wine tasting in Upper Moutere, Camplify is your trusted travel partner. Our combination of global expertise and local Nelson knowledge has earned us a stellar Trustpilot score of 4.3/5. Our local NZ support team knows every corner of the region and helps match your travel style to the perfect van.

Starting your journey: How to hire a motorhome in Nelson

Getting your Nelson adventure started is simple:

  1. Find your match: Browse our Nelson-Tasman fleet, for example starting from Nelson or Motueka.
  2. Connect and request to book: Message the owner and arrange your booking
  3. Begin exploring: Get the keys and hit the road
Visit our How It Works page for more details.

Must-experience destinations in your campervan
Coastal gems

  • Abel Tasman National Park: Golden beaches and turquoise waters. Here are the best tracks, huts and other information. 

  • Kaiteriteri: Gateway to Abel Tasman

  • Mārahau: Perfect base for kayaking

  • Cable Bay: Scenic drive and walking tracks

Inland treasures

  • Nelson Lakes National Park: Alpine lakes and mountains

  • Moutere Hills: Wineries and artisan food

  • Kahurangi National Park: Wilderness adventures

  • Richmond Ranges: Hiking and mountain biking

Local secret: Watch the salmon harvest at Anatoki Salmon Farm in Golden Bay, then enjoy the freshly caught fish prepared to your taste.

Road trip ideas from Nelson
Local explorations

For detailed local guidance, check out our Guide to Road Tripping Through The Top Of The South with an 8-day itinerary through the region's best spots.

Regional routes

  • Abel Tasman Circuit: Nelson to Mārahau, Kaiteriteri, and Motueka

  • Golden Bay Explorer: Over Tākaka Hill to Collingwood

  • Alpine Adventure: Nelson Lakes and Rainbow Road (seasonal)

Extended journeys

Consider Nelson as part of a bigger South Island adventure with our South Island road trip from Picton guide or explore the Nelson to Christchurch route.

Top camping spots in Nelson-Tasman

Explore the region's best spots with our guide to 7 best camping grounds in the Nelson Region. Here are some highlights:

Coastal campgrounds

  1. Tāhunanui Beach Holiday Park:

    • Prime beachfront location

    • Full facilities and activities

  2. Kaiteriteri Beach Reserve:

    • Gateway to Abel Tasman

    • Beautiful golden sand beach

Mountain and forest sites

  1. Kerr Bay Campsite:

    • Nelson Lakes National Park

    • Stunning lake and mountain views

  2. Maitai Valley Motor Camp:

    • Close to Nelson city

    • River swimming

Freedom camping in Nelson-Tasman

Nelson-Tasman welcomes responsible freedom camping in certified self-contained vehicles. Before your trip, check our guide to freedom camping when hiring from a local owner.

Essential freedom camping info:

Popular freedom camping spots:

  • Tāhunanui Beach: Designated area near the beach

  • Maitai Valley: Along the river (check restrictions)

  • Alexander Bluff: Coastal views near Motueka

  • Hawkes Lookout: Takaka Hill (daytime only)

Getting to and around Nelson-Tasman
Flights from Auckland to Nelson

Take the 1.5 hour flight from Auckland to Nelson with Air New Zealand.

Distances from major cities

From Christchurch:

  • To Nelson: 415 km (6 hours)

  • To Motueka: 450 km (6.5 hours)

  • To Golden Bay: 500 km (7.5 hours)

From Wellington (via ferry):

  • Ferry to Picton: 3.5 hours

  • Picton to Nelson: 115 km (2 hours)

  • Picton to Motueka: 150 km (2.5 hours)

Best times to visit:

  • Summer (December-February): Perfect beach weather and water activities

  • Autumn (March-May): Mild temperatures and beautiful colors

  • Winter (June-August): Clear days and snow on mountain peaks

  • Spring (September-November): Apple blossoms and fewer crowds

Other great destinations

Camplify has the perfect holiday for you

Find a van