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Your Taupo adventure starts here.

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

Your Taupo adventure starts here.

Taupo Motorhome, Caravan & Campervan Hire

Start your journey with van hire in Taupo

Last updated: November 2024

Why caravan hire in Taupo is an ideal base for your North Island exploration

Taupo's central location in the North Island makes it a perfect starting point for your Kiwi adventure:

  • Lakeside Paradise: Enjoy water activities, beaches, and scenic views on Lake Taupo.

  • Geothermal Wonders: Explore nearby geysers, hot springs, and volcanic landscapes.

  • Outdoor Playground: Access world-class hiking, fishing, and mountain biking opportunities.

Many of our Taupo-based owners offer convenient pick-up locations around the town and can provide invaluable advice on exploring the region's diverse attractions.

The Camplify advantage: More than just a van rental in Taupo

Choosing Camplify in Taupo means embracing the local outdoor lifestyle:

  1. Taupo insiders: Rent from locals who can guide you to the best fishing spots, hiking trails, and thermal pools.
  2. Versatile fleet: From compact campers perfect for couples to spacious motorhomes ideal for families, find your perfect match.
  3. 24/7 local support: Our local NZ team can assist with camper-specific and seasonal queries.

Looking for a van?

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

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Camplify: Your trusted local global partner in Taupo

Whether you're an international visitor keen to experience New Zealand's natural wonders or a local Kiwi planning a North Island road trip, Camplify is your reliable travel companion. With our globally operating van-sharing platform we offer a stellar Trustpilot score of 4.3, a great local NZ support team and flexible options to suit various travel styles, from luxury to budget-friendly.

How to hire a motorhome in Taupo with Camplify

Taupo caravan hire is straightforward with our user-friendly platform:

  1. Browse Taupo-based vehicles: Filter for vans available in and around the lakeside town.
  2. Select your ideal camper: Choose based on size, amenities, and your travel needs.
  3. Connect with the owner: Discuss van-specific details and maybe you even some local travel tips.
  4. Meet and greet: Get acquainted with your home-on-wheels in Taupo.
  5. Hit the road: Begin your Taupo adventure!
For more details, check our How It Works page.

Discover the heart of the North Island

The Taupo region, nestled in the center of New Zealand's North Island, offers a perfect base for exploring some of the country's most stunning landscapes. Whether you're looking for geothermal wonders, pristine lakes, or scenic drives, Taupo has it all. Here are some road trip ideas and top campgrounds to help you plan your campervan or motorhome adventure:

Road trip inspiration

  1. Taupo and Rotorua loop: Get into the geothermal wonders of the central North Island with this Taupo to Rotorua drive. This epic road trip through the Taupō and Rotorua regions covers the best of both areas. Rotorua is just 80 km north of Taupo, making it an easy day trip or overnight stay.
  2. Wellington to Taupo: If you're coming from the south, check out these 7 must-stop spots on a Wellington to Taupo road trip. The full journey from Wellington is about 370 km, but you can easily adapt this route for a shorter trip from Taupo southward. Or reverse it for a stunning Taupo to Wellington drive.
  3. Auckland to Taupo: For those starting in Auckland (about 280 km north of Taupo), the Best Auckland to Taupo Road Trip offers great stops along the way. Reverse the route for a northbound adventure with a Taupo to Auckland drive instead.
  4. Taupo to Tongariro National Park: While not specifically mentioned in our blogs, a trip to Tongariro National Park is a must. It's only about 100 km south of Taupo, perfect for a day trip or longer stay.

Top campgrounds for your Taupo van hire adventure

Taupo is centrally located, making it easy to explore the North Island. It's about 3.5 hours from Auckland, 4.5 hours from Wellington, and 1 hour from Rotorua. Whether you're starting your journey in Taupo or passing through, these campgrounds and road trip ideas will help you make the most of your campervan or motorhome adventure in the heart of the North Island:

  1. Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort: Located just 2 km from Taupo town center, this resort offers powered sites for campervans and access to thermal pools. Perfect for those who want comfort close to town.
  2. Great Lake Taupo Holiday Park: Situated 5 km from the town center, this park provides a range of sites with lake views. It's a great base for exploring the region.
  3. Reid's Farm Recreation Reserve: For those looking for a free camping experience, Reid's Farm is just 4 km north of Taupo. Note that it has a maximum stay of 3 nights.
  4. Wairakei Tourist Park: Located 10 km north of Taupo, this park offers a unique setting among geothermal attractions. It's an excellent stop if you're heading to or from Rotorua.
  5. Lake Taupo Holiday Resort: Situated 5 km south of Taupo, this resort boasts excellent facilities including a thermally heated pool. It's ideally located for trips to Tongariro National Park.

Essential questions about motorhome, caravan and campervan hire in Taupō NZ

  1. What's the best way to select a vehicle for my New Zealand adventure starting from Taupō?Consider your space requirements, desired features, and planned itinerary. Our platform provides detailed descriptions to help you find the perfect match for your Central North Island exploration.
  2. How do campervans differ from motorhomes in the New Zealand context?Campervans are typically more compact and easier to manoeuvre, ideal for navigating Taupō's scenic roads. Motorhomes offer additional living space and amenities. Both are excellent options for discovering New Zealand's diverse landscapes.
  3. Which campervan-friendly spots near Taupō are must-visits?Don't miss the iconic Huka Falls, the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, and the majestic Tongariro National Park. Check out our curated list of top destinations below for more inspiration.
  4. Is hiring through a peer-to-peer platform more economical for campervans in New Zealand?Often, yes. Our platform links you directly with Taupō-based owners, frequently resulting in competitive rates and a unique selection of vehicles suited to Central North Island adventures.
For more detailed answers, browse our comprehensive help centre.

Vital information for visitors to New Zealand
Navigating New Zealand's roads

  • Always drive on the left-hand side of the road

  • Be prepared for varied road conditions, especially on scenic routes around Taupō

  • Allow extra time for your journeys, particularly in mountainous or popular tourist areas

  • For extensive driving advice, consult the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi's detailed guide.

New Zealand driving requirements

  • You must hold a valid driver's licence from your home country (or an International Driving Permit if your licence isn't in English)

  • While the minimum rental age is 21, many owners set higher age limits (often 25+, especially for motorhomes), so carefully check each RV listing's specific requirements before booking.

  • For comprehensive information on driving requirements for overseas visitors, check the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi's dedicated page.

Inter-island travel

While Taupō is centrally located in the North Island, you may want to explore the South Island too. To journey between the North and South Islands, you'll need to use the ferry service connecting Wellington and Picton. It's wise to book your crossing in advance, especially during peak travel periods. Make your reservations with either InterIslander or BlueBridge.

Experience unrivalled flexibility with our Taupō motorhome, campervan and caravan van sharing platform

We're proud to offer the most adaptable, personalised, and relaxed campervan rental service in New Zealand. Our extensive network means you're not confined to predetermined routes or pickup locations making caravan rental in Taupo easy and affordable.

With Camplify, you're in the driver's seat. Choose your ideal camper to hire in Taupō and craft a bespoke Kiwi journey that aligns perfectly with your travel dreams. 

Camplify has the perfect holiday for you

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