Embracing Winter in New Zealand with a campervan/motorhome trip in New Zealand has some real benefits. Read on to find out some of the great reasons you should book with Roam for your winter holiday.
Path less Travelled
Fewer Tourists. With fewer people around, you can enjoy more tranquillity and freedom. In summer, popular freedom camping sites and tourist attractions can be overcrowded, making it difficult to find spots to overnight or just parking in general.
In winter, you can explore and stay in stunning locations without the hassle of the crowds. Winter Wonderland Scenery Stunning Landscapes: New Zealand’s winter scenery is breath-taking. Snow-capped mountains, wild seas, and misty sounds create a magical and at times a serene atmosphere. Winter is also an excellent time for wildlife experiences, with less people around there are more opportunities to see some of our native wildlife, and to go on tours like the giant sperm whale migration you can watch off the coast of Kaikoura.
Snow Activities
If you love snow sports, New Zealand is a winter paradise. Skiing, snowboarding, heli-skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, and alpine snowshoeing are some activities you can enjoy in the mountain regions. Both islands have ski fields and winter activities.
Hot Pools
New Zealand has incredible geothermal hot pools, which are best enjoyed when the weather is cold. Both the North and South Islands offer stunning options for a winter soak. Check out our ‘Best Hot Pools blog post‘ with all the best places to visit on your luxury motorhome adventure.
What about the Potential Challenges of travelling in Winter?
Weather: Winter weather in New Zealand can be unpredictable, with occasional days where there is nothing better to do that cozy up in your warm motorhome and read a book or play a card game, it pays to be prepared for some indoor days due to rain or cold.
Limited Availability at Attractions: Tourist attractions might have reduced availability or limited opening times. It’s wise to plan ahead and be flexible with your schedule. Make back up plans in case there are cancellations due to weather for your chosen destinations or activities.
Choosing the Right Motorhome or Campervan: Choosing the right motorhome is key to having a comfortable stay during winter. There are some things that you need to consider when making your choice of rental company.
• Insulation: New Zealand-made motorhomes may not have the same insulation standards as European ones. All Roam motorhomes have grade 3 European insulation standards designed for up to -30°C, you will never be cold in a Roam Motorhome.
• Heating Systems: Roam motorhomes feature climate-controlled heating systems that maintain your desired temperature. These systems work even when you’re not plugged in to a power source, making freedom camping or going off-grid for a few days not a problem during the winter chill.
• Storage Solutions: Roam motorhomes offer huge outdoor garages, perfect for storing ski gear or wet boots, ensuring they don’t clutter your living space.
Driving Considerations
Plan Your Route: Mapping out your journey is crucial. The winter season can bring surprises, from road closures to unexpected weather changes, so it pays to be prepared.
• Stay Informed: Check out the latest updates on road conditions, closures, and detours from websites and local news channels.
• Backup Plans: Have alternative routes in mind to save hassle in case of roadblocks or delays. • Local Insights: Chat with locals or other travellers for the best routes and hidden gems on those back roads that don’t get explored as often.
• Flexible Itinerary: While planning is important, being flexible can make your trip even more enjoyable.
Drive Cautiously
Navigating New Zealand’s roads in winter requires extra care, especially when conditions turn icy. Lower your speed and allow more space for braking and take corners much slower than usual.
• Snow Driving Tools: Roam provides Autosock, developed in Norway, instead of traditional chains for better traction and safety on snowy or icy roads. The Autosock is much easier to use than traditional chains.
• Ski Fields Access: Campervans and motorhomes may need to be parked at designated areas, as direct access via entry roads is often restricted from June to October.
• Parking Restrictions: Be aware of specific locations where campervans might not be permitted during winter months. Some freedom camping sites will also close over winter, so be sure to check your chosen spots are open when you are planning to visit.
Winter Weather in New Zealand North Island vs South Island?
The North Island has a sub-tropical climate with winter temperatures ranging from 2°C to 16°C. Expect quite a bit of rain. Mountain areas in Taupo can be much colder. The South Island experiences lower rainfall in winter with temperatures ranging from 10°C during the day to as low as -15°C at night, depending on the region. This dry cold is ideal for exploring mountainous areas.
Wallet Saver Lower Prices
New Zealand, which is usually a popular summer destination, sees a dramatic drop in tourism during winter. This off-season period brings substantial discounts, both on activity and excursion prices and on campervan and motorhome rentals.
During summer, high demand leads to increased prices across the country, sometimes up to double what you’d pay in winter. By traveling in winter, you can afford a luxury top-of-the-line motorhome for the same price as a small van in summer. Not to mention the savings on the activities you choose to spend your time at.
Must-Visit Winter Destinations:
• Queenstown. Known for adventure sports, especially snow activities.
• Rotorua. Enjoy geothermal pools and scenic walks.
• Kaikoura. Best time for whale watching.
• Lord of the Rings Locations. Winter enhances the beauty of these iconic spots.
• Milford or Doubtful Sound. Less crowded and equally stunning in winter.
Packing Essentials
A few well thought out items can make the difference between enjoying a winter escape or being cold and wet! We suggest these items as a good start to your packing inclusions
• Clothing: Thermals, thick and thin socks, beanie, scarf, and gloves. Down winter jacket and a Gortex outerwear/rain jacket. Decent footwear is essential for warm feet. Merino and other woollen clothing are lightweight and super warm.
• Gear: A great camera or drone*. A torch or headlamp for nighttime exploring.
• Extras: Sturdy shoes with extra grip for winter hikes.
Make sure to pick up some Whittakers NZ Chocolate for those nights in with a book or game.
Feeling inspired yet? With these tips and considerations, you can make the most of your winter campervanning adventure in New Zealand. It is a fantastic time of year to visit New Zealand, the scenery is just as stunning as in the peak travel season, if not more breathtaking with the snow on the ground!
*Make sure to always follow local regulations about where you can fly your drone. Most National Parks in New Zealand have restrictions on drone use do to wildlife in the area.