Travelling with pets in New Zealand
Some New Zealand campervan rentals allow pets. Your options depend on the animal you're bringing and the van you choose. You'll also need campsites that accept your pet.
Which campervans accept pets?
A company that accepts dogs may not accept cats, and permission can depend on the van. Tell us what kind of pet you're bringing and how many, so we can help you check the options for your dates.
These are some options to compare under the companies' current New Zealand terms:
Rental company | Pet arrangements to check before booking |
|---|---|
Apollo, Britz, Mighty and Mighty Lite | Pet dogs and cats are allowed, up to two pets per van. A pet fee applies per hire. |
Approved dogs in eligible vans only, up to two. Request permission when booking. The fee is per booking, per dog. | |
Approved dogs in selected vans, up to two. Request permission when booking. The fee is per booking, per dog. | |
One pet up to 30kg travels free under its Australia and New Zealand rental agreement. There is a pet cleaning fee for a heavier pet. Confirm the arrangements for your animal and van. | |
Pets need the company's specific approval. Ask about your pet and chosen van before booking. |
Maui's New Zealand terms do not allow pet dogs or cats in its vehicles. Assistance dogs have separate arrangements, covered below.
For another rental company, or a pet other than a dog or cat, ask our team about your chosen van before booking.
Pet fees, cleaning and damage
Before booking, check whether there is a pet fee and how much it adds to your quote. If there is a fee, ask whether it's per hire or per animal, what cleaning it covers and how you need to leave the van on return.
JUCY and Star RV's pet fees cover standard cleaning only. Extra charges can apply for excessive hair, soiling, odour or damage.
Excess reduction lowers what you pay towards covered damage. JUCY and Star RV exclude damage caused by animals from these options.
Bring your pet's own bedding and bowls. Keep them separate from the van's supplied linen and kitchen equipment.
Travelling with an assistance animal
Tell our team before booking if you're travelling with an assistance dog. We'll help you check the rental company's arrangements and any information it needs for your booking.
Ask which conditions and any charges apply to your assistance animal. If your animal provides comfort or emotional support, explain that when you enquire so the rental company can confirm the conditions for your booking.
Check campsites and walks as well as the van
Before reserving a campsite, check that it accepts your type of pet for your travel dates. Ask about leads, dog-exercise areas and any seasonal restrictions.
For public conservation land, check Department of Conservation dog-access rules for each campsite and walk. Dogs are prohibited in some places and need a permit in others. A pet-friendly van does not give your dog access to a park or reserve.
Our guide to camping in New Zealand explains holiday parks, DOC campsites and freedom camping. If you're crossing Cook Strait, check pet arrangements with the ferry company before booking the sailing too.
Getting ready for the trip
- Ask the branch how your pet can be safely restrained in the chosen van. Bring a suitable harness or carrier.
- Along with your pet's bedding and bowls, bring their usual food, lead, waste bags and any medicines.
- Plan stops for water and exercise. Arrange care for activities where pets aren't allowed, so you can keep your pet supervised.
- With JUCY and Star RV, your dog must stay on a lead with an adult outside the branch at collection and return. Their terms also prohibit leaving dogs unattended in the van.
Bringing a pet from overseas? Check MPI's requirements for pets travelling to New Zealand before making travel arrangements. Rental permission is separate from entry requirements.
Part of the New Zealand campervan handbook.
Other questions?
Tell us about your pet and your travel plans. We can help you check which vans allow your pet.