The Depot: Getting There & Opening Hours
The Chilli Rentals depot is in south Auckland, about 25 to 35 minutes from the international airport when traffic's light. A rideshare (Uber, Ola) costs around 35 to 55 NZD; alternatively, the SkyBus runs into the city centre, and you can grab a taxi from there.
Pickups are possible Monday to Saturday by prior arrangement. Send us your arrival flight details early and we'll coordinate your check-in time with you by email. Allow at least an hour and a half for the walkthrough and paperwork.
Check-in: What Happens Step by Step
ID and driving licence: You'll need your passport and a valid driving licence. Licences from Germany, Austria and Switzerland are recognised directly in New Zealand for up to 12 months, so you don't need an international driving permit.
Vehicle walkthrough: We go through the whole campervan together, note down any existing damage, and explain the kitchen, water, power, gas and wastewater tank. You'll get a written checklist to take with you.
Insurance and excess: Basic insurance is included, and you can reduce the excess for an extra fee. Take your time reading through the terms, and ask us anything that is unclear before you sign.
First drive: We'll ride along for the first few metres with you, so you get a feel for the campervan in the car park before heading into Auckland traffic.
Driving on the Left: Tips for Your First Day
Driving on the left becomes routine quickly, but the first roundabout and the first turn will feel odd. On your first day, stick to quieter roads and avoid Auckland's city centre. The city is better explored on foot or by bus.
One-lane bridges are common in New Zealand. Watch the give-way sign: if you have a red sign, you wait; if you have a blue one, you go. If in doubt, stop and take a look, there's no need to panic.
General speed guidelines: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 100 km/h on the open road. In a campervan, it's better to stick to 80 on winding roads. You'll arrive more relaxed and see more along the way.
Three Tried-and-Tested Starter Routes from Auckland
Depending on whether you want to ease in slowly or head straight for the highlights, a different first leg will suit you. These three have proven themselves:
Option A · West Coast & Coromandel
Piha with its black sand beach and Lion Rock, then Cathedral Cove (a 30-minute walk) and Hot Water Beach at low tide. For anyone who wants to ease in gently and get out into nature fast.
Option B · North: Bay of Islands
About 350 km to Paihia, then a dolphin tour or sailing trip and the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. For anyone who wants to experience New Zealand's subtropical side first.
Option C · Straight South
2.5 hours to Rotorua, then an early start the next morning for the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. For travellers who want to get straight to the biggest highlights.
Frequently asked questions
- When does the depot open, and do I need to book an appointment?
- Pickups are possible Monday to Saturday by prior arrangement. We'll coordinate the exact time with you by email after your booking. Please let us know your arrival flight early so we can get everything ready.
- Am I allowed to drive the campervan through Auckland's city centre?
- Technically yes, but we wouldn't recommend it for your first day. It's better to head straight from the depot onto the motorway, since Auckland city is busy and hectic and is best explored on foot. Your second or third day is a better time for a stroll around town.
- What do I need for the pickup?
- Your passport, your driving licence (recognised directly if it is in English, otherwise with a certified translation or an international driving permit), and a credit card for the excess deposit. The deposit is fully released when you return the vehicle undamaged.
More about Auckland
Auckland in 2-3 Days: Stops for Campervan Travellers
Coming soon
Waiheke Island by Campervan
Coming soon