Camping in New Zealand
Camping in New Zealand with a Suzuki Jimny – Rooftop Tent Car Hire
There’s no better way to experience the real New Zealand than by hitting the road and camping under the stars. Whether you're winding through alpine passes or parking up beside a quiet lake, camping in New Zealand gives you freedom, flexibility, and a front-row seat to the great outdoors.
At Jimny Rentals, we make it even easier – with compact 4WD vehicles fitted with rooftop tents, camping gear, and everything you need for the ultimate Kiwi road trip.
Why Hire a Suzuki Jimny for Camping in NZ?
Our Suzuki Jimnys are small but mighty – and perfectly suited to New Zealand’s scenic backroads, gravel highways, and remote campsites. Here's why they’re a top choice:
- Rooftop Tent Included – Sleep high, dry, and off the ground
- Compact 4WD – Ideal for gravel roads, DOC campsites, and alpine access
- Complete Camping Kit – Includes 12v fridge, camp chairs, cooking equipment, mattress, and more
- Easy to Drive – Even for first-time visitors
- Airport Pickup – Get on the road as soon as you land in Christchurch
Forget bulky campervans – the Jimny gives you all the essentials in a nimble, fuel-efficient package that’s fun to drive and easy to park anywhere.
Where Can You Camp in New Zealand?
New Zealand is camping paradise – and with your Jimny, you’ll have access to:
- DOC Campsites – Affordable, scenic, and spread across national parks
- Holiday Parks – With showers, power, and facilities
- Free Camping Spots – Use apps like CamperMate or Rankers to find them
- Remote Access Sites – Thanks to 4WD capability, you can explore beyond the beaten track
Note: Always check local rules and camp responsibly.
What’s Included in the Camping Setup?
We take the hassle out of planning. Each Jimny comes with our Adventure Package:
Rooftop tent (sleeps 2)
Comfortable High-density foam mattress
12v electric fridge
Cooking gear (pot, pan, utensils, kettle)
Camp chairs & picnic blanket
Gas cooker and JetBoil
Sleeping bags are available as an optional add-on
Just bring your sense of adventure – we’ve got the rest covered!
Sample Itinerary: 7 Days Camping Around the South Island
Can You Camp in Winter?
See the best bits of the South Island!
Sample Itinerary: 7 Days Camping Around the South Island
- Day 1 – Pick up your Jimny in Christchurch, camp at Lake Tekapo
- Day 2 – Head to Mount Cook National Park
- Day 3 – Explore Wanaka, camp at a lakeside DOC site
- Day 4-5 – Queenstown adventure and Glenorchy
- Day 6 – Scenic drive through the Catlins
- Day 7 – Coastal camping near Dunedin, then back to Christchurch
Book your camping-ready Suzuki Jimny today and get ready for the road trip of a lifetime. Whether it’s your first time camping or your fiftieth, there’s no better way to explore Aotearoa than with the freedom of your own 4WD. Read More...
✅ Cheap airport pickup in Christchurch
✅ Easy online booking
✅ Instant adventure!
Can I hire a car for camping in New Zealand?
Absolutely. At Jimny Rentals, our Suzuki Jimnys are specially equipped for camping, complete with a rooftop tent and all the essential gear. This makes them perfect for travellers wanting to explore New Zealand’s scenic landscapes without needing a bulky campervan. You’ll get the freedom of a compact 4WD with the convenience of a fully-equipped camping setup — all ready to go from our Christchurch base.
What’s included in the camping setup with a Jimny?
Each Jimny rental includes our Adventure Package, designed to cover everything you need for a comfortable camping trip. This includes a rooftop tent with mattress, 12v fridge, camp chairs, cooking gear, battery pack, gas cooker, LED lighting, and more. Optional bedding can also be added. All gear is neatly packed and easy to use — perfect for solo travellers, couples, or friends on the road.
Sample question about your company?
You can camp in a wide range of places across New Zealand, including:
DOC (Department of Conservation) campsites
Holiday parks with facilities
Free camping spots, where permitted (check signage)
Remote gravel-access sites using your 4WD Jimny
We recommend using apps like CamperMate or Rankers to find legal and scenic camping spots across the South Island. Always follow Leave No Trace principles and check local regulations.
Here is one more sample question?
This is a sample question. Edit this text and enter your answer. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed viverra sed turpis nec bibendum. Donec leo erat, ultrices quis dui sit amet, iaculis imperdiet justo. Nunc et cursus risus. Aenean hendrerit pellentesque neque. Ut at dolor elit. Suspendisse potenti. Fusce nec rhoncus nisl, vel malesuada elit.
Where can I camp legally in New Zealand with a rooftop tent?
You can camp in a wide range of places across New Zealand, including:
- DOC (Department of Conservation) campsites
- Holiday parks with facilities
- Free camping spots, where permitted (check signage)
- Remote gravel-access sites using your 4WD Jimny
We recommend using apps like CamperMate or Rankers to find legal and scenic camping spots across the South Island. Always follow Leave No Trace principles and check local regulations.
Is it possible to camp in New Zealand during winter?
Yes — winter camping in New Zealand can be an incredible experience. Our Jimnys are available year-round and come equipped for cooler conditions, including:
- An electric camping blanket
- Warm sleeping gear (optional add-on)
- Snow chains (by request)
- Rugged 4WD capability for alpine roads
With fewer crowds and dramatic scenery, winter is a great time to experience a quieter side of Aotearoa — just pack some extra layers and a sense of adventure.