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Domestic RV bookings are already up 15 per cent for summer, as more Kiwis choose road trips close to home and keep a firmer grip on holiday spending.
Peer-to-peer RV hire platform Camplify recently released its 2026 Road Trip Report, with its New Zealand findings based on 451 hirers from its NZ holidaymaker database.
Camplify NZ Market lead Elle Tamihana says interest in local travel is growing.
“RV travel has always been popular in New Zealand. We’re seeing an increase in domestic bookings from Kiwis wanting to explore their own backyard this spring and summer.”
With household budgets under pressure, she says the format suits travellers who want more say over what they spend.
“The ease of not having to jump on a flight, greater control over budgets on the road (e.g. food costs) and the flexibility this type of experience offers are certainly driving more consideration.”
Early numbers point to a busy season, with plenty of past hirers coming back for more.
“Domestic NZ bookings with Camplify are already up 15 per cent for the October–March 2027 period. We’re also seeing many holidaymakers who have previously hired through Camplify getting in early to book again, with return hires already up 11.8 per cent.” says Elle.
To keep up with that demand, Camplify is offering first-time owners a guaranteed minimum booking income – $10,000 for motorhomes, $7,000 for campervans and $5,000 for caravans – for qualifying listings created between October 1 and November 30. If a van falls short by 30 April 2027, Camplify pays the difference.
Elle says the scheme has a track record.
“Camplify’s NZ income guarantee is a successful program and it’s the launch of its third year. It works well given the seasonality of the market, with demand increasing over the summer peak season. It’s also a great way for owners to boost their income when not using their RVs.”
For owners weighing up whether to list, the returns vary by van type.
Elle says “Over the last 12 months, motorhomes have earned an average of over $16,000, with the most popular listings doubling this to $32,000 annually.
“Campervans have earned an average of over $9,575, with the most popular listings doubling this to $19,700 annually.
“Towable caravans have earned an average of over $4,709, with the most popular listings reaching $11,272 annually.”
She says owners don’t need to be near a tourist hotspot to find hirers.
“We have over 2,500 RVs listed on Camplify in NZ. Wherever RV owners are based in NZ there is likely to be demand over the summer months.”
