Best Caravans for New Zealand Conditions: Our Top 3 Picks

Caravans are an iconic part of a New Zealand holiday. Picture arriving at your destination and settling into a cosy bed with the mountains, water, or bush just outside. As an upgrade from the modest camping life, caravans make exploring the great outdoors more luxurious and comfortable.

With the help of caravan finance, your next road trip or holiday park getaway could be the best yet. The first step, however, is choosing the right caravan to suit your needs. Read on for our reviews of the best caravans for NZ conditions.

1. Snowy River SRC-18

New Zealand and Australia may seem worlds apart regarding outdoor conditions, but the Snowy River series of caravans demonstrate otherwise. The SRC-18 is a lightweight, well-engineered caravan that meets the ups and downs of New Zealand’s terrain. The Snowy River series has become one of the most popular options in Australia, and this goes for New Zealand travel, too. Its compact build and composite sandwich construction facilitate a durable and agile performance on the road.

When you’re parked, you can enjoy an interior that feels more spacious than it may look from the outside. Generous windows and expansive skylights mean you’ll never feel cornered in the cabin. Small touches inside, such as the overhead cupboards curving towards the floor, and a thoughtful selection of neutral finishes from gloss grey to matt white, improve the ambience enough to keep you cosy. All caravans try to bring a bit of home away from home, and the Snowy River SRC-18 delivers just that.

2. Swift Basecamp 4

The latest Swift Basecamp model is another great option for NZ conditions. Although it looks small, the interior has been designed for maximum functionality. If you’re hoping to explore more of New Zealand from the comfort of a caravan but don’t have the capacity to move something bigger, the Basecamp 4 is the perfect option.

The dining area transforms into a bed, the bunks come with a privacy curtain, and seating can be turned into bike racks. Overhead storage is designed for up to four people with generous canvas baskets, and the open kitchen includes a fridge, sink, pantry, and three stove-top elements. The Basecamp 4 also stands out from other caravans with its wide rear entry door, making it easier to move things about and get in. These are just some of the quirks of the Basecamp 4, which allow you to start your summer adventure with a smaller caravan without compromise.

3. Bailey Alicanto Grande Porto

If you’re looking for an expansive, premium caravan to take with you on the next holiday park getaway, the Bailey Alicanto Grande Porto is one of your best options. With a 70-year history of producing quality caravans, Bailey are veterans of the industry in the UK – but do they hold up in New Zealand conditions? An interlocking aluminium framework that secures the GRP together, thick insulation in the cabin’s body panels, and a feature-heavy interior say yes.

From small touches such as customisable underfloor lighting to extra-large windows that let you enjoy the sunlight, the Alicanto Grande Porto’s width is an advantage Bailey made the most of. The lounge is perfect for socialising, and a larger table, tucked away under the kitchen island, is ready for any extra guests. More space also means a wider mattress, bigger wardrobe space, and a neat bathroom that won’t leave you cramped.

Caravan Accessories to Improve Your Journey

NZ’s best caravans can be made even better with the right accessories. These additions range from small comforts to significant upgrades that make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable. Instead of purchasing everything at once, start with the basics and gradually add more as you explore different regions of New Zealand. With each adventure, you’ll gain a better understanding of what accessories would make your trips even more enjoyable.

Some great starter accessories include a caravan step, which makes entering and exiting easier and safer, especially for the little ones. Camping chairs are a must-have, letting you perch wherever you please and enjoy the outdoors. Wheel chocks, ramps, and levels provide extra stability on uneven or sloping ground, while a parking mat protects the earth and reduces sinking.

Don’t forget to pack a first-aid kit and keep it well-stocked between trips. And to create a cosy and magical atmosphere in the evenings, string up some fairy lights—they’re a simple yet delightful addition.  

Find Your Dream Caravan with Rostron Finance

Ready to upgrade from a humble camping setup? A caravan could be the perfect solution. Whether you’re looking for a spacious model for the whole family or a cosy option for two, making this investment is easier with an experienced NZ finance company.

 Rostron Finance creates tailored finance options that cover all the essentials, from insurance to loan protection. Apply online to start your application today, or get in touch with one of Rostron’s finance specialists.