Amphibious motorhome StabiX 250 for land and water expeditions

Tourism Holdings Ltd reported record results for the first half of the 2026 financial year, driven by high demand for campervan rentals. The company's revenue increased by 24.8% to NZD 452 million, with a net profit of NZD 65 million. The company plans to invest NZD 200 million in electric campers and is expanding its presence in Europe, including new rental depots in Munich and Berlin.

Campervan rental at Queenstown Airport is facilitated via shuttle services from rental companies, as there are no on-site desks. Major operators include Britz, Jucy, and Maui, offering options from budget to more comfortable, with one-way drop-offs available to cities like Christchurch.

A fourth person has died from injuries sustained in a crash between a car and a campervan on State Highway 1 in Marlborough. The deceased include Belgian policy adviser Victoria Docx.

The Queenstown Lakes District Council introduced new freedom camping rules in December, restricting vehicles to 141 designated sites. Over three months, 1514 Freedom Camping Act infringements at $400 and 108 Reserves Act infringements at $800 were issued, primarily for illegal parking or overstaying. The council reported the highest number of fines since around 2019, while campers argue that demand for spaces far exceeds supply.

The Edge and LyLo are running a competition for a five-night trip in a fully equipped LyLo campervan. The winner can explore either the North or South Island, starting from Auckland or Christchurch. Entry requires completing a registration form.

Six campervan rental companies operate in Queenstown, with freedom camping restricted within town limits. Parking in the center during peak season is challenging; paid lots on Boundary Street, Camp Street, and Man Street charge 1 dollar per hour.