Aug 30, 2007
Specially-designed small RVs in New Zealand enable camping on a budget in that awesome, camp-friendly country
Traveling in New Zealand via RV -- or campervan, as the Kiwis say -- is enormously popular, and thanks to the recent introduction of special minivan campers called Spaceships, the activity is cost-effective and easy even for couples. The first Spaceship began zooming around New Zealand in the fall of 2004, and now there are approximately 200 vehicles available for rent in the country. The vehicles are Toyota minivans that have been custom-fitted with a comfortable bed that folds out. With the rear hatch open, a special tent-like attachment can be set up for extra space and fresh air on warm nights. Sheets, duvet, and pillows are included, along with a small refrigerator, a tiny gas barbecue grill, pots, pans, cutlery, plates, cups, and a built-in DVD player that you can watch in bed.
While traveling by RV has been popular in New Zealand for decades, it has traditionally made the most sense for families or groups of friends. Spaceships are instead perfect for couples. They're priced just a bit higher than a standard car rental, they get much better gas mileage than a standard RV, and because of their smaller size, there are no worries about maneuvering a bulky vehicle through small towns or on windy mountain roads. They're a great mode of transportation for exploring New Zealand's amazing landscapes, featured so prominently in The Lord of the Rings film trilogy.
Rental rates, which include all taxes and standard insurance, start at $68 per day in peak summer season (when it's winter in North America). A quote for October (springtime in New Zealand) revealed that rates for Spaceships in the South Island city of Christchurch -- within easy striking distance of the country's most beautiful mountains -- cost only about $45 per day, and by booking a few weeks early you can save an additional 10 percent. Considering that during this same time period a tiny compact rental car will cost at least $35 per day, and larger traditional RVs rent for upwards of $95 daily, Spaceships are an excellent value. Call tel. 011-649/309-8777 or visit www.spaceships.tv for more information.
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Labels: camping, car rental, new zealand
Fifty years ago, 
Arthur Frommer is generally acknowledged to be the nation's foremost travel authority. He is the founder of the
