Home / Motorhome Insurance
Updated March 2026

Compare Motorhome Insurance in New Zealand

Compare motorhome and campervan insurance from NZ providers. Cover your vehicle, contents, and accessories. From small campervans to large A-class motorhomes. 100% free.

Get a Quote View All Providers
Last reviewed: 6 March 2026
Featured Provider Featured placement
Star Insure
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4 / 5

A favourite among Kiwi vehicle owners for specialist cover and agreed value policies. Star Insure has built a strong reputation for fair pricing and hassle-free claims - get a quote below.

Get Quote Full Review

Featured placements can be paid. Payment does not change the ratings we show.

Also compare
AA Tower Covi
$600-$2,500
Avg. comprehensive premium/yr
Contents Included
Most comprehensive policies
100,000+
Motorhomes & campervans in NZ
NZMCA
May qualify for member discounts
What is Motorhome Insurance? Types of Cover How to Choose Provider Comparison Provider Reviews What It Covers Common Exclusions Premium Factors Cost Guide 2026 How to Save Money How to Make a Claim NZ Motorhome Information FAQs Glossary

What is Motorhome Insurance?

How motorhome insurance works in NZ and why it differs from standard car insurance.

Motorhome insurance is specialist vehicle insurance designed for campervans, motorhomes, and bus conversions. Unlike standard car insurance, motorhome policies need to cover both the vehicle and the living quarters - including fixtures, fittings, appliances, and often the personal contents inside.

New Zealand has a strong motorhome culture, with over 100,000 campervans and motorhomes on the road. The New Zealand Motor Caravan Association (NZMCA) has over 120,000 members, making it one of the country's largest recreation organisations. Specialist RV insurers such as Covi Insurance (the NZMCA's insurance partner) offer policies tailored to motorhome and campervan owners, alongside mainstream providers like AA, Tower, and AMI.

Motorhome insurance is not compulsory in NZ, but given that motorhomes can be worth $20,000 to $300,000+, the financial risk of being uninsured is substantial. ACC covers personal injuries but not vehicle or property damage.

Self-containment certification is a separate requirement for freedom camping in many areas. While not typically required for insurance, it demonstrates that the vehicle meets certain standards. Blue self-containment warrants stopped being valid after 6 June 2026. To freedom camp on council land as a certified self-contained vehicle, you now need a green warrant, which requires a fixed toilet and lasts four years. For information about freedom camping rules, see your local council's guidelines.

Motorhome insurance typically covers more than a standard car policy - including fitted appliances, solar panels, awnings, satellite dishes, and personal contents. Make sure your policy reflects the true total value of your motorhome and everything in it.

Types of Motorhome Insurance in NZ

Three main cover levels are available for motorhomes and campervans.

Third Party Only

From ~$200-$400/yr

Covers damage you cause to other people's property only. Your motorhome, its fit-out, and contents are not covered.

✓ Third-party property damage
✗ Your motorhome - accidents
✗ Your motorhome - theft
✗ Contents cover
✗ Awnings & accessories
✓ Cheapest option

Third Party, Fire & Theft

From ~$350-$700/yr

Mid-tier cover adding fire and theft protection for your motorhome. Contents cover may or may not be included - check your PDS.

✓ Third-party property damage
✗ Your motorhome - accidents
✓ Your motorhome - theft
✓ Your motorhome - fire
✗ Contents (some policies)
✓ Good for older motorhomes

Comprehensive

From ~$600-$2,500/yr

Full protection for your motorhome, fit-out, accessories, and contents. Covers accidents, theft, fire, weather, vandalism, and natural disasters.

✓ Third-party property damage
✓ Your motorhome - accidents
✓ Your motorhome - theft
✓ Contents cover
✓ Awnings & accessories
✓ Most complete protection

Top NZ Motorhome Insurance Providers

A closer look at popular motorhome insurance providers in New Zealand.

AA Insurance logoAA Insurance
★★★★★

One of NZ's largest insurers with motorhome cover options. Includes AA Roadside Assistance and strong customer service reputation.

AA Roadside Assist
Contents cover options
AA Member discount
Agreed or market value
Get Quote Read Full Review
Tower Insurance logoTower Insurance
★★★★★

Competitive pricing with flexible cover options for motorhomes and campervans. Straightforward online quote and management process.

Competitive premiums
Contents included
Flexible excess
Online quotes and claims
Get Quote Read Full Review
Covi Insurance logoCovi Insurance
★★★★★

NZ's specialist RV insurer, partnered with the NZMCA. With 17,000+ members insured, Covi focuses exclusively on motorhomes, campervans, and caravans. Underwritten by NZI (IAG New Zealand).

Agreed Value for 5 years
No glass excess under $400k
Auto fixtures & fittings cover
NZMCA member partner
Get Quote Read Full Review
Star Insure logoStar Insure
★★★★★

Specialist insurer experienced with non-standard vehicles including motorhomes, bus conversions, and custom-built campervans.

Custom builds covered
Bus conversions
Agreed value options
Modifications welcome
Get Quote Read Full Review
Are you an insurance marketing manager?Add or boost your brand on Compare.org.nz and reach thousands of Kiwis comparing insurance.
Advertise With Us

How to Choose Motorhome Insurance

The right policy depends on your motorhome, how you use it, and your budget.

Full-Time Living

  • Comprehensive cover is essential when the motorhome is your primary residence
  • Ensure contents cover limit is sufficient for all your belongings
  • Not all insurers cover full-time living - declare usage when quoting
  • Consider whether emergency accommodation cover is included

Holiday & Weekend Use

  • Comprehensive cover with agreed value protects your investment
  • Contents cover for holiday essentials (electronics, bedding, kitchenware)
  • Check whether freedom camping is covered in your policy
  • Consider seasonal storage cover if the motorhome sits unused over winter

Rental Fleet

  • Standard personal policies do not cover rental or commercial use
  • Specialist commercial motorhome insurance is required for rental operations
  • Rental platforms (Camplify, Mighway) may provide their own cover
  • Check liability limits carefully for third-party use of your vehicle

NZ Motorhome Insurance Providers

A comparison of providers offering motorhome and campervan insurance.

Provider Cover Types Online Quotes Best For
Covi Insurance Comp Phone / online RV specialist / NZMCA
AA Insurance Comp, TPFT, TP ✓ All-rounder
AMI Comp, TPFT, TP ✓ All-rounder
State Comp, TPFT, TP ✓ All-rounder
Tower Comp, TPFT, TP ✓ Competitive pricing
Star Insure Comp, TPFT ✓ Specialist vehicles
Vero Comp, TPFT Broker only High-value motorhomes

Disclaimer: Features and cover options may change. Always verify motorhome-specific cover availability and details directly with the provider. Report an error.

What Motorhome Insurance Covers

Coverage features specific to motorhome and campervan policies.

Feature Third Party TPFT Comprehensive
Third-party property damage ✓ ✓ ✓
Theft of motorhome ✗ ✓ ✓
Accidental damage ✗ ✗ ✓
Fixtures & fittings ✗ Some policies ✓
Personal contents ✗ ✗ Usually included
Awnings & annexes ✗ ✗ Usually included
Solar panels & accessories ✗ ✗ If declared
Emergency accommodation ✗ ✗ Some policies

Common Exclusions

What motorhome insurance typically does not cover.

Mechanical Breakdown

Standard motorhome insurance does not cover mechanical or electrical failures, wear and tear, or engine/transmission faults. Separate mechanical breakdown insurance is available for this.

Rental / Commercial Use

Personal motorhome insurance does not cover renting your vehicle to others or commercial use. Separate commercial cover is needed for rental operations or business use.

Overloading & Towing Limits

Damage caused while exceeding the vehicle's gross vehicle mass (GVM) or towing capacity may void your cover. Always stay within manufacturer specifications.

Impaired Driving

Claims will be declined if the driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the incident.

Vermin & Gradual Damage

Damage from rodents, insects, mould, condensation, or gradual deterioration is typically excluded. Regular maintenance is expected to prevent these issues.

Illegal Freedom Camping

While freedom camping itself is covered, damage or theft while camping illegally in a restricted area could complicate claims. Always check local freedom camping rules.

What Affects Your Motorhome Insurance Premium

Key factors insurers consider when pricing motorhome cover.

🚐

Motorhome Type & Size

Larger motorhomes cost more to insure due to higher value and repair costs. A-class motorhomes and luxury models attract higher premiums than smaller campervans.

💰

Vehicle Value

The total value including the base vehicle and all fit-out, appliances, and accessories. Custom builds and high-spec fit-outs increase the insured value.

📍

Location & Storage

Where the motorhome is stored when not in use affects premiums. Secure indoor storage or a locked compound is viewed more favourably than street parking.

🛣️

Usage & Kilometres

Full-time use attracts higher premiums than occasional holiday use. Some insurers offer limited-use discounts for motorhomes driven fewer km per year.

👤

Driver Age & Experience

Younger drivers pay more. A clean driving record and several years of claims-free history reduce premiums through no-claims bonuses.

🔒

Security Features

Alarms, immobilisers, GPS trackers, and secure storage all help reduce premiums. The quality of the motorhome's locking systems also matters.

Motorhome Insurance Cost Guide 2026

Indicative annual comprehensive premiums by motorhome type.

Campervan / Small
$500-$900
$500-$900/yr
Mid-Size Motorhome
$700-$1,400
$700-$1,400/yr
Bus Conversion
$800-$2,000
$800-$2,000/yr
Large A-Class
$1,000-$2,500
$1,000-$2,500/yr

Disclaimer: These are indicative estimates only. Actual premiums depend on vehicle value, usage, driver profile, and insurer. These are not quotes.

How to Save on Motorhome Insurance

Ways to reduce your motorhome insurance premium in NZ.

1

Compare Multiple Estimates

Motorhome insurance prices vary significantly. Get at least 3 - 4 quotes to find the best value for your situation.

2

NZMCA Membership

Some insurers offer discounts for NZMCA members. Covi Insurance, NZ's specialist RV insurer, is a partner of NZMCA and has 17,000+ members insured.

3

Invest in Security

Alarms, immobilisers, GPS trackers, and secure storage all help reduce premiums. Many modern motorhomes come with factory-fitted security.

4

Increase Your Excess

A higher voluntary excess lowers your premium. Ensure you can afford the excess amount if you need to claim.

5

Bundle Policies

Some insurers may discount premiums when you insure your motorhome, car, home and contents with them, but AA Insurance, AMI, State and Tower have all withdrawn their multi-policy discounts, so ask before assuming bundling saves money.

6

Pay Annually

Monthly payments include fees that add 5 - 10% to the total. Paying upfront saves money over the year.

How to Make a Claim

What to do if your motorhome is damaged, stolen, or involved in an incident.

1

Ensure Safety

Move to a safe location. Call 111 for emergencies or 105 for non-urgent police matters.

2

Document Damage

Photograph all damage to the motorhome, contents, and any other vehicles or property involved.

3

Contact Insurer

Lodge your claim as soon as possible. Have your policy number and damage photos ready.

4

Assessment

An assessor evaluates the damage to both the vehicle and living quarters. Contents claims may be assessed separately.

5

Resolution

Repairs arranged or payout made. You pay your excess. Emergency accommodation may be provided if the motorhome is your primary residence.

NZ Motorhome Information

Key information for motorhome owners in New Zealand.

Freedom Camping in NZ

New Zealand's Freedom Camping Act 2011 allows camping on public conservation land and in some council areas, subject to local bylaws. Certified self-contained vehicles with a current green warrant have access to more freedom camping locations. Many councils have introduced stricter rules in recent years, so always check local bylaws before camping. The NZMCA maintains a network of member-only parking areas throughout the country.

NZ Motorhome Culture

New Zealand has one of the highest rates of motorhome ownership per capita in the world. The NZMCA has over 120,000 members, and the motorhome tourism industry is a significant contributor to regional economies. NZ's extensive network of holiday parks, DOC campgrounds, and freedom camping spots makes it one of the best countries in the world for motorhome travel. Popular touring routes include the Pacific Coast Highway, the Southern Scenic Route, and the West Coast of the South Island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about motorhome insurance in NZ.

Is motorhome insurance compulsory in NZ?
No. Like all motor vehicle insurance in NZ, motorhome insurance is voluntary. ACC covers personal injuries but not damage to your motorhome, contents, or other people's property.
How much does motorhome insurance cost?
Comprehensive cover typically costs $500 - $2,500 per year depending on the vehicle type and value. Smaller campervans may cost $500 - $900/yr, mid-size motorhomes $700 - $1,400/yr, and large A-class motorhomes $1,000 - $2,500/yr.
Does motorhome insurance cover contents?
Most comprehensive policies include $5,000 - $15,000 in contents cover for personal belongings inside the motorhome. High-value items may need to be specified separately. Check your PDS for exact limits.
Are awnings and annexes covered?
Most comprehensive policies cover attached awnings, annexes, and fixed accessories. Portable accessories like solar panels, satellite dishes, and bike racks are often covered too if declared.
Do I need self-containment for insurance?
Self-containment certification is not typically required for insurance purposes, but it is required for freedom camping in many NZ areas. It does not usually affect premiums.
Does my insurance cover freedom camping?
Yes, most policies cover your motorhome while freedom camping legally. Camping in restricted areas without a permit could complicate claims.
Can I live full-time in my motorhome and be insured?
Some insurers cover full-time living, but not all. This may be classed differently and affect premiums. Always declare your intended usage when getting quotes.
Does my insurance cover rental use?
No. Standard personal insurance does not cover rental or commercial use. You need specialist commercial cover or platform-provided insurance for rental operations.
What's the difference between motorhome and caravan insurance?
Motorhome insurance covers a self-propelled vehicle. Caravan insurance covers a towable trailer that is separate from the tow vehicle. They have different registration, WoF/CoF, and insurance requirements.
Does NZMCA membership affect insurance?
Some insurers offer discounts or specialist cover for NZMCA members. Covi Insurance is the NZMCA's insurance partner and focuses exclusively on motorhome, campervan, and caravan cover. Membership demonstrates responsible ownership and provides access to resources that may reduce risk.

Glossary of Motorhome Insurance Terms

Self-Contained
A vehicle certified as self-contained, meaning it has onboard fresh water, grey water, and a fixed toilet. A current green warrant is required to freedom camp on council land as a self-contained vehicle. Blue warrants stopped being valid after 6 June 2026.
Agreed Value
A fixed payout amount set when the policy is taken out. Includes the vehicle, fit-out, and accessories. Paid minus excess if the motorhome is written off.
Contents Cover
Insurance for personal belongings kept inside the motorhome - kitchenware, electronics, bedding, clothing, etc. Typically $5,000 - $15,000 in comprehensive policies.
Freedom Camping
Camping on public land outside of designated campgrounds. Regulated by the Freedom Camping Act 2011 and local council bylaws.
GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass)
The maximum loaded weight of the motorhome. Exceeding GVM can void insurance and is illegal. Important when loading for trips.
CoF (Certificate of Fitness)
Required for motorhomes over 3,500 kg GVM instead of a WoF. Must be renewed every 6 months.
Bus Conversion
A bus or commercial vehicle converted into a motorhome. May require specialist insurance due to non-standard construction.
Annexe
An attached fabric or rigid extension that expands the living space of a motorhome. Usually covered under comprehensive policies.

Disclaimer: The information on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, insurance, or legal advice. All pricing shown is indicative and based on publicly available data as of early 2026. Actual premiums will vary based on your motorhome, location, usage, and chosen cover level. These figures are not quotes - always obtain a personalised quote directly from the insurer.

Note: Compare.org.nz may earn referral fees from some providers featured on this page. Some providers pay to be featured, and featured placements are labelled. Payment does not change the ratings we show. Features, pricing, and policy terms may change without notice - always verify directly with the insurer before purchasing.

Ready to Compare Motorhome Insurance?

Compare motorhome insurance from NZ providers. 100% free and could save you hundreds.

Get a Quote from Star Insure