Shipping a Motorhome, Caravan, or Campervan from Melbourne to Auckland? Here’s What You Need to Know in 2025!
Are you planning to move or purchase a motorhome, caravan, or campervan in Australia and want to ship it to Auckland, New Zealand? Whether you’re a private owner, dealership, or commercial buyer, navigating the cross-Tasman logistics can be complex.
Good news: PeachT can handle the entire process for you—from pickup in Melbourne (or anywhere in Australia) to safe delivery at the Port of Auckland.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know, based on the latest industry trends, shipping methods, and compliance rules in 2025. Plus, we show you how to get it done stress-free with PeachT’s all-in-one transport service.
🌍 Why Is Transporting Motorhomes Between Australia and New Zealand in High Demand?
The caravan and motorhome market is booming. Globally, it’s worth over $60 billion and expected to grow beyond $100 billion by 2033. And in Australia and New Zealand, this surge is fueled by:
The rise of remote work and digital nomadism 🏕️
Increased domestic tourism post-pandemic
Australians and Kiwis investing in self-sufficient travel options
All this means more vehicles are moving across the Tasman than ever before—especially from Melbourne, Australia’s transport hub for oversized vehicles.
🚢 What Are the Best Shipping Methods?
When transporting a motorhome or caravan from Australia to New Zealand, you typically have two main shipping options:
1. Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo)
Perfect for: Larger motorhomes and caravans
Your vehicle is driven directly onto the ship and secured for transport. Upon arrival, it’s driven off—simple and efficient.
✅ Pros:
Cost-effective for larger units
Faster loading/unloading
Lower handling risk
⚠️ Things to Note:
Fixed sailing schedules
Vehicle may be exposed to the elements depending on the vessel (though secured)
Not sure what’s best for your vehicle? Contact us and we’ll recommend the right method based on size, weight, and budget.
✅ What Are the Import & Compliance Requirements?
Shipping a vehicle from Australia to New Zealand means complying with biosecurity, customs, and import rules. Here’s what you need to know:
🛂Import Approvals
You’ll need pre-approval from NZTA (New Zealand Transport Agency) to import your motorhome or caravan.
PeachT handles this paperwork for you—including Vehicle Import Approval (VIA), emissions compliance, and right-hand-drive rules.
💰 Customs & GST
15% GST is charged on the imported value (including freight and insurance).
Some vehicles may be exempt from duty (e.g. returning Kiwis or Australian-made vehicles).
We’ll calculate all your fees upfront, with no hidden surprises.
🧼 Biosecurity Requirements
New Zealand’s MPI (Ministry for Primary Industries) enforces strict cleaning and quarantine inspections. Your vehicle must be:
Free from mud, grass, seeds, and insects
Cleaned thoroughly inside and out
Free from household goods (unless containerised)
At PeachT, we offer pre-export cleaning services to make sure your motorhome passes the inspection first time.
📦 What’s Included in our Door-to-Door Service?
We make shipping your motorhome, caravan, or campervan across the Tasman completely hassle-free:
🚚 Pickup from anywhere in Australia
🚢 Sea freight via RoRo or container
📄 Import approvals and customs clearance
🧽 Biosecurity cleaning and inspection prep
📍 Delivery to your door or a secure depot in New Zealand
Whether you’re importing a new campervan or relocating your beloved caravan, we handle the entire process from start to finish.
✨ Why Choose PeachT?
✅ Specialists in oversized vehicle shipping
✅ Transparent, all-inclusive pricing
✅ Weekly sailings from major Australian ports
✅ Licensed customs and quarantine agents
✅ 24/7 support and tracking
💡 Tips to Prepare Your Vehicle for Shipping
Before you hand off your vehicle for transport, here’s a quick prep checklist:
✔️ Remove LPG bottles and flammable items
✔️ Disconnect the battery
✔️ Empty water and waste tanks
✔️ Remove valuables and personal items
✔️ Clean the undercarriage and exterior thoroughly
✔️ Check for any leaks or mechanical issues
Don’t worry—we provide a full pre-shipment checklist and inspection service to help you meet every requirement.
🗺️ How Long Does It Take to Ship from Melbourne to Auckland?
On average, shipping takes:
8–12 days port-to-port (RoRo)
12–16 days (container, including packing/unpacking time)
Add 3–5 days for pre-export cleaning, inspection, and paperwork
We keep you updated every step of the way with real-time tracking and alerts.
🚀 Ready to Ship Your Vehicle? Let’s Get Started!
Whether you’re relocating, upgrading, or buying a new motorhome—PeachT is your trusted partner in cross-Tasman RV logistics.
📞 Contact us today for a free quote or just to ask a few questions.
