Feature article

The New Zealand Caravan Buying Guide

Kiwi love getting out there, and that's reflected in the wide range of caravans you’ll see on New Zealand roads.

Last updated: 1 December 2025 | 4 min read

We know that feeling. You've got the itch for adventure, dreaming of crossing the Cook Strait or winding your way through the Central Otago high country. But before you hit the road, you need the perfect home-away-from-home. Choosing a caravan can feel like a mission, especially when you're wading through jargon and options.

At Trade Me Motors, we want to make things straight up and helpful. We’ve created this guide to showcase some of the brands Kiwi love and get you on the path to finding your dream caravan.

New Zealanders love getting out there, and that's reflected in the huge range of caravans you’ll see around. We’ve done the mahi (work) and put together a list of some of the best brands that consistently show up in New Zealand listings.

Popular Caravan Brands in Aotearoa

1. Jayco Caravans

Pros: NZ’s most recognised brand. Helpful in offering a huge range of layouts and price points, from entry-level to luxury. Easy to find parts and servicing.

Cons: Build quality can vary depending on the model and year. They’re everywhere, so they don’t always stand out.

View Jayco Caravan listings on Trade Me Motors

2. Snowy River Caravans

Pros: Known for modern, comfortable interiors and competitive pricing. They often pack a lot of features into their standard models.

Cons: A newer brand in NZ, so long-term resale or parts access might be less established than others. It is however, a well established brand in Australia.

View Snowy River Caravan listings on Trade Me Motors

3. Leisureline Caravans

Pros: Contemporary Kiwi design! These are New Zealand-made for our unique conditions and roads. Straight up local support and high-quality construction.

Cons: Command a higher price tag due to local manufacturing and focus on premium specification. Fewer models available compared to global giants.

View Leisureline Caravan listings on Trade Me Motors

4. Rockwood Caravans

Pros: Often imported from the US, they offer spacious, wide-body layouts and are feature-packed. Great for families who need room to spread out.

Cons: American sizing can make them trickier to tow and park on smaller NZ roads or campsites. As most models weigh over 3-tonne, you need a hefty vehicle to tow them safely.

View Rockwood Caravan listings on Trade Me Motors

5. Airstream Caravans

Pros: Absolutely never boring! Iconic, distinctive polished aluminium design. Excellent build quality and hold their value incredibly well.

Cons: Premium price point. The unique curved interior can sometimes limit storage options compared to boxier caravans.

View Airstream Caravan listings on Trade Me Motors

6. Swift Caravans

Pros: Very popular lightweight UK brand. Easy to tow and known for modern, stylish interiors. Many models fit well into standard NZ campsites.

Cons: A particular concern for many older imported caravans from the UK (of any brand) is leaking and moisture. This is less of a concern for newer models.

View Swift Caravan listings on Trade Me Motors

7. Bailey Caravans

Pros: Another major UK player known for good insulation and a strong history in the market. They often offer high specifications for the price.

Cons: Similar to Swift - a particular concern for many older imported caravans from the UK is leaking and moisture. This is less of a concern for newer models.

View Bailey Caravan listings on Trade Me Motors

8. Teardrop Caravans

Pros: Ultra-lightweight and compact. Perfect for quick trips and easy parking. Your small car can often tow these.

Cons: They are tiny! Minimal space and often limited on-board facilities like a shower or toilet. Best for couples or solo adventurers.

View Teardrop Caravan listings on Trade Me Motors

9. TrailLite Caravans

Pros: Tried and true brand reputation in New Zealand. Built with the Kiwi family getaway in mind. Newer models have premium components and contemporary design. Great resale value.

Cons: You pay a premium for that local build expertise and stylish finish.

View TrailLite Caravan listings on Trade Me Motors

Author

Eve Hodgson

With a passion for research and content, Eve loves diving into the data to find answers for Trade Me's users. As the Senior SEO Manager, her goal is to provide the most helpful and practical advice possible, ensuring every customer can make a confident purchase.