Fuel costs for your motorhome roadtrip journey

Fuel is one of the main costs to plan for when travelling around Australia or New Zealand. Prices can vary depending on where you are, your route, and current fuel rates, so it’s helpful to build a simple estimate before you set off.

If you have made a decision on what motorhome or campervan you hope to travel in, have a rough route in mind; a quick check on current pump prices before you go can help you get a you realistic cost estimate in just a few minutes. Think of this page as a friendly planning guide: clear, practical, and transparent.

Fuel prices across Australia & New Zealand

Fuel prices can differ depending on location:

Australia: Prices are often higher in remote or regional areas, especially in the Outback

New Zealand: Prices can vary between islands and regions, especially in the main city Auckland.

Plan your fuel stops and check pricing ahead of your journey by using popular apps and websites such as:

Australia FuelPrice

New Zealand Gaspy

What recent global news means for travellers

Disruption to oil supply, refining, or shipping routes typically cause fluctuation in gas prices at the pump. This is one reason prices may feel unpredictable from week to week.

The practical takeaway for guests is simple: build your estimate using current prices, expect some movement, and re-check prices along the way. Planning with a small buffer can make the whole trip feel more relaxed and less uncertain.

Travelling smart: how to drive less, save money, and still enjoy the journey

Typical fuel usage

Fuel consumption varies by vehicle size and driving conditions, so is a tricky one to gauge. However, this fuel tank planning guide should help you estimate costs quickly, before travel. Because assigned vehicles can vary within a category, exact tank capacity may differ slightly from one vehicle to another. The right way to use these numbers is as a practical planning starting point rather than a guaranteed exact fill amount.

Vehicle Type	Vehicle Length (m)	Planning Tank Capacity (L)
Hitop	5.94m	80
Endeavour	5.94m	80
Euro Tourer	7.05m - 7.20m	71
Euro Plus	7.20m	71
Euro Quest	6.74m	70
Euro Camper	7.55m	70
Euro Deluxe	7.55m	70

For example, if your motorhome has a 71-litre tank and diesel is AUD$3.16 per litre, a full fill-up would cost about AUD$224.36. If the same fuel is AUD$3.30 per litre, that same fill-up would cost about $234.30. If your motorhome has a 100-litre tank and diesel is AUD$3.16 per litre, a full fill-up would cost about AUD$316. If the same fuel is AUD$3.30 per litre, that same fill-up would cost about $330. That is why fuel prices can make a noticeable difference from one route to another.

Guests can use this simple math at any point during their trip. Just check the fuel price at a station, multiply it by the estimated tank size for your campervan or motorhome, and you will have a quick refill estimate for budgeting purposes.

These are planning estimates; your exact vehicle may differ slightly. Your total fuel cost will depend on a number of factors from how far you travel, the terrain (mountains, highways, gravel roads), the weather and individual driving style.

To help you prepare, we’ve put together a few tips for fuel-efficient travel:

Drive at a steady pace and avoid unnecessary idling.
Refill water tank once you arrive at your next campsite to reduce weight as you drive to the next campsite.
Linger for longer - Spend more time at each destination to reduce daily driving distances.  Explore each destination in more detail and enjoy getting closer to the destination.
Use our trip planning tools, itineraries and our thl Roadtrip app to find campsites and things to see and do.
At pick-up speak with our team for route suggestions that optimise fuel access and efficiency.
Check fuel prices regularly during your trip. We also suggest filling up before heading into remote areas.

Plan your trip

North Island | Auckland to Ruakaka Road Trip Itinerary

Heather Schiller / Monday, 17 May 2021

/ Categories: NZ Itineraries, All Locations, North Island, All Duration, 5-7 Days, All Categories, Family Friendly, Food & Drinks, Natural Wonders, Beaches & Surf, Outdoor Activities

North Island | Auckland to Ruakaka Road Trip Itinerary

Explore the top of the North Island on this 7 day epic adventure.

Day 1: Auckland

Start your North Island adventure, by picking up your chosen campervan or motorhome from Apollo. Once you have your vehicle, it's time to start exploring! Begin your 7 day adventure by learning about the Maori traditions in New Zealand. Visit the Auckland Museum and watch a cultural dance and song performance. Otherwise, visit Waiheke Island for a hike & bike tour to gain insight into the rich Maori heritage.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Day 2: Auckland to Hokianga Harbour

Distance: 323km

Travel time: 4hrs 48mins

During your stay at Hokianga Harbour, catch the ferry to Kohukohu. Before you catch the ferry, stroll around in the historic town Rawene. With a population of approximately 400 people, it’s a lovely small town. Walk around and watch some very old buildings like Clendon House; the courthouse (1875); Masonic House (1875) and the Methodist Church (1876).

Image: Insatgram - @scotthowes

Day 3: Hokianga Harbour to Pukenui

Distance: 110km

Time Travel: 2hrs

On your way to Pukenui, get in touch with nature in the legendary Waipoua Forest, one of the three major Kauri forests in New Zealand. The splendid emerald expanse boasts of luscious Kauri trees; two of the oldest in the world considering it a home. Tane Mahuta, also known as the “King of the Forest”, and Te Matua Ngahere is said to be approximately over 2000 years old. The forest is found in the Northland Region’s northwest.

Image: Insatgram - @scotthowes

Day 4: Pukenui to Paihia

Distance: 141km

Time Travel: 1hr, 50mins

While driving to Paihia, make sure to stop at the center of Whangaroa County, Whangaroa Harbour. This inlet on the Northern Coast of Northland is a perfect place to stop and see the snowy mountains reflecting on the clear blue water.

Day 5: Paihia to Ruakaka

Distance: 100km

Travel time: 1hr, 27mins

Though the Ruakaka beach may not rival all those others found in New Zealand, end your trip where relaxation is freely given by nature’s calm. The Ruakaka Beach Holiday Park is one of the most family-friendly beach resorts with clean park grounds. Plus, it is often referred to as the gateway to some other destinations such as Port Marsden, Ruakaka Racecourse, and Marsden Bay.

Day 6: Ruakaka to Auckland

Distance: 132kms

Travel time: 1hr 47mins

It’s time to head back to Auckland now, however, since you still have the campervan for another day - if you spot somewhere you’d like to stay on the way, make the most of your trip and stop. Orewa is a great place to stop and relax. With a 3km long pristine beach and a thriving restaurant scene, it’s the perfect place to conclude your road trip.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Day 7: Auckland

If you chose to stop somewhere along the way to Auckland, it’s time to head back to Auckland to drop off your campervan. Otherwise, if you followed the itinerary and stayed in Auckland last night finish your holiday off with an adventurous twist and SkyJump off the Sky Tower. If you’re not feeling brave enough, visit the Sky Tower and enjoy the views from behind the glass 220 metres high.

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Tags: Auckland 5-7 Days North Island New Zealand roadtrip northland and bay of islands

days	7
kms	806
stops	5
LabelField4	7
Field4	sq km of giant sand dunes