Summer 2025/26
Summer Camping Tyre Guide NZ
Your complete pre-trip checklist for holiday road trips. From loaded vehicle pressures to gravel road driving, caravan towing to DOC campsite access — everything you need to reach camp safely.
30+
Locations Covered
8
Regions Rated
4mm+
Gravel Tread
5.0★
254 Reviews
📋 What's In This Guide
Pre-Trip Tyre Inspection Checklist
Before loading up for your camping adventure, give your tyres a thorough inspection. 80% of tyre failures are caused by under-inflation or damage that was visible beforehand.
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Check tread depth — Minimum 1.5mm for WOF, but we recommend 4mm+ for gravel and wet conditions. Use the $2 coin test: if you can see the "2" fully, you need new tyres.
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Inspect sidewalls — Look for bulges, cracks, cuts, or bubbles. Any sidewall damage means immediate replacement. Gravel roads are unforgiving to weak spots.
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Check tyre age — Find the DOT code (last 4 digits = week/year). Tyres over 6 years old should be replaced, regardless of tread depth. Use our DOT code decoder to check yours.
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Look for uneven wear — Centre wear = over-inflation. Edge wear = under-inflation. One-sided wear = alignment issue. Fix the cause before your trip.
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Check valve stems — Cracked, dry, or leaking valves cause slow punctures. Replace if in doubt — they're cheap insurance.
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Inspect the spare — Most forgotten step. Check pressure and condition. Many spare tyres sit unused for years and perish. Don't discover yours is flat at Spirits Bay.
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Check wheel nuts — Ensure all are present and torqued correctly. Carry a wheel brace that fits (rental cars sometimes don't have one).
Pro Tip: Book a Pre-Trip Inspection
If you're unsure about your tyres, get a professional check before heading to remote areas. Most tyre shops offer free inspections. It's 15 minutes that could save your holiday.
Tyre Pressure for Loaded Camping Vehicles
Camping gear adds significant weight — typically 200-400kg for a family trip with tent, chilly bins, food, and equipment. Your tyres need higher pressure to handle this extra load safely.
The Golden Rule
Check your door jamb sticker — most vehicles list two pressure settings: "Normal" and "Loaded" (or "Full Load"). If yours doesn't, add 4 PSI per 100kg of extra weight to your rear tyres.
| Vehicle Type | Examples | Empty Weight | Normal PSI | Loaded PSI |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compact SUV | RAV4, CX-5, X-Trail | 1,600-1,900kg | 33-38 | 38-44 |
| Large SUV | Prado, Everest, MU-X | 2,000-2,400kg | 36-42 | 42-50 |
| Ute/Pickup | Ranger, Hilux, Triton, Navara | 2,000-2,500kg | 38-44 | 44-55 |
| Full-Size 4x4 | LandCruiser, Patrol, Ram | 2,500-3,200kg | 40-50 | 50-60 |
| Campervan | Hiace, Transit, Sprinter | 2,200-3,500kg | 45-55 | 55-65 |
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Under-Inflation Risk
Loaded vehicles with low pressure generate excessive heat. This causes tyre failure, especially on long highway runs to campsites.
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Rear-Heavy Loading
Camping gear typically goes in the boot/tray. Increase rear pressure 4-8 PSI more than front to compensate for weight distribution.
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Check When Cold
Always check pressure in the morning before driving. Hot tyres read 4-6 PSI higher than cold — don't be fooled by afternoon readings. Use our Temperature PSI Calculator to adjust for conditions.
Roof Rack Loading?
Roof boxes and kayaks raise the centre of gravity significantly. Increase pressure by an additional 2-3 PSI all around and reduce speed on corners. Consider our Vehicle Load Calculator.
Which Tyre Type for NZ Camping?
Not all tyres are created equal. Here's how the main tyre categories perform across NZ camping terrains — from holiday parks to remote DOC sites.
| Tyre Type | Tread Depth | Best For | Sealed PSI | Gravel PSI | Sand PSI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger/Touring | 7-8mm new | Urban, sealed roads only | 32-38 | Not recommended | Not suitable |
| Highway Terrain (H/T) | 9-10mm new | Mixed sealed + light gravel | 32-38 | 28-32 | Not suitable |
| All-Terrain (A/T) | 12-14mm new | Gravel, forest tracks, mixed | 32-38 | 28-32 | 18-22 |
| Rugged Terrain (R/T) | 14-16mm new | Rocky trails, river crossings | 32-38 | 26-30 | 16-20 |
| Mud-Terrain (M/T) | 15-18mm new | Mud, deep gravel, extreme | 32-38 | 28-32 | 18-22 |
| Light Truck (LT) | 10-14mm new | Heavy loads, campervans, trailers | 45-65 | 40-55 | — |
✓
All-Terrain: Best All-Rounder
Handles all DOC sites, remote locations, and beach approaches. Versatile, puncture-resistant, and reasonably quiet on highways. Our recommendation for most camping trips.
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Passenger Tyres: Limited Use
Fine for holiday parks with sealed access. Poor gravel performance and low puncture resistance make them risky for remote DOC sites.
Our Camping Tyre Recommendations
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All-Terrain (A/T)
Best for most campers. The Anchee AC858 offers excellent value with aggressive tread for gravel roads. Our Predator New Mutant X-AT is the premium choice with USA engineering and exceptional puncture resistance.
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Rugged Terrain (R/T)
For serious off-road camping access. The Predator New Mutant RT Trail bridges the gap between A/T comfort and M/T capability — perfect for rocky DOC tracks and river crossings.
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Mud-Terrain (M/T)
For extreme conditions and 4WD-only sites. Choose the Anchee Grandtrac MT1 for value or our Predator New Mutant X-MT for maximum off-road grip.
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Highway Terrain (H/T)
For holiday park camping with mostly sealed roads. The Anchee AC828 and Predator Comptrax H/T offer quiet highway performance with light gravel capability.
Light Truck (LT) Tyres for Campervans
Campervans and heavily-loaded 4WDs need LT-rated tyres for the extra load capacity. Our Anchee AC838 covers most common sizes. For older vehicles requiring 7.00R16 or 7.50R16 sizing, see our Anchee AC898 range.
For detailed comparisons, see our Complete A/T Guide, M/T Guide, or explore our 4WD Tyres Hub for the full range.
Driving on Gravel Roads: Tyre Tips
Most DOC campsites are accessed via gravel roads — from a few hundred metres to 40km+. The approach makes all the difference between a relaxing holiday and an expensive recovery bill.
Gravel Road Pressure Guide
| Road Condition | Description | Pressure Adjustment | Max Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Well-Maintained | Smooth, graded, packed surface | Keep highway pressures | 80-100 km/h |
| Moderate | Some loose gravel, minor corrugations | Reduce 5-10% | 60-80 km/h |
| Rough | Deep corrugations, loose stones | Reduce 10-15% | 40-60 km/h |
| Very Rough | Ruts, washouts, large rocks | Reduce 15-20% | 20-40 km/h |
Why Reduce Pressure on Gravel?
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Puncture Resistance
Lower pressure allows the tyre to flex around sharp stones rather than puncturing. The rubber envelopes the rock instead of being pierced by it.
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Better Traction
A flatter contact patch grips better on loose surfaces. Essential for climbing hills or navigating washouts.
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Smoother Ride
Your tyres absorb more vibration at lower pressures. Less fatigue for you, less stress on your vehicle and cargo.
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Reduced Stone Damage
Softer tyres throw fewer stones. Less damage to your vehicle, less damage to following traffic.
Critical: Re-Inflate Before Highway
Running reduced pressures on sealed roads causes rapid heat build-up and potential tyre failure. Always re-inflate to highway pressures before returning to bitumen. Carry a 12V compressor.
H/T vs A/T for Gravel
Highway Terrain (H/T) tyres handle well-maintained gravel adequately. However, if you're regularly accessing remote DOC sites via rough gravel, All-Terrain (A/T) tyres offer significant advantages:
- Thicker sidewalls — Better resistance to rock cuts
- Deeper tread — More grip on loose surfaces
- Stone ejectors — Channels that push rocks out rather than trapping them
- Reinforced construction — Better load carrying for camping gear
See our Complete All-Terrain Guide for detailed comparisons.
NZ Camping Regions: Tyre Risk Ratings
Each region has its own character — and its own tyre challenges. This table shows actual risk levels based on road conditions, terrain types, and common issues reported by campers.
| Region | Risk Level | Road Access | Common Issues |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northland (Far North) | HIGH | Mix sealed/gravel, beach driving | Getting stuck in sand, tidal flooding, shell/debris punctures |
| Coromandel (Remote) | MEDIUM-HIGH | 26km+ gravel from Colville | Sidewall damage from cliff edges, sharp gravel punctures |
| West Coast | MEDIUM-HIGH | Gravel access common | Sharp coastal rocks, remote location, gravel punctures |
| Marlborough Sounds | MEDIUM | Long narrow gravel roads | Gravel punctures, narrow road damage risk |
| Queenstown/Wanaka | MEDIUM | Sealed alpine passes | Winter ice/snow, chains may be required |
| Catlins | LOW | Sealed coastal road | Standard road hazards, coastal weather |
| Mt Cook/Canterbury | LOW | Sealed alpine road | Extreme remoteness — no services for 25km+ |
| Abel Tasman/Nelson | LOW | Sealed to Marahau | Minimal tyre issues |
Detailed Regional Breakdown
🦎 Northland (Far North)
HIGH RISK
Sites: 90 Mile Beach, Spirits Bay, Maitai Bay, Tokerau Beach.
Terrain: Soft sand, beach driving, stream crossings.
Issues: Multiple campervans sink at Orere Point yearly. Tidal hazards trap vehicles on Ninety Mile Beach regularly. Tip: A/T essential; don't attempt beach driving without experience.
Terrain: Soft sand, beach driving, stream crossings.
Issues: Multiple campervans sink at Orere Point yearly. Tidal hazards trap vehicles on Ninety Mile Beach regularly. Tip: A/T essential; don't attempt beach driving without experience.
🌊 Coromandel (Remote North)
MEDIUM-HIGH
Sites: Fletcher Bay, Port Charles, Stony Bay, Kauaeranga Valley.
Terrain: Steep gravel, cliff edges, narrow single-lane roads, stream fords.
Issues: 26km+ gravel from Colville. Sidewall damage from cliff edges common. Tip: A/T recommended; avoid after heavy rain.
Terrain: Steep gravel, cliff edges, narrow single-lane roads, stream fords.
Issues: 26km+ gravel from Colville. Sidewall damage from cliff edges common. Tip: A/T recommended; avoid after heavy rain.
⛰️ West Coast
MEDIUM-HIGH
Sites: Kohaihai, Gentle Annie, Gillespies Beach, Okarito.
Terrain: Coastal gravel, forest tracks, glacial rocks.
Issues: Sharp coastal rocks cause punctures. Very remote — limited services for 100km+. Tip: A/T essential; carry full spare and repair kit.
Terrain: Coastal gravel, forest tracks, glacial rocks.
Issues: Sharp coastal rocks cause punctures. Very remote — limited services for 100km+. Tip: A/T essential; carry full spare and repair kit.
🏕️ Marlborough Sounds
MEDIUM
Sites: French Pass, Smiths Farm, Momorangi Bay.
Terrain: Long winding gravel, coastal forest.
Issues: Kenepuru Road closed due to storm damage. Queen Charlotte Drive scenic but narrow. Tip: H/T suitable for main roads; check DOC alerts.
Terrain: Long winding gravel, coastal forest.
Issues: Kenepuru Road closed due to storm damage. Queen Charlotte Drive scenic but narrow. Tip: H/T suitable for main roads; check DOC alerts.
🏔️ Queenstown/Wanaka
MEDIUM
Sites: Crown Range Summit, Driftaway, Lake Hawea.
Terrain: Sealed alpine passes, high country gravel (Mavora Lakes).
Issues: One blogger reported flat tyre en route to Wanaka requiring roadside repair. Tip: H/T fine in summer; chains required in winter.
Terrain: Sealed alpine passes, high country gravel (Mavora Lakes).
Issues: One blogger reported flat tyre en route to Wanaka requiring roadside repair. Tip: H/T fine in summer; chains required in winter.
🏔️ Mt Cook/Canterbury
LOW
Sites: White Horse Hill, Rakaia Gorge, Lake Pukaki.
Terrain: Sealed alpine road (SH80).
Issues: Road is excellent but extremely remote — no fuel/services for 25km+ each way. Tip: Any tyre type suitable; carry emergency supplies.
Terrain: Sealed alpine road (SH80).
Issues: Road is excellent but extremely remote — no fuel/services for 25km+ each way. Tip: Any tyre type suitable; carry emergency supplies.
🐧 Catlins
LOW
Sites: Purakaunui Bay, Papatowai, Curio Bay.
Terrain: Sealed coastal road, some short gravel sections.
Issues: Purakaunui Bay has 5km gravel access — scenic but basic. Tip: H/T suitable; A/T for back-road exploring.
Terrain: Sealed coastal road, some short gravel sections.
Issues: Purakaunui Bay has 5km gravel access — scenic but basic. Tip: H/T suitable; A/T for back-road exploring.
🚙 Molesworth/Rainbow
EXTREME
Sites: Molesworth Station, Acheron accommodation, Rainbow Road.
Terrain: 207km gravel, river fords, 4WD-only sections.
Issues: No fuel for 250km. Open summer only. DOC specifically requires 4WD. Tip: M/T or heavy A/T essential. Two full-size spares recommended.
Terrain: 207km gravel, river fords, 4WD-only sections.
Issues: No fuel for 250km. Open summer only. DOC specifically requires 4WD. Tip: M/T or heavy A/T essential. Two full-size spares recommended.
Real Incident: GPS Mishap Near Akaroa
A French tourist's GPS led their campervan off-road near Akaroa, resulting in severe vehicle damage requiring salvage. Lesson: Don't blindly trust GPS — verify routes are suitable for your vehicle type before committing.
Always Check DOC Alerts
Road closures, slips, and access restrictions change frequently. Check DOC's website before departure. Mackenzie District Council advises: slow down on gravel (even in 4WD), expect dust/obscured vision, and increase following distance for stone flick risk.
NZ Campsite Types: Tyre Access Requirements
Where you camp determines what tyres you need. Here's how NZ's main camping options stack up for vehicle access — from sealed holiday parks to remote freedom camping spots that demand serious rubber.
| Campsite Type | Typical Access | Minimum Tyre | Recommended | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holiday Parks | Sealed roads, urban/suburban | Passenger | H/T | TOP 10 parks, DeBretts Taupō |
| DOC Serviced | Sealed or well-maintained gravel | H/T | H/T | Totaranui, Lake Matheson |
| DOC Standard | Gravel roads, 5-15km unsealed | H/T | A/T | Purakaunui Bay, Momorangi Bay |
| DOC Basic | Rough gravel, river fords possible | A/T | A/T | Kohaihai, Gentle Annie |
| Freedom Camping (Designated) | Variable — check council maps | H/T | A/T | Council-designated areas |
| Freedom Camping (Remote) | Often 20km+ gravel, no services | A/T | A/T/M/T | Conservation land, back-country |
| Beach Camping | Sand driving required | A/T (deflated) | A/T or M/T | Spirits Bay, Tokerau Beach |
| 4WD-Only DOC | River crossings, extreme gravel | A/T heavy-duty | M/T | Molesworth, Rainbow Road |
DOC Campsites: What Your Tyres Will Face
The Department of Conservation manages 200+ campsites nationwide, ranging from $0-25/night. Access roads vary dramatically:
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Serviced & Scenic Sites ($15-25)
Usually sealed or excellent gravel. Hot showers, flush toilets. Standard H/T tyres suitable. Examples: Totaranui (Abel Tasman), Lake Matheson.
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Standard Sites ($8-15)
Gravel access common, 5-20km unsealed typical. Cold water, basic facilities. H/T okay, A/T better for peace of mind. Examples: Purakaunui Bay, Papatowai.
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Basic/Backcountry ($0-8)
Rough gravel, sometimes 4WD recommended. Long-drop toilets, no running water. A/T recommended, M/T for extreme sites. Examples: Kohaihai, remote West Coast.
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4WD-Only Access
DOC explicitly states 4WD required. River fords, steep climbs, extreme gravel. Heavy A/T or M/T essential. Carry two spares. Examples: Molesworth Station, Rainbow Road.
Freedom Camping: Remote Access = Better Tyres
Freedom camping in NZ requires a certified self-contained vehicle in most areas. But from a tyre perspective, the real question is: how remote is the spot?
- Designated council areas — Often near towns with sealed or good gravel access. H/T tyres usually fine.
- Conservation land — Remote locations, long gravel roads, no cell coverage. A/T recommended; carry repair kit.
- Beach freedom camping — Requires sand-capable tyres and deflation knowledge. See our Beach Driving Guide.
Check Access Before You Go
Use CamperMate or Rankers apps to check road conditions and access requirements before committing to a remote site. DOC's website lists whether 4WD is required. Your tyre choice should match the worst road you'll encounter — not just the campsite itself.
Holiday Parks: Easy Tyre Access
Commercial holiday parks (TOP 10, Kiwi Holiday Parks) are almost always on sealed roads with excellent access. Any tyre type works, including standard passenger tyres. These are ideal if you're in a rental campervan with basic tyres and don't want to risk gravel.
However, if you're based at a holiday park but planning day trips to remote DOC sites, your tyres still need to handle those access roads. A common pattern: stay at a serviced holiday park, but drive 30km on gravel to reach a secluded beach or waterfall. Your tyres need to handle the day trip, not just the campsite.
NZMCA Motorhome-Friendly Towns
The New Zealand Motor Caravan Association has established 58 motorhome-friendly towns across NZ — destinations that welcome RVs with designated parking, dump stations, and local amenities. These towns typically have excellent sealed road access making them ideal for any tyre type.
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North Island Towns
Coromandel, Cambridge, Rotorua, Taupō, New Plymouth, Napier, Hastings, Gisborne, Palmerston North, Masterton, Waihi, Paeroa, Katikati, Matamata, Morrinsville, Putaruru, Kawerau, Levin, Foxton, and more.
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South Island Towns
Kaikoura, Greymouth, Hokitika, Reefton, Westport, Ashburton, Oamaru, Cromwell, Alexandra, Methven, Gore, Mosgiel, Geraldine, and more. Most accessible on H/T tyres.
NZMCA Membership Benefits
For $252/year, NZMCA members access 2,200+ places to stay at just $5/night at NZMCA Parks. The NZMCA app shows Park Over Properties (POPs), dump stations, water refill points, and campground reviews. If you're touring in a self-contained motorhome or caravan, membership pays for itself within a few weeks. Source: nzmca.org.nz
Ready for Any Road NZ Throws at You?
Our all-terrain range handles gravel, mud, and highway with confidence. Perfect for camping adventures.
Browse All-Terrain Tyres →Towing Caravans & Trailers: Tyre Pressure Guide
Towing adds complexity. Your tow vehicle carries extra weight on the towball, and your trailer/caravan has its own tyre requirements. Getting both right is essential for safe, stable towing.
Tow Vehicle Adjustments
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Rear Tyre Pressure
Increase rear tyres by 4-7 PSI above normal to handle towball weight (typically 80-150kg). This prevents rear squat and improves stability.
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Front Tyre Pressure
Keep front tyres at normal or slightly above (+2 PSI). The rear load actually lightens the front end slightly, so don't increase too much.
Caravan/Trailer Tyre Pressure
Caravan tyres are often neglected — sitting for months, then expected to perform at highway speeds under heavy load. This is a recipe for failure.
| Trailer Type | Typical Weight (GTM) | Single Axle PSI | Tandem Axle PSI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Box Trailer | 500-750kg | 36-42 | N/A |
| Boat Trailer | 500-2,000kg | 36-50 | 32-42 |
| Caravan (Small) | 1,000-1,500kg | 40-50 | 36-42 |
| Caravan (Large) | 1,500-2,500kg | 45-55 | 38-46 |
| Camper Trailer | 750-2,000kg | 40-55 | 36-46 |
Caravan Tyre Age Warning
Caravan tyres often look fine but are dangerously old. Low mileage doesn't mean longevity — UV and ozone degrade rubber regardless of use. Replace caravan tyres at 5 years maximum, even if tread looks good.
Towing on Gravel
- Reduce speed significantly — Trailers amplify corrugations and can bounce dangerously
- Don't reduce caravan pressure too much — Keep within 10% of highway pressure
- Check connections — Rough roads can loosen safety chains and electrical plugs
- Watch for sway — At the first sign of sway, slow down gently (don't brake hard)
Need help calculating your specific setup? Try our Towing Load Calculator.
Motorhomes, Caravans & Campervans: Tyre Requirements by Vehicle Type
NZ has over 120,000 NZMCA members exploring in everything from compact campervans to luxury bus conversions. Each vehicle type has distinct tyre needs — understanding yours ensures safer travels to any of the 58 motorhome-friendly towns across the country.
RV Categories: What You're Driving Matters
| Vehicle Type | Typical GVM | Tyre Type | Typical PSI Range | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Campervan Hiace, Caravan, Sprinter |
2,800-3,500kg | Light Commercial (LT/C) | 45-65 PSI | Load rating critical |
|
Motorhome Coach-built 2-axle |
3,500-5,000kg | Commercial / RV-specific | 55-80 PSI | RV-specific tyres best |
|
Bus Conversion Coaster, Hino Rainbow |
4,500-8,000kg+ | Commercial / Truck | 65-100 PSI | May need Class 2 licence |
|
Caravan Towed, single/tandem axle |
1,000-2,500kg GTM | P-rated or C-rated | 35-55 PSI | Age more than mileage |
|
Fifth Wheeler Goose-neck hitch |
2,000-4,500kg GTM | LT Commercial | 50-80 PSI | More stable than caravan |
|
Camper Trailer Pop-top, off-road |
750-2,000kg ATM | LT or A/T | 35-55 PSI | Match to terrain |
|
Pop-Top Caravan Rising roof |
1,200-1,800kg GTM | P-rated or C-rated | 38-50 PSI | Lighter = lower pressure |
Popular Campervan Bases: Tyre Specifications
These are NZ's most common campervan platforms. Tyre requirements vary significantly — don't assume "it came with the van" means they're correct.
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Toyota Hiace / Nissan Caravan
Most common in NZ. Standard: 195/80R15 or 215/70R16 LT. Load rating: 104-107. Check HT (high-top) versions for additional weight. LWB models may need higher pressures.
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Mercedes Sprinter
Premium platform including 4x4 variants. Standard: 235/65R16C or 225/75R16C. Higher load ratings required. Continental Vanco Camper popular choice.
🚐
Ford Transit / LDV Deliver 9
Growing in popularity for conversions. Standard: 215/75R16C. Ensure load index matches actual GVM. Transit Custom often undertyred from factory.
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VW Transporter / Mazda Bongo
Compact but capable. Bongo often pop-top. Standard: 205/65R16C. Limited payload — watch load ratings carefully. Popular for 2-berth couples.
Popular Caravan & Motorhome Brands in NZ
Knowing your brand helps identify tyre specifications and common issues. Here are the makes you'll see most often on NZ roads:
🇳🇿
NZ-Made Brands
TrailLite (500/700 Series motorhomes, caravans), Leisureline (Vista, Southern Star), KEA (Nomad, Platinum, Breeze). Built for NZ conditions with local support.
🇦🇺
Australian Brands
Jayco (Starcraft, Discovery, Journey, Silverline, Adventurer), Snowy River. Built tough for similar conditions. Common tandem-axle configurations.
🇬🇧
UK Imports
Bailey (Unicorn, Pegasus), Elddis (Crusader, Buccaneer, Affinity), Swift (Challenger, Eccles), Lunar, Sterling. Watch for moisture issues on older imports.
🇪🇺
European Motorhomes
Benimar, Mobilvetta, Roller Team, Hymer. Often on Fiat Ducato or Mercedes chassis. RV-specific tyres recommended.
Rental Fleet Models
Hiring a camper? These are the main rental fleet vehicles from major operators like Maui, Britz, and Mighty:
- 2-Berth: Maui Ultima, Britz Venturer/HiTop — compact, car-licence, standard LT tyres
- 4-Berth: Maui Beach/Cascade, Britz Discovery/Wanderer — family-sized, check load limits with 4 adults
- 6-Berth: Maui River, Britz Frontier — largest, typically on Mercedes or similar. RV-specific tyres essential
Rental Tip: Rental operators maintain tyres well, but you should still check pressure daily — especially if visiting remote DOC sites. Most rental campervans have standard highway tyres that struggle on rough gravel. If your trip includes 4WD-recommended roads, consider hiring a more capable vehicle.
RV-Specific Tyres: Why They Matter
Motorhomes operate at or near maximum GVM continuously — unlike trucks that run empty sometimes. This constant heavy load requires tyres built differently:
- Higher pressure ratings — Handle sustained loads without overheating
- Stiffer sidewalls — Reduce sway and improve stability
- Tougher tread compounds — Handle static loading without flat-spotting
- Examples: Continental Vanco Camper, Michelin Agilis Camping, Bridgestone Duravis
Available in NZ through Beaurepaires, RV Super Centre, and specialist dealers. Worth the investment for frequent travellers.
Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)
For motorhomes and caravans, TPMS can save your trip — alerting you to slow punctures before they become blowouts. Cap-mounted sensors check pressure and temperature in real-time.
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Budget Option (~$200)
Michelin cap-sensors cover 4-6 wheels. Basic display shows pressure and temperature. Good for caravans.
📱
Premium Systems (~$500+)
Cover 8+ wheels, smartphone app integration, historical data, adjustable alerts. Worth it for large rigs or frequent travellers.
Not Sure What Tyres Fit Your Motorhome?
We help RV owners across NZ find the right tyres for their setup. Free advice, competitive pricing, North Island delivery.
Get a Quote →Beach Camping: Sand Driving Basics
Many of NZ's best camping spots are on beaches — from Northland's Ninety Mile Beach to the wild Catlins coast. Sand driving requires specific tyre preparation and real experience.
Real Incidents from NZ Beaches
Campervans regularly sink at Orere Point and Auckland-area beaches — drivers report vehicles "going everywhere" before needing extraction. On Ninety Mile Beach, multiple vehicles are trapped by tides every summer. Waka Kotahi explicitly states beach driving "isn't advised for people unfamiliar with the hazards." If you're not experienced: don't attempt it.
Quick Sand Pressure Guide
| Vehicle Type | Normal PSI | Firm Sand | Soft Sand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact SUV (RAV4, CX-5) | 33-38 | 16-20 | 14-18 |
| Ute (Ranger, Hilux, Triton) | 38-44 | 20-25 | 16-22 |
| Large 4x4 (LandCruiser, Patrol) | 40-50 | 22-28 | 18-24 |
The basic formula: Soft sand = Normal PSI × 0.45 (reduce by ~55%)
Rental Vehicle Warning
Most rental agreements prohibit beach driving. Violations void all insurance. If you get stuck, recovery costs are entirely yours — often $500-$2,000+.
For our complete guide including NZ beach-specific rules, vehicle-by-vehicle PSI recommendations, and getting unstuck techniques, see:
Essential Tyre Emergency Kit
DOC campsites are remote by design. Many are 20km+ from the nearest town, often with no cell coverage. Self-recovery capability isn't optional — it's essential.
Must-Have Items
🔧
12V Air Compressor
Quality unit rated for 4WD tyres (150+ PSI capability). Allow cooling time between tyres. Budget: $80-200 for reliable units.
📊
Pressure Gauge
Digital preferred for accuracy. The compressor's built-in gauge is often inaccurate. Check calibration occasionally.
🔩
Puncture Repair Kit
Tyre plugs/strings for minor punctures. Won't fix sidewall damage, but can save a trip for tread punctures.
🛞
Full-Size Spare
Space-saver spares are highway-only, 80km/h max. Remote gravel needs a full-size spare. Consider carrying two for extended trips.
🔦
Torch + Gloves
Changing a tyre in the dark is challenging. Keep a headtorch and work gloves with your kit.
📱
Satellite Messenger
For truly remote areas, a PLB or satellite messenger (Garmin inReach) provides communication when cell coverage fails.
Nice to Have
- Tyre deflators — Faster than manually bleeding air for sand driving
- Valve core tool — For quick deflation and core replacement
- Jack board — Prevents jack sinking in soft ground
- Tyre levers — For stubborn bead breaks
- Recovery boards — MaxTrax or similar for getting unstuck
Test Your Kit Before You Leave
Practice changing a tyre at home. Time how long your compressor takes to inflate from 18 to 40 PSI. Know your kit before you need it.
Official Guidance: NZ Transport Agency + AA
NZTA recommends checking tread depth, inspecting for cuts/bulges, setting pressures to vehicle placard (cold tyres), and confirming your spare is inflated. The AA advises knowing whether your spare is a space-saver (80km/h max, distance-limited) — these are unsuitable for remote camping trips.
Free Trip Safety Tools
Before you head out, use our free online tools to understand your vehicle's performance and check conditions at your destination.
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Braking Distance Simulator
Calculate how far your vehicle needs to stop on different surfaces — sealed, gravel, wet, or sand. Understand the difference worn tyres make. Loaded vehicles need significantly more stopping distance.
Try Braking Simulator →
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Driving Safety Report
Get a personalised safety report for 280+ NZ locations. Includes weather conditions, road surface analysis, and tyre recommendations for your specific destination.
Check Your Route →
More trip planning tools:
- Tyre Pressure Calculator — Find correct PSI for your vehicle and load
- Vehicle Load Calculator — Check if you're within safe weight limits
- Towing Load Calculator — Calculate safe towing capacity
- DOT Tyre Age Decoder — Check how old your tyres really are
- Beach Driving Guide — Complete guide to sand driving in NZ
Need New Tyres Before Your Trip?
Get a quick quote for your vehicle. We'll recommend the best option for your camping style.
Get a Quick Quote →Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. When carrying camping gear (typically 200-400kg extra), increase rear tyre pressure by 4-8 PSI above normal. Check your door jamb sticker for 'loaded' pressures, or add approximately 4 PSI per 100kg of extra weight. This prevents excessive tyre flex, heat build-up, and premature wear.
For well-maintained gravel, keep normal highway pressures. For rough or corrugated gravel, reduce by 10-15% (e.g., 38 PSI → 32-34 PSI) to improve grip and reduce puncture risk. Always reduce speed accordingly, and remember to re-inflate before returning to sealed roads.
Check pressure every morning before driving, especially in summer when temperatures fluctuate. Pressure increases approximately 1 PSI for every 10°C temperature rise. Always check when tyres are cold (before driving or at least 3 hours after stopping). Our Temperature PSI Adjustment Calculator can help you determine the right pressure for current conditions.
Not always. Most DOC campsites are accessible with highway terrain (H/T) tyres on well-maintained gravel. However, all-terrain tyres provide better puncture resistance and grip for remote sites accessed via rough roads. If you camp regularly at remote locations, A/T tyres are a worthwhile investment.
Calculate based on load: divide max tyre pressure by load rating, then multiply by actual load per tyre. Single-axle caravans typically need 36-50 PSI depending on weight. Never exceed 90% of the tyre's maximum load capacity. Check your caravan's compliance plate for specific recommendations.
Absolutely. A puncture kit, 12V compressor, and pressure gauge are essential. Many DOC campsites are 20km+ from the nearest town with no cell coverage. Self-recovery capability is critical. We also recommend carrying a full-size spare (not a space-saver) for remote travel.
Check the DOT code on the sidewall — the last 4 digits show week and year of manufacture (e.g., 2523 = week 25 of 2023). Replace tyres over 6 years old for highway use, or 5 years for remote camping trips. Use our DOT Code Calculator to decode yours.
While NZ WOF minimum is 1.5mm, we recommend 4mm+ for gravel driving. Deeper tread provides better stone ejection, improved grip, and greater puncture resistance from sharp gravel. Check your tread depth with our Tread Depth Guide.
Related Guides & Tools
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Beach Driving Guide
Complete guide to NZ beach driving — 15 driveable beaches, PSI by vehicle, Muriwai rules. Read Guide →
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All-Terrain Guide
Everything you need to know about A/T tyres — comparisons, ratings, recommendations. Read Guide →
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DOT Code Decoder
Find your tyre's manufacturing date and age. Critical for older tyres. Use Tool →
Ready for Your Next Adventure?
Whether you're heading to Spirits Bay, the Catlins, or somewhere in between — we've got the tyres to get you there safely. Browse our range or get a personalised quote for your vehicle.
