Britz Campervans Review
Rating: 4.2 / 5
Britz is the mid-premium tier in THL's brand lineup. Newer vehicles than Apollo, better interiors, most NZ vehicles self-contained for freedom camping — and a Queenstown depot that Apollo doesn't have. The sweet spot between budget and luxury.
Quick Facts
Pros and Cons
Pros
- → Newer fleet than Apollo (1-3 years)
- → Better interior fit-outs and condition
- → Most NZ vehicles are self-contained
- → Queenstown depot (NZ exclusive)
- → Strong 4WD camper options
- → Unlimited kilometers standard
Cons
- → 15-25% more expensive than Apollo
- → Liability reduction adds $25-$55/day
- → Bedding/kitchen kits still cost extra
- → Peak season availability tight
- → Not cheapest (Maui beats on quality)
How Britz Works
Same THL system as Apollo. Book online, select vehicle class and dates, add liability reduction and kit packages. Show up at the depot, get a walkthrough and drive away. Return to any Britz depot — one-way fees ($200-$500 AUD) apply if returning to a different city.
Australian depots cover all eight major cities: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Cairns, Perth, Adelaide, Darwin and Hobart. New Zealand has three depots — Auckland, Christchurch and Queenstown. That Queenstown depot is exclusive among the mid-range brands. If you're flying into Queenstown for a South Island trip, Britz and Jucy are your only fleet options.
Pricing and Value
A 14-day 4-berth campervan rental on Britz runs $2,800-$4,500 AUD depending on season. Add $350-$770 for liability reduction, $50-$80 each for bedding and kitchen kits. Total all-in: $3,300-$5,400 AUD for two weeks. That's $300-$700 more than the same trip on Apollo.
The premium buys you a vehicle that's 2-3 years newer with noticeably better interior condition. The cabinets aren't scuffed. The upholstery isn't stained. The appliances are more modern. For some travelers that's worth every dollar. For backpackers watching every cent, Apollo gets the job done cheaper.
Vehicle Quality
Britz vehicles are genuinely nicer than Apollo inside. 1-3 year old fleet vs 2-5 years. Better upholstery, newer kitchen fittings, improved storage solutions. The "well-cared-for" feel is noticeable the moment you step inside. It's not luxury — that's Maui territory — but it's a clear step up from budget.
Their 4WD lineup is a standout. The Britz Outback 4WD is one of the best off-road rental campers available in Australia — proper 4WD capability with rooftop tent and full camping kit. For Northern Territory and Western Australian outback routes, Britz's 4WD options compete with dedicated safari outfitters.
Mechanical reliability matches Apollo — both brands use the same THL servicing infrastructure. The difference is purely cosmetic age. A Britz van is essentially a 1-2 year old vehicle that will become an Apollo in another year or two when it rotates down the brand ladder.
NZ Freedom Camping
Britz's biggest NZ advantage: most vehicles are certified self-contained. That means built-in toilet, water tank and waste holding — required for freedom camping on public land. Freedom camping is free. Campgrounds cost $15-$40 NZD/night. Over a 2-week trip, freedom camping 8-10 nights saves $120-$300 NZD.
Apollo's budget NZ vehicles often aren't self-contained, locking you into paid campgrounds. The $200 NZD fine for freedom camping without certification is enforced. If your NZ itinerary includes DOC land camping and roadside stops, Britz's self-contained fleet opens up options that Apollo can't.
Who Is Britz Best For?
- → Mid-budget travelers who want better quality without Maui's luxury price tag.
- → NZ freedom campers who need self-contained certification for the best free spots.
- → Queenstown renters — only mid-range fleet option with a depot there.
- → Outback travelers wanting a well-equipped 4WD camper from a reputable company.
Final Verdict
Britz occupies the sweet spot in the AU/NZ market. Not the cheapest, not the most expensive, but arguably the best value per dollar when you factor in vehicle quality, self-contained capability and depot coverage. The Queenstown depot alone makes them the go-to for South Island NZ trips. If Apollo feels too budget and Maui feels too expensive, Britz is where you land.
Rating: 4.2 / 5 — Best mid-range option in AU/NZ. Newer fleet and NZ freedom camping capability justify the premium over Apollo.
How does Britz compare?
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