Your safety on the road is our top priority. Before you head off on your Kohi Campers adventure, please take the time to read through the following information about driving the Ranger and camper combination safely and responsibly.
Licence requirements
A standard full New Zealand drivers licence is all you need to drive the Kohi Campers rental. International licences are also accepted provided they are in English or accompanied by an official translation.
- Minimum age: 22 Years Old
- Licence type: standard full car licence
- International licences: accepted with English translation if required
- Learner or restricted licences: not accepted
Only drivers listed on the rental agreement are authorised to drive the vehicle. Do not allow anyone not named on the agreement to take the wheel under any circumstances.
Getting familiar with the setup
Before you leave the pickup location we will walk you through the vehicle and camper in detail. This includes:
- How to operate the Ford Ranger including 4WD engagement and terrain modes
- How to operate all camper systems including kitchen, toilet, shower, and power
- How to use the Maxtrax recovery boards if you get bogged on a gravel or unsealed road
- Emergency contacts and what to do in the event of a breakdown or accident
Do not leave the pickup location until you are completely comfortable with the operation of both the vehicle and the camper. There is no rush — we want you to feel confident before you go.
Driving with the camper fitted
Driving with the 600ATV Hardwall camper fitted to the Ranger changes the handling characteristics of the vehicle compared to driving the Ranger alone. Please be aware of the following:
- Height: the combined height of the Ranger and camper is significantly greater than the Ranger alone. Be aware of height restrictions on bridges, car parks, and drive-throughs. Check clearance before entering any covered structure
- Length: the overall length of the setup is greater than a standard vehicle. Allow more space for turning, reversing, and parking
- Weight: the loaded camper adds significant weight to the rear of the Ranger. Allow greater stopping distances than you would in a standard vehicle, particularly on wet or unsealed roads
- Wind sensitivity: the camper presents a large surface area to crosswinds. Reduce speed in strong wind conditions, particularly on exposed roads, bridges, and passes
- Reversing: use the Ranger's reversing camera at all times when reversing with the camper fitted. Take your time and use a spotter if you are unsure
4WD operation
The Ford Ranger is equipped with a full 4WD system with multiple terrain modes. Understanding when and how to use 4WD is important for safe driving on the roads you will encounter in New Zealand.
- 2H (2WD High): use for normal sealed road driving in dry conditions
- 4H (4WD High): use for unsealed roads, gravel, wet conditions, and light off-road terrain. This is the mode you will use most frequently on back roads and remote routes
- 4L (4WD Low): use for steep climbs, steep descents, and very rough terrain at slow speeds. Engage only when stationary or moving very slowly
We will demonstrate 4WD engagement at pickup. If you are unsure at any point during your trip, contact us before attempting terrain that requires 4WD.
Unsealed and gravel roads
Many of the best destinations in New Zealand involve unsealed or gravel roads. The Ranger with its certified GVM suspension upgrade handles these surfaces well but there are important guidelines to follow:
- Reduce your speed significantly on loose gravel. The recommended speed on most unsealed roads is 50km/h or less
- Engage 4H before turning onto an unsealed road
- Increase following distance from other vehicles to avoid stone chips to the windscreen
- Slow down for blind corners and one-lane bridges — these are common on back roads throughout New Zealand
- Pull over and stop if a vehicle approaching from the other direction is travelling in the centre of the road. Do not swerve suddenly on loose surfaces
Mountain and alpine roads
If your trip takes you through alpine areas such as the Crown Range, Arthur's Pass, Haast Pass, or Lindis Pass, please be aware of the following:
- Check road conditions before departure on the NZTA Journey Planner
- Carry snow chains if travelling in winter and know how to fit them before you need to
- Black ice can form on alpine roads at any time of year, not just in winter. Drive slowly and use 4H on any road that may be icy
- The Crown Range Road between Queenstown and Wanaka closes in heavy snow. Always have an alternative route planned
- Reduce speed significantly on steep descents and use engine braking rather than riding the brakes
New Zealand road rules
If you are visiting from overseas, here are the key New Zealand road rules to be aware of:
- Drive on the left: New Zealand drives on the left side of the road
- Speed limits: the open road speed limit is 100km/h. Urban areas are generally 50km/h unless otherwise signed. School zones are 40km/h during school hours
- Seatbelts: mandatory for all occupants at all times
- Mobile phones: illegal to hold or use a mobile phone while driving. Use hands-free only
- Alcohol limit: the legal blood alcohol limit is 50mg per 100ml for drivers over 20, and zero for drivers under 20
- Give way rules: at intersections without signals, give way to traffic on your right
- One lane bridges: extremely common throughout New Zealand, particularly in rural areas. A sign before the bridge indicates which direction has priority. If the arrow points to your side you have right of way. If it points away from you, give way
Fatigue
New Zealand's roads are significantly more winding and demanding than motorway driving. Distances that look short on a map often take considerably longer than expected. Driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of serious accidents in New Zealand.
- Take a break every two hours minimum
- Do not drive if you are tired. Pull over and sleep — the camper is right there
- Avoid long driving days, particularly at the start of your trip when you are still getting used to the vehicle
Emergency contacts
- Emergency services: 111
- AA roadside assistance: 0800 500 222
- Kohi Campers: 0800 348 606
- NZTA road conditions: journeys.nzta.govt.nz
Still have questions about driving the setup?
Get in touch before your trip and we will answer any questions you have about the vehicle, the roads, or your specific route.
