About Marcel
Head of Europe & Founder, Compare Campers
Marcel’s Story
Kia ora! I’m Marcel, founder of Compare Campers, travel expert, and passionate road tripper living in beautiful Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Originally from the Netherlands, I moved to New Zealand nearly 20 years ago after completing my degree in Groningen. Like so many, I came here for a short adventure… and never looked back. Captivated by New Zealand’s landscapes, people, and laid-back lifestyle, I built a life here, and along the way, turned my passion for travel into a full-time career.
It started with a small travel company, helping European travellers explore New Zealand, and over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping more than 5,000 travellers plan unforgettable trips across this incredible country.
Before launching Compare Campers, I had an extensive innvolvement in international trade. I served as President of European Trade, leading high-level trade missions and working closely with global leaders like Frans Timmermans, Mark Rutte, the Dutch King & Queen, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, former New Zealand Prime Minister John Key and Angela Merkel. It was an amazing chapter, one that taught me a lot about global connections, diplomacy, and how the right people can open the right doors.
But eventually, I made a shift. I stepped away from international politics to focus on what really mattered: family and purpose. I now live in Auckland with my wife Laura, a proud Brit and our two kids, and yes, we’re a campervan-loving family.
Compare Campers was born out of that next chapter: combining deep industry experience with a love of New Zealand and a desire to make travel easier for others. I’ve seen firsthand how confusing and overwhelming campervan hire can be, so I created a service that cuts through the noise, gives honest local advice, and makes planning your trip a breeze.
Whether you’re visiting from Europe or elsewhere I’m here to help you find the right van, map the best routes, and discover the kind of hidden gems only a local knows. I believe travel should be about freedom, connection, and discovery and that starts with the right set of wheels.
So let’s plan a trip you’ll never forget.
