Camping in New Zealand

With summer here there is no better time to dust off the canvas, and take a look at some of the best camping options New Zealand has to offer. From freedom camping to holiday parks, there are countless lakes, parks and beaches to make a true highlight of your summer, so take a look at just a selection of the places you can go!

Freedom camps

From Pandora Bay in the far north, to Thicket Burn in south Fiordland, the Department of Conservation maintains a range of free campsites at stunning locations all across the country. Typically operating on a first come first serve basis, and operating on a few simple rules; take all your rubbish home wit

h you, and leave the campsite as clean as you found it. Camping truly at its most fundamental.

Raetea North Side Campsite – At the northern end of the Mangamuka Gorge is the Raetea forest. Featuring stunning rivers for swimming, access to the Mangamuka Tramping Track and incredible bird watching as one of the last lowland coastal forests in New Zealand, this free camp has something for everyone.

Piripiri Campsite – In a clearing on the side of the Pohangina River, this campsite is ideal for a hunting or fishing trip, also featuring access to the Takapari Road four wheel drive scenic trail nearby. A small campsite, with space for approximately four tents, there are alternative sites at the Totara and Raumai Reserves, not far from Piripiri.

Department of Conservation Campsites

With more than 250 locations around New Zealand, these campsites are maintained by DOC and will generally feature more amenities than freedom camps, from toilets and tap water supply, and sometimes even rubbish bins, showers and barbecues! Broadly organised into 6 categories, three of which must be booked in advance, and three which function as first come first served. The bookable sites are Serviced Campsites, Scenic Campsites and Great Walk Campsites you can book your spot at these through the Department’s website, and they typically offer the best selection of amenities, and are the most heavily trafficked campgrounds in New Zealand. Next up are the Standard, Basic and Backcountry Campsites, which cannot be booked, and typically offer you camping options in the more isolated regions of New Zealand, for a true outdoors experience!

Puriri Bay Campsite – Camp at the overlook of the Whangaruru Harbour, this campsite features a range of interconnected trails, and sheltered waters for swimming and boating. As a Scenic Camp, Puriri Bay features toilets, showers and sheltered cooking areas. An ideal location for a family holiday!

Medlands Beach Campsite – On Great Barrier Island, set amongst a stunning mature forest, the Medlands campsite offers incredible swimming and surfing. With road access, once you are on the island, to the south of the beach Medlands offers an ideal place for a weekend fishing trip.

Onetahuti Bay Campsite – With no road access, this site is only reachable on foot, or by boat, either way making for a beautiful trip along the Abel Tasman Coast. A truly spectacular section of the South Island’s coast, this campsite is along the Abel Tasman Coast Track, and has a mild, protected climate, golden beaches, and a lush coastal native bush.

Holiday Parks

Holiday parks offer powered and non-powered sites for everything from motor homes, campervans, caravans and tents. The are often simple cabins, self contained units or even lodges on offer too! What also sets them apart from the more fundamental camping options in New Zealand is the guarantee of access to shared kitchens and bathroom facilities, making Holiday parks a great option for families. Typically located in popular towns and tourist destinations, they are always accessible, and a great way to experience the country.

Mawley Holiday Park – Refurbished in 2011, Mawley Holiday Park is situated in the heart of the Wairarapa, with powered site, cabins and self-contained units. Just a two minute walk from Masterton’s recreational hub, with an adventure playground, heated pools, skate park and museums, Mawley has so much on offer!

Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park – An iconic family park, renowned across the country, Pilot Bay has so much on offer. Near the park are the famous hot salt water pools, the harbour and ocean side beaches, central shops, cafes and restaurants, and a boat ramp. Within the park itself you will have access to Wifi, laundry facilities, waste stations, and all the other basic amenities, everything you need to keep the whole family comfortable.

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