The Best Tips for Camping in New Zealand

Endless mountain landscapes, green meadows, and forests by beautiful lakes - few countries invite camping like New Zealand. What you need to know about camping in New Zealand and the best spots to camp are detailed here.

Camping in New Zealand is the perfect way to experience the unique nature of the country up close. The countless national parks in New Zealand, with their picturesque mountains, forests, and fields, are indescribably beautiful - and must be protected. Where and how you can enjoy your camping holiday, along with proper etiquette, I will share in my ultimate camping tips for New Zealand.

All the Information You Need About Camping in New Zealand

Types of Camping | Wild Camping | Rules

Top Campsites | Campervans

What Types of Camping Are There?

Camping is very popular among travelers in New Zealand, which is why there are numerous campsites on both islands. Three different categories with varying amenities are distinguished: Holiday Parks, DOC Campsites, and Freedom Camping.

Holiday Parks (Campgrounds)

Official Holiday Parks or Campgrounds offer the safest and most comfortable way to camp. Here, you pay between NZ$10 and NZ$40 per tent or campervan site depending on the amenities - and can enjoy showers, toilets, kitchens, often even washing machines and BBQ areas. There are also electrical hookups available, and sometimes even pools or small cabins for overnight stays.

DOC Campsites

DOC stands for Department of Conservation, an organization that aims to protect the environment and nature. Their campsites are often located in idyllic natural surroundings and are generally simply equipped. You might pay nothing or up to NZ$19 per person for simple toilets (sometimes long-drop toilets without flushing), and sometimes basic showers and water connections. Luxurious campsites also offer BBQ or cooking facilities, trash bins, or picnic tables.

Freedom Camping

Each municipality sets its own laws for free or wild camping in New Zealand. At designated Freedom Camping sites, you can camp for free, although the amenities are limited to tables, simple toilets, and trash bins - all surrounded by beautiful nature. If you are traveling with a van, some sites require a Self Containment Certification, which shows that you can be self-sufficient for a few days.

Is Wild Camping Allowed in New Zealand?

Yes, but it is discouraged and not permitted everywhere, as many fields and reserves are private land, and some cities have established 'No Camping' zones due to increasing pollution. So always keep an eye out for signs indicating private property or prohibitions and respect them - otherwise, hefty fines await you! Wild camping is understandably not favored by locals, so it is generally advisable to avoid wild camping and instead use official campsites, which are often also beautifully located and provide useful sanitary facilities.

Tips for Wild Camping (Freedom Camping)

Guru Tip: Especially when camping, always check the weather in a region in advance. It can get very cold in the mountains and even snow, so make sure to get a warm sleeping bag!

The WikiCamps app can be used offline on the go to show you (free) sites and their amenities.
Rankers maps all campsites and specifies which types of vehicles are allowed at each. The site is also available as an app.

Camping Rules in New Zealand

No matter what type of camping you decide on, your top priority should always be to protect the unique nature. Most guidelines are based on common sense, yet I have summarized the most important rules for you.

Always dispose of your trash (preferably including others') properly or take it with you if there are no bins available.
Watch for signs and camp only in designated spots. If in doubt, ask locals, rangers, or other travelers. Apps can also show you where you are allowed to camp.
Make fires only in permitted areas and always extinguish them thoroughly.
If traveling with a camper van with a toilet, you must use dumping stations.
Keep dishwater, soap, toothpaste, etc., away from waterways.
Respect other campers, locals, and wildlife and behave quietly.
Always use (public) toilets and do not simply go into the bushes.
If you arrive late at night, inquire in the morning for any possible fees.
Enjoy the stunning nature - and protect it.

The Most Beautiful Campsites

The selection of campsites in New Zealand is overwhelming; there is something to suit every need and budget. The best way is to try out the various spots yourself. I have put together a small selection of great campgrounds for you!

Totaranui Campground

This site is rather remote in the northern part of Abel Tasman National Park, along the eponymous Coastal Track, and features a wide, fine sandy beach at the stunning Totaranui Bay. Where better to unwind after a long hike? If you're up for some activity, you can also go fishing, kayaking, and boating, explore the surroundings while mountain biking, or enjoy swimming in the water. You pay NZ$13 per night and person for a tent site that you should ideally reserve briefly in advance.

Location: Golden Bay in the National Park, northern South Island
Prices: Tent site without electricity NZ$13 per person, with electricity NZ$16, during peak season NZ$30
Amenities: Boat ramp, fire pits, dumping stations, showers, drinking water
Size: 269 sites without electricity

Lake Pearson (Moana Rua) Campsite

Located centrally on the South Island in Craigieburn Forest Park, you will find this free, idyllic DOC campsite. As there are only simple amenities and no running water, you should be self-sufficient. It is usually very quiet here, as only a few travelers go over Arthur's Pass, allowing you to enjoy the silence and the view of the lake and mountains or watch for rare birds. A lovely place to simply leave everything behind, and when you have recharged enough energy, the surrounding area invites you to fantastic hikes.

Location: Linkwater, northern South Island
Prices: Free of charge
Amenities: River water, simple toilets, for self-sufficiency
Size: 20 sites without electricity

Whangapoua Earl's Paradise

This small, private campsite located on a hillside overlooking Whangapoua Bay is truly paradise-like. The owner, Earl, is surely happy to give you insider tips, such as how to reach one of the most beautiful, secluded beaches in New Zealand and what you can explore on the Coromandel Peninsula. You can stay here for little money and enjoy cozy evenings cooking at the grill area and sharing your best travel stories.

Location: Whangapoua, Coromandel Peninsula, northern North Island
Prices: NZ$10 per person
Amenities: Restrooms and showers, drinking water

Smiths Farm Holiday Park

Animal lovers and families will also find themselves perfectly situated at this Holiday Park, which lies on a charming farm in the north of the South Island. Here you can also treat yourself to a few nights in a room or studio if you need a break from camping and sleeping in a van. Prices vary depending on room size and amenities. Rent bicycles, explore the hilly garden landscape, and fall in love with the sweet goats, sheep, and pigs on the farm.

Location: Linkwater, northern South Island
Prices: 2-person studios about NZ$65, family rooms about NZ$115
Amenities: Kitchens, bathrooms, heating, BBQ areas, laundry service, Wi-Fi, etc.

Explore New Zealand with a Campervan

Campervans offer the freedom of a vehicle and almost the comfort of a private room, as you are better protected from bad weather than in a tent and often have small kitchens or water systems on board. Depending on the amenities and size, you can even have toilets in the van, for which there are specific dumping stations available. Of course, the same rules apply to your campervan: Make sure to check in advance where you are allowed to park and where you are not. Some Freedom Camping spots require self-sufficient vans that can manage their (waste) water for a few days. The Campermate app helps you find such spots and dumping stations.

Stay at the most beautiful locations!

Should You Rent or Buy a Campervan?

Whether you should buy or just rent your own campervan depends on how long you plan to stay in the country and what destinations you want to hit. For a multi-month trip through New Zealand, owning a van often makes sense, as many backpackers want to sell their loyal companions at the end of their road trip, allowing you to purchase them cheaply. You can of course customize your own camper as you wish, yet you should take a close look under the hood before buying to check the car's condition. Renting a vehicle is less risky. In case of breakdowns or technical issues, help is provided quickly. If you want to rent a camper, you have a choice between various amenities and sizes. Most campers are well-equipped.

Off to Adventure!

So, now you should know the most important things about camping in New Zealand. Are you excited to wake up in the morning, crawl out of your tent or van, and directly see snow-covered mountains, mirror-like lakes, and fairy-tale forests while breathing in the fresh air? If so, you should pack your tent, sleeping bag, and map, and your unforgettable road trip can begin! New Zealand is waiting for you. You can also find general travel tips for New Zealand in the travel magazine.

Camping in New Zealand

All the Information You Need to Know About Camping in New Zealand