Where can I camp?

New Zealand is, simply put, camping heaven and when it comes to choosing the 'where' you have tons of choice on both islands if you have your own transport. This can be campervan or car and camping gear and some of the camp-sites in more built-up areas can be reached by public transport too.

Campsites vary based on the facilities available from one with powered pitches and cooking facilities right down to DOC free sites which simply have no flush toilets and water from a nearby stream. Your nightly budget and the camping equipment you have with you will determine the type of camping pitch to look for. If you have rented or purchased  a self contained campervan you will have more free options available. 

Holiday Parks

Holiday parks tend to have the most facilities but are priced accordingly. They usually offer powered and non-powered pitches for both tents and campervans and can also include cabins if you want a break from sleeping under the stars! There will be both shared toilet blocks and kitchen facilities with things like fridges & hobs. These locations are usually used by Kiwi families on holiday and can also include swimming pools and play areas for kids. Due to their size they are usually located near popular tourist destinations.

Holiday Parks New Zealand
Top 10 Holiday Parks
KiwiCamp
Rankers Holiday Parks

Department of Conservation (DOC) Campsites

DOC provides over 300 campsites in some amazing locations across New Zealand from lakeshores to sandy beaches. Many of the campsites require you to book online and pay if necessary but you can filter your search by location, landscape and facilities to find the perfect pitch. You can also download pdf maps of the campsite locations in each region of New Zealand or simply get one for the whole North Island or South Island.

Campable

The Campable app allows you to book pitches with a private host much like Airbnb does for accommodation. However, not every Campable site will provide the facilities of a campsite. If you are wanting to stay at a site that provides specific facilities (toilets, power, a shower, etc.), please use the filter on the Campable app, so that sites which do not provide the facilities you need will be filtered out. 

Freedom (Free) Camping

Freedom camping is still alive in New Zealand and enables you to stay overnight on public land or on a site with little or no facilities for free. However there is still an important responsibility to stick to the rules to avoid damage to the environment and avoid hefty fines (up to NZ$2,400). Make sure you dispose of rubbish and waste responsibly and leave no trace behind. In many locations you will need to be in a certified self-contained vehicle.

Free DOC Campsites
Rankers Freedom Camping
Campermate Free Campgrounds NZ

 

Further Camping Information

Department of Conservation Campsite Search
Guide to Responsible Freedom Camping