General Information » Places To Stay » Campsites

Camping is a popular option in New Zealand, particularly in the summer, when rain is less likely. As such, campsites tend to be pleasant, well-equipped places, well positioned on the outskirts of towns or, if you’re lucky, by the sea. Prices start from $10 to $15 per person. For a little more ($30 to 40 for two) you can opt to stay in one of the basic wooden cabins that are often found on-site.

The more up-market campsites also offer cabins with en suite and cooking facilities (from around $60) and the shared facilities are generally of a high standard, with fully equipped kitchens and plenty of hot water. You may even get a games room and a pool. Orere Point (www.orerepointholidaypark.co.nz) is a good option on the Pacific Coast Highway ¬– an hour’s drive from central Auckland – and provides good access to Coromandel and Rotorua.

Auckland North Shore Top 10 Holiday Park (www.top10.co.nz) is New Zealand’s first Qualmark-rated 4* holiday home. Near Wellington, Hutt Park (www.huttpark.co.nz) is located just 12km from the InterIsland Ferry and offers good access into town, while Christchurch’s Meadow Park (www.meadowpark.co.nz) is only five minutes walk from local cinemas, restaurants and bars. This one comes well equipped for kids, with a playground and heated indoor swimming pool. Visit www.topparks.co.nz for a list of the best options around the country.

Perfect for nature lovers are the Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites, 240 of which are dotted around New Zealand in DOC-run national parks and reserves. These tend to be very basic. There should be toilets, and running water, but don’t expect it to be hot. However, the beauty of your surroundings – deep within native bush and close to stunning maritime scenery – will more than make up for any inconveniences.

Fullers Ferries make the two-hour trip from central Auckland to Great Barrier Island daily during the summer. Here, visitors can take advantage of no less than six DOC campsites. For a full list, visit www.doc.govt.nz. Prices start from free (for ‘informal’ category sites with little more than running water) up to $18 per person for the few serviced sites available.