The best camping in New Zealand

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Ask a Kiwi what defines New Zealand (Aotearoa), and you'll get markedly different answers depending on where they hail from—even if they only grew up hours apart. That may be because New Zealand crams diverse landscapes and experiences into its 268,021 square kilometres. You can sleep at Māori maraes, park your campervan at the foot of active volcanoes, unroll your sleeping bag metres from the sea or deep in the rainforest, or pitch a tent at the foot of snow-capped mountains. Kiwis love road trips thanks to an extensive network of frontcountry, backcountry, and even urban camping areas. Freedom camping in New Zealand is also widespread, with free camping sites sometimes even equipped with flush toilets and hot showers. Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites and holiday parks can be found in even the most remote corners of the country, while local hosts are among the most welcoming you’ll find anywhere in the world.

96% (132) 3,201 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in New Zealand

River Bends

1. River Bends

99%
(109)
Te Kuiti · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
River Bends is a private site in the bend of a river flowing through a deep limestone ravine and old Totara and Matai forest, the site is situated in open space allowing access to stunning views of the surrounding rock formations river features and bushland. Composting toilet and clean water on tap are provided at the site.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park

2. Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park

100%
(11)
Whitianga · 366 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Just a short walk from one of New Zealand’s most famous beaches, Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park offers spacious powered and unpowered sites surrounded by native bush and landscaped grounds. From here, you can wander down to the shore, dig your own natural hot pool in the sand at low tide, and soak in the warm mineral water with the sound of the waves rolling in. The park has a relaxed, family-friendly feel, with generous sites perfectly suited to tents, caravans and motorhomes — including all-weather options for larger vehicles — as well as a wide selection of cabins and villas. Facilities at the park are many and varied: a year-round heated pool complex with soaking pools, modern communal kitchens, clean amenity blocks, an on-site shop, laundry, BBQ areas, EV-charging (trickle-style, outside peak season only) and a playground for younger guests. All of this combines with the bush setting and ocean-front access to deliver a comfortable, nature-centred stay without compromise.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Sommerfeldt Farm

3. Sommerfeldt Farm

86%
(7)
Pukekohe · 1 site · Tent, RV
We are a small farm in a beautiful rural village on the outskirts of Auckland. As well as being a lovely village we are close to beaches, forests & bush walks. We are close enough to Auckland for Daytrips if you want to experience the Big Smoke and far enough away to be away from the hub Bub of city life. We are approx halfway between Auckland city and Hamilton City so a great stop off point if travelling North or South
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Hampshire Holiday Parks - Glendhu Bay

4. Hampshire Holiday Parks - Glendhu Bay

89%
(14)
Wānaka · 420 sites · RVs, Lodging
Set on the only true lakefront camping stretch in Wānaka, Hampshire Holiday Parks – Glendhu Bay offers powered and unpowered sites in one of the region’s most iconic outdoor settings. Wake to sunrise on Lake Wānaka, with clear mountain views and a wide grassy playground that gently slopes to the water’s edge. The park sits on the road toward Mt Aspiring National Park, giving you instant access to some of New Zealand’s most loved hiking and biking trails, as well as the renowned lakeside track that runs into Wānaka township. In winter, Treble Cone Ski Area is within easy reach; in summer, the bay becomes a hub for swimming, paddling and relaxed days by the water. Key conveniences will make your stay comfortable, including unlimited Wi-Fi, modernized communal facilities, hot showers, laundry areas, BBQ zones and easy access to lakefront picnicking spots. A selection of comfortable cabins is also available for those who prefer a simple, no-fuss stay with the same unbeatable views. For travellers wanting the beauty of Wānaka with more open space, direct water access and a peaceful, outdoors-focused atmosphere, Glendhu Bay offers an unforgettable lakeside base.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Hubbys retreat

5. Hubbys retreat

100%
(5)
Morrinsville · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
300 acre dairy farm with views right across the Waikato. Glow worms and a beautiful wetland and native bush patches. Loads of things to do or just a very quiet time for you. Very handy to great bush walks and only 20 mins away is the Hauraki rail trail karangahake gorge where the cycle trstarts
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park

6. Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park

100%
(11)
Queenstown · 120 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Stay just minutes from Queenstown’s buzzing lakefront, restaurants and adventure operators. Hampshire Holiday Parks – Queenstown Lakeview offers powered and unpowered sites in the most central holiday park location in the region – perfect for travellers wanting fast, walkable access to everything the town is known for. Set against views of the Remarkables and the surrounding alpine ranges, the park places you within easy walking distance of Lake Wakatipu, the gondola, and Queenstown’s vibrant dining and nightlife. Whether you’re here for jet boating, hiking, mountain biking, skiing, or simply soaking up the scenery, you can leave your vehicle parked and explore on foot. Facilities include free Wi-Fi across accommodation and sites, laundry service, on- site barbecue zones and parking for larger vehicles. The park features a wide range of cabins, from simple and affordable options to modern self-contained stays – ideal for couples, families or groups wanting the convenience of accommodation close to the CBD.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hampshire Holidays Parks Arrowtown

7. Hampshire Holidays Parks Arrowtown

100%
(11)
Arrowtown · 171 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Stay just a minutes’ walk from Arrowtown’s charming main street, where heritage buildings, boutique eateries, and leafy lanes create one of New Zealand’s most atmospheric small towns. Hampshire Holiday Parks – Arrowtown offers powered and unpowered sites in a peaceful, tree-lined setting with mountain views. Our spacious, level sites make accessing your vehicle easy, and you’ll find free Wi-Fi across the park, laundry, and BBQ/kitchen facilities all on-site. Kids will love the outdoor playground, and active travellers can enjoy the tennis court or hop onto nearby walking and cycling trails. A wide selection of cabins is also available for those wanting more than camping. Located just a short stroll from Arrowtown’s historic river, boutique shops and cafés, and only a short drive to Queenstown and local skifields, the park offers the perfect mix of relaxed village charm and access to big-weekend adventure.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Fox Glacier TOP 10 Holiday Park

8. Fox Glacier TOP 10 Holiday Park

100%
(11)
Fox Glacier · 175 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Surrounded by rainforest, alpine peaks, and the dramatic landscapes of Glacier Country, Fox Glacier TOP 10 Holiday Park offers a welcoming base for travellers seeking the wild beauty of the West Coast. Hard-surface sites and an informal tenting area are set across open, scenic grounds, many with views towards Fox Glacier and Aoraki/Mt Cook. Everything is close and easy here — sites sit within a short walk of clean communal bathrooms, hot showers, a well-equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and free Wi-Fi. Cabins and self-contained units provide comfortable options while still soaking up the alpine atmosphere. Wander through lush rainforest, visit mirror-calm Lake Matheson, stroll the rugged West Coast beach, or head toward the glacier valley itself. Local cafés and small village comforts round out an ideal stay for adventurers and nature lovers. Whether you’re chasing sunrise over the Southern Alps, hiking through ancient forest, or simply enjoying the silence of glacier country, Fox Glacier TOP 10 puts you right at the heart of it.
Toilets
Showers
Full hookups
Hanmer Springs Top 10 Holiday Park

9. Hanmer Springs Top 10 Holiday Park

Hanmer Springs · 138 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Hanmer Springs TOP 10 Holiday Park provides a premier TOP 10 experience where you can make ‘memories for life’, in our luxury apartments, motels, self-contained units and cabins as well as scenic camping at very competitive rates. Choose us as the location for your next trip with your partner, family, group or for an event. We are here to help with local ideas for activities and catering. We pride ourselves on guest experience and great service, now offering elevated best practice hygiene standards for your peace of mind. Relax in our luxury apartments – make them your home away from home. Grab a gourmet pizza onsite and use our pizza ovens or crank up the BBQ, ask our friendly team to whip you up an espresso coffee, or just sit back and enjoy the sweet song of Bellbirds and Tui in our alpine vista while indulging in our private wood-fired hot tubs. This beautifully forested park is only 5 minutes from Hanmer’s thermal hot pools and alpine village also adjacent to the Hanmer Springs Heritage Forest walking and bike tracks.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Showers
Titta's Home

10. Titta's Home

Nelson · 1 site
Titta’s Home: Peaceful Private RV Spot in Sunny Nelson Welcome to Titta’s Home, a quiet and convenient place to park up and relax while exploring beautiful Nelson, New Zealand. Set in a peaceful residential setting with a private grassy area, this site offers a simple and comfortable stop for self-contained campers, caravans, camper trailers, cars, and rooftop tents. Enjoy your own private space with room to unwind after a day of exploring. The flat grass area provides an easy setup, with a peaceful outlook and views across the surrounding Nelson landscape. Whether you’re passing through or staying a little longer, this is a great base to rest, recharge, and enjoy the sunshine Nelson is known for. Located close to the attractions, shops, and outdoor adventures of Nelson, you’ll have easy access to beaches, walking trails, cycling routes, and local experiences while still enjoying a quiet place to return to. What You’ll Love: • Private grassy RV/camping area • Suitable for self-contained campers, caravans, camper trailers, cars, and rooftop tents • Flat grass surface with easy access • Pet-friendly • Wheelchair accessible • Maximum 4 guests • Maximum 3 vehicles • 2WD accessible • Bins available (compost, recycling, and rubbish) Please note: • No toilet facilities are available — campers must bring their own camp toilet • No campfires permitted • Suitable for vehicles under 4 metres • No motorhomes or fifth wheels Whether you’re exploring Nelson’s scenic surroundings or simply need a peaceful place to stop for the night, Titta’s Home offers a welcoming and convenient stay.
Pets
Crown Terrace Panorama

11. Crown Terrace Panorama

100%
(2)
Queenstown · 5 sites
Set high on Crown Terrace, our property offers a peaceful overnight stay with 360° mountain views of The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, and Crown Peak. By night, enjoy a huge open sky filled with stars; by day, relax in shaded areas surrounded by alpine scenery. We’re ideally located — 15 minutes to Arrowtown, 25 minutes to Queenstown, 20 minutes to Cardrona, and just 20 minutes by bike to Arrowtown — offering privacy without feeling remote. Pets are welcome but must be sheep-safe, as we have livestock on the property. A beautiful, established vegetable garden adds to the rural charm. A quiet, scenic place to park, unwind, and wake up above it all. 🌌🏔️
Pets
Bay of Islands Holiday Park

12. Bay of Islands Holiday Park

100%
(2)
Haruru · 122 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Bay of Islands Holiday Park, is a 3.1 hectare Holiday Park providing a wide array of accommodation and camping facilities. Centrally located between Paihia and Kerikeri the park is well positioned for exploring all the Bay of islands has to offer. Featuring plenty of trees for shade and the Waitangi river running along one boundary creating a relaxing family fun atmosphere.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Terako Downs POP

13. Terako Downs POP

100%
(2)
Waiau · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
Creatives at heart, Debbie and Frits both love the arts. They love listening to music, collecting vintage pieces (both clothing and artefacts that you can view in their museum!) & hosting dinner parties and events. Their idea for opening Terako Downs was born from their love of sharing. Coming out of owning a business in Dunedin, they felt it a shame not to share their artefacts and the beauty of the property. And they also wanted to be able to pay for the lawn mowing guy.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

14. Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

100%
(12)
Wānaka · 234 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Just a five-minute stroll from the lakefront and 10 minutes from the cafés and shops of central Wānaka, Hampshire Holiday Parks — Wānaka offers powered and unpowered sites alongside cabins and self-contained units — perfect for tents, caravans, motorhomes or groups who want flexibility. This alpine lakeside town truly offers four-season appeal: summer paddles on the blue water of Lake Wānaka, autumn colours under the slopes, winter skiing nearby at Cardrona and Treble Cone, and spring hikes into Mount Aspiring National Park’s spectacular landscapes. Pull into your site, walk to the lake, then return to a park setup that keeps you comfortable and connected. Across the park, you’ll find amenities that make a big difference: free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, fully-equipped kitchens and BBQ areas make it easy to stay longer. There’s also a playground and jumping pillow for younger guests and a dump station for motorhomes. Whether you’re parking up after a scenic drive down the Crown Range or setting up amid the mountains for a few nights, this park offers ease of access, strong facilities and the backdrop of one of New Zealand’s most loved lake towns.
Toilets
Showers
Full hookups
Manaia Valley Farm

15. Manaia Valley Farm

100%
(4)
Whangarei · 1 site · Tent, RV
Hi Hipcampers! Manaia Valley Farm is nestled below the stunning Mt Manaia, Whangarei Heads. Our 20 acres is just 600m from Ocean Beach, perfect for surfing and swimming. If you prefer a gentle float in calm waters, Taurikura beach is just a 5 min drive away. There are heaps of fantastic hikes in the vicinity if that's your thing. We have space for campervans/caravans/tenters, and a flush toilet near the camping site. Come enjoy some of the most stunning sunsets Northland has to offer!
Toilets
Potable water
Puhoi cottage tearooms

16. Puhoi cottage tearooms

100%
(3)
Silverdale · 1 site
Space for 5 or 6 tents on bottom of property overlooking puhoi river. Flat ground but elevated from river and with views of a little island and waterfall at low tide. Toilet available 24/7 food available in the teahouse on the property It is the oldest teahouse in New Zealand 300 metres to the famous puhoi pub and general store
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic table
Nature's Haven

17. Nature's Haven

Tuakau · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
23 Arces - large amount of fruit trees and natural springs. From plums, mandarins, nectarines and cherry plums. Berries of all kinds, blueberries, blackberries etc Birds ranging from Tuis, parrots and cockatoos. Thundercross dirt bike park within 12 minutes and Naike Cafe and caves 12 minutes away in opposite direction.
Pets
Potable water
Lake Taupo Holiday Resort

18. Lake Taupo Holiday Resort

100%
(10)
Taupō · 336 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Just minutes from Taupō’s lakefront and town centre, Lake Taupō Holiday Resort blends the freedom of camping with the comfort of a family-friendly resort. Powered and unpowered sites are set across spacious grounds. For those wanting a touch of luxury, the Ensuite Powered Sites offer your own private bathroom alongside power and water — perfect for an extra-comfortable stay. What truly sets this park apart is its resort-style atmosphere. The lagoon-style thermal pools create a central hub for relaxing or socializing, complete with a swim-up bar and café, warm water year-round and plenty of space for families to splash and unwind. Around the park, you’ll find modern communal kitchens and bathrooms, convenient laundry facilities, free Wi-Fi, and multiple BBQ areas for relaxed evening dinners. Families will love the sense of play built into the resort. Jumping pillows, go-karts, playgrounds and wide-open spaces make it easy for kids to burn off energy, while adult travellers can enjoy the tennis courts or simply soak in the thermal pools after a day exploring Taupō’s lakeside walks, geothermal attractions and scenic lookouts. IMPORTANT NOTICE Our pool will be closed from 27 Oct - 11 Nov 2026 for maintenance. Cafe Operating Hours Update: Please be advised that effective Tuesday, 2 June 2026, the cafe will operate on the following schedule: Friday & Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (hours may vary) Sunday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (hours may vary) The cafe will also be open during public holidays and peak periods, with hours adjusted as required. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.
Toilets
Showers
Full hookups
Driftaway Queenstown

19. Driftaway Queenstown

100%
(10)
Queenstown · 111 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Set right on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Driftaway Queenstown offers a fresh, modern take on holiday-park stays — architectural cabins, a standout Facility Hub, and spacious sites all designed to elevate your stay. Guests will appreciate the wide, level sites, easy access for larger vehicles, and the option to book one of the spectacular lakeview powered sites for extraordinary outlooks over the water. Whether you’re pitching a tent, parking up the caravan or settling into a stylish cabin, you’ll find the same sense of space, quality and care throughout the park. The two-storey Facility Hub brings resort-level convenience to your stay. Upstairs, a 'MasterChef-style' kitchen, luxurious bathrooms, and a light-filled dining area create a welcoming space to cook, relax, and connect. Downstairs, you’ll find a TV lounge, an indoor games room, and a card-operated laundry, with an elevator connecting both floors for easy access. Close to Queenstown’s iconic activities yet tucked away in an idyllic lakeside setting, Driftaway Queenstown is a premium base where comfort, design and natural beauty comes together.
Toilets
Showers
Full hookups
Queenstown Top 10 Holiday Park

20. Queenstown Top 10 Holiday Park

100%
(10)
Queenstown · 74 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Set in the picturesque valley of Arthur’s Point, with central Queenstown just a short drive away, Queenstown TOP 10 Holiday Park offers a peaceful alpine escape close to all the action. Wide, leafy grounds and mountain views in every direction create a relaxed base for travellers looking to unwind after a day of adventure. The park features large sites with plenty of space to spread out, alongside modern communal facilities including clean bathrooms, well-equipped kitchens, laundry areas, free Wi-Fi, and BBQ spaces. Cabins and other accommodation options are also available for travellers wanting a little more comfort while staying close to nature. You’re perfectly positioned for some of Queenstown’s best experiences: just 15minutes from Coronet Peak for winter skiing, within walking distance of popular attractions in Arthur’s Point, and an easy drive to jet boating, lakeside walks, cycle trails, and the iconic Queenstown dining scene. It’s the ideal alternative to the bustle of town – close enough for convenience but set apart for calm.
Toilets
Showers
Full hookups

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New Zealand camping guide

Where to go

Northland (North Island)

This stretch of land north of Auckland is the birthplace of both Māoridom and modern New Zealand. Campsites in the Bay of Islands offer modern amenities and services, while seaside sites in the relatively unpopulated Far North region do justice to the phrase "winterless north."

Waikato (North Island)

Just south of Auckland, Waikato may be known for its cows, but this is also where you'll find some of the most dynamic camping in the region, including riverbanks and caves lit up at night with glowworms, surf beaches, and the bays and inlets of the Coromandel.

Bay of Plenty & Hawke's Bay (North Island)

Kiwifruits, wineries, and seafood are just part of what makes these two regions so plentiful. In addition to beachfront camping sites, you'll also find farm stays and further inland, camping among the misty mountain peaks of Te Urewera or beside the steaming geysers at Rotorua.

Ruapehu (North Island)

Within the volcanic heart of the North Island, the Ruapehu region also marks the start Whanganui River, with its headwaters in Tongariro National Park. Lava flows have defined this landscape, yet you can also park your motorhome among lush green rainforest.

Tasman/Nelson & Marlborough (South Island)

After a ferry ride from Wellington, you'll arrive to the northern end of the South Island, where these Tasman and Marlborough are known for their gold-hued beaches (especially in the aptly named Golden Bay and Abel Tasman National Park), plus kayaking, wineries, endless coastline, and native bush.

West Coast (South Island)

New Zealand's West Coast is known for being both wild and wet. It lives up to both descriptions, but it isn't all rain and gloom. Here, you'll find glaciers that nearly touch the sea, native rainforest, windswept beaches, and some of the country's most remote campsites.

Canterbury (South Island)

From the turquoise lakes of Mackenzie Country and the snow-capped peaks of Arthur's Pass to the braided rivers that cross the plains, Canterbury is as big as it is diverse. Want to camp beachside, riverside, oceanside, mountainside, lakeside, or even cityside in Christchurch? Find it all in Canterbury.

Otago (South Island)

Otago's urban centre of Queenstown is known for hustle and bustle, but it's easy to find yourself totally immersed in wilderness after just a short drive. With massive lakes, rushing rivers, and high mountain peaks, there's no shortage of adventure or camping grounds in the country's adrenaline capital.

Fiordland & Stewart Island (South Island)

Fiordland National Park is one of New Zealand's most remote regions—yet it's also one of the most visited. The postcard-perfect Milford Sound is what lures many here, but for those who have time to camp for a few nights, it offers unparalleled wilderness opportunities starting from Te Anau.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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