The best farm stays in New Zealand

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.

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

Top-rated campgrounds

1. River Bends

98%

(69)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Te Kuiti

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.

2. Beach Front Paradise

100%

(1)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Waiotahe, BOP

Beautiful beach front, with lots to do or a great spot to relax in nature. White Island and Whale island located off shore is definitely a site to sea on the golden hour sunset. Motu trail bike track directly infront of property so if you love to bike this is perfect for you. Surfing and swimming is very popular, or long walks along the beach! Fishing is a must! So bring your gear along. An untouched slice of paradise that you can’t bet, fresh sea breeze and fresh air! Please message before booking and if you have any questions just txt or email. Thanks 0277220509 Price -$25 for two people (1 vehicle) per night -Extra people $10per person, $5 per child

3. Sommerfeldt Farm

100%

(5)

1 site · Tent, RV · Pukekohe

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

4. Dune Lakes Lodge - Retreat & Horses

1 site · Lodging ·

🌿 Dune Lakes Retreat & Horse Inspired Learning Centre is nestled on the wild and beautiful South Kaipara Head Peninsula, just 60 minutes from Auckland CBD. This peaceful sanctuary is set among rolling sand dunes, native bush, and Lake Kereta — a stunning freshwater dune lake. Campers can choose from a variety of sites — some tucked into quiet corners close to the stunning wetland and others open with wide skies and shimmering lake views. Whether you’d like to wake up close to the water for a swim, or camp higher up with sweeping vistas, there’s a spot for every mood. The Kaipara South Head is an ancient sand barrier separating the vast Kaipara Harbour from the Tasman Sea. Between the dunes lie inter-dune hollows, filled by groundwater to form freshwater lakes like Lake Kereta and the larger Lake Ototoa. ✨ To the West lies the wild coastline and 65 km stretch of Muriwai/Rangatira Beach, with breathtaking sunsets over the Tasman Sea. ✨ To the East is the sheltered Kaipara Harbour — the largest harbour in the Southern Hemisphere — a pristine environment and vital feeding ground for orca, dolphins, and countless migratory birds. Birdwatchers may spot godwits, knots, turnstones, plovers, curlews, fairy terns, and more. Shelly Beach, shaded by grand old pōhutukawa, offers swimming, a playground, and wharf access to the harbour. ✨ To the North lies the lagoon at the peninsula’s tip — a calm refuge for swans, ducks, pukeko, paradise shelduck, kingfisher, fantail, warbler, and silvereye. This retreat is also home to a thriving herd of free-roaming horses at the Horse Inspired Learning Centre, where guests can experience mindful, non-riding interactions. Their presence adds to the deep stillness of the land. Expect birdsong at sunrise, the chorus of frogs at dusk, and starry skies at night. Facilities include excellent water quality, toilets, and showers, making it simple and comfortable to immerse yourself in nature. A place to rest, reflect, and reconnect — where land, water, wildlife, and quiet beauty meet.

5. Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

89%

(9)

2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Arahura Valley

The camp site is a private spot away from it all but only 10mins to the town. You'll have the whole camp to yourselves. Total privacy! • Families absolutely love staying on our eco-farm among the many farm animals. Friendly free ranging kune kune pigs, goats and a flock of coloured sheep as well as our cows, peacocks and ducks. You can walk the farm and get up close to all our animals. • Camp kitchen, firepit, shower and composting toilet on site. • Bring matches, paper and your firewood and marshmallows!

6. Hubbys retreat

100%

(4)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Morrinsville

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

7. Harmse Homestead

2 sites · Tents · Kimbolton

Enjoy watching dairy cows grazing peacefully, stunning sunsets and breathtaking stargazing. So many free hiking sites in the area. Glow worm cave nearby only few minutes away and absolutely free. Wild turkeys, peacocks, rabbits, occasional deer visiting from time to time and also a lot of sheeps around the property.

8. @ The Paddock - free unlimited WIFI

4 sites · RVs · Napier, NZ

@ The Paddock – Secure, Pet-Friendly Parkover for Self-Contained Campers – Free Wi-Fi Welcome to “The Paddock”, a privately owned, well-maintained and secure parkover site just minutes from central Napier. It’s perfect for certified self-contained vehicles, offering peace of mind, unlimited free Wi-Fi, and a relaxed stay — all with no host on-site. ✅ Secure and gated with CCTV ✅ Free unlimited Wi-Fi (strong outdoor aerial) ✅ Pets and horses welcome (conditions apply) ✅ Self check-in with gate code ✅ Flat, mowed paddock ✅ Central Napier location The Space “The Paddock” is ideal for campers travelling in a certified self-contained vehicle including a motorhome, campervan, RV, caravan or converted bus. It’s a quiet, flat grassy space, gated and fenced for safety, with no staff on site. You're free to come and go independently using the gate access code provided after booking. No toilets, water, or showers Strictly for self-contained vehicles only Not suitable for tents or permanent camping One vehicle per booking only Guest Access You’ll receive a message with the gate access code after booking. Free parking anywhere in the paddock (please avoid blocking shed roller doors).

9. Dream Weavers Farm

100%

(1)

4 sites · RVs · Kawakawa

Beautiful farm with horses, cattle, sheep, goats, cooks and more. Surrounded by native bush with views. Camp next to our clear water river with water holes where you may have a dip or swim and walk your dog. Dream Weavers Farm is a quiet retreat away from it all where you can get back to nature and relax and unwind. Sites are for self contained campers priced at $25 per camper for up to 2 people and a pet or child. Extra campers and guests will incur a extra fee thankyou.

10. Hideaway Ranch

100%

(3)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Maungaturoto, NZ

Hideaway Ranch is a family owned farm that raises beef cattle. It is steep to broken country with many patches of bush. The bush is filled with a variety of native birds and introduced species such as pheasants, peacock and quails. During rainier seasons, there is a creek flowing through the property which we’ve named The Oasis. This is a lovely spot for a picnic. A steep trek will give you one of the best sweeping views of the Kaipara. We are currently developing improved access for 4wd camp sites. Access by plane is available to our private airstrip. Please Note access my be limited during wet weather, just get in contact to confirm. Thanks

11. Lekker Stay Camping Sites

1 site · Tent, RV · Parua Bay

Come stay off-grid… but not too much! Perfect for self-contained campervans, with a power point and Wi-Fi access. There is even a bathroom available with a shower and toilet. Just a 2-minute drive from shops and close to popular beaches and fishing spots. Enjoy views of Mount Manaia for lovely, peaceful sundowners, and wake up to the sounds of chickens, a wide variety of birds, and maybe even a few bunnies hopping around.

12. Nature's Haven

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Tuakau

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.

13. Tapapa Station

1 site · Tent, RV · Tirau

Small lifestyle block conveniently located on the outskirts of Tirau. Camping is available for self-contained caravans, tents, horse trucks and motorhomes. Access to water is available. Unfortunately, can’t accommodate dogs but guests are welcome to bring their horses for an additional $10 per horse. Please bring standards and tapes as you will be camping in the same paddock as your equine friends. Horse friendly hay can be purchased onsite. The famous Blue Springs are close by and there are lovely hiking, walking and biking treks in the area. A 35 minute drive will take you to Cambridge and Rotorua. Matamata is a 20 minute commute and the beautiful Kaimai ranges are not too far away either- lots to see and do around here. Please note: check in time can be flexible so just enquire to finalise if you would like to check in before 4pm.

14. Māra Kokotoha

1 site · Tent, RV · Whangarei

We are 16 acres on a gentle slope at the west end of Whangārei near the Pukenui forest. We are in the process of rebuilding native forest as well as developing a new orchard. We have a well established banana grove which we harvest throughout the year. We are in a relatively quiet space for being just 15 minutes to town center and you'll wake up to rich bird song every morning and fall asleep to the sound of ruru calling from the trees. We are a few minutes to the lovely Pukenui forest reserve, 15 minutes to Parihaka, 20 minutes to Whangārei Falls and Abbey Caves, 35-50 minutes to bay and open ocean beaches. LGBTQIA2SP+ friendly! Kid friendly!

15. Grapevine cabins

3 sites · Lodging · Paparoa

Come and unwind in our peaceful cabins, just outside the friendly village of paparoa. We offer 3 double beds in 3 cabins. There's an outdoor shower and compost loo for your sole use and you're welcome to have a dip in our pool after a long day sight seeing. Local attractions within striking distance are, the popular paparoa farmers market on a saturday morning, surfing at Mangawhai Beach or waipu cove, fishing or cruising in the mighty Kaipara Harbour, the amazing Kauri museum, Dargaville, the wild west coast including Baileys beach, Kai iwi lakes and Tane Mahouta. Bring your own pillows please. No pets as we have free range chooks and stock in the fields. We have a young family so this a family friendly spot, not a party place. If you want wifi you need to come up to the house.

16. Twin Coast Cycle Trail Nature Lodge

100%

(1)

1 site · Lodging · Ōkaihau

Reset Retreat is an eco-retreat nestled away on 25 acres of private, native forest filled with Northland Brown Kiwis, glow worms, freshwater springs, Rurus, and resident native birds. We are right on the Twin Coast Cycle Trail and have access to several kilometers of private hiking trails that are yours to explore. You will have your own private guest wing and balcony with gorgeous views over this hidden valley. At night, you can sit by the fire and take in the stars, glow worms and kiwi calls. By day, you can explore the cycle trail and all the awesome local tourism Northland has on offer. You will have your own covered balcony and outdoor cooking space (pictured), your own entry and room (pictured), and private ensuite with shower. We have worked hard as Kaitiaki of this land over the last three years, working alongside the Northland Council to protect the kiwis, forest and animals here. As a result (alongside Kiwis) you can also see Titiwai/glow worms, Kererū, Tui, Tomtits, we have spotted longtailed bats outside our house on dusk, Ruru, Riroriro, Cave and Tree Wetas, the rare and gorgeous, large, green Puriri Moths, Piwakawakas, Peacocks, and a host of other native and non-native animals, insects and plants. Reset Retreat is fully off-grid – that means our power comes from the sun, our water comes from the rain, our internet comes from Starlink satellites and our heat comes from our fireplace (with a heat transfer system that disperses the heat throughout the house).

17. Akerama lifestyle

1 site · Lodging · Hikurangi

The property is a natural waypoint to a multitude of destinations while being close to the main highway but quiet and secluded. As a lifestyle block it has many different animals, garden and orchards. There are 3 caravans for stays with a caravan kitchen available and a shower and toilet block. We have a creek running through the property behind the caravans and a bush block of mainly Totara trees sheltering the area from the south side. The animals we currently have on site are sheep (South Suffolk), pigs (Kunikuni), chooks, ducks, Guinea pigs, cattle and a dog.

18. Down to earth NZ

1 site · Lodging · Kerikeri

You will enjoy the nature surrounding you, our friendly calves coming for cuddles, the melody of birds, having a swim in the pond, ,enjoying star filled clear dark sky, misty autumn valley views, wild flower meadow, permaculture gardens and food forest. Yoga space Deep tissue massage service Spring fed drinking water. Compost toilets Permaculture gardens Wildflower circle Swimming Lake Ancient forests Streams and Pocket gardens Cows and chickens Serene and private. Meditative spaces Hammocks The 10 acres property is located in the historical Waimate North area. Several well known restaurants and vineyards are within a few minutes drive. Local tourist attractions: Airport 7min with pickup Ngawha hot springs 25 min Kerikeri markets 10min Puketi forest 20 min Diving Bay of Islands attractions 25min (Bars, restaurants and tours) Bike riding And mountain bike park. East coast beaches 25min West coast 45min

Camper favorites in New Zealand

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Tapapa Station

1 site · Tent, RV · Tirau

Small lifestyle block conveniently located on the outskirts of Tirau. Camping is available for self-contained caravans, tents, horse trucks and motorhomes. Access to water is available. Unfortunately, can’t accommodate dogs but guests are welcome to bring their horses for an additional $10 per horse. Please bring standards and tapes as you will be camping in the same paddock as your equine friends. Horse friendly hay can be purchased onsite. The famous Blue Springs are close by and there are lovely hiking, walking and biking treks in the area. A 35 minute drive will take you to Cambridge and Rotorua. Matamata is a 20 minute commute and the beautiful Kaimai ranges are not too far away either- lots to see and do around here. Please note: check in time can be flexible so just enquire to finalise if you would like to check in before 4pm.

Māra Kokotoha

1 site · Tent, RV · Whangarei

We are 16 acres on a gentle slope at the west end of Whangārei near the Pukenui forest. We are in the process of rebuilding native forest as well as developing a new orchard. We have a well established banana grove which we harvest throughout the year. We are in a relatively quiet space for being just 15 minutes to town center and you'll wake up to rich bird song every morning and fall asleep to the sound of ruru calling from the trees. We are a few minutes to the lovely Pukenui forest reserve, 15 minutes to Parihaka, 20 minutes to Whangārei Falls and Abbey Caves, 35-50 minutes to bay and open ocean beaches. LGBTQIA2SP+ friendly! Kid friendly!

Grapevine cabins

3 sites · Lodging · Paparoa

Come and unwind in our peaceful cabins, just outside the friendly village of paparoa. We offer 3 double beds in 3 cabins. There's an outdoor shower and compost loo for your sole use and you're welcome to have a dip in our pool after a long day sight seeing. Local attractions within striking distance are, the popular paparoa farmers market on a saturday morning, surfing at Mangawhai Beach or waipu cove, fishing or cruising in the mighty Kaipara Harbour, the amazing Kauri museum, Dargaville, the wild west coast including Baileys beach, Kai iwi lakes and Tane Mahouta. Bring your own pillows please. No pets as we have free range chooks and stock in the fields. We have a young family so this a family friendly spot, not a party place. If you want wifi you need to come up to the house.

Twin Coast Cycle Trail Nature Lodge

100%

(1)

1 site · Lodging · Ōkaihau

Reset Retreat is an eco-retreat nestled away on 25 acres of private, native forest filled with Northland Brown Kiwis, glow worms, freshwater springs, Rurus, and resident native birds. We are right on the Twin Coast Cycle Trail and have access to several kilometers of private hiking trails that are yours to explore. You will have your own private guest wing and balcony with gorgeous views over this hidden valley. At night, you can sit by the fire and take in the stars, glow worms and kiwi calls. By day, you can explore the cycle trail and all the awesome local tourism Northland has on offer. You will have your own covered balcony and outdoor cooking space (pictured), your own entry and room (pictured), and private ensuite with shower. We have worked hard as Kaitiaki of this land over the last three years, working alongside the Northland Council to protect the kiwis, forest and animals here. As a result (alongside Kiwis) you can also see Titiwai/glow worms, Kererū, Tui, Tomtits, we have spotted longtailed bats outside our house on dusk, Ruru, Riroriro, Cave and Tree Wetas, the rare and gorgeous, large, green Puriri Moths, Piwakawakas, Peacocks, and a host of other native and non-native animals, insects and plants. Reset Retreat is fully off-grid – that means our power comes from the sun, our water comes from the rain, our internet comes from Starlink satellites and our heat comes from our fireplace (with a heat transfer system that disperses the heat throughout the house).

Akerama lifestyle

1 site · Lodging · Hikurangi

The property is a natural waypoint to a multitude of destinations while being close to the main highway but quiet and secluded. As a lifestyle block it has many different animals, garden and orchards. There are 3 caravans for stays with a caravan kitchen available and a shower and toilet block. We have a creek running through the property behind the caravans and a bush block of mainly Totara trees sheltering the area from the south side. The animals we currently have on site are sheep (South Suffolk), pigs (Kunikuni), chooks, ducks, Guinea pigs, cattle and a dog.

Down to earth NZ

1 site · Lodging · Kerikeri

You will enjoy the nature surrounding you, our friendly calves coming for cuddles, the melody of birds, having a swim in the pond, ,enjoying star filled clear dark sky, misty autumn valley views, wild flower meadow, permaculture gardens and food forest. Yoga space Deep tissue massage service Spring fed drinking water. Compost toilets Permaculture gardens Wildflower circle Swimming Lake Ancient forests Streams and Pocket gardens Cows and chickens Serene and private. Meditative spaces Hammocks The 10 acres property is located in the historical Waimate North area. Several well known restaurants and vineyards are within a few minutes drive. Local tourist attractions: Airport 7min with pickup Ngawha hot springs 25 min Kerikeri markets 10min Puketi forest 20 min Diving Bay of Islands attractions 25min (Bars, restaurants and tours) Bike riding And mountain bike park. East coast beaches 25min West coast 45min

Stories from the community

Krista

3 weeks ago

5 m Class B

1 night at River Bends

Even though we arrived in the middle of the night in the rain, instructions were clear and we woke up to the surprise of the beauty of the site. Be prepared to open multiple gates, but the end location is well worth the effort.

F

Furkan

3 weeks ago

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to River Bends

We Loved that place, really incredible. Also Tim the landlord is a very nice Person. Recommend IT 100%

L

Lucia

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Bends

great and friendly host, lovely scenery and some cool rocks

P

Phil

October 2025

7 m Class A

1 night at River Bends

I love that it was in a very secluded area with limestone Bluffs and a river flow through property. It was very tranquil. There was no one else around. I had very nice restroom facilities and also had freshwater on the property . If you want to relax, this is a place to go, plus it was absolutely beautiful.

M

Maggie

September 2025

7 m Class B

Weekend Trip to River Bends

Beautiful, scenic and peaceful location! We were the only ones there, and it was a truly special stay.

L

Leah

August 2025

Tent

1 night at River Bends

Beautiful area, easy to find, nice facilities. Thank you for the firewood and matches.

F

Flo

June 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to River Bends

We really liked staying there. Super nice spot. Very peaceful. Even nice in winter with a little campfire.

R

Rose

June 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sommerfeldt Farm

Awesome stay! The farm is beautiful and it was delightful to be greeted by horses and a pig upon our arrival. The location is so quiet and peaceful and close to a lovely walk through Henry's Reserve. Great first camping trip for our dog.

Dave

May 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to River Bends

Great place to unwind and take in the great little creek and amazing cliffs overhead. Nice toilet and best of all you can build a fire and just sit back and relax.

S

Shannon

May 2025

7 m Class A

With kids

1 night at River Bends

An incredible place to stop over. It was lucky for us that the space was available but that we had also found this treasure at the end of our trip because if it was at the beginning we may not have left. The drive in appears steep but with a slow approach we easily got our 6berth motorhome down to the site which was beautifully laid out

C

Candice

April 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Bends

Magical spot next to the creek and the amazing cliffs.

B

Brooke

April 2025

5 m Class A

Group trip

Weekend Trip to River Bends

Epic property and amazing camping spot! Highly recommend! Wish we lived in NZ to come back again. Our 6 person RV made it up and down the hill fine. We also loved the creek for a swim spot 😍 P.s love the new toilet addition

K

Karina

April 2025

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Sommerfeldt Farm

Ideal stop over as we left Auckland airport late due to delayed flight. Easy to find. Quiet over night so peaceful sleep. We were up and gone early but saw the sunrise over the paddocks and sheep.

X

Xuguang

March 2025

7 m Class B

Group trip

1 night at River Bends

Stayed at the terraces for one night. This is one of the most scenic campsites that I've been to in my two weeks in New Zealand with the limestone cliffs and ajacent forest and stream. Tim and his dad are kind enough to bring us around for a walk through the enchanting forest. Gravel roads and compost toilets seems to have been newly added. Previous comments seems to have mentioned that the road may be too steep for larger vehicles. But for my visit, the new gravel tracks worked fine for my 7.4m campervan, so no worries on that. Do camp here if u are in Waitomo!

M

Matthew

March 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to River Bends

Super nice spot. My second time there and won't be the last.

S

Selena

March 2025

7 m Class B

1 night at River Bends

Incredible oasis away from the hustle. Unique features to explore, gracious hosts, this place was a joy!

N

Nico

March 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to River Bends

We stayed here for a very peaceful night then climbed the next day. The river bend site is stunning, we saw a lot of native birds over a quiet breakfast. The loo is well built and pleasant to use, and Tim has done an amazing job of keeping it simple but effective. The stream and gorge is great fun to explore. Wasn't hard to find as long as you read the instructions and follow the reflective markers on the posts. Tim is a lovely guy keen for people to enjoy this spot. During our visit he was building toilets for the terraces site just up a small hill from river bends.

T

Thomas

March 2025

7 m Class B

1 night at River Bends

This was a beautifully picturesque and secluded campsite nestled among limestone cliff and rivers. Would definitely recommend. Had a great toilet and running water. It is about a ~25 min scenic drive from Ruakari caves to the campsite.

j

jen

March 2025

8 m Class A

Weekend Trip to Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

Wow!!! We spent 12 days in the South Island camping and this place was the highlight. This may be the best hipcamp I’ve EVER stayed at. If you are looking for a true secluded camping experience, outdoor living, and (as an add bonus) hanging with pigs, chickens, and peacocks this is the place to be. Everything from the kitchen to the bathroom is made from recycled materials. If you have kids there is a great area for them to play and a “secret trail” with tree house for them to explore. This is what camping is about. I would have paid twice this to stay at blue spur farm. I hope the rest of New Zealand catches on to hipcamp.

R

Roshan

February 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to River Bends

An unforgettable day surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, clear skies, and flowing streams. We enjoyed a relaxing time by the water, great conversations, and a delicious BBQ. The perfect mix of fun, nature, and good vibes—already looking forward to the next adventure! A huge thank you to Tim and his parents for their incredible support in making this trip so special. Their generosity, hospitality, and effort in organizing everything made the experience even more enjoyable. We truly appreciate it!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best farm stays in New Zealand 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.

Popular New Zealand holidays

All

Camping

Camping with wifi provided

Camping with showers

Farm camping

River, stream, or creek camping

Camping with campfires

Dog-friendly camping

Best camping near me

Best tent camping near me

Best caravan camping near me

Best glamping near me