The best river, stream, or creek caravan parks 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.

96% (92) 22 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near New Zealand

River Bends

1. River Bends

98%
(80)
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
NZ$25
 / night
Off-grid with access to nature

2. Off-grid with access to nature

100%
(10)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Tauranga
Our place is a private location on the busy SH 29. It's a spot for a few guests that are preferably self-contained (we are living off grid). We do have water on the land and you'll have cell coverage almost everywhere on the property. You'll love staying here because it has amazing views and scenery as it is close to native forests, rivers, streams and waterfalls. We have several spots on the property available, so you'll have privacy if you want. As it is located directly at the busy State Highway 29, it's easily accessible, and we have gravel and dirt roads through the property. Please note that road sounds are unavoidable. The property is next to a rain forest and nature, yet close to major towns such as Tauranga (20 min), Cambridge (45 min), Hamilton (1 hour). We are also only about 30 min away from Hobbiton (Matamata). You're welcome to stay here if you're travelling in a self-contained or non-self-contained vehicle. We are also happy to host you in a tent. You're welcome to use a composting toilet and warm shower. The price is for 1 vehicle/ tent and 2 people. We also offer Stand-up Paddles to hire and you can book walking tours on the property as well. We do not allow fires on our property. We speak German and English. We also have a very friendly dog and she will want to say "hi" to you. Latest check-in: 9 pm
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
NZ$43
 / night
Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

3. Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

90%
(10)
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!
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
NZ$79
 / night
Lake Taupo Holiday Resort

4. Lake Taupo Holiday Resort

336 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Taupō
**Please note that our office is closed on Christmas Day (25 December), and we do not accept arrivals or departures on this date. Any bookings made with a check-in or check-out on 25 December will be cancelled. Thank you for your understanding.** Forget the day-to-day, as soon as you arrive at Lake Taupo Holiday Resort you'll be in holiday mode. At Lake Taupo Holiday Resort, you can enjoy a refreshing swim or unwind by the side of Lusty's Lagoon, a thermally heated lagoon pool that's perfect for families. The warm water will keep the kids entertained for hours and is even warmer than the water in Fiji all year round! When you're feeling peckish, take a break from cooking and swim up to our café and bar for a tasty meal or a tempting cocktail. Plus, with our giant poolside screen, you can watch a movie while soaking in the luxury of our thermally heated water. We kindly inform you that our pool and facilities are exclusively reserved for our in-house guests. While we regret any inconvenience, the high demand and limited capacity of our facilities make it necessary for us to decline visitors or day guests, and we cannot make any exceptions to this policy. Thank you for your understanding.
Toilets
Showers
Full hookups
from 
NZ$116
 / night
Beach Front Paradise

5. 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
Pets
Potable water
from 
NZ$31
 / night
Bay of Islands Holiday Park

6. Bay of Islands Holiday Park

100%
(1)
124 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Haruru
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
from 
NZ$51
 / night
Hampshire Holidays Parks Arrowtown

7. Hampshire Holidays Parks Arrowtown

171 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Arrowtown
**Please note that our office is closed on Christmas Day (25 December), and we do not accept arrivals or departures on this date. Any bookings made with a check-in or check-out on 25 December will be cancelled. Thank you for your understanding.**Steeped in history and charm, Arrowtown is a must-see. Hampshire Holiday Parks – Arrowtown offers the perfect location to explore this unique goldmining town. Arrowtown is an old gold mining town near Queenstown which was built on the banks of the Arrow River in 1862. The town is renowned for its stunning autumn colours and rich history. Our Arrowtown Holiday Park is a great base so you can explore this unique town and the surrounding area. Hampshire Holiday Parks - Arrowtown is just a few minutes’ walk from the town centre with its beautiful, restored buildings, specialty restaurants and unique shops. Arrowtown centre – 600m Chinese settlement – 1km Arrowtown Golf Club – 2km Queenstown – 20 minutes Coronet Peak Ski Resort – 20 minutes Wanaka – 50 minutes Our Arrowtown Holiday Park has a variety of accommodations that will suit all budgets – from our fully self-contained tourist flats, ensuite studios, lodge rooms, to powered sites, tent sites and electric vehicle sites.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
NZ$36
 / night
Nature's Haven

8. 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.
Pets
Potable water
from 
NZ$37
 / night
Terako Downs POP

9. Terako Downs POP

100%
(1)
20 sites · Tents, RVs · Waiau
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
from 
NZ$31
 / night
Dominic E.’s Land

10. Dominic E.’s Land

100%
(3)
1 site · Tent, RV · Waipapa, NZ
Welcome to our paradise Ocean views over the bay of islands from our 10 acre block of farm land and native bush with a spectacular small waterfall and swimming hole andl gardens . Approximately 10 km from the town of Kerikeri and 6 km from Waipapa easy access to the beautiful beaches of Northland
from 
NZ$25
 / night
Tui’s Rest POP

11. Tui’s Rest POP

3 sites · RVs · Picton
Sleep under the stars and wake up to the songs of Tui’s and Bell Birds. Tui’s Rest offers a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of busy caravan parks. Our spacious grassed section lies amidst natural bush surrounds while being in the heart of Picton \ Waikawa - Marlborough Sounds. We are located minutes away from Picton town centre, the Ferry terminal, Waikawa Marina and Bays. You can take the Boons Valley creek walk starting at your door step or venture across the way to the Snout Track, Victoria Domain, Karaka Point and many more walks and lookouts. We are a 1/4 acre suburban section with three (3) non-smoking sites available for Fully Self Contained Camper vans (sorry NO Caravans or Boats) on the spacious lawn. Facilities onsite are limited to potable water. No power, toilets nor rubbish removal supplied.
from 
NZ$40
 / night
Hideaway Ranch

12. 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
Campfires
from 
NZ$25
 / night
Tapapa Station

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.
Water hookup
Potable water
from 
NZ$49
 / night
Lekker Stay Camping Sites

14. Lekker Stay Camping Sites

100%
(1)
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
NZ$61
 / night
Dream Weavers Farm

15. 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.
Pets
from 
NZ$31
 / night

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% (92) 22 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near New Zealand

River Bends

1. River Bends

98%
(80)
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
NZ$25
 / night
Off-grid with access to nature

2. Off-grid with access to nature

100%
(10)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Tauranga
Our place is a private location on the busy SH 29. It's a spot for a few guests that are preferably self-contained (we are living off grid). We do have water on the land and you'll have cell coverage almost everywhere on the property. You'll love staying here because it has amazing views and scenery as it is close to native forests, rivers, streams and waterfalls. We have several spots on the property available, so you'll have privacy if you want. As it is located directly at the busy State Highway 29, it's easily accessible, and we have gravel and dirt roads through the property. Please note that road sounds are unavoidable. The property is next to a rain forest and nature, yet close to major towns such as Tauranga (20 min), Cambridge (45 min), Hamilton (1 hour). We are also only about 30 min away from Hobbiton (Matamata). You're welcome to stay here if you're travelling in a self-contained or non-self-contained vehicle. We are also happy to host you in a tent. You're welcome to use a composting toilet and warm shower. The price is for 1 vehicle/ tent and 2 people. We also offer Stand-up Paddles to hire and you can book walking tours on the property as well. We do not allow fires on our property. We speak German and English. We also have a very friendly dog and she will want to say "hi" to you. Latest check-in: 9 pm
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
NZ$43
 / night
Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

3. Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

90%
(10)
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!
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
NZ$79
 / night
Lake Taupo Holiday Resort

4. Lake Taupo Holiday Resort

336 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Taupō
**Please note that our office is closed on Christmas Day (25 December), and we do not accept arrivals or departures on this date. Any bookings made with a check-in or check-out on 25 December will be cancelled. Thank you for your understanding.** Forget the day-to-day, as soon as you arrive at Lake Taupo Holiday Resort you'll be in holiday mode. At Lake Taupo Holiday Resort, you can enjoy a refreshing swim or unwind by the side of Lusty's Lagoon, a thermally heated lagoon pool that's perfect for families. The warm water will keep the kids entertained for hours and is even warmer than the water in Fiji all year round! When you're feeling peckish, take a break from cooking and swim up to our café and bar for a tasty meal or a tempting cocktail. Plus, with our giant poolside screen, you can watch a movie while soaking in the luxury of our thermally heated water. We kindly inform you that our pool and facilities are exclusively reserved for our in-house guests. While we regret any inconvenience, the high demand and limited capacity of our facilities make it necessary for us to decline visitors or day guests, and we cannot make any exceptions to this policy. Thank you for your understanding.
Toilets
Showers
Full hookups
from 
NZ$116
 / night
Beach Front Paradise

5. 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
Pets
Potable water
from 
NZ$31
 / night
Bay of Islands Holiday Park

6. Bay of Islands Holiday Park

100%
(1)
124 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Haruru
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
from 
NZ$51
 / night
Hampshire Holidays Parks Arrowtown

7. Hampshire Holidays Parks Arrowtown

171 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Arrowtown
**Please note that our office is closed on Christmas Day (25 December), and we do not accept arrivals or departures on this date. Any bookings made with a check-in or check-out on 25 December will be cancelled. Thank you for your understanding.**Steeped in history and charm, Arrowtown is a must-see. Hampshire Holiday Parks – Arrowtown offers the perfect location to explore this unique goldmining town. Arrowtown is an old gold mining town near Queenstown which was built on the banks of the Arrow River in 1862. The town is renowned for its stunning autumn colours and rich history. Our Arrowtown Holiday Park is a great base so you can explore this unique town and the surrounding area. Hampshire Holiday Parks - Arrowtown is just a few minutes’ walk from the town centre with its beautiful, restored buildings, specialty restaurants and unique shops. Arrowtown centre – 600m Chinese settlement – 1km Arrowtown Golf Club – 2km Queenstown – 20 minutes Coronet Peak Ski Resort – 20 minutes Wanaka – 50 minutes Our Arrowtown Holiday Park has a variety of accommodations that will suit all budgets – from our fully self-contained tourist flats, ensuite studios, lodge rooms, to powered sites, tent sites and electric vehicle sites.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
NZ$36
 / night
Nature's Haven

8. 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.
Pets
Potable water
from 
NZ$37
 / night
Terako Downs POP

9. Terako Downs POP

100%
(1)
20 sites · Tents, RVs · Waiau
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
from 
NZ$31
 / night
Dominic E.’s Land

10. Dominic E.’s Land

100%
(3)
1 site · Tent, RV · Waipapa, NZ
Welcome to our paradise Ocean views over the bay of islands from our 10 acre block of farm land and native bush with a spectacular small waterfall and swimming hole andl gardens . Approximately 10 km from the town of Kerikeri and 6 km from Waipapa easy access to the beautiful beaches of Northland
from 
NZ$25
 / night
Tui’s Rest POP

11. Tui’s Rest POP

3 sites · RVs · Picton
Sleep under the stars and wake up to the songs of Tui’s and Bell Birds. Tui’s Rest offers a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of busy caravan parks. Our spacious grassed section lies amidst natural bush surrounds while being in the heart of Picton \ Waikawa - Marlborough Sounds. We are located minutes away from Picton town centre, the Ferry terminal, Waikawa Marina and Bays. You can take the Boons Valley creek walk starting at your door step or venture across the way to the Snout Track, Victoria Domain, Karaka Point and many more walks and lookouts. We are a 1/4 acre suburban section with three (3) non-smoking sites available for Fully Self Contained Camper vans (sorry NO Caravans or Boats) on the spacious lawn. Facilities onsite are limited to potable water. No power, toilets nor rubbish removal supplied.
from 
NZ$40
 / night
Hideaway Ranch

12. 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
Campfires
from 
NZ$25
 / night
Tapapa Station

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.
Water hookup
Potable water
from 
NZ$49
 / night
Lekker Stay Camping Sites

14. Lekker Stay Camping Sites

100%
(1)
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
NZ$61
 / night
Dream Weavers Farm

15. 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.
Pets
from 
NZ$31
 / night

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The best river, stream, or creek caravan parks 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.