The best camping in New Zealand with wildlife watching

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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.

98% (21) 8 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near New Zealand

Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

1. 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
Manaia Valley Farm

2. Manaia Valley Farm

100%
(3)
1 site · Tent, RV · Whangarei
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 we have a flush toilet, and hot outdoor shower available. Come enjoy some of the most stunning sunsets Northland has to offer!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from 
NZ$31
 / night
Hubbys retreat

3. 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
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
NZ$25
 / night
Pohutukawa Cabin @ Karikari Lodge.

4. Pohutukawa Cabin @ Karikari Lodge.

1 site · Lodging · Karikari Peninsula, NZ
The Pohutukawa Cabin is part of our Guest House space. The Cabin is private and self contained there are no shared facilities. The Pohutukawa Cabin is to the rear of Karikari Lodge and overlooks the beautiful and treasured Karikari Bay. You have free use of the SUP (Stand up paddle boards) and Bodyboards.
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from 
NZ$161
 / night
Dune Lakes Lodge - Retreat & Horses

5. Dune Lakes Lodge - Retreat & Horses

1 site · Lodging · South Head
Dune Lakes Retreat & Horse Inspired Learning Centre is nestled on the wild South Kaipara Head Peninsula, just 60 minutes from Auckland CBD, yet it feels far removed from everyday life. Set among ancient sand hills, pristine wetlands, native bush, and the calm waters of Lake Kereta — a rare freshwater dune lake — this is a landscape shaped by deep time, quiet balance and wonderful for safe swimming. The South Kaipara Head is an ancient sand barrier separating the vast Kaipara Harbour from the Tasman Sea. Between the dunes, groundwater has gathered over thousands of years to form freshwater lakes and wetlands that filter water, support rich biodiversity, and create a profound sense of calm. Guests may choose from a range of camping sites — some nestled near the wetlands, others more open with wide skies and lake views. Facilities include excellent water quality, toilets, and showers. Accommodation includes the Flying Horse Barn with three studio rooms at $150 per night per room, and a cabin available for $100 per night (bring your own linen/towels etc or $25 extra per stay for supplied linen for all accommodation) To the west lies the dramatic Muriwai / Rangatira coastline with sweeping Tasman Sea sunsets. To the east is the sheltered Kaipara Harbour, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere and a vital feeding ground for marine life and migratory birds such as godwits, knots, plovers, and terns. A quiet lagoon to the north shelters swans, ducks, pūkeko, paradise shelduck, kingfisher, fantail, warbler, and silvereye. At dawn, birdsong fills the air. At dusk, frogs rise in chorus, and from deep within the reedbeds the rare Australasian bittern calls — a nationally threatened bird whose presence signals an intact wetland. The retreat is also home to a free-roaming herd of horses at the Horse Inspired Learning Centre. The horses are free-roaming, barefoot, unridden, and without covers. Mindful, non-riding interactions grounded in Natural Horse Friendship and Equine-Assisted Learning sessions are available by arrangement at $250 per morning session) A place to rest, reflect, and reconnect — where land, water, wildlife, horses, and quiet beauty meet.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
NZ$84
 / night
Dominic E.’s Land

6. 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
Hideaway Ranch

7. 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
Māra Kokotoha

8. 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!
Campfires
Potable water
Picnic table
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.

98% (21) 8 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near New Zealand

Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

1. 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
Manaia Valley Farm

2. Manaia Valley Farm

100%
(3)
1 site · Tent, RV · Whangarei
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 we have a flush toilet, and hot outdoor shower available. Come enjoy some of the most stunning sunsets Northland has to offer!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from 
NZ$31
 / night
Hubbys retreat

3. 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
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
NZ$25
 / night
Pohutukawa Cabin @ Karikari Lodge.

4. Pohutukawa Cabin @ Karikari Lodge.

1 site · Lodging · Karikari Peninsula, NZ
The Pohutukawa Cabin is part of our Guest House space. The Cabin is private and self contained there are no shared facilities. The Pohutukawa Cabin is to the rear of Karikari Lodge and overlooks the beautiful and treasured Karikari Bay. You have free use of the SUP (Stand up paddle boards) and Bodyboards.
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from 
NZ$161
 / night
Dune Lakes Lodge - Retreat & Horses

5. Dune Lakes Lodge - Retreat & Horses

1 site · Lodging · South Head
Dune Lakes Retreat & Horse Inspired Learning Centre is nestled on the wild South Kaipara Head Peninsula, just 60 minutes from Auckland CBD, yet it feels far removed from everyday life. Set among ancient sand hills, pristine wetlands, native bush, and the calm waters of Lake Kereta — a rare freshwater dune lake — this is a landscape shaped by deep time, quiet balance and wonderful for safe swimming. The South Kaipara Head is an ancient sand barrier separating the vast Kaipara Harbour from the Tasman Sea. Between the dunes, groundwater has gathered over thousands of years to form freshwater lakes and wetlands that filter water, support rich biodiversity, and create a profound sense of calm. Guests may choose from a range of camping sites — some nestled near the wetlands, others more open with wide skies and lake views. Facilities include excellent water quality, toilets, and showers. Accommodation includes the Flying Horse Barn with three studio rooms at $150 per night per room, and a cabin available for $100 per night (bring your own linen/towels etc or $25 extra per stay for supplied linen for all accommodation) To the west lies the dramatic Muriwai / Rangatira coastline with sweeping Tasman Sea sunsets. To the east is the sheltered Kaipara Harbour, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere and a vital feeding ground for marine life and migratory birds such as godwits, knots, plovers, and terns. A quiet lagoon to the north shelters swans, ducks, pūkeko, paradise shelduck, kingfisher, fantail, warbler, and silvereye. At dawn, birdsong fills the air. At dusk, frogs rise in chorus, and from deep within the reedbeds the rare Australasian bittern calls — a nationally threatened bird whose presence signals an intact wetland. The retreat is also home to a free-roaming herd of horses at the Horse Inspired Learning Centre. The horses are free-roaming, barefoot, unridden, and without covers. Mindful, non-riding interactions grounded in Natural Horse Friendship and Equine-Assisted Learning sessions are available by arrangement at $250 per morning session) A place to rest, reflect, and reconnect — where land, water, wildlife, horses, and quiet beauty meet.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
NZ$84
 / night
Dominic E.’s Land

6. 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
Hideaway Ranch

7. 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
Māra Kokotoha

8. 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!
Campfires
Potable water
Picnic table
from 
NZ$31
 / night

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

The best camping in New Zealand with wildlife watching 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.