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.

95% (127) 3,134 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in New Zealand

River Bends

1. River Bends

99%
(107)
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
Hampshire Holiday Parks - Glendhu Bay

2. 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
Thornton Beach Holiday Park

3. Thornton Beach Holiday Park

100%
(10)
Whakatāne · 62 sites · RVs, Lodging
Wake up to sweeping ocean views with Whale Island right offshore and White Island in the distance. Set directly on the sand, Thornton Beach Holiday Park offers powered and unpowered sites just metres from both the beach and the Rangitaiki River. Sites are spacious and easy to access, supported by clean kitchen and bathroom facilities, free Wi-Fi, a dump station, and plenty of room to relax. You’ll have calm river water for swimming, kayaking and fishing on one side, and a long stretch of surf beach on the other for walks, beachcombing or throwing in a line. A small range of cosy cabins is also available for those wanting simple, comfortable accommodation. Whakatāne township is only a short drive away for supplies, cafés and local culture, yet the park itself feels peaceful and laid-back — a classic coastal base where you can slow down, explore, and enjoy the best of the Eastern Bay of Plenty.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Driftaway Queenstown

4. 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
Dickson Holiday Park

5. Dickson Holiday Park

Thames · 88 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
WELCOME TO THAMES Only 90 minutes from Auckland International Airport and to the cities of Hamilton and Tauranga. Bush, scenic bays, mountains, and cycling trails are all in the immediate vicinity. Museums, eateries, art and antiques shopping, a coastal walk, all part of the Thames. Thames is your basecamp on the Coromandel Peninsula, the perfect holiday destination for enjoying magnificent scenery, beautiful bush walks, cycling, playing, swimming, great fishing, and simply relaxing. DICKSON HOLIDAY PARK Set beside a stream and surrounded by native bush, Dickson Holiday Park offers peace and tranquility. We are only three kilometres from the centre of the town of Thames, and ideally located to explore the scenic wonders of the Coromandel Peninsula. A RICH HISTORY Dickson Holiday Park is located in the old Tararu gardens, planted late last century by the settlers looking to beautify this thriving gold town. It is also the site of the remains of the Brown and Campbell gold processing stamper battery. The Gold is mostly gone, or best left in the ground to preserve the scenic wealth of this beautiful area, but the history remains and is a part of life in the Coromandel. Enjoy our: Ebike Hires Normal bike Hire Swimming pool in summer 9 hole mini golf course Basketball court Games room River that you can find crystals and rocks in.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Manaia Valley Farm

6. 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
Bay of Islands Holiday Park

7. Bay of Islands Holiday Park

100%
(2)
Haruru · 124 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
Clearbrook Farm

8. Clearbrook Farm

5 sites
Escape to our quiet family farm in the heart of the Waikato countryside 🌿 We are located only 1 km from Blue Spring (Te Waihou Walkway), one of New Zealand’s most beautiful natural springs and a must-visit walking spot. Conveniently located between Cambridge and Rotorua our farm is the perfect peaceful stopover while exploring the North Island. Wake up to birdsong, rolling green paddocks, and wide open skies. In the evening, enjoy a cozy firepit, and the gentle sounds of a stream running through the property. 🚐 The Camper Site Flat grassy area suitable for self-contained campervans Easy access for larger vehicles Spacious and private setting Fresh spring water available for guests 💧 Rubbish bin provided At this stage we host self-contained vehicles only. 🐓 Farm Animals & Eggs We are a working family farm and love sharing a slice of rural New Zealand life. Guests may: Meet our friendly chickens and farm animals Purchase fresh free-range farm eggs 🥚 🍓 Seasonal Fruit & Berries Depending on the season, guests are welcome to enjoy fruit and berries from our trees and garden. Picking fresh produce straight from the farm is a simple pleasure many of our guests love. 🐕 Working Dogs in Action Watch our trained farm dogs help manage sheep and cattle during normal farm work. It’s a fascinating glimpse into everyday New Zealand farm life. For safety, guests observe from a distance while work is taking place. Please note: Guest pets are not permitted. 🔥 Evenings on the Farm Relax by our firepit on calm evenings. Firewood is available as an optional add-on. Perfect for unwinding under the stars while listening to the stream and farm life around you. 🌊 Stream & Natural Beauty A small stream runs through our property, adding to the peaceful rural atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the natural surroundings and calming sounds of flowing water. Children must be supervised near the stream, as this is a natural farm environment. 📍 Nearby Highlights We’re close to: Blue Spring (Te Waihou Walkway) Hobbiton Movie Set Lake Karapiro Cafés and boutique shops in Cambridge Whether traveling north or south, our farm offers a quiet and authentic countryside break between adventures. We look forward to welcoming you to our little corner of Waikato.
Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

9. Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

88%
(12)
Arahura Valley · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

10. Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

100%
(11)
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
Beach Front Paradise

11. Beach Front Paradise

100%
(1)
Waiotahe, BOP · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park

12. Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park

100%
(10)
Kaikōura · 121 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Nestled in one of New Zealand’s most dramatic coastal towns, Kaikōura TOP 10 Holiday Park offers sheltered powered and non-powered sites for caravans, motorhomes and tents, along with a wide range of cabins for travellers wanting extra comfort. Set among landscaped grounds and framed by sweeping mountain vistas, it’s a peaceful, modern base for exploring this maritime wonderland. Choose from grass or gravel sites depending on your setup, each positioned close to clean, well-maintained communal facilities. Free Wi-Fi, spacious kitchens, modern amenities and newly added hot tubs make it easy to relax at the end of the day — whether you’ve been out on the water or wandering the peninsula. Kaikōura is famous for its wildlife encounters, from whale watching and dolphin tours to seals lounging along the coastline. Add in coastal walks, local seafood, and sunrise over the mountains, and you’ve got a spectacular setting for your stay. Kaikōura TOP 10 puts all of it within easy reach while offering comfort and calm when you return.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park

13. 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
Hubbys retreat

14. 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
Fox Glacier TOP 10 Holiday Park

15. Fox Glacier TOP 10 Holiday Park

100%
(11)
Fox Glacier · 112 sites · 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
Nelson City TOP 10 Holiday Park

16. Nelson City TOP 10 Holiday Park

100%
(10)
Nelson · 44 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Nestled in the heart of Nelson — regularly rated New Zealand’s sunniest city — Nelson City TOP 10 Holiday Park gives you a convenient, comfortable base for exploring the region. With large, sealed powered sites enclosed by poplar hedges offering extra privacy, and cabins/motels for those who prefer a roof over their head, the park combines city access and holiday-park ease. Just a minute’s walk from the CBD, supermarkets and cafés, you’re perfectly placed to begin your Nelson adventure. Around the park, you’ll find free unlimited Wi-Fi, modern communal kitchens and laundry, outdoor dining and BBQ areas, a TV/recreation room, a children’s playground, and a dump station for vehicles. Whether you’re parking up for a short stopover or settling in to explore further afield, Nelson City TOP 10 makes a great base for discovering the region's national parks, local galleries, craft breweries, and cycle trails. It’s a friendly, well-equipped urban campground with all the comfort and convenience you’d expect from a top- rated holiday park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Belfast orchard

17. Belfast orchard

100%
(1)
Whangarei · 1 site · Tent, RV
Belfast orchard Is very quite and very picturesque Lovely spot Walk to local golf course and very handy to town Horse riding available on property too Horse stables available. Just find a lovely spot and park up Fruit and vege shop also on site with barrister coffee. Bring your pet if you want just look after it Come on in and enjoy
Pets
Water hookup
Potable water
Puhoi cottage tearooms

18. 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
Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park

19. 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
Off grid camping with mountain view

20. Off grid camping with mountain view

100%
(1)
New Plymouth · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
We have the front of our section in Okato, Taranaki available for off grid camping. Okato is 17 mins drive from New Plymouth and the land is flat, with beautiful views of Mt Taranaki, Kaitake ranges and distant sea views. We are less than 2 minutes drive to centre of Okato village, Surf Highway and Stony River walkways. 7 minutes drive to Pitone or Okato beaches. In terms of eating out, coffee and shops - there is The Okato Bar and Restaurant Silver Snapper fish & chips, Lahar coffee & food, Downtown coffee, En Route Coffee van. Four Square/post office, barbers, kids playground and skate park. Okato is 10 mins drive from Oakura with a stunning beach and many eateries. Our house is towards the back of the property, with front paddock space available. **Note no toilet available nor currently power or water
Pets

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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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