Campsites in New Zealand

A major advantage of travelling by Campervan in New Zealand is the flexibility in overnight stays. You have the choice of luxury campsites with extensive facilities, free spots in the middle of nature and everything in between.

New Zealand has an extensive network of campsites and overnight spots, meaning there's always an option to suit your travel style and budget.

Broadly speaking, you can choose from the following options:

Free Camping New Zealand

Free camping in New Zealand is possible at specially designated spots, also known as freedom camping spots. These locations are often managed by local councils or the Department of Conservation (DOC).

During my own road trips, I've regularly made use of these spots, and for me this is the ultimate way to travel with a Campervan. Think of overnighting between snow-capped mountains, beside crystal-clear rivers or in the middle of nature, far away from the crowds.

A few important rules for free camping:

Almost all sites require a self-contained camper (with toilet and water tank, among other things)
Wild camping is not permitted, you may only stay overnight at designated locations
You always take your own rubbish with you
Local rules can differ per location, always check the information boards

Please note: from December 2024, the rules around freedom camping have been tightened. Always check the current regulations before you set off.

DOC Campsites New Zealand (paid)

Alongside free camping spots, the Department of Conservation (DOC) also manages a large number of paid campsites in New Zealand. These campsites are often located in unique spots within national parks and nature reserves and are generally very affordable.

DOC campsites are ideal if you want a few more facilities but still want to stay right in the middle of nature. You can divide them into three categories:

Basic/Backcountry campsites

These are the most basic campsites, often without many facilities. Usually there's only a composting toilet available and no drinking water.

Standard/Scenic campsites

These campsites offer a bit more comfort, such as picnic tables, a BBQ and sometimes a cold shower.

Serviced campsites

The most comprehensive DOC campsites with facilities such as hot showers, standard toilets and drinking water.

Holiday Parks New Zealand

Travelling by Campervan through New Zealand and want a bit more comfort and convenience? Then the Holiday Parks are the perfect choice. These campsites are comparable to holiday parks and are often located in central locations, close to cities and popular attractions.

In New Zealand, you'll find several large chains, such as TOP 10 Holiday Parks and Kiwi Holiday Parks. These franchise campsites are known for their consistent quality and good facilities. Once you've had a pleasant experience at one location, you can be fairly certain that other locations from the same chain will offer a comparable standard.

Do you immediately think of crowded and busy when it comes to this type of campsite? In practice, it's often not that bad. Holiday Parks come in various sizes and especially outside the local school holidays, they're often surprisingly quiet.

Alongside the larger chains, there are also many small-scale, privately run campgrounds scattered throughout the country. These often have a more personal atmosphere and each park has its own character. It's precisely this variety that makes it fun to try different places during your trip.

A major advantage of Holiday Parks in New Zealand are the so-called camp kitchens. These are fully equipped kitchens with hobs, pots and utensils, where you can easily prepare your own meals. Travelling with a smaller Campervan? Then this is ideal: you keep your Campervan tidy and have all the space to cook extensively.

Farmstays New Zealand

The final category, and personally my favourite, are the farmstays in New Zealand. These are small-scale farm campsites run by local farmers, often as a nice side income alongside their daily work on the farm.

You'll find farmstays throughout the country, in all shapes and sizes and in the most remarkable locations. From green valleys to remote spots in the middle of nature. What makes these campsites unique is the experience: it's not unusual to wake up with an alpaca, sheep or cow next to your Campervan.

Farmstays are also often very affordable. The facilities are usually simple but well maintained. Don't expect luxury swimming pools or extensive camp kitchens, but rather a peaceful, authentic atmosphere and a personal touch that you often miss at larger campsites.

That's exactly what makes staying at a farmstay so special. You get closer to the real New Zealand and experience the country in a way that many travellers miss.