A brief guide to camping in New Zealand
Camping is a favourite pastime in New Zealand. Thousands of holidaymakers descend on campgrounds throughout the country every year.
New Zealand is spoilt for choice when it comes to camping out under the stars.
There are three general categories of camping facilities:
Commercial campgrounds have the largest range of facilities and accommodation options - powered and non-powered sites and campervan berths through to motel cabins. Facilities can be quite extensive with communal TV and dining areas, heated swimming pools and barbecues often available.
The Department of Conservation runs around 250 campgrounds that can be accessed by vehicle, as well as remote sites reached only by foot. The facilities on offer are usually fairly basic.
Freedom camping in designated areas is a great option for those on a limited budget or travelling in a certified self-contained vehicle. Check with the local I-Site for regulations before settling in for the night.
Costs vary for a night’s accommodation:
At a commercial campground, you can expect to pay around $15 to $30 for two people for a non-powered tent site, and about $16-$40 for a powered site. For a campervan/caravan the range is between $25 and $75 a night.
Department of Conservation pricing ranges from $6 per person a night at a basic campsite to $15 per person a night at a serviced campsite.
Check with local councils when planning your freedom camping as many do have a fee associated with the required permit.
Some pointers for camping in New Zealand:
New Zealand’s climate is notoriously fickle with four seasons in one day certainly not uncommon. This makes packing for a camping trip very important. You’ll need to have a rain jacket and warm clothing handy, even in the middle of summer.
It is easy to relax in the wilderness in New Zealand due to the absence of any type of dangerous animal or poisonous creature. What New Zealand does have in abundance, however, are annoying insects such as flies, mosquitos and sand flies. Don’t forget your insect repellent - mozzies can really put a dampener on a camping holiday.
The strength of the sun in New Zealand is intense. Sunscreen is a must during summer, with SPF 30 highly recommended.
There are some truly spectacular campsite locations, with many located right next to beaches, lakes and rivers. Needless to say, extreme care is required when taking a dip in any body of water. Always swim between the flags when visiting a beach and have a chat to a local before jumping into a lake or river.
Finally, when it comes to gearing up, New Zealand has countless camping stores. Four of the larger ones www.macpac.co.nz , www.kathmandu.co.nz , www.torpedo7.co.nz , and www.bivouac.co.nz can be found nationwide and stock a great selection of clothing, backpacks, tents and general camping needs. Alternatively if you fancy buying online http://www.equipoutdoors.co.nz/ has a great selection of gear to choose from.
Some helpful resources:
www.weatherwatch.co.nz