Short answer: Campervan sites in New Zealand
New Zealand offers a vast selection of campervan sites suitable for all types of travelers. From basic freedom camping areas, to fully serviced holiday parks with power and water facilities. Popular destinations include Queenstown, Christchurch and Auckland. Booking in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons.
How to Find the Perfect Campervan Site in New Zealand for Your Adventure
New Zealand is a beguiling country with breathtaking scenery that is best enjoyed at leisure. One of the best ways to explore this paradise on earth is by renting a campervan and hitting the road. New Zealand’s North and South Islands offer scores of campsites, each unique in its own way, making it challenging to choose one that perfectly matches your needs. But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! Here are some tips on finding the perfect campervan site in New Zealand for your adventure.
1. Research multiple options
One of the keys to finding the perfect campervan site is researching multiple options thoroughly. Start by doing an online search for camping sites in New Zealand, which will present you with an array of choices based on your requirements. You can filter your search based on location, amenities, price range, and size.
2. Consider different types of campsites
New Zealand has several types of campsites to choose from – freedom camping sites where you have no facilities but can park and sleep overnight for free; Department of Conservation (DoC) campsites set in beautiful natural areas; holiday parks with everything from fully-equipped cabins to powered sites, shared bathrooms and cooking facilities; and private paid-for camping grounds run by local farmers or businesses.
3. Know what features are important
Your ideal campground may differ greatly depending on your travel style so determine what’s essential before checking out different campground options. Do you prefer to be “off-the-grid” or need a powered site? Is being near hiking trails more important than having showers? Are you travelling solo or as part of a group who may want access to communal kitchen spaces?
4. Check reviews
Before settling in any campsite try reading up user reviews posted on sites such as Tripadvisor or Rankers.co.nz its important read several recent comments from travelers as they help give an honest assessment how good or bad a specific spot might be.
5. Book early
In New Zealand, especially in peak season (December-February), campsites can get booked quickly. Therefore, if you find a campsite that you like and it meets all your conditions, don’t wait too long to book it.
6. Be flexible
It’s important to remember that some popular campsites may have restrictions or limits on the number of days a visitor can stay during certain seasons in the year. Additionally, weather conditions vary dramatically in New Zealand and what might be an ideal spot during summer could be quite different in winter.
7. Ask Online Communities for Advice
Use online communities such as Facebook groups or TripAdvisor forums to ask for advice from seasoned travelers familiar with your travel plans.
In conclusion, finding the perfect campervan site in New Zealand requires research and patience but is worth every bit of effort invested; after all, this is how you’ll ensure making unforgettable memories while experiencing the beauty of Aotearoa!
Step-by-Step Guide to Reserving a Campervan Site in New Zealand
Are you planning a campervan trip to New Zealand? Congratulations! You’re about to embark on one of the most unforgettable and awe-inspiring journeys of your life. With its stunning scenery, friendly locals, and endless adventure options, New Zealand is the perfect destination for a road trip. But before you dive headfirst into your camper van hire booking, it’s essential to know how to reserve a campervan site – or “holiday park” as they are known in the land of the Kiwis.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to reserve your holiday park:
Step 1: Determine Your Route
Before reserving a campervan site in New Zealand, you need to determine your route. Where do you plan on traveling? What places do you want to visit? Knowing your route will help you identify which holiday parks are best suited for each location. Lucky for you, New Zealand has an abundance of beautiful campsites located all around the country.
Step 2: Choose Your Holiday Parks
Once you’ve decided on your route and identified potential destinations, it’s time to choose where you’d like to stay overnight. Holiday parks offer different amenities depending on their location and size; some have shared facilities such as showers and toilets while others provide private bathrooms in each unit. Make sure to research each holiday park carefully so that you can select ones that cater to your needs.
Step 3: Check Availability
Now that you’ve chosen which holiday parks meet your needs in each specific area that interests you, it’s time to check availability! The high season in New Zealand usually runs from December through February; this is when booking ahead becomes increasingly necessary due to demand levels.
Most major holiday parks allow online bookings via their websites or Booking.com reservations systems allowing easy and quick reservation process online or via phone call if needed!
Step 4: Book Your Stay
Once availability at the campsite/s have been confirmed, you can book your stay! The booking process is usually quite seamless. You’ll need to enter your details such as the number of people in your party, campervan size and perhaps any special requirements. Once you have entered all the necessary information, choose a payment method and complete payment to confirm your booking.
Step 5: Prepare for Your Trip
Now that everything is sorted out for your upcoming trip, all that’s left is some good old-fashioned preparation! Make sure that you’ve packed everything you need for an unforgettable trip; groceries, clothing items depending on how long are staying at one site even if it helps prevent odor build up in campervan interior. Don’t forget those essential toiletries too!
In summary, reserving a campervan site in New Zealand can be a simple and straightforward process with these five easy steps:
1. Determine Your Route
2. Choose Your Holiday Parks
3. Check Availability
4. Book Your Stay
5. Prepare for Your Trip
Following this guide means hassle-free planning and ensuring quality experience during your stay! Exploring in our camper vans definitely come highly recommended by locals too which means it’s a must-do when traveling within Aotearoa (New Zealand)!
FAQs About Campervan Sites in New Zealand: Everything You Need to Know
Are you considering a campervan trip around New Zealand but feel like you’re not entirely sure what to expect when it comes to campsites? Fear not! We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about campervan sites in New Zealand, covering everything from facilities and pricing to booking and packing.
1. What types of campervan sites are available in New Zealand?
There are primarily three types of campervan sites: freedom camping, DOC campsites, and commercial campsites. Freedom camping allows you to park your self-contained vehicle anywhere that is permitted by the local council, while DOC campsites are run by the Department of Conservation and range from basic (with limited facilities) to serviced (with powered sites, showers, and kitchen facilities). Commercial campsites tend to be more expensive but offer a wider range of facilities such as WiFi, swimming pools, playgrounds, etc.
2. How much do campervan sites cost in New Zealand?
Pricing varies depending on location and type of site. Freedom camping locations are generally free or may require a small donation towards upkeep. DOC camper van Parks range from $6 for basic non-powered tent sites up to $20 for fully serviced powered caravan parks with amenities such as kitchens and hot showers. Commercial parks can range anywhere from $30-$70 a night.
3. Do I need to book my campervan site in advance?
It depends on where you plan on staying! Popular tourist destinations or holiday periods tend to fill up fast so booking in advance might be advisable during these times especially when looking into commercial parks where they have limited space availability.
4. Can I park my non-self-contained van or motorhome at any campervan site?
Unfortunately not all parks cater for self-contained vehicles hence why its always essential to check if where you plan on staying has any restrictions or limitations before arriving.
5. Are there any rules I should be aware of when staying in a campervan site?
Yes! In New Zealand, the use of waste disposal systems is keenly monitored, there are strict rules regarding waste water and toilet disposal laws. It is essential you comply with these regulations to avoid fines or legal penalties.
6. What facilities can I expect from a typical campervan site in New Zealand?
Facilities can range depending on the type of site you go for. some sites have basic amenities like potable drinking water, basic toilets and showers while others will have everything including kitchens, playgrounds, wifi and more.
7. Is it safe to stay at a campervan site in New Zealand?
In the vast majority of cases, staying at campervan parks around New Zealand is safe and secure with many parks offering twenty-four hour security surveillance.
8. Can I bring pets to a campervan park in New Zealand?
Pets are generally welcome as long as they are kept under control at all times and remain on a leash when outside your van however its always important to check if this applies where you plan on staying ahead of time.
When touring in your self-contained vehicle around New Zealand offers fantastic scenery every corner you turn therefore planning which campsites you will visit along the way is an essential component of ensuring that your trip around this beautiful country smooth one.. hopefully this blog has shed some light on some pressing concerns that most tourists face when considering camping holiday via their Van so what next? Get ready to enjoy any option based on your preference whether freedom camping or serviced commercial resorts, pack smartly and get set for an adventure filled road trip exploring Aotearoa from sea to mountainside!
Top 5 Facts About Campervan Sites in New Zealand You Didn’t Know
New Zealand is a dream destination for many campervan enthusiasts. With its stunning landscapes and adventurous activities, it’s no surprise that more and more people are choosing to explore this country with their homes on wheels. If you’re planning on hitting the road in New Zealand, here are 5 facts about campervan sites that you may not know.
1. There Are Over 900 Campsites In New Zealand
New Zealand is dotted with campsites, ranging from basic sites with limited facilities to fully equipped holiday parks that offer all the comforts of home. The Department of Conservation (DOC) manages over 200 campsites around the country, while private operators own and run the remaining ones.
2. You Can Freedom Camp In Some Areas
One of the joys of campervanning is being able to pull up in a secluded spot and stay there overnight – for free! In New Zealand’s remote areas or places where public camping is permitted, freedom camping is allowed provided that you follow certain rules such as disposing waste responsibly and respecting other users.
3. Peak Season Is December To February
The summer months are not only the busiest time for tourists but also those travelling by campervan. With school holidays taking place between Christmas and mid-January, popular destinations like Coromandel Peninsula and Abel Tasman National Park become extremely crowded.
4. Reservation Is Recommended But Not Always Necessary
While it’s not necessary to make reservations for most campsites, during peak season it is wise to plan ahead because popular sites may fill up fast. Luckily, if you don’t mind staying in basic DOC-operated grounds there are many first-come-first-served sites available without booking fees.
5. Some Spots Are Only Accessible By Campervans
New Zealand has some amazing scenic spots only accessible by foot or sea – but did you know some locations can only be reached via campervan? An example would be Waikawau Bay on the Coromandel Peninsula, lying off a narrow and steep gravel road making it difficult for cars to navigate through. Other sites offer designated campervan spots with only enough space for motorhomes as they are in secluded nooks, cutbacks or tight corners.
New Zealand is full of surprises when it comes to campervanning, so hop in and explore its beauty at your own pace. With these facts under your belt, you’ll be ready to hit the open roads with confidence!
The Best Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Campervan Sites Across New Zealand
If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday city life, New Zealand is one of the best places to explore. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, ranging from snowcapped mountains to pristine beaches, it’s a country that has something to offer every intrepid traveller.
The good news is that there are countless campervan sites scattered throughout the country where you can park up and immerse yourself in nature while exploring New Zealand. But while there are plenty of famous spots like Lake Tekapo or Milford Sound to visit, we want to highlight some lesser-known but equally breath-taking locations worth considering on your next trip.
From North to South, here are some hidden gem campsites that will make your journey all the more memorable:
Mt Manaia Farm: Located just north of Auckland, Mt Manaia Farm offers stunning coastal views with access to fantastic hikes and water sports. The site features clean facilities and discreet campsites with picnic tables and sheltered areas.
Kairakau Beach: On the east coast near Hawke’s Bay, this beachfront site is perfect for those seeking a peaceful getaway with minimal crowds. It’s nestled between rolling hills and boasts excellent fishing spots as well as great opportunities for surfing and other watersports.
Rawhiti Domain: Situated on the northern end of the Bay of Islands, Rawhiti Domain offers a peaceful location away from main tourist hotspots but still close enough for easy day trips. It has excellent facilities including barbecue grills and picnic tables overlooking stunning ocean views.
Lake Mahinapua: Located at the gateway to the West Coast’s glacier region, Lake Mahinapua provides calm waters perfect for kayaking adventures amongst beautiful scenery. With hot showers at hand and several nearby walking tracks leading through lush forestland, you can relax after hard day’s exploration in comfort.
Boundary Creek Campsite – With its remote location off State Highway 94 towards Milford Sound, Boundary Creek is often overlooked by the majority of travelers to the area. However, if you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in picturesque surrounds then this campsite has all the hallmarks of a true hidden gem. It features clean facilities and offers easy access to various hiking trails in both Fiordland and Mt. Aspiring National Parks.
These are just some of many hidden gems waiting for you throughout New Zealand. No matter where your journey takes you, make sure to seek out these lesser-known campsites to fully immerse yourself in everything that this beautiful country has to offer. Happy travels!
From North to South: The Most Scenic and Memorable Campervan Site Routes in New Zealand
New Zealand is a stunning country that boasts vast and diverse landscapes ranging from snow-capped mountain peaks to turquoise lakes, glacial fjords, pristine beaches, rolling hills, verdant forests and geothermal valleys. Renting a campervan is one of the best ways to explore this enchanting land down under at your own pace and freedom. You can park up wherever you wish and wake up to breathtaking views literally on your doorstep.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler seeking new adventures, there are plenty of scenic and memorable campervan site routes to discover across New Zealand. Here are some of the must-see destinations from north to south:
North Island:
1. Bay of Islands: A picturesque paradise with over 140 subtropical islands, secluded bays, historic towns like Russell and Paihia, gorgeous beaches like Waipu Cove and Matapouri Bay and abundant marine life like dolphins.
2. Coromandel Peninsula: A rugged wilderness with stunning coastal vistas from Cathedral Cove to Hot Water Beach where you can dig your own thermal spa pool in the sand.
3. Lake Taupo: The largest freshwater lake in New Zealand surrounded by majestic mountains like Tongariro National Park where you can hike the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing trail or ski on Mount Ruapehu.
4. Rotorua: A geothermal wonderland with bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, colorful hot springs and cultural experiences like Maori villages.
South Island:
5. Abel Tasman National Park: A tranquil paradise with crystal-clear waters perfect for kayaking or swimming amidst golden sand beaches; scenic hiking trails through lush native bush dripping in ferns.
6. West Coast: A wild beauty that features stunning glaciers such as Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers as well as wild coastline around Punakaiki’s pancake rocks & blowholes for incredible sunsets
7. Queenstown: Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand with soaring mountains like Remarkables and Coronet Peak for skiing, mountain biking and skydiving; jet boating on rivers like Shotover; bars, cafes & restaurants overlooking Lake Wakatipu
8. Milford Sound: A breathtaking fjord that is part of Fiordland National Park where you can enjoy scenic cruises through towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and sparkling seas teeming with marine life.
These are just some of the many amazing campervan routes to experience in New Zealand. With so much natural beauty and cultural diversity across both islands, the only limit is your own sense of adventure!
Table with useful data:
| Site Name | Location | Price | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freedom Camping Site | Ahuriri River, Canterbury | Free | Toilet facilities, picnic tables, fire pits |
| Muzzle Station | Kaikoura Coast, Marlborough | $25 per night | Toilets and showers, water, laundry, BBQs and picnic tables |
| Camp Waipu Cove | Waipu Cove Beach, Northland | $20 per night | Toilet and shower facilities, kitchen facilities, laundry facilities |
| Punakaiki Beach Camp | Punakaiki, West Coast | $20 per night | Hot showers, laundry facilities, mini-mart and BBQ facilities |
| Camp Glenorchy | Glenorchy, Queenstown | $38 per night | Shared kitchen, showers and toilets, communal lounge with fireplace |
Information from an expert: New Zealand is a camper’s paradise with its stunning scenery and abundance of campervan sites. From DOC (Department of Conservation) parks to commercial campgrounds, there are plenty of options available for all types of travelers. Some popular destinations include the Milford Sound, Mount Cook National Park, and Abel Tasman National Park. It’s essential to plan ahead and book your campsites early during peak season as availability can be limited. With so many incredible places to park up for the night, a campervan trip around New Zealand is undoubtedly an unforgettable experience.
Historical fact:
The first official campervan park in New Zealand was established by the Waitaki District Council in 1979, paving the way for a thriving industry and popular mode of travel in the country.
