Camping and Caravanning UK

Camping In New Zealand

In The first of a series of atricles we are putting together about different camping experiences around the world, we feature what New Zealand has to offer. 



Camping In New Zealand - A Hidden Treasure

New Zealand's natural beauty is hard to match and there are few better ways to enjoy it than camping.  Stunning mountains, clear lakes, deserted beaches and rolling hills are available in abundance, the hardest part is where to start! There are no snakes, crocodiles or any manner of other people eating creatures, though plenty of sheep!

With Christmas summers and Santa in board shorts, camping is a very popular family activity in New Zealand, resulting in generally high standards.  Camp sites are tent friendly, offering spacious pitches on grass plots, a welcome change from those painful gravel options available in some countries. Most sites also offer cabins, chalets, on site caravans or some other form of hard accommodation for varying degrees of luxury.  Standard facilities are usually supplied and kiwi hosts are renowned for their friendliness and willingness to help. You can also guarantee they will have a family descendant from somewhere near you!        

In addition to the commercial camps there are a large number (over 120) of camp sites administered by the Department of Conservation (D.O.C.).  These camps are usually pretty basic in facilities but often occupy idyllic and remote locations on beaches, lakes and rivers.  You can find out more about these at www.doc.govt.nz. Some companies combine camping with activity and sightseeing tours. This takes the hassle out of transport, bookings and ensures you see the main highlights. One company who specialize in getting beyond the tourist trail are Flying Kiwi Wilderness Tours (www.flyingkiwi.com).

Camp or campervan sites are usually charged on a per-person rate, typically from around NZD$12 - $18 per adult (about 5pounds).  Equipment is also reasonably priced and with the current exchange rates, anyone arriving with sterling will find everything pleasantly affordable.

Many compare a camping experience in New Zealand to Scotland. The comparison is true in many ways though geysers, glaciers, dolphin swimming and a more temperate climate set New Zealand apart as a camping destination.