Tourist Guide to Camping in New Zealand
As New Zealand is filled with natural wonders, and diverse landscapes, it is no surprise that camping is a popular hobby for those who want to immerse in the natural beauty of the region. Camping combined with a range of outdoor activities like enjoying a bonfire, stargazing, hiking, and birdwatching will perfectly woo you to embark on a trip on the weekend.
But whether you are an experienced camper or a beginner, there's always something that you should watch out for to avoid any unwanted issues, and make your trip an unforgettable one.
For those who aren't from New Zealand, just before you make a camping trip to the nation, don't forget to apply for your NZeTA in advance, do carry your approved NZeTA to enter the nation.
But what is NZeTA?
Introduced in July 2019, the NZeTA is an electronic visa linked to your passport, and this has been made mandatory from October 2019. So, NZeTA is an electronic travel authorization for visa waiver countries. Those qualified for NZeTA can enjoy their visit to New Zealand for a maximum period of 2 years, with 3 months stay allowed during each visit.
The NZeTA is for short-term stays with a duration of two years. Visa waiver countries, airline and cruise ship crew members (no matter which nation you belong to) can apply for NZeTA.
Unlike some of the countries in the world, New Zealand does not have tedious visa requirements, anybody wishing to visit this country on tourism purpose are eligible to get the New Zealand eTA based on applicants qualifications.
What are the popular unique campsites available in New Zealand? Explore the types
New Zealand has various camping options to help plan your trip according to your preferences, experience and budget. To share with you some practical tips, we will begin with sharing some popular types of camping options available:
Private Camping grounds
Discover the private campgrounds which are located on private lands like rural lands and farms. These camping grounds are another best option for those campers who want to have a rural and secluded experience. It provides basic amenities like toilets and showers. The prices of renting in private campgrounds varies depending on the location and the facilities they are providing.
Holiday Parks
Holidays parks are a favorite choice for the families who have kids since it has play areas, heated pools, trampolines, and a place for grilling.
Holiday parks offer facilities like cabins, powered and non-powered sites, communal kitchens, bathrooms and kitchens. Some luxury holiday parks even provide facilities like Wi-Fi, swimming pools, laundry services, access to a dining room, and TV lounge.
These parks are mostly located near the tourist spots and popular cities, making it the best weekend experience for those who want to opt for a comfortable camping facility.
Department of Conservation Camping sites provided by New Zealand government
The Department of Conservation Campsites are maintained by the government of New Zealand and are the best eco-friendly and affordable option for campers. You will find the Department of Conservation campsites in the conservation areas, national parks, and picturesque locations.
Department of Conservation campsites are categorized on the basis of the amenities provided into the following types:
Basic campsites
These campsites provided by DOC offer minimum basic amenities like toilets, basic water supply and picnic tables. The rental price is also nominal.
Standard campsites
These campsites provided by DOC, apart from the basic amenities, provide extra facilities like shelters for cooking, rubbish bins and cold showers. The rental price in standard campsites is also low.
Serviced campsites
These campsites provided by DOC, apart from the basic amenities and extra facilities, provide high-level amenities like kitchens, hot showers, powered and non-powered sites for campervans. The serviced campsites are budget-friendly compared to the holiday parks.
Essential campgrounds
These campsites provided by DOC provide basic amenities like toilets and you will have to take water from a lake, stream or tank, choosing this type of campsite means you have to be self-sufficient.
Campgrounds with a view
These campsites provided by DOC are usually located near the coastal area and offer amenities like running water, bathrooms, grill area, rubbish bins and cold showers.
Great Walk campgrounds
These campsites provided by DOC are located along the Great Walk trails, except for Milford Sound. There are around 60 Great Walk campsites and offers basic facilities like toilets and running water.
Backcountry campsites
These campsites provided by DOC provide basic amenities like bathrooms, you will have access to water, picnic tables and standard cooking facilities.
Glamping or Glamorous Camping
Glamorous camping, popularly referred to as Glamping, offers a next level camping experience with comfortable and luxurious amenities. Discover luxurious amenities like large decks, electricity, running water, blankets, mood lightning options, delicious meals, fireplaces, hot outdoor baths, etc.
Different glamping options available include elegant cabins, tree house, tents, yurts, hobbit-holes, and eco-lodges. It is like camping but with extra luxurious facilities provided to have a comfortable stay experience like your home. What makes glamping extraordinary is its ultimate retreat, the safe countryside location and the picturesque landscape.
Find your glamping escape that suits your budget and preference, from luxurious to simple and rustic. You will have a spectacular time enjoying your vacation or weekend in one of the glamping destinations in New Zealand.
Indulge in an unforgettable variety of glamping options available, there are many stunning glamping destinations in New Zealand, from North Island to South Island. It is a guarantee that you will have a relaxing and peaceful time at your dream vacation spot.
Freedom Camping Campgrounds
Freedom camping campgrounds are located on public lands outside the designated camping sites. These camping grounds are another best option for those campers who want to have a self-sufficient and secluded experience. Freedom camping is not allowed in all areas, it is subject to the rules and regulations of the local council. Campers before choosing for freedom camping, do research for the rules in advance.
There are around 500 freedom camping campgrounds in New Zealand, campers should abide by the basic laws, respect the environment and indulge in responsible camping habits.
Rules that campers need to follow regarding freedom camping in the country:
- Respect the environment, keep it clean.
- Dispose solid and liquid waste in a responsible way.
- Remove the trash from the camping grounds and properly dump it in the dustbins.
- If you don't want to make your camping experience a nightmare, follow the safety rules.
Although New Zealand is a safe destination to explore, but it is important to check out the surroundings and consider your safety options before choosing freedom camping:
- Avoid camping in unsafe areas.
- Always check the weather forecast, and be ready for unexpected weather changes.
- Always have surplus drinking water and food items.
- Provide your contact number and your camping itinerary to a known person incase of emergency help.
- Do not display items that are expensive, avoid taking expensive items on your camping trip. Do remember to keep your door closed at night.
Campers planning to opt for freedom camping, here is a list of some of the points to consider:
- Know the laws and regulations provided by the Department of Conservation and local council, as the camping rules keep on changing.
- Violating the laws and regulations will lead to fines of up to $1,000.
- If you are planning for freedom camping, make sure to fulfill the requirements.
Read more:
New Zealand is a country worth visiting as the nation is blessed with astonishing natural wonders, unique species of flora and exotic wildlife. Those who want to explore the diversified landscape of the region, read the Top 10 Picturesque locations for tourists visiting New Zealand, you will be spellbound by the beauty of the region.
Why choose for Motor homes or campervans for camping in New Zealand?
Motorhomes or campervans are the best option for campers who want to enjoy the comforts of a home and at the same time enjoy the freedom of the roads. Those who want to explore the different sightseeing places in New Zealand blessed with natural wonders have the flexibility to do so without worrying about packing and unpacking. Motorhomes or campervans are the best affordable options as it has on-board cooking and sleeping facilities, when compared with traditional accommodations.
If you want to rent campervans or motorhomes, you can rent it from major cities of New Zealand. Some of the campervan or motorhome rental companies offer flexible pick and drop options also, with this option you can save time, as you can avoid round trip.
Motorhomes are spacious and bigger in size than campervans, it has showers and toilets as well. Those travel fanatics who are hoping to go for freedom camping, go for campervans as they are easy to drive and park, but opt for a campervan that is self-reliant.
Below are some of the important points that you need to take into account:
- Respect the environment, keep it clean.
- If there are no public restrooms in your camping area, locate the nearest restroom by using the CamperMate.
- Dispose liquid waste in a responsible way, dump it in an authorized dumping station.
- Be cautious about your safety and always follow the safety rules.
What is the rental charge of a motorhome or campervan?
The rental charge of a campervan or motorhome varies from one season to another. In the summer season, the rental charge is twice the amount that you need to pay in the winter. Also, the cost of the campervan or motorhome depends on the condition, old ones can be opted by budget-friendly travelers and those seeking all the modern facilities, they might need to pay extra.
Depending on the kilometers, rates differ, and do not include insurance if you already have travel insurance. Having travel insurance eases travelers to be secured with unwanted medical bills, so it is better to have one. To rent the campervan or motorhomes at less price, consider traveling during the off-season and try booking in advance.
Important tips to consider for driving a motorhome or campervan in New Zealand
Powered campsites are available where you can connect your campervan to the power source, this allows you to charge your battery which makes it convenient to use electrical items like heaters.
If you are hoping to go for freedom camping, with a self-reliant campervan or motorhome, do remember to check with the local authorities as the rules and regulations differ from one district to another.
For those who want to have a food and wine camping treat, visit the farms, vineyards, olive producers and other businesses who let you park for free for a wonderful treat.
READ MORE:
It is highly recommended to avoid ferrying one vehicle from one island to another as it comes with a high price. Instead, you can catch a flight after you’re done travelling through one island, catch a flight to the other island and rent a car there to carry on with your road trip. Learn more at Road trip of a Lifetime in New Zealand.
Popular Camping Regions in New Zealand
New Zealand is a charming destination for campers, blessed with stunning landscape, mountains, hills, valleys, volcanoes, geothermal places, dense forests, wildlife, streams, and rivers. To help you choose your camping destination, here is a list of some of the places:
South Island Camping
Mount Cook National Park
Mount Cook National Park is one of the must visit destinations as it houses the highest mountain peak of New Zealand, Mount Cook. It is an alpine destination, wherein visitors can engage in exciting activities like forest hiking, stargazing and glacier hiking.
Fiordland National Park
This region is famous for the fjords like Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. Visitors can enjoy hiking here through the popular hiking trails like Kepler Track and Routeburn Track.
Queenstown
This region is designated as the adventure hub of New Zealand. Popular sightseeing places in this location include the Remarkables mountain range, Glenorchy town and Lake Wakatipu.
Abel Tasman National Park
This exotic national park is popular for wildlife, beaches and crystal clear waters. Visitors can enjoy thrilling adventure activities like wildlife exploration, kayaking and hiking.
North Island Camping
Tongariro National Park
This region is home to Tongariro Alpine Crossing, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its volcanoes, rich flora and fauna and stunning landscapes. Visitors can engage in hiking activities as well.
Rotorua
It is one of the fascinating destinations filled with geothermal wonders, natural hot pools and you will be able to know about the Maori culture.
Bay of Islands
It is blessed with islands, and beaches, where visitors can engage in fishing activities as well.
Coromandel Peninsula
It is an enchanting camping site well-known for its beaches, hot water springs and the native forests. Visitors can engage in relaxing on the beaches and enjoy a warm bath at one of the hot water springs.
READ MORE:
Adventure lovers who want to have a daring experience can choose Skydiving in New Zealand, click on this link to know more about this thrilling activity. There are different types of skydiving and the best place to enjoy skydiving, why not check-out to know.
Ensure that you have checked the eligibility for your New Zealand eTA. If you are from a Visa Waiver country then you can apply for an eTA regardless of the mode of travel (Air / Cruise). Italian citizens, Canadian citizens, Japanese citizens, Slovenian citizens and Emirati citizens can apply online for New Zealand eTA.