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Roadtripping in New Zealand is awesome. Whether you are a first-time or seasoned traveller, New Zealand has lots to offer. As it is a relative small country, you can see & do a lot each day of your road trip. And with 1000s of amazing campsites to choose from, it makes New Zealand one of the best countries for a campervan road trip. You'll find some of the best campsites in New Zealand in this blog post.
All campsites in this blog post are listed for a reason, they're among our favourite sites to go camping. They are often in remote locations, yet are easy to reach by compact campervan and they are suitable for all kinds of campervans. If you are a first-time camper or seasoned traveller looking for the best campsites in New Zealand but don't know where to start, this is the place to get started.
Our favourite & best campsites in New Zealand
You might think it is scary to go camping in the middle of nowhere, no worries, New Zealand is a safe and civilised country. And you'll always come across a fellow camper, so there is always a friendly face to be found, no matter how remote you are. Of course this also depends on the season as there are fewer travellers around in winter (June, July & August(), but also in a quiet season like spring (September, October & November) you will see fewer travellers around.
The campsites listed below are all located in amazing places, so you'll get to experience some of the most beautiful scenery New Zealand has to offer. Each campsite has its own advantages which led it to being added to our list of best campsites in New Zealand.
Best Campsites in the North Island
Ah, the North Island. An amazing part of New Zealand that is often overlooked by travellers. Well not overlooked but more rushed through as many think that the South Island has more to over. That's a rookie mistake that you really should try to avoid. The North Island is just as beautiful but in a different way. Here you'll find amazing beaches, more friendly coastlines, hikes for everyone and fun activities. And with the many free & budget campsites to choose from, it is recommended to spend enough time here to fully experience the North Island's magic.
Kapowairua - Spirits Bay campsite (Northland)
If you are looking for a remote campsite, this is probably as far North as you can go. Spirits Bay is a beautiful campsite in the region that is called Northland, on the northernmost tip of the North Island. The campsite is in the area of Cape Reinga, so the perfect location to check out that must-see attraction of New Zealand - the place where the oceans meet - and see & do more in this amazing yet remote location.
- Why it's great: experience the cultural significance of this place. Spirits Bay is a place of great spiritual and cultural importance to the Māori people, believed to be the departing point for spirits on their journey to the afterlife. The beach itself is breathtaking, with its white sands, turquoise waters, and dramatic headlands. It’s an incredibly peaceful spot, perfect for unwinding
- Suitable for all campervans: self-contained and non-self-contained
- Facilities: flush toilets and showers (cold)
- Price: $16 per night - the DOC Campsite Pass cannot be used here
- Things to do: bird and wildlife watching, diving & snorkelling, fishing, swimming and hiking
- More info: further info about Spirits Bay campsite can be found on the DOC website
Remote & amazing location is what earns Kapowairua - Spirits Bay - Campsite a place on the list of best campsites
Tāwharanui campground (Auckland region)
Located in the heart of Tāwharanui Regional Park, this campground is a paradise for all kinds of campers. You can go snorkelling to discover an amazing underwater world. Bird watchers will be thrilled by the presence of native bird species, including the elusive kiwi, thanks to the park's dedicated conservation efforts. Explore the park's numerous walking trails, such as the Ecology Trail and the Tokatu Point Walk, offering breathtaking coastal and bush views. And of course, unwind on the beautiful sandy beaches, with Anchor Bay (main beach) being a top spot for swimming, surfing, and pure relaxation.
- Why it's great: beaches nearby, heaps of birds, interesting walks... What's not to like?
- Added bonus: 8Wired Brewing in Matakana is just a 20-minute drive from the park, so you can stock up on great craft beer before heading to the campsite.
- Suitable for all campervans: self-contained and non-self-contained
- Facilities: water, toilets and bathrooms
- Price: $17.50 per night
- Things to do: wildlife & bird watching, enjoy the beach - there are four white sandy beaches along 3 km of the north coast, swimming, or walking / hiking.
- More info: Auckland Council website for more details
Dickey Flat Campsite (Bay of Plenty)
This little & quiet campsite in the Bay of Plenty has two big advantages. First, it is an easy drive from Auckland, a 1h 45 min drive, so the perfect spot as the last spot of your road trip before returning your campervan. Or an easy start of your road trip. And second, it is located perfectly between the Coromandel Peninsula and the rest of the Bay of Plenty, like Tauranga. So if you're not sure which road to take the next day, this is the perfect little campsite to sleep and make up your mjnd.
- Why it's great: small & cheap campsite that is the perfect for first-time campers to get the feel of camping and getting used to their campervan and is facilities. The area - Karangahake Gorge - was a mining area so there are lots of historic mining and logging remains to be seen.
- Suitable for all campervans: self-contained and non-self-contained
- Facilities: basic, non-flush / long-drop toilets and water from stream
- Price: $10 per night (self-registration, honesty box) - the DOC Campsite Pass cannot be used here
- Things to do: fishing, swimming and various walks with glow worms to see for free
- More info: managed by Department of Conservation (more info on DOC website)
Dickey Flat is a small & nice campsite close to Auckland, Coromandel and Taurange
Onewhero Domain (Waikato)
The perfect stop when you have just picked up your campervan in Auckland or when it's your last night before returning your campervan. This campsite is located in the Northern part of the Waikato and is easy to reach via SH1.
- Why it's great: easy to reach campsite at rugby club, with good facilities so perfect for your first night camping (50-minute drive from the Spaceships Auckland depot)
- Suitable for all campervans: self-contained and non-self-contained
- Facilities: normal toilets (flush toilets) and showers
- Price: free
- Things to do: having a good night's sleep
- More info: one of those hidden gems you can find by using our recommended free camping apps
Ngaherenga Campsite (Manawatū-Whanganui)
This is one of those campsites that will show you that cheap campsites can be simple yet great. This small campsite - 16 spots - is bigger than you might expect. There is plenty of privacy created by the trees and shrubbery.
- Why it's great: simple yet great
- Suitable for all campervans: self-contained and non-self-contained
- Facilities: toilets (non-flush), fire pits and BBQ
- Price: $10 per night - the DOC Campsite Pass cannot be used here
- Things to do: enjoying the silence while having a good night's sleep
- More info: detailed info on the DOC website about Ngaherenga Campsite
A simple yet remote campsite, perfect for a good night's sleep and/or to explore the area
Tongaporutu Domain (North Taranaki)
Discover the stunning scenic beauty of the Tongaporutu coastline, renowned for its dramatic rock formations like the Three Sisters and Elephant Rock. At low tide, hidden caves and other natural wonders are revealed, perfect for exploration. Enjoy peace and tranquility in this less crowded spot, offering a serene environment to relax and immerse yourself in nature. Photography enthusiasts will find endless inspiration in the unique geological features and breathtaking coastal views. Plus, the beach activities are top-notch, with opportunities for beachcombing, fishing, and exploring the fascinating tidal pools.
- Why it's great: North Taranaki is famous for the Three Sisters' rock formations and the Māori petroglyphs carved into cave rock walls. Now you spend the night close to these must-see attractions in Taranaki.
- Suitable for all campervans: self-contained campervans only
- Facilities: long-drop toilet
- Price: free
- Things to do: close to the beach so enjoy a morning walk to shoot some Insta-worthy pics
- More info: only available via the recommended free camping app
Tongaporutu is a great place to spend the night - or 2 as there is heaps to do in the area
Lake Rotokare Scenic Reserve (South Taranaki)
As soon as you enter this amazing reserve you'll have the feeling you're entering something special. From the moment the Jurassic Park-like gates open and close, it feels like being in a far & remote location, even though it's only 12 kilometres from the nearest town. Lake Rotokare Scenic Reserve has way more to offer than a place to spend the night. You can spot the North Island brown kiwi here, and 53 other species of birds, for example Hihi, Tūī, Pūkeko, Ruru, Korimako and Kereru.
- Why it's great: freedom camping for all kinds of campervans in 230 ha pest free reserve 12 km from Eltham, South Taranaki
- Suitable for all campervans: self-contained and non-self-contained
- Facilities: normal toilets (flush toilets)
- Price: FREE aka $0 per night but koha (donation) is appreciated and is a nice way to thank the community for this amazing campsite. You can stay a maximum of three days per month.
- Things to do: spot kiwis at night or go for a walk/hike in the morning, Lake Walkway (easy walk along the lake shore) or the Ridgewalk (a 3 - 5 hours hike that requires a medium to high fitness level required for the 1220 steps and back-country style track)
- More info: official website of the Lake Rotokare Scenic Reserve
Free camping at Lake Rotokare Scenic Reserve campsite - donations appreciated
Belmont Regional Park - Dry Creek campsite (Wellington region)
This campsite near Wellington is what you could call a hidden gem. It is easy to get there, the park offers lots of activities but many travellers just drive past as they don't know about it. Don't let it happen to you.... So here's our camping tip for the Wellington region: Belmont Park. You'll love the park's extensive network of trails, like the Waterfall Route, or the challenging Puke Ariki/Haywards Korokoro Traverse. Some of these tracks give you breathtaking views of the Hutt Valley and Wellington Harbour.
Even though it is so close urban life, Dry Creek Campsite provides a peaceful and tranquil environment, ideal for relaxing and unwinding in the great outdoors.
- Why it's great: there is lots to do in Belmont Park - walking/hiking, mountain-biking - and the proximity to Wellington is awesome. It is only a 20-minute ride to the ferry, so the perfect place to sleep and catch an early ferry or as first place to stay when arriving from the South Island.
- Suitable for all campervans: self-contained and non-self-contained
- Facilities: normal toilets (flushing toilets), treated drinking water and outside sink
- Price: $8 per night
- Things to do: hiking/walking, mountain-biking, horse riding, fly your drone, camping and more
- More info: official website of Belmont Park
Best Campsites in the South Island
Time to explore the South Island of New Zealand. You'll notice that this part of New Zealand is completely different. Here it all revolves around mountains, lakes and even more amazing wildlife like sea lions, whales and penguins. The South Island is a great place for an amazing campervan road trip. And with so many free & budget campsites to choose from, it is no wonder that so many travellers call the South Island the most beautiful part of New Zealand.
Tōtaranui Campground (Abel Tasman National Park)
Nestled at the northern end of Abel Tasman National Park, this campground is a haven for nature lovers. Expect stunning beaches and lush forest surroundings, perfect for kayaking, hiking, and swimming. The well-maintained facilities include toilets, showers, and cooking shelters, ensuring a comfortable stay. With its breathtaking coastal scenery and serene environment, Tōtaranui is an ideal spot to relax and immerse yourself in nature.
- Why it's great: a large campsite with plenty of space - for up to 850 people - near crystal clear water and a golden sand beach, that is what we call paradise
- Suitable for all campervans: self-contained and non-self-contained
- Facilities: toilets, tap water, cold showers, dump station and fire pit
- Price: $15 per night - the DOC Campsite Pass can be used here
- Things to do: swim or snorkel in the clear waters at Tōtaranui beach, go for a short walk or a long hike, fishing or kayaking
- More info: DOC website about Tōtaranui Campground
Deer Valley Campsite (Lewis Pass, Reefton)
Why go to Deer Valley Campsite? Situated in the stunning Lewis Pass region, this campsite offers a serene alpine experience surrounded by native bush and mountains. It’s a great base for hiking and exploring the numerous tracks in the area, including the St James Walkway. The campsite provides basic facilities such as toilets and a water supply. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of this remote location, perfect for reconnecting with nature and experiencing the beauty of New Zealand’s South Island.
- Why it's great: small campsite - only 10 spots - in beech forest next to the Lewis River.
- Suitable for all campervans: self-contained and non-self-contained
- Facilities: toilets (non-flush) and water from stream
- Price: $10 per night - DOC Campsite Pass can be used here
- Things to do: relax and have a good night sleep. Explore the surrounding area - former mining area - or enjoy great coffee in nearby Reefton.
- More info: DOC website about Deer Valley Campsite
Quiet morning at Deer Valley Campsite, in winter (June)
Waihi Gorge Campsite (Geraldine)
Tucked away in a scenic gorge near Geraldine, this campsite is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts. Expect a peaceful, secluded environment with beautiful river views and opportunities for swimming and fishing. Basic facilities, including toilets and a water supply, ensure a comfortable stay. Explore the nearby walking trails or simply unwind in the tranquil surroundings, making it an ideal spot for a quiet getaway.
- Why it's great: small (40 spots) yet large campsite surrounded by kahikatea, mataī and lowland tōtara forest.
- Suitable for all campervans: self-contained and non-self-contained
- Facilities: normal toilets (flush toilets) and fire pits
- Price: $10 per night - DOC Campsite Pass can be used here
- Things to do: relax and enjoy sunny days
- More info: DOC website about Waihi Gorge Campsite
Pleasant Flat Campsite (Wanaka/Makarora area)
Nice and quite, the perfect stop when travelling from Wanaka to Haast or the other way around. A small - 22 spots available yet pleasant campsite where you can enjoy amazing views of Mt Hooker. Catch some fish in nearby Haast River and enjoy a tasty homemade... uh campervan-made dinner.
- Why it's great: nice place to spend the night when travelling to/from Haast. A great place to unwind.
- Suitable for all campervans: self-contained and non-self-contained
- Facilities: normal toilets (flush toilets), shelter for cooking, water from tap
- Price: $10 per night - DOC Campsite Pass can be used here
- Things to do: fishing, walking & relaxing
- More info: DOC website about Waihi Gorge Campsite
Kidds Bush Reserve Campsite (Wanaka)
Located on the shores of Lake Hāwea, near Wanaka, this campsite is perfect for those who love water activities and beautiful scenery. Enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating in the crystal-clear lake waters, or explore the nearby walking and biking trails. The campsite offers basic facilities such as toilets and a water supply, set in a serene, picturesque environment that’s perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
- Why it's great: a small nice & quiet campsite next to a lake, perfect for a wake-up swim in the morning
- Added bonus: Ground Up Brewing and Rhyme & Reason in Wanaka are just a 40-minute drive from the campsite, so you can stock up on great craft beer before heading to Kidds Bush Reserve Campsite
- Suitable for all campervans: self-contained and non-self-contained
- Facilities: normal toilets (flush toilets)
- Price: $10 per night - DOC Campsite Pass can be used here
- Things to do: Kidds Bush Nature Walk
- More info: DOC website about Kidds Bush Reserve Campsite
Imagine waking up next to a lake and close to mountains and seeing a view like this. Life at Kidds Bush Reserve Campsite
Moke Lake Campsite (Queenstown)
Just a short drive from the adventure capital of Queenstown, this campsite offers a peaceful escape with spectacular mountain and lake views. Activities abound, with great opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing right at your doorstep. The campsite has basic facilities including toilets and a water supply, ensuring a rustic yet comfortable stay. Enjoy the tranquility of this stunning location while still being close enough to Queenstown's amenities and adventure activities.
- Why it's great: a peaceful campsite beside a small lake
- Suitable for all campervans: self-contained and non-self-contained
- Facilities: toilets (non-flush) and shelter for cooking
- Price: $15 per night - DOC Campsite Pass can be used here
- Things to do:
- More info: DOC website about Moke Lake Campsite
Moke Lake Campsite is such an amazing place to spend the night. Definitely one of the best campsites in New Zealand!
Bluff Freedom Farm (Bluff)
Southland - the most southern part of the South Island - is one big off the beaten track area. Too many travellers - that are in a hurry - skip this remote yet amazing part of New Zealand. Take for example, The Catlins, a remote area xxxxx ADD TEXT xxxxx There are so many reasons to add The Catlins to your road trip itinerary.
While exploring remote Southland this is a great campsite / farm stay to spend a few nights: Bluff Freedom Farm
- Why it's great: Located just outside Bluff town and very rural. You'll be just across the road off Awarua bay where you can fish, kayak, relax and do what you want.
- Suitable for all campervans: self-contained and non-self-contained
- Facilities: toilets (non-flush) and water from stream
- Price: FREE - koha (donation) appreciated
- Things to do: Fish, kayak, & relax; there are kayaks for you to use and friendly farm animals to play with. You are also welcome to use the BBQ, bathroom, outdoor fire bath and washing machine.
- More info: Southland website for more info about Bluff Freedom Farm
Another amazing & remote campsite: Bluff Freedom Farm | photo: Bluff Freedom Farm
Want to find more amazing campsites in New Zealand?
Well, it takes years of travelling and camping in our beautiful little country to get to experience all campsites to know which ones are the best. But we'll let you in on a secret. A secret that will make it super easy for any traveller to find the best campsites in New Zealand. We've got all info & tips from our brains and have put it all in the following:
- Spaceships recommended free camping app for your smartphone. Get the camping app now
- NZ Frenzy guidebooks with all the tips and info from our travel mate Scott Cook.
And yes, there are so many amazing campsites in New Zealand, 1000s of amazing & remote free or budget campsites. That is why New Zealand is such an amazing country for a campervan road trip. Therefore it is hard to pick the best campsites, but for us, these are our all-time favourites and thus the best campsites. For now that is. As soon as we hit the road again and do another #SpaceshipsRoadTrip we'll discover & experience more campsites. Never stop exploring.