Best Sites for Camping in New Zealand

Similar to exploring the abundant scenic spots and the outdoor activities in the country, camping in New Zealand is an exciting pastime. The number of sites for camping in New Zealand exceeds two hundred and over two million foreigners come to the country each year to visit any of them. They are set in picturesque locations like forests, beaches and lakeshores.

1) Urupukapuka Bay

Having a picturesque landscape that owes to its splendid number of placid hills, cliffs and beaches, Urupukapuka Bay is a perfect destination to plan a camping holiday with your loved ones. You can set up a camp besides the beach where the serene waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, surfing and fishing. There are also magnificent walks for hiking, trekking and simply exploring the region.

Boat tours that explore across the Bay Islands stop at the Urupukapuka Bay for a short amount of time. Ferries and water taxis could also bring you to the location. The Explorer Passenger Ferry from Russell or Pahia takes around forty minutes to reach the Urupukapuka Bay and is cheaper than the boats that tour multiple islands.

Location: Urupukapuka Island, Northland, New Zealand

2) Matai Bay

A favourite among families and boating enthusiasts for camping in New Zealand, Matai Bay is located forty-four kilometres northeast of the Kaitaia region. Owned by the Department of Conservation, there are over a hundred campsites nestled amid the delightful pohutukawa trees and the fantastic walks. The stunning white sandy beach is apt for swimming, snorkeling and diving.

You can also access numerous sites of cultural and historic significance from the camp. Make sure to arrive early, especially during the busy summers because Matai Bay thrives on a ‘first come first served’ policy.

Location: Karikari Peninsula, Northland 0483, New Zealand

3) Matauri Bay

Located twenty-five minutes north of Kerikeri in North Island, Matauri Bay is one of the best choices for camping in New Zealand. Equally preferred by surfers, divers and families, it has an adequately operated camping ground that includes cabins along with powered and non-powered sites. The headlands are perfect to get stunning views and the waters are crystal clear and serene enough to suit the likes of swimmers.

Matauri Bay also offers facilities like a communal kitchen, general store, petrol pumps, shower and restroom. The day trips to Cape Reinga, snorkelling and fishing also come under the enjoyable activities at this campsite.

Location: Matauri Bay Rd, Matauri Bay 0478, New Zealand

4) Motorua Island

Located six kilometers east of the Mahurangi Harbour, Motorua Island is a peaceful location for camping in New Zealand. It heavily preserves the native flora and fauna and is an excellent spot for bird watching. Some of the majorly seen birds are kiwi, grey-faced petrel and New Zealand dotterel.

Campers at Motorua Island also enjoy activities like water sports, hiking and walking.

Location: North Island, Auckland, New Zealand

5) Poukaraka Flats

Situated on the Whakanewha Regional Park at Waiheke Island, the Poukaraka Flats campground can only be accessed after a two hour long trip and ferry ride from Auckland. There is an excellent selection of beaches along with vineyards and olive groves for one to see at Poukaraka Flats. The amenities available at this destination are pretty basic like drinking water, kitchen (free gas barbeque), cold showers and flush toilets.

There is no power supply. This waterfront camping site in New Zealand is perfect for those who travel on a budget.

Location: 75 Gordons Road, Waiheke Island, Auckland 1971, New Zealand

6) Opoutere Coastal Camping

With abundant forest and white sand beaches, Opoutere Coastal Camping claims some of the finest scenery in New Zealand. Located right on the Opoutere Beach, it has walking tracks amid Pohukawa trees that lead up to the summit. The facilities provided at Opoutere Coastal Camping include a communal kitchen, free gas barbeque, dining areas, toilets, showers and laundry facilities.

There are also spaces for reading, watching movies and playing indoor games. Since the camping site gets flooded by people during peak seasons, make sure to book in advance.

Location: 460 Ohui Rd, Opoutere 3691, New Zealand

7) Totaranui Campground

A large site for camping in New Zealand that could fit in close to eight hundred and fifty people, Totaranui Campground is located in the Abel Tasman National Park. It is arguably the best option for staying if you plan to explore one of New Zealand’s great walks, the Abel Tasman Coastal Walk that spreads across fifty-one kilometers. The Totaruini beach is ideal for water activities like swimming, kayaking, fishing and snorkelling.

Along with drinking water, cold showers and barbeque areas, this waterfront camping ground has space for approximately two hundred and sixty-nine tents.

Location: Abel Tasman National Park 105 Totaranui Rd, Golden Bay 7183, New Zealand

8) Pohara Beach Holiday Park

Pohara Beach Holiday Park is a ninety-minute drive from Nelson. With plenty of motels, tents and cabins, it belongs to the radiant waters of the Golden Bay in South Island. In the relaxed environment of the park, sauntering along the beautiful Pohara beach and revelling at the sight of sunrises and sunsets will be delightful.

It contains all the necessary amenities to make your holidays free from any hassles and also lies proximal to the Kahurangi National Park and Abel Tasman National Park. Try to visit Pohara Beach Holiday Park before summer if you are looking for a serene experience. During the summer season, it gets increasingly busy with tourists, which could potentially hinder the calm atmosphere.

Location: 809 Abel Tasman Dr, Pohara 7183, New Zealand

9) Te Araroa Holiday, East Cape

Located right between Opotiki and Gisborne, this camping site in New Zealand has lush trees, gardens, a freshwater stream and an apt view for witnessing the sunrise. There are also thirty-eight powered and forty-two non-powered tent sites within Te Araroa Holiday. The waters are perfect for swimming, surfing, kayaking and even fishing.

Location: 4814 State Highway 35, Hicks Bay 4087, New Zealand

10) Robin Hood Bay

Robin Hood Bay is a camping site located in the Marlborough region. You can camp next to the beach and indulge in fishing, surfing and swimming. A friendly location for pets, it is also famous for the presence of Hector’s dolphins.

There are ten non-powered tent sites in Robin Hood Bay with all basic facilities.