If you want to understand and appreciate New Zealand, you should get amongst the people and explore the breadth and depth of the county. Nothing beats traversing New Zealand in a caravan. A caravan makes for an enjoyable, exciting, and memorable experience you will always cherish. The adventure of exploring the vastness and beauty of New Zealand and the simplicity of enjoying time on the road will undoubtedly be one of the most enjoyable experiences you will ever have.
However, it might be the opportunity to enjoy some of the best camping spots anywhere in the world that is the greatest enticement. The land of the long white cloud is renowned across the globe for its picturesque landscape and stunning vistas. Whether you enjoy some time at the beach or trekking a mountainside, you can rest assured of a blissful experience. And when caravanning your way around New Zealand, you will undoubtedly get the best opportunity to enjoy camping like never before.
With all this in mind, it’s time for us to now check out 10 of the best camping destinations in New Zealand.
1). Far North’s Spirits Bay Campsite
If you’re yearning for isolation, surrounded by beaches reminiscent of a tropical paradise, the Spirits Bay Campsite is the place to go. The campsite consists of a super-isolated pristine shelly beach washed by crystal turquoise water and stunning views of Cape Reinga. The actual campsite is located behind the dunes. If you’re lucky, you might find yourself completely alone on the beach. This is the perfect place to go to unwind and find peace.
2). Bay Of Islands
The Bay of Islands is another destination you should consider visiting as you explore New Zealand. To be specific, you should consider making camp in the Urupukapuka Bay Conservation Campsite and Matauri Bay Holiday Park. The Urupukapuka Bay Conservation Campsite is a stunning camping spot. It has everything you need to enjoy an overnight stay or for a weekend getaway.
On the other hand, Matauri Bay Holiday Park of better views of the ocean. As such, this beachfront campsite, which is located right next to the stunning Kauri Cliffs, is an ideal camping spot if you enjoy water sports and activities. The crystal clear waters provide campers with the perfect opportunity to fish, dive, or swim. Moreover, the surrounding landscape offers plenty of hiking opportunities.
3). Tawharanui Regional Park, Auckland
The Tawharanui Regional Park has a campsite next to stunning beaches. Notably, the campsite is located behind the dunes between Comet Rock and Phoenix Reef. While the campsite has stunning vistas and is a popular destination for caravans, the park is uncharacteristically quiet during the off-season, which gives you a chance to enjoy a quiet camping experience.
4). Franz Josef
While every campsite on this list has stunning vistas, nothing beats the majestic and dramatic, picturesque views of this glacier. The scenery surrounding the campsite is impressive and one of a kind. Additionally, the campsite is within walking distance of some amazing hiking trails. Additionally, you have access to skydiving, whitewater rafting, hot pools, helicopter rides, and as always some memorable glacier tours.
5). Rakaia Gorge Camping Ground, Mt. Hutt
The main drawing card of this camping site is the epic views of the Rakaia Gorge. However, it has a lot to offer aside from a serene and relaxing environment. The campsite is surrounded by hiking trails and opportunities for water sports, including jet boating and salmon fishing. Mt. Hutt is also nearby if you fancy mountain hiking. Moreover, the campsite is relatively close to Christchurch (a distance of 80 km), so it is the perfect destination for your first excursion when exploring the South Island.
6). Tauranga Bay Motor Camp
Tauranga Bay Motor Camp is another beachfront, powered camping destination and a caravan enthusiast’s favourite. You can set up your camping site right next to the beach, ensuring you wake up to the fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean.
During the day, you can take your expedition party to do some fishing, snorkelling, swimming, or strolling along the beach. You can also keep your eyes out for stunning wildlife. Tauranga Bay Holiday Park also offers ample opportunities for dolphin and penguin spotting. Finally, you could also visit Stephenson’s Island, a deserted island with beaches and bays you can explore.
7). Te Araroa Holiday Park
Te Araroa Holiday Park is a true hidden gem. It’s also a true garden paradise featuring rolling hills covered in stunning flora. Trees also dot the landscape in a spectacular display of what Mother Nature can create. Finally, the water bodies tie everything together. The ocean views are beautiful in the background, while the freshwater streams bring the aquatic elements even closer to you as you camp and explore nearby areas.
In a nutshell, this is one of the few camping destinations with numerous natural elements on offer, but very few people get to enjoy it. Take the plunge, make a camping stopover at Te Araroa Holiday Park, and enjoy East Cape’s famous sunrises.
8). Te Anau Holiday Park
The park and its campsite are located right on the shores of Lake Te Anau, which makes for a relaxing camping experience. Additionally, the majestic Kepler Mountains elevate the Te Anau Holiday Park camping experience to legendary status. Additionally, there are plenty of activities to engage in and enjoy. For instance, the nearby South Island Treasure Fiordland National Park is a must-visit. You could also explore the glow-worm caves and finish your excursions by exploring the Oneroa Falls.
9). Waikahoa Bay Campsite
Located in Mimiwhangata, this is another beachfront campsite. There are plenty of pohutukawa trees for shading during those hot days while the cool breeze keeps you fresh throughout the day. And with the beach right next to the campsite, you must experience swimming, kayaking, diving, and trekking along the beach.
10). Glendhu Bay Motor Camp
This motor camp is a natural paradise. The camp is covered in a lush green forest, and the vistas consist of a snow-capped mountain. The environment is pristine and untouched, which is unique in modern times. Additionally, there are plenty of activities to engage in or near the camp, including mountain climbing.
Final Thoughts
As you traverse New Zealand, plenty of camping destinations will enhance your experience and make your trip more memorable. Pick and choose the top camping destinations discussed above and enjoy your epic caravan trip around New Zealand.
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