Where Can I Camp?
Please stay in Holiday Parks, Department of Conservation Camping Grounds or Other Designated Areas
- Department of Conservation Campsites
- Conservation Campsite Pass
- Holiday Parks
- Top 10 Holiday Parks
- Kiwi Holiday Parks
- Family Parks NZ
- Camping in NZ
Freedom camping allows you to get off the beaten path and really explore New Zealand’s great outdoors while still enjoying the comforts of your vehicle. Freedom camping is available in designated areas for self‐contained vehicles only. All our campervans & motorhomes are certified self-contained by the NZMCA in accordance with NZ standards (NZS 5465:2001).
If you are a NZ resident you to can join the NZ Motor Caravan Association and get access to numerous camping places throughout the country with many being pet friendly.
Camping Apps
Campermate: this free New Zealand Travel app shows you nearby locations of everything you’ll need when travelling in a campervan from petrol stations to dump stations to camp sites to supermarkets. And if you have your pet on board, dog-friendly places to stay are also listed.
Campable: this app gives you access to unique campervan sites all over the country, by allowing motorhome travellers to stay on locals’ private property. Stay at vineyards, working farms, private clubs, resorts or beside the water. Book your motorhome adventure with ease on the app, check here if you have a pet.
Waste Disposal
Public dump stations for your waste disposal are found throughout the country (look for the motorhome symbol with an arrow underneath it) and also at campgrounds. Location sites are listed in the motorhomes, the camping apps provide the most up to date information so download one before you leave home.
Check out our Blog post on how to get rid of your waste.
Camping with Pets
Where can I stay?
There are quite a few camping options: many private camping grounds will let you have your pet stay, but always on a leash. Don’t assume dogs will be welcome, call ahead and ask.
Although most of the camping grounds run by the Department of Conservation will not allow you to bring pets, there are places where DOC will allow dogs on a leash. You can find out where via the DOC website. Learn more on our pet page
How to use your van
You'll find full instructions in your campervan on how to use the vehicle's facilities.
What works in your motorhome if you’re not plugged into power?
Power comes from the 12V house battery which is separate to the start (engine) battery. It is charged by the alternator of the motorhome while you are driving OR by the battery charger when you are plugged into mains power at a campground OR by the solar panel. This battery runs the lights, water pump, fridge (unless it’s on LPG), DVD player and USB ports. LPG runs the cooker and water heater and the central heating works with either LPG or Diesel. The microwave and power sockets for electrical equipment will only work when you are plugged into mains power at the campground.
Entertainment
LCD screens play DVD’s (you’ll find some on board) and have a USB input for an external hard drive. USB ports are also available for charging cell phones and laptops. 2 Berth campervans have portable DVD players.
