Stay
Where can I camp?
Please stay in Holiday Parks, Department of Conservation Camping Grounds or Other Designated Areas
Freedom Camping
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.
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.
Campermate
Travelling in an unknown area can be daunting, especially when you are running low on petrol. Take the stress out of travelling by using CamperMate, the free New Zealand Travel app that 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.
New Locations Added Daily
For almost three years, users of CamperMate have been geocaching new locations that aren’t on the database and adding them through the ‘Add a location’ button on the menu. This keeps the entire database growing to having New Zealand 100% covered!
Download CamperMate
Self-Contained Motorhomes
NZMCA self containment
We are members of this organisation which promotes clean, green, low impact motor homing throughout NZ. All of Coastal Campers motorhomes have attained self‐containment certificates from 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.
What works unplugged?
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 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 sockets for electrical equipment will only work when you are plugged into mains
power at the campground.
Campable
“The Campable app gives you access to unique campervan sites all over the country, by allowing motorhome travellers to stay on locals’ private property. Forget the tourist experience – this is the local, adventurous, salt of the earth experience.”
read more
- Stay on private property Access unique, private motorhome sites and stay on locals’ land
- Unique and luxury sites Stay at vineyards, working farms, private clubs, resorts and beside the water
- Trusted Hosts Relax knowing that your Hosts are secure and trusted. No uncertain freedom camping
- Book with ease Organise and book your motorhome adventure with ease on the Campable app
- Rules of Etiquette if you’re travelling with a pet
Waste Disposal
Camping with Pets
Where can I camp with my pet?
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 (coming soon)
Visitor Information
Banks
Banks are open Monday to Friday (except public holidays), 9.30am to 4.30pm. Automatic teller machines operate on a card PIN number system. Cash can be withdrawn 24 hours a day. Use of EFTPOS is common. Goods & Services Tax (GST) is 15% and is usually included in the advertised price.
Shopping
Shops are usually open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. Many will open on Saturday mornings and the bigger malls, retail chains & supermarkets are open on Sundays.
Petrol Stations
Petrol (gas) stations are often open 24 hours. They will all have diesel, some will have water and LPG bottle exchange.
Important Phone Numbers
Emergency services
Police, Fire or Ambulance – dial 111 (no charge)
Local operator 010
International operator 0170
NZ Directory assistance 018
International directory assistance 0172
National direct dialing full area code (with the 0 prefix) and local number
International direct dialing 00 followed by the country code
Health Info
Medical Centers
Medical centres are found in most towns and the bigger cities have hospitals & ER services. A chemist is the NZ term for a pharmacist or drug store. Their shops are open during normal business hours & most cities have urgent dispensaries open outside these hours, listed in the front of the telephone book under Hospitals.
Sunburn
Please be aware that ultraviolet radiation from the sun can be harsh. It is important to wear sunglasses, a hat and sunblock. The burn time between 11am & 3pm can be as little as 10 minutes, so seek shade or cover up during the middle of the day. Outdoor stores sell Rash tops which have built in sun protection & they are available for adults & children.
Insect bites
While NZ doesn’t have any dangerous wildlife, sandflies & mosquitoes can be annoying in some areas. Insect repellent will take care of them. No serious diseases are carried by them, though travellers from overseas may come out in itchy lumps in reaction to being bitten by them until they adapt. Wasps can be a nuisance in some areas, if allergic to their stings, carry medication.