This is a boat-in only campsite on the Whanganui Journey. There is no drive on access.
Located in Whanganui National Park in the Manawatu/Whanganui region.
In the Great Walks season (1 October – 30 April)
- Bookings are required
Outside the Great Walks season (1 May – 30 September)
- Bookings are not required - first come, first served
Fires are not permitted at any time. See fire rules on conservation land.
Free!!
Mangatutu Hot Springs is a popular camping, picnic and fishing spot, and a starting point for tramping, hunting or day walks up the Mohaka River and further into the Kaweka Forest Park. There are barbecues, picnic tables and toilets located in secluded clearings among the manuka surrounds, and there are access tracks descending to the Mohaka River. The main feature here is the thermal springs. Thermal water issues from a deep, undercut, steaming hole on the top terrace. The water trickles down a riverside bluff and after a short way is channeled into two pools.
Bookings not required - first come, first served.
Mangawaiiti Campsite
In the Great Walks season (1 October – 30 April)
Adult (18 years and over): $16 per night
Child (under 17 years): free but booking still required
Outside the Great Walks season (1 May – 30 September)
Adult (18 years and over): $8
Child (under 17 years): free
The DOC Campsite Pass cannot be used at this campsite.
Campsite located in Whanganui National Park in the Manawatu/Whanganui region.
This is a boat-in only campsite on the Whanganui Journey. There is no drive on access. In this remote setting, you will be able to look and listen for kereru, tui and fantail, while brown kiwi can often be heard at night. The forest is a mix of rata, rewarewa, rimu, tawa and kowhai trees.
In the Great Walks season (1 October – 30 April)
- Bookings are required
Outside the Great Walks season (1 May – 30 September)
- Bookings are not required - first come, first served
Fires are not permitted at any time. See fire rules on conservation land.
Alerts Modified Date: 2024-3-28 > Predator control for Southern Ruapehu
Adult (18+ years): $15 per night
Child (5–17 years): $7.50 per night
Infant (0–4 years): free
Pay online at the time of booking
Passes
The DOC Campsite Pass can be used at this campsite.
Campsite Pass bookings must be booked online before occupying a site. If you do not pre-book, bookings may be made by campground staff (if present) and will incur a $10 service charge.
Camp in the forest on the flanks of Mount Ruapehu; a good base for exploring Tongariro National Park.
Bookings required.
Located in Tongariro National Park in the Central North Island region.
Number of tent sites - 20 This is a large campsite. Explore the Lewis Pass area from here. There is a short walk to the sluice box, or follow the Lake Daniell Track. There are natural hot pools on both sides of Lewis Pass.
Number of tent sites - 60 non-powered/tent sites beside a gravel beach not far from Lake Grassmere Salt Works. Fish, boat or walk from here.
Fires are not permitted at any time.
At the southern end of the town shops, look for the ‘Beach Access’ sign and
drive down a short, bumpy, gravel access road to this lovely beach reserve. In
a lovely setting between the sea and the lagoon, on slightly undulating land, is
this popular campground offering a very relaxed style of camping. There are 80
non powered sites, the wringer-plus-tub outdoor laundries are an adventure in
themselves. The single, metered, hot shower provides a central social spot (in
the queue!) on camp mornings, with the boiler being fed by paper from the
camp’s recycling programme. There are also flush toilets and basins for each
sex with 2 new toilets have been built.
Bookings are required.
Additional fees
There is a $3 charge per booking to cover waste disposal.
Fires are not permitted at any time. See fire rules on conservation land.
Adult (18+ years): $15 per night
Child (5–17 years): $7.50 per night
Infant (0 - 4 years): free
Additional fees
There is a $3 charge per booking to cover waste disposal.
Passes
The DOC Campsite Pass can be used at this campsite.
This is a family campsite in a coastal setting with excellent fishing and swimming next to the Matatā wildlife refuge. No dogs are allowed.
Located in Matatā area in the Bay of Plenty region.
Matiu/Somes Island Scientific and Historic Reserve is a tranquil retreat for wildlife and visitors alike. Maori have occupied this island for generations. In more recent times, Matiu/Somes Island has served as a human and animal quarantine station, an internment camp, and a military defence position. Thanks to the dedication of numerous individuals, groups and organisations, such as the Lower Hutt branch of Forest and Bird, Matiu/Somes Island Charitable Trust, Friends of Matiu/Somes and Eastbourne Forest Rangers, Matiu/Somes Island once again represents a refuge, this time for wildlife and our cultural heritage.
Fires permitted in designated fire places and only if there is no fire ban. Check rules and fire bans before you light.
Adult (18+ years): $10 per night
Child (5–17 years): $5 per night
Infant (0–4 years): free
Passes
The DOC Campsite Pass can be used at this campsite.
Mavora Lakes Campsite has two main (standard) camping areas: one alongside South Mavora Lake, and the other between South Mavora Lake and North Mavora Lake.
Look out for robins and falcons. Walk, tramp, mountain bike or go trout fishing.
Possible during summer between Labour Weekend and Easter. Contact the Tuhua Trust Board for details.
Tuhua (Mayor Island) is a wildlife refuge and is administered by the Tuhua (Mayor Island) Board of Trustees. Opportunities to enjoy the island's unique character and wildlife must be pre-arranged.
It's possible to stay at Tuhua during summer between Labour Weekend and Easter. Accommodation must be booked in advance, contact the Tuhua Trust Board.
Number of tent sites - 20 non-powered
Number of tent sites - 20 (bookings not required - first come - first served) Easily accessible campsite. Boat, trout fish or swim in the lake.
Alerts Modified Date: 2024-3-28 > Bowen Falls Walk closed > Predator control for Eglinton Valley > Routeburn Classic Adventure Trail Run 20 April > Predator control for Clinton, Arthur and Cleddau valleys > Be prepared for stinging nettle on Lake Marian Track > Mackay Creek Campsite permanently closed > The Chasm Walk open with changes
Please note that freedom camping (within 200m of the road) is not allowed on the Milford Road.
Along the Milford Road (between Te Anau and The Divide) you can stay at one of ten DOC camping areas. These are in picturesque spots beside bush, rivers and lakes, often with opportunities for bush walks or trout fishing nearby. Most have fire places, picnic tables, toilets and access to river water, and are very reasonably priced (take cash for self registration). Please note that freedom camping (within 200m of the road) is not allowed on the Milford Road.
Free
Picturesque, remote campsite near the head of Mill Arm with well formed flat campsites and stunning views. Good fishing, hunting and tramping nearby.
Free to camp here.
Located in Mount Richmond Forest Park in the Marlborough region.
Forestry operations in the area can close roads into Mount Richmond Forest Park. Check the status of roads into Mount Richmond Forest Park.
Mistletoe Flats Campsite
Fires are not permitted at any time. See fire rules on conservation land.
Adult (18+ years): $10 per night
Child (5–17 years): $5 per
Infant (0 - 4 years): free
Pay online at the time of booking.
Passes
The DOC Campsite Pass can be used at this campsite.
This campsite is set in a landscape of beech forest, tussock and rugged mountains with mountain biking nearby.
During winter this alpine area may be covered in snow, making access difficult.
Located in Craigieburn Forest Park in the Canterbury region.
Alerts Modified Date: 2024-3-28 > Te Urewera alerts
Number of tent sites - 40 Between native bush and the lake, this large grassy site is perfect for a range of activities. 1.5 km from Mokau Falls
Alerts Modified Date: 2024-3-28 > Acheron Road – Easter re-opening > Possum control for Molesworth Recreation Reserve > Molesworth wilding conifer control > Molesworth Recreation Reserve elevated fire risk > Possum control operation in Upper Wairau – Rainbow area
Molesworth Station is New Zealand's largest farm park.
You can camp near the original cobb homestead built in 1885 close to the Molesworth Farm Park boundary.
Drive or cycle along the road and fish in the river.
Walking and tramping
Access and activities in Molesworth Recreation Reserve are managed by a permit system. Find out when you need a permit for walking and tramping in Molesworth.
5 non-powered/tent sites
Bookings not required - first come, first served
Enjoy this peaceful campsite beside Lake Monowai. Explore the tracks to Rodger Inlet and Green Lake huts, or go fishing or boating.
Alerts Modified Date: 2024-3-28 > Torrent Bay bridge replacement
Reach this beachside campsite on the Abel Tasman Coast Track by private boat. There is no drive-in or walk-in access.
Located in Abel Tasman National Park in the Nelson/Tasman region.
The Motuihe campsite is divided into five different areas, or 'pods': Confidence Site (3 tent sites), on the western side of the sealed road, 25m uphill from the toilet block. Parade Ground (28 tent sites), on the headland above wharf road. Follow the timber box steps 100m west of the toilet block. Captain Camping (8 tent sites), located at the end of the sealed road, uphill and to the left (325m). Puriri Ridge (5 tent sites), south of the sealed road amongst the puriri trees. Go uphill and around to the left (250m). Range Site (5 tent sites), south of the water tank tower. Go left off the sealed road (375m).
35 non-powered/tent sites (bookings required)
An island sanctuary for native flora and fauna, the camp is near a Māori historic site and early European settlement.
- Total campground capacity: 36 people – 20 sites
Fees
- Adult (18+ years): $8 per night
- Child (5 - 17 years): $4 per night
- Infant (0 - 4 years): free
Fees from 1 July 2022
- Adult (18+ years): $10 per night
- Child (5–17 years): $5 per
- Infant (0 - 4 years): free
Passes
The DOC Campsite Pass can be used at this campsite.
Campsite Pass bookings must be booked online before occupying a site. If you do not pre-book, bookings may be made by campground staff (if present) and will incur a $10 service charge.
Note there are biosecurity requirements for DOC campsite.
Number of tent sites - 20 A quiet campsite on the eastern flank of the Hunter Hills. 3.5 km forest walk from camp to podocarp forest remnant.
Fires permitted in designated fire places and only if there is no fire ban. Check rules and fire bans before you light.
Alerts Modified Date: 2024-3-28 > Prohibited fire season for Abel Tasman National Park > Torrent Bay bridge replacement
1 October – 30 April
New Zealand citizens and those ordinarily resident in New Zealand:
Adult (18+ years): $16 per person, per night
Child (17 years and under): Free but booking still required
International visitors:
Adult (18+ years): $24 per person, per night
Child (17 years and under): $12 person, per night
1 May – 30 September
For all visitors:
Adult (18+ years): $16 person, per night
Child (17 years and under): Free
Walk-in or boat-in to this beachside campsite on the Waiharakeke to Whariwharangi section of the Abel Tasman Coast Track. There is no drive on access.
Bookings required.
Located in Abel Tasman National Park in the Nelson/Tasman region.
This attractive campground is set in an old gold mining area full of exploration
opportunities. The Nelson Creek village includes a store, hotel and pottery
shop on a terrace immediately above the camping and recreation area. The
campground is next to the creek, where you can go gold panning and has
numerous sheltered campsites. You will find clean toilets, children's play
equipment, including a flying fox, BBQs, picnic tables, running water and a
swimming hole. A track leads through a tunnel and over a swing bridge to a
number of interesting short bush walks. Worth seeing as it has been intensively
mined with tunnels, tailraces and hand-stacked tailings. A wheelchair accessible
track is easily reached by road and a gold-panning area is signposted. Cost is $7 per adult a night, Child 0-16 years $3; $18 per family (up to 4 children).
The hotel over the road has showers available.
Alerts Modified Date: 2024-3-28 > Gordons Knob wilding conifer control operation
Nelson Lakes National Park (established in 1956) is situated in the north of New Zealand's South Island. This park protects 102,000 hectares of the northern most Southern Alps. The park offers tranquil beech forest, craggy mountains, clear streams and lakes both big and small.
Number of tent sites - 16 Camp near a stream, beside lush forest. Walk the Totara track and to the Forest Tower. Scenic drives or biking, tramping and hunting.
Alerts Modified Date: 2024-3-28 > Mangapurua and Kaiwhakauka Track conditions
In the Great Walks season (1 October – 30 April)
Adult (18 years and over): $16 per night
Child (under 17 years): free but booking still required
Outside the Great Walks season (1 May – 30 September)
Adult (18 years and over): $8
Child (under 17 years): free
This is a boat-in only campsite on the Whanganui Journey. There is no drive on access.
In the Great Walks season (1 October – 30 April)
- Bookings are required
Outside the Great Walks season (1 May – 30 September)
- Bookings are not required - first come, first served
Located in Whanganui National Park in the Manawatu/Whanganui region.
Fires are not permitted at any time. See fire rules on conservation land.
Payment with a DOC Campsite Pass is preferred. Otherwise, pay your fees with cash at the self-registration stand at the campsite or to the camp warden if present. Put the correct fee in the envelope provided and place the receipt section of the envelope on your vehicle or tent.
Adult (18+ years): $6 per night
Child (5 - 17 years): $3 per night
Infant (0 - 4 years): free
Located in Queen Charlotte Sound/Tōtaranui area in the Marlborough region.
An isolated campsite with water-based activities for those who want to get away from it all.
Bookings not required - first come, first served.
Campsite fees
In the Great Walks season (1 October – 30 April)
New Zealand citizens and those ordinarily resident in New Zealand*:
Adult (18+ years): $16 per person, per night
Child (17 years and under): free but booking still required
International visitors:
Adult (18+ years): $24 per person, per night
Child (17 years and under): $12 per person, per night
Proof of eligibility is required for the New Zealand rate.
This is a basic Great Walk campsite on Stewart Island/Rakiura. It is a short distance from North Arm Hut and is surrounded by forest.
Located in Stewart Island/Rakiura hunting and Rakiura National Park and Stewart Island/Rakiura in the Southland region.
Fires are not permitted at any time. See fire rules on conservation land.
Payment with a DOC Campsite Pass is preferred. Otherwise, pay your fees with cash at the self-registration stand at the campsite or to the camp warden if present. Put the correct fee in the envelope provided and place the receipt section of the envelope on your vehicle or tent.
Adult (18+ years): $6 per night
Child (5 - 17 years): $3 per night
Infant (0 - 4 years): free
Located in a sheltered, scenic bay with opportunities for walking, biking and boating.
Located in Pelorus Sound/Te Hoiere and Kenepuru Sound area in the Marlborough region.
Alerts Modified Date: 2024-3-4 > Prohibited fire season for Abel Tasman National Park > Torrent Bay bridge replacement
1 October – 30 April
New Zealand citizens and those ordinarily resident in New Zealand:
Adult (18+ years): $16 per person, per night
Child (17 years and under): Free but booking still required
International visitors:
Adult (18+ years): $24 per person, per night
Child (17 years and under): $12 person, per night
1 May – 30 September
For all visitors:
Adult (18+ years): $16 person, per night
Child (17 years and under): Free
Visit this beachside campsite on the Tinline to Anchorage section of the Abel Tasman Coast Track.
Located in Abel Tasman National Park in the Nelson/Tasman region.
In the Great Walks season (1 October – 30 April )
Adult (18 years and over): $16 per night
Child (under 17 years): free but booking still required
Outside the Great Walks season (1 May – 30 September)
Adult (18 years and over): $8
Child (under 17 years): free
The DOC Campsite Pass cannot be used at this campsite.
This is a boat-in only campsite on the Whanganui Journey. There is no drive on access.
In the Great Walks season (1 October – 30 April)
- Bookings are required
Outside the Great Walks season (1 May – 30 September)
- Bookings are not required - first come, first served
Located in Whanganui National Park in the Manawatu/Whanganui region.
Number of tent sites - 36 Camp in a remote setting. This is one of four road access points to the Whanganui Journey. Look and listen for kereru, tui and fantail. Brown kiwi can often be heard at night. The forest is a mix of rata, rewarewa, rimu, tawa, and kowhai trees.
Fires permitted in designated fire places and only if there is no fire ban. Check rules and fire bans before you light.
Free to camp.
There are two sites to camp on Okahu Road, the road end and the larger mid-Okahu camp (formerly known as Grader Camp). The camps are on grass terraces adjacent to Okahu Stream. The areas kahikatea trees were extensively logged and now podocarp are regenerating. Good picnicking and walking in the forest.
Bookings not required - first come, first served.
Located in Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park in the East Coast region.
Alerts Modified Date: 2024-3-4 > Te Urewera alerts
Number of tent sites - 40 Camp in the Waimana Valley, cycle along the road, swim, fish, walk through the park, or relax beside the river. Access to Otamatuna Core Area. Lots of birds to watch. Take your binoculars.
Alerts Modified Date: 2024-3-4 > Iron Ranger closed
Number of tent sites - 50. This campsite is set in a remnant podocarp forest. The start of the Wakamarina tramping track is 8 km away.
1 October – 30 April
New Zealand citizens and those ordinarily resident in New Zealand:
Adult (18+ years): $16 per person, per night
Child (17 years and under): Free but booking still required
International visitors:
Adult (18+ years): $24 per person, per night
Child (17 years and under): $12 person, per night
1 May – 30 September
For all visitors:
Adult (18+ years): $16 person, per night
Child (17 years and under): Free
Walk-in or boat-in to this beachside campsite on the Mosquito Bay to Awaroa section of the Abel Tasman Coast Track. There is no drive on access.
Located in Abel Tasman National Park in the Nelson/Tasman region.
Alerts Modified Date: 2024-3-28 > Te Urewera alerts
Number of tent sites - 10. Camp in a remote setting north of Te Taita O Makora campsite, and go hunting, walking or fishing.
Alerts Modified Date: 2024-3-28 > Ōtaki Gorge Road closed to vehicles and pedestrians > Ōtaki Forks Campsite closed > Bridge maintenance between Waitewaewae and Waiotauru Hut sites
150 camp sites Open October long weekend till Easter Open river terraces and regenerating bush surround the campsite reflecting the farming, mining and sawmilling history of the area. There are short walks to pioneering era relics. Some harder tramping tracks start here. The river offers swimming, white water kayaking and trout fishing.
Fires are not permitted at any time. See fire rules on conservation land.
Camp in a beach-front setting with large pōhutukawa trees for shade. Relax on the beach or walk along the coast.
Bookings required.
Located in Whananaki area in the Northland region.
Fires are not permitted at any time. See fire rules on conservation land.
Alerts Modified Date: 2024-3-4 > Te Paki Recreation Reserve closures
Free!
Camp in a picturesque setting in beautiful Pandora bay. Only accessible on foot and with minimal facilities, this is the spot for those seeking a true wilderness experience.
Bookings not required - first come, first served
Located in Te Paki Recreation Reserve in the Northland region
Fires are not permitted at any time. See fire rules on conservation land.
This is a standard campsite in the Coastal Otago area on the Catlins coast is nestled in the bush. It has easy access to the beautiful beach and estuary at Papatowai, and there are short walks nearby.
Located in Catlins coastal area in the Otago region.
Fires are not permitted at any time. See the fire rules on conservation land.
47 non-powered/tent sites; 34 powered sites
This campsite has campsites and cabins. It is a serviced DOC campsite.
Seasonal restrictions
This campground is closed from May to mid-October each year. During this period the adjoining Clarke Flat is opened as a standard campsite.
Alerts Modified Date: 2024-3-28 > Pelorus Bridge Campground washing machine unavailable
A stunningly beautiful spot amongst mature native forest, since last century Pelorus Bridge has been a popular stopover point for travellers between Marlborough and Nelson. Set over two camping areas, the main one being Kahikatea Flat, a delightful enclave with lawn tent sites, surrounded by native bush and the Pelorus River on one side. A new building houses kitchen and dining, shower and full laundry facilities, while the large deck provides delightful outside dining. The office and cafe are both at this site so you will need to check in here. On the opposite side of the river, down Mangatapu Road, is the second camping spot where there are 14 power sites, toilets and hot showers. No pets at either camp please. These busy and attractive camps are right next to the beautiful Pelorus River, great for swimming, trout fishing and boating. Paula and John are your friendly hosts here, and the price is $15 each for a night, children are only $7.50
Fires are not permitted at any time. See fire rules on conservation land.
Alerts Modified Date: 2024-3-28 > Pelorus Bridge Campground washing machine unavailable
40 non-powered/tent sites
14 powered sites
Camp on the banks of the Te Hoiere/Pelorus River amongst towering kahikatea, beech and rimu trees. Walk, swim, fish, kayak, relax.
Seasonal restrictions
- 27 December – 4 January: Minimum 3 night stay.
- 27 December – 11 January: Minimum fee per site is 2 adults regardless of age.
Located in Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve in the Marlborough region.
Fires are not permitted at any time. See fire rules on conservation land.
Free!!
This is a small campsite with a picturesque stream and stunning views to the mainland. Perfect for sea kayakers and boaties. The Catherine Cove Resort is nearby.
Bookings not required - first come, first served.
Located in French Pass and D'Urville Island Scenic Reserves in the Marlborough region.
In the Great Walks season (1 October – 30 April)
New Zealand citizens and those ordinarily resident in New Zealand*:
Adult (18+ years): $16 per person, per night
Child (17 years and under): free but booking still required
International visitors:
Adult (18+ years): $24 per person, per night
Child (17 years and under): $12 per person, per night
Proof of eligibility is required for the New Zealand rate.
This is a walk-in campsite on the Heaphy Track. Situated in the fold of Perry Saddle with high hills either side, it has an alpine feel, along with spectacular views.
Located in Kahurangi National Park in the Nelson/Tasman region.
This is a riverside campsite in a farmland area. There are walks and tramps from here or go horse riding, biking, hunting or on 4WD excursions.
50 non-powered/tent sites.
Dogs on a leash only.
Fees
- Adult (18+ years): $8 per night
- Child (5 - 17 years): $4 per night
- Infant (0 - 4 years): free
Pay cash on arrival at the self-registration stand at the campsite.
Number of tent sites - 40 This is an open but sheltered campsite. There are short walks nearby and historic relics to be seen.
This campsite marks the mid-point of the Timber Trail and easy access to the Maramataha suspension bridge. Use the campsite as a base to explore the forest roads by car or mountain bike. Go hunting for red deer.
Number of tent sites - 16.
Bookings not required - first come, first served.
Fires permitted in designated fire places and only if there is no fire ban. Check rules and fire bans before you light.