Right in the heart of Waitomo Village, very close to the caves, this park offers amphitheatre-style camping across a series of large sunny terraces. A bar and cafe/restaurant is on-site, with the main village amenities just across the road. The central, modern, facilities block enjoys a pleasant rural valley outlook with kitchen/dining/TV room opening out to a shady BBQ terrace. Immaculate ablutions include a disabled access/family suite. Extras include an internet room and wireless hotspot, SKY TV, reading room, trampoline, a superb swimming pool (with hot tub) and a bright new playground. You can see all this without leaving home, on the park virtual tour website. As well as the world-famous caves, there are bushwalks and other scenic tourist attractions nearby. Your hosts, Julie and Bruce Tobeck, can assist you in booking these. An automatic laundry and dump point are provided. All sites cost from $22 per adult.

On the Hutt River in northern Upper Hutt, the Wellington Kiwi Holiday Park is ideal for relaxing and listening to the birdsong, or for outdoor activities. Trout fishing, bush walks, mountain biking on the world-class Karapoti circuit, and golfing are all nearby. Visit the Efil Doog gardens or Staglands Wildlife Reserve. Stay in one of the modern, clean motels, tourist flats or cabins or bring your tent or campervan and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.