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.

As the name suggests, this is an inner city haven against the vagaries of the
Wellington wind and unpredictability of Interisland Ferry sailings. Situated at
the entrance to the suburb of Newlands and seven minutes from the central
city. Tucked in the corner at the rear of the motel are the 27 all weather
campervan-sites with a bush backdrop and extensive grassed area with picnic
tables. The amenities block houses a small modern kitchen with two islands
of hot plates and a microwave; a TV/dining room and bathrooms with two
showers (disabled access) and two toilets each. If you don’t feel like cooking,
pay a visit to the licensed restaurant/bar on-site. A dump station is provided.
There are no tent sites here.

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.

Though Byron’s Resort Motels & Campground is just a one hour drive from Wellington, you’ll feel like the city and its stress is worlds away.

Bring your Motorhome or caravan or tent and your family and friends, and stay in our large camping ground. Our camp sites are separated by pretty hedges that offer privacy between camp sites.

Catchpool Valley is the most popular entrance to Remutaka Forest Park. It includes Orongorongo Valley and its booked huts with walks for all ages and fitness levels.

Take the Petone exit off SHwy 2 and follow the blue TransitNZ camp signs.
Don’t be put off by the industrial suburb approach to this camp, as the
immaculate grounds are shaded by established pohutakawa trees and have
views of the bush-clad ranges. There are both grass and hardstand sites for
mobile homes,125 powered sites and 60 tent sites. Spacious grounds boast
a well-equipped adventure playground with a huge jumping pillow for the kids.

There are 3 good kitchens with dining halls and fridge lockers that can be hired.
Amenities include spacious toilets, showers and disabled access facilities, with
2 family bathrooms and 3 coin-operated automatic laundries. Along with
the spa, Sky TV room and new outdoor BBQ area, the games room will be a
hit with the kids, with a pool table, air hockey, table tennis, video game arcade
machines and internet access. This should keep happy campers entertained
for hours. A dump station is provided. Your hosts are Allen and Sue. All
sites are $50 for two people, $20 each extra person. There is a $35 minimum
site charge.

Putangirua Pinnacles Scenic Reserve is 13 km along Cape Palliser Road from the Lake Ferry turn-off, approximately one hours drive from Martinborough. The turn-off and campsite are 500 metres past the Department of Conservation Te Kopi Homestead and Cottage.

Just north of Upper Hutt, take the second entrance into the Park. Here you_ll find a wonderful campsite full of lovely trees and lots of sheltered space on grassy flats for campers. The sparkling Pakuratahi River loops around the camp for family swimming. A great wilderness experience so close to the city. Walk the Ridge Track for wonderful views of the Upper Hutt valley, or visit the magical spot used as a set for Rivendell in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Two roofed BBQ/dining areas are adjacent to the toilet blocks. Facilities are cold water only. Apart from the free BBQs and sinks, campers need to be self-sufficient. The ranger_s office is on-site and gates close at dusk. Camping costs $ 6per adult, $3 per child Cash or Cheque only please.

Mawley Park, at the northern end of Masterton, occupies an attractive location
on the banks of the Waipoua River (with good swimming holes). The 15 acre,
sheltered grounds are tidy with large trees and plenty of space for the 200
or so tent sites and 54 powered sites. A BBQ shelter has cooking facillities.
The camping areas are grouped in separate sections with sealed road access
and brand new unisex individual ablutions serving each area (these include
disabled access facilities). The park has had a major refurbishment with a lot
of thought been put into what makes a place nice. There’s a large dining hall
with highchairs, a TV and a separate comfortable and modern TV lounge. The
kitchen has gas hobs and is very modern and well equipped. A supermarket
is nearby and QE11 Park is across the road for the kids, whilst there are also a
few small pieces of play equipment to keep the kids amused onsite. A DVD
Library and local information is available at the office. Free washing machines
and $2 dryer are part of the laundry. A dump station is provided. Powered sites $38 for 2, unpowered $36 for 2. Your friendly and enthusiastic hosts are
Rodney and Jelena Algie.

A great little friendly camp in vineyard country! The camp layout and new rustic-inspired amenities complex, complement the surrounding vines and village atmosphere. It is an easy walk to the numerous wineries, shops, caf_s and restaurants of the town centre and the town pool is right next door! Camp under the trees and enjoy the modern kitchen with gas BBQ, deck, lounge, laundry and shower block. Hire a bike to cruise the vineyards. There are 20 powered sites and room for about 20 tents with a dump station provided. A play area for young children has been built, and a petanque court for the Mum_s and Dads. All sites are from $20 per person and $12 for children. Seasonal and special event rates apply. Your hosts are Frank and Lisa.