Camping the Kiwi Way, Autumn 2025
Cover image: Camp ovens ©2025 Graham Leslie
Sailing through the Waiheke Channel
Sailing through the Waiheke Channel on our way to the northern coast of Waiheke. The wind has finally turned to the south. Feb. ©2025 Graham Leslie
Camping at the museum
You can wander around and even have your dinner in the picturesque gardens that surround the museum buildings.
Wairere falls
Peace, tranquility, a chance to go for a walk to the waterfall, crystal hunting or even a swim makes it worthwhile.
Choosing your next camping vehicle is not always easy
After close to 30 years of camping, firstly with a NZ-made 1970’s classic caravan followed by a luxurious UK Bailey Senator, it was a hard choice to get a caravan that would meet our needs.
A shady spot to park
I pulled into Lowburn free camp on the shores of Lake Dunstan and found a shady spot to park.
First time on the ferry
As Mainlanders, living in Blenheim we decided, part way thru 2024, to try a ferry crossing with car and caravan and go to an APCNZ event in the North Island.
Fitting Auto levellers
I thought this would be the answer to the plastic drive up ramps many use.
Far from flat
Many not-to-be-missed freedom camping spots are far from flat. Pines, Lake Pukaki. ©2019 M Richardson
Camping at the Mohaka River Farm
We chose a spot right with a commanding view of the river and wind farm in the distance.
A good day’s camping starts with a thermette
A good day’s camping starts using a thermette to boil the water for coffee and for its small fire to then make toast.
Fireplace at Mangaweka
Fireplace at Mangaweka camp, riverside picnic area. ©2012 M Richardson
Self-containment warrant cards: Which ones are good for what?
But I am not freedom camping…
I’m just waiting to get a freedom camping fine as some official will decide that I’m camping when I’m actually parked using my RV as my means of transport, particularly in busy places like Queenstown, Tekapo or Wanaka.
Getting your camping vehicle certified
An independent national network for self-containment certification
Whisky Gully
Whisky Gully, Tapanui, Southland. Lovely views over the plains, and a great walk up the valley, and another through the bush.
The red lights?
It’s like having the glow of a camp fire, without the fire risk. A party for one!
Back on the boat (our caravan that floats)
It’s been nine years since we had a sailing holiday in our trailer yacht, Quasimodo.