CAMPING THE KIWI WAY

Marlborough / Canterbury; Donegal House, Kaikōura

Early in the year a camp for Matariki weekend was planned for Marlborough and Canterbury campers to meet up at Donegal House, Kaikōura.

We arrived on the Thursday to an almost spring-like day under the shadow of the snow-covered Kaikōura ranges. 

This is an historic homestead boasting 30 powered sites with water supply and a host of unpowered sites, just minutes out of Kaikōura. Its packed chip hardstand, pet friendly, with good ablution rooms.

Its in a very rural scenic setting with several small lakes, having an Irish-themed bar and restaurant with reasonably priced and generous meals. This is a Stop and Stay park over property.

Suffice to say those who attended enjoyed coffee, some drinks and food by the large open fire.

Friday was another fine day and later in the afternoon we gathered in a paddock to try chipping golf balls in closest to the pin and played quoits for prizes of bags of lollies. Some went to a close-by 9-hole golf course, others socialised in chat and coffee groups.

There was a local musician and a wedding to add to our entertainment over the weekend.

A little grey cloud cover and a few spots of rain didn’t really dampen the event on Saturday, and a good frost but fine day ushered in our final day on Sunday.

Another long weekend and reason to camp experienced and recorded in our log books. 🏕️

Photos ©2025 Marty Ireland

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