CAMPING THE KIWI WAY

The Self-contained Motor Vehicles Legislation 2023 / revised Freedom Camping Act 2011 presents significant challenges for councils across New Zealand as they strive to comply.

Freedom van camping ©2023 Bette Cosgrove

Wintering in the North Island, I decided to explore hot pools, building my own short-list of pools for an annual safari each winter. Here’s my six favourites, so far.

If you have room for a pressure cooker when you are camping it provides a quick and efficient way to cook.

This is a very versatile and flexible recipe. You can make it up as a dry mix at home to take with you.

Can you fill in 12 place names from this list of DOC sites

This is a magical free stopover in a humble carpark, with entertainment built in.

The freedom camping spot on Lake Pukaki: Did I mention, I just can’t get enough of this place?

What makes a good first camp for new campers?

Whangarei: Beachside reserve with large flat grassy area and a boat ramp.

Bordering the Catlins and close to Curio Bay, Waikawa also boasts a popular fish and chip (‘chup’) wagon

Find a camping event you can participate in.

Articles related to government activity, and camping in action.

Fire circle on a still Autumn night. Magical. 
©2024 Bette Cosgrove

We enjoyed Autumn
The dangers of carbon monoxide
Composting and coddiwompling
RV businesses and services

Interesting way to launch boats. ©2023 Dave Adamson

Like many hobbies and interests you can keep it simple or get into it seriously.

Now it is winter most fire bans are off, though the lure of outdoor fire is not as strong.

The beauty of belonging to a camping group is we get to camp at amazing private venues.

Disposing of empty small LPG canisters, calculating the rear axle load for rear bicycle racks, iOverlander.

What is in store for us this winter.

A beautiful place for Autumn colours and snow on the mountains, yet surprisingly mild, at least this year.

What started out as a pay-for-what-you-need set of camper facilities has evolved.

Autumn snow behind Lake Wardel, a free camping spot near Twizel, McKenzie Country. ©2022 M Richardson

Understanding how to visualise the contour lines represent may help you to determine the terrain ahead.

Roads, weather, fire, electricity, LPG, CO, when walking

Recent news from the Department of Conservation

Places that provide poor-weather activities onsite or nearby.

For a leisurely trip from Alexandra to Cromwell, enjoy these freedom camping spots along the way.

Comfort Zone is one of those properties you will just want to keep coming back to.