My ride from Rangiora around the South Island had been interrupted near Hokitika, but I was determined to restart it.
I chose to do that at Sheffield and head west from there over Porters and Arthurs Pass.

Time to start heading back south after weeks cycling. Bike packed for this afternoon’s bus trip. ©2024 Stephen Wood

Just met a 75 year old lady on an electric folding bike in the middle of nowhere. ©2024 Stephen Wood

Staying in Oamaru after attending a cycle event at the Waimate velodrome organised by the Oamaru Ordinary Cycle Club.

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There is a cassette toilet in that beautifully crafted cabinet.

North Island. South Island. Free, low cost and paid.

Places that provide poor-weather activities onsite or nearby.

What makes a good first camp for new campers?

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

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

I wanted to share some photos from my travels around the South Island last winter. I do love the winter down here, with lack of crowds and the snow on the mountains being two of my favourite things.

There are some great freedom camping spots around Whakamaru.

In short, I designed Fix-a-Potty™ for the campervan community to provide more affordable and compact toilet options, with the intention of helping everyone continue to enjoy all that New Zealand has to offer.

Our story begins in December of 2022 shortly after the birth of our second child, we decided that now was as good of a time as any to dip our toes into the world of caravanning.

Yep, simple is good. Tony Dennerley

A storm over the DOC Homestead campsite near St Bathans, Central Otago. ©2023 Tony Kissel

And people wonder why I like camping.

It’s amazing what is out there to be seen when you are tucked up in bed

So far I’ve had gale force winds and 30mm rain in the last 24 hours…

Setting up my tent this weekend I noticed about a dozen little holes in the roof.

Slept in it last night on the lounge floor with all the windows open.

A nice relaxing weekend at one of my favourite spots, Temple Stream DOC Campsite.

Lake Ohau. A tad chilly in the mornings.

I was going to walk to the end of the valley but I forgot to pack my tramping boots, the avalanche warning signs kind of put me off as well. Temple Valley. ©2025 Tony Kissel

My home for the next few weeks

South Arm, Lake Manapouri, in March. DOC. Tony Kissel

I’ve been enjoying a few days away at one of my favourite spots, The Homestead Campsite near Saint Bathans.

Ruataniwha Conservation Park.

An elephant seal down in the harbour this afternoon. ©2024 Tony Kissel