Peace, tranquility, a chance to go for a walk to the waterfall, crystal hunting or even a swim makes it worthwhile.

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.

Fill in the spaces.

I pulled into Lowburn free camp on the shores of Lake Dunstan and found a shady spot to park.

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.

Canterbury, Waihora ©2025 Tony Knights. More p36

I thought this would be the answer to the plastic drive up ramps many use.

Many not-to-be-missed freedom camping spots are far from flat. Pines, Lake Pukaki. ©2019 M Richardson

We chose a spot right with a commanding view of the river and wind farm in the distance.

A good day’s camping starts using a thermette to boil the water for coffee and for its small fire to then make toast.

Be aware of the risks. Check fireweather.

Fireplace at Mangaweka camp, riverside picnic area. ©2012 M Richardson

I became aware of some shortcomings in the design

Roland made it to Campfest, Bulls, March.©2025 Jo Ward.

What you need to know about 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.

An independent national network for self-containment certification

The ‘caravan train’ at Kekerungu.

Whisky Gully, Tapanui, Southland. Lovely views over the plains, and a great walk up the valley, and another through the bush.

It’s like having the glow of a camp fire, without the fire risk. A party for one!

It’s been nine years since we had a sailing holiday in our trailer yacht, Quasimodo.

A lovely spot looking out over the beach towards St Clair. Dunedin allows freedom camping in non-reserve parking places. 
©2022 M Richardson

Camp ovens are designed for cooking on a fire, but they can also be used on gas burners. You can use a camp oven to cook everything from stews and curries to roasts, bread, cakes and puddings.

Hot cross buns, Lentil and eggplant stew with gnocchi, Pork and vegetables in hoisin sauce.

Citreon & pop-top at Lake Kaniere.

A mix of anticyclonic flows and easterly quarter flows are expected.

The togs never saw the light of day at this weekend’s camp at Fortrose.

My home for the next few weeks

Tuppence, Pirongia, Cafe 77, Manawaru, Rosie and Brian’s in Reporoa