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  • st-kilda

    11 autumn 2025 Autumn 2025 ISSUE 11 BUY PDF ToC Click on image for full view and caption St Kilda, Dunedin A lovely spot looking out over the beach towards St Clair. Dunedin allows freedom camping in non-reserve parking places. ©2025 M Richardson St Kilda, Dunedin A lovely spot looking out over the beach towards St Clair. Dunedin allows freedom camping in non-reserve parking places. ©2025 M Richardson GO TO Here & there last summer St Kilda, Dunedin M Richardson A lovely spot looking out over the beach towards St Clair. Dunedin allows freedom camping in non-reserve parking places. ©2022 M Richardson Up Up 11 Autumn 2025 , p 11

  • Summer in New Zealand, 2024-25.

    Stories from summer campers around New Zealand. Autumn 2025 ISSUE 11 CONTENTS PDF BUY TOC Here and there last summer The Pigroot SH85 Rabbit holes, rugby field, quirky goal posts Read More Camping at CampFest CampFest, Bulls. February. ©2025 Jo Ward. Read More 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 Read More Wairere falls Peace, tranquility, a chance to go for a walk to the waterfall, crystal hunting or even a swim makes it worthwhile. Read More A shady spot to park I pulled into Lowburn free camp on the shores of Lake Dunstan and found a shady spot to park. Read More Canterbury, Waihora Canterbury, Waihora ©2025 Tony Knights. More p36 Read More The ‘caravan train’ at Kekerungu. The ‘caravan train’ at Kekerungu. Read More Whisky Gully Whisky Gully, Tapanui, Southland. Lovely views over the plains, and a great walk up the valley, and another through the bush. Read More The red lights? It’s like having the glow of a camp fire, without the fire risk. A party for one! Read More St Kilda, Dunedin A lovely spot looking out over the beach towards St Clair. Dunedin allows freedom camping in non-reserve parking places. 
©2022 M Richardson Read More On the first day it rained and blew The togs never saw the light of day at this weekend’s camp at Fortrose. Read More Late Summer journey: Southland & West Coast My home for the next few weeks Read More Nugget Point lighthouse Here is a photo of the Nugget Point lighthouse. As we saw it today. March 6. ©2025 Dave Adamson Read More Interesting and tempting to purchase! Running off a cordless drill Read More Luxury camping Camping at CampFest. ©2025 Jo Ward Read More The cracks kept coming It wasn’t the best week as we had such bad weather Read More Woke to fog Where’s summer? Crazy. Yesterday it was 28° here, I melted. Read More A night at Ferry Reserve A night at Ferry Reserve on our way to Morisons Bush. ©2025 Wayne Ravelich Read More Bedtime Bubbles Bedtime Bubbles & wash in Kaiapoi for my wee mate after 57 nights on the road without a bath. ©2025 Andrew Morton Read More Late summer fishing Late summer fishing at the Ōtaki River Mouth free camp. February 2025. ©2025 M Richardson Read More

  • Camping the Kiwi Way, Issue 11, Autumn 2025

    A magazine by and for campers in New Zealand Autumn 2025 Select which topic to show ISSUE 11 BUY PDF ToC Camping the Kiwi Way, Autumn 2025 Table of contents Editorial Come camping Stop and Stay Contribute About Cover image: Camp ovens ©2025 Graham Leslie Read More Here and there last summer Stories around the country. Read More The Pigroot SH85 Rabbit holes, rugby field, quirky goal posts Read More Adventure in Te Aroha The town has two freedom camps. Read More Op shop finds Op Shop finds, Te Aroha. ©2025 M Richardson Read More Camping at CampFest CampFest, Bulls. February. ©2025 Jo Ward. Read More 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 Read More Camping at the museum You can wander around and even have your dinner in the picturesque gardens that surround the museum buildings. Read More Wairere falls Peace, tranquility, a chance to go for a walk to the waterfall, crystal hunting or even a swim makes it worthwhile. Read More 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. Read More GAME: DOC campsites 5: Upper South Island Fill in the spaces. Read More A shady spot to park I pulled into Lowburn free camp on the shores of Lake Dunstan and found a shady spot to park. Read More 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. Read More Canterbury, Waihora Canterbury, Waihora ©2025 Tony Knights. More p36 Read More Fitting Auto levellers I thought this would be the answer to the plastic drive up ramps many use. Read More Far from flat Many not-to-be-missed freedom camping spots are far from flat. Pines, Lake Pukaki. ©2019 M Richardson Read More Camping at the Mohaka River Farm We chose a spot right with a commanding view of the river and wind farm in the distance. Read More 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. Read More Before you light a fire Be aware of the risks. Check fireweather. Read More Fireplace at Mangaweka Fireplace at Mangaweka camp, riverside picnic area. ©2012 M Richardson Read More Re-building my Toyota van part 2 I became aware of some shortcomings in the design Read More Made it to Campfest Roland made it to Campfest, Bulls, March.©2025 Jo Ward. Read More Freedom camping: need to know, 2025 What you need to know about freedom camping. Read More Self-containment warrant cards: Which ones are good for what? Read More 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. Read More Getting your camping vehicle certified An independent national network for self-containment certification Read More The ‘caravan train’ at Kekerungu. The ‘caravan train’ at Kekerungu. Read More Whisky Gully Whisky Gully, Tapanui, Southland. Lovely views over the plains, and a great walk up the valley, and another through the bush. Read More The red lights? It’s like having the glow of a camp fire, without the fire risk. A party for one! Read More Back on the boat (our caravan that floats) It’s been nine years since we had a sailing holiday in our trailer yacht, Quasimodo. Read More MORE

  • Camping the Kiwi Way, Issue 9, Spring 2024

    A magazine by and for campers in New Zealand Spring 2024 Choose which topics to show ISSUE 9 BUY PDF INDEX Camping the Kiwi Way, 9, Spring 2024 Table of contents Editorial Councils and government list Come camping Stop and Stay Contribute About Cover image: Steampunk. ©2024 Margarte Earle Read More Gourmet snag Q. What’s better than a gourmet snag on some fresh Turkish bread, with relish, cooked and eaten outdoors while freedom camping? Read More Steampunk— from north to south and back again “It’s a chance to get dressed up and have some have fun” in Oamaru and Thames. Read More Lake Pukaki Lake Pukaki in winter. I can’t get enough of this place. Freedom camping! ©2024 M Richardson Read More The re-build of my Toyota van When I built the van, I knew that sometime later I would have to upgrade it. Read More Ekatahuna Camping at the Eketahuna campground, April 2024 ©2024 Bette Cosgrove Read More The West Coast in winter One winter’s morning in June, my son and I spontaneously took the campervan on a road trip up the coast. Read More Solar basics for dummies Solar power for us campers is a simple process. All you need is a solar panel, a solar controller, and a battery. Read More Ready for sun Ready for sunbathing and a book. Morrisons Bush. ©2023 Bette Cosgrove Read More Converting your camper van: The Cruzar Campervan story We’d been converting campervans as a hobby for a few years and discovered we loved building and creating things together. Plus, we were tired of our dull 9–5 jobs… Read More Caravan at Whanganui Vintage weekend Vintage caravan at a Whanganui Vintage weekend 2024 ©2024 Margaret Earle Read More Towing your caravan — tips, tricks and weights Firstly, make sure your caravan is ready to move. Read More Buyer beware At the time of writing this, the caravan still sits empty, untouched in our back yard. We are in discussions with our lawyer. Read More Buying used caravans Unlike cars, a well-made caravan may last for decades with only minor areas that need attention. Read More Cautionary tyre tale Passing over a bit of road where the rumble strip had been removed but not filled in, my tyre got stuck in the rut and shredded. Read More A great great grandchild A multi-generation caravan and great great grandchild. ©2024 Bette Cosgrove Read More A night in an arboretum I filled the fridge, tossed in some clothes, a hot water bottle, the dog and hit the road Read More Beautiful obscure things When you are out camping you notice beautiful and obscure things. ©2024 Gary Hitchcock Read More A winter day on Farewell Spit Winter is not the best time to visit Farewell Spit from a bird point of view, but I was there, so I took the tour anyway, and it was spectacular. Read More Freedom camping Freedom van camping ©2023 Bette Cosgrove Read More On the shoulder of a god I had a great view of Mt Ngāuruhoe on my first day there, though it was invisible for the rest of my stay. Read More Whitebaiting Whitebaiting. Rakaia River Mouth ©2024 David Liddel Read More Campground at Opoutere Campground, Opoutere, Stop and Stay, Coromandel Read More It was freezing This winter was my first in the Otago cold— a bit of a learning curve. Read More Home roasted coffee beans Sitting under the awning, I enjoy a read or an ale while roasting coffee beans. Read More Lake Pukaki Lake Pukaki, freedom camping in Winter: I cant get enough of this place. Any season. ©2024 M Richardson Read More Freedom camping and self-containment Where are we at? At a government level, a council level, a certification level, at a camper level. Read More Developing an innovative camping toilet solution: Fix-a-Potty™ 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. Read More A new cassette toilet for small spaces: The making of the BlackMOA™ A response to a legislative challenge has brought us the compact, front-opening BlackMOA™ Cassette Toilet Read More Fix’n’Rail Due out late October, the Fix’n’Rail is a heavy duty sliding rail and secure bracket that lets you slide a portable toilet in and out of its storage area Read More MORE

  • Camping the Kiwi Way, Issue 3, Autumn 2023

    A magazine by and for campers in New Zealand Autumn 2023 Select which topics to show ISSUE 3 BUY PDF INDEX Camping the Kiwi Way, 3, Autumn 2023 Table of contents Editorial For councils and government Come camping Stop and Stay Contribute About Cover image: Morisons Bush ©2022 Margaret Earle Read More NZ is a camping culture NZ is a camping culture This makes us who we are, connects us to our environment like nothing else Read More 700 Campers at Kaitoke Kaitoke saw over 700 campers on Waitangi weekend. Read More Tautuku Hut Track: Family-friendly tramping in the Catlins Tautuku Hut is a lesser-known DOC hut in the Catlins. It is short and sweet, making it a great first overnight tramp for families. Myself and another mama picked this as our first overnight tramp with our babies. Read More Events Camping events on this Autumn Read More Festivals & Shows Festivals where you can stay, that are on this Autumn (and a bit beyond) Read More A beautiful country, but… Hold on a minute, we are campers and have most of the items required to survive the first few days of an emergency without outside assistance. Read More Our little escape pod We love our little caravan not just for holidays but for other emergency get-a-ways, should the situation call for it. Read More Vans can be SMALL but MIGHTY resources Vans can be SMALL but MIGHTY resources. Orange Sky are providing shower and laundry services to many in flood-affected areas right now. Read More Ten hours into a power cut Ten hours into a power cut with this cyclone .... THEN I remembered I've got full batteries in Mavis! Cheine Matheson Read More A storm over the DOC Homestead campsite A storm over the DOC Homestead campsite near St Bathans, Central Otago. ©2023 Tony Kissel Read More Along a sandy beach I rode on a trailer being towed along a long sandy beach. I squashed a few sandflies and went to bed blissfully happy each night. Read More HELLO 2023 I was invited to spend the New Year with friends at their crib at Papatowai. Read More Mavis bringing in the New Year Mavis bringing in the New Year at Pahoia Beach, Bay of Plenty. © 2023 Cheine Matheson Read More What’s in a name? Is freedom camping actually free? Who and how many are freedom camping? Read More Greymouth Star pinged Their title: “Freedom campers pinged”. A prime example of poor and emotive reporting. Read More Nowhere special Our trip to the Bridge to Nowhere, on the Whanganui river, will always be a special memory that I share with my 84 year old mother. Read More Small kayak camping I see a lot of really big setups on Facebook, so I thought I'd share my 'small' kayak camping setup for the weekend. Read More Simple is good Yep, simple is good. Tony Dennerley Read More Can the travelling camper save NZ's small rural communities? Smaller rural communities should be welcoming these thousands of travellers with open arms. Read More Pipiriki Eight days so far; 1300km in the car plus 216km on the mountain bike, and 45 days to go. Read More Why do I love camping so much? For me it's not the destination Read More Bulls: heading to CAMPFEST Where to stay if you are heading to or from Bulls. For CAMP FEST, or just to visit Bulls. Read More Camping and exploring in the Rangitikei Rangatikei spreads from the western white sand beaches through river escarpment up to the Central Plateau.
It is fed by two major State Highways, SH1 and SH3, three major river systems and part of Te Araroa — New Zealand’s Trail. Read More Want NZ? See Westport Want NZ? See Westport Read More SOG®: Fresh air in your toilet With an electrically powered ventilator, SOG removes odours coming from the toilet eliminating the need for toilet chemicals. Read More A great two weeks at Waihora Domain It was a great two weeks at Waihora Domain in Motukarara. Linda Butler. Read More Mavis at the Pahoia Beach Park Here's Mavis hosting the family at Pahoia Beach Park. A must visit place for animal lovers. Bay of Plenty. Cheine Matheson Read More The new Driftaway camping ground The new Driftaway camping ground at Frankton in Queenstown. I have stayed in a car, and in a tent. Dogs are welcome. There are bbqs, a playground, breathtaking views, swimming in the lake and a hot tub for adults. Read More South Arm, Lake Manapouri South Arm, Lake Manapouri, in March. DOC. Tony Kissel Read More MORE

  • Op shop finds | Camping the Kiwi Way

    Summer 2024 ISSUE 10 BUY PDF CONTENTS Issue 10, Summer 2024 Cover image: Waiorongomai Valley ©2024 Greg Lokes Editorial Come Camping Stop and Stay Contribute About TESTING DYNAMIC ISSUE 10 Table of contents Double-digit highways Next SH 32/41, West of Lake Taupo Next SH45 The Surf Coast Highway, Te Ika a Maui North Island Next SH60 Richmond to Collingwood, Tasman Next Butchers Dam aurora Next We got bogged: “Because it’d be funner,” he said Next And people wonder why I like camping Next Springing Next What a difference a day makes Next Waitaki first day Next Ōtaki Rivermouth Next NIWA summer forecast Next Camp Fest ‘25 Next All roads lead to Camp Fest Next I really like the Waiouru Army Museum Next Camping in Tairāwhiti this summer Next Freedom camping news Next Self-containment warrant cards: Which ones are valid? Next But I am not freedom camping… Next A roof-top tent Next Revolutionizing Kiwi camping with Fix’n’Rail Next What is out there Next This is the summer to visit Queenstown Next The Wairau Next Getting your camping vehicle certified Next Dealing with a caravan flat Next Sunday morning caravan Lego Next Old Blue Next Kea attack Next First time out with my new tent Next Thornbury-Aparima Bridge Reserve Next Temple Stream Next Marfells Beach Next Exploring Clandyboye Next Being able to get out into nature Next Making camping more accessible for everyone Next Caravan tales Next Dannevirke Holiday Park is making its facilities more accessible Next What a view to wake up to Next Danseys Pass Next From rugby to pets — How Covid19 started the tail wagging on HELPP VET Next Pippa in the hammock Next Planning to camp with your pet? Resources Next My day at the Ellesmere A&P Show Next The Slow Road Next My day at Ferrymead Next NZ Cheese Festival Next A long weekend on the Waikato River Next Safe toilet chemicals Next The fairy forest walk Next Teeming at Terako Downs Next Terako Downs entrance Next Up, up the Waiorongomai Valley Next Favourite and quick camping meals Next Alice cooking dinner on the BBQ Next Heating a pie Next Ordinary cycle Next Fishing in the snow Next Trying out my new quilt Next GAME: DOC campsites 4: Lower North Island Next HOBBIES: Disc golf Next Stop and Stay: City dwellers: 2nd camp: more adventurous Next Lake Poaka Next Rays Rest Next DOC update Next Uretiti Next King’s Birthday camp at Kekerengu Next Foxton Beach Next Three nights at Conway Flats Next Fantastic time at the Onearo campground Next Come camping Next Festivals Next The All Points Camping Club of NZ Next A summer of content: editorial Next Councils & Government Camping in Tairāwhiti this summer Read But I am not freedom camping… Read This is the summer to visit Queenstown Read Getting your camping vehicle certified Read Thornbury-Aparima Bridge Reserve Read Being able to get out into nature Read Making camping more accessible for everyone Read Dannevirke Holiday Park is making its facilities more accessible Read Safe toilet chemicals Read A summer of content: editorial Read Self-containment & Freedom Camping Camping in Tairāwhiti this summer Read Freedom camping news Read Self-containment warrant cards: Which ones are valid? Read But I am not freedom camping… Read This is the summer to visit Queenstown Read Getting your camping vehicle certified Read Thornbury-Aparima Bridge Reserve Read Being able to get out into nature Read Making camping more accessible for everyone Read Caravan tales Read Safe toilet chemicals Read View More

  • Contributing | Camping the Kiwi Way

    Contributions Share your stories Campers, and groups or clubs promoting NZers enjoying our great outdoors, we would like to share your stories. Tenting, caravanning, motorhoming, van camping, bike camping, hiking and more. Camping photos and stories. Club stories and photos. Upcoming events that include camping. Opinion pieces on camping issues. Send us • Photos 1mb or more in size. • Email words and (separate) images: 
editor@campingthekiwiway.org Contributions close Nov 1 for the Summer issue Feb 1 for the Autumn issue May 1 for the Winter issue Aug 1 for the Spring issue But: for late-breaking articles 
talk to the editor. Contact us: editor@campingthekiwiway.org ISSN: 2815-8261 (Print)
 ISSN: 2815-827X (Online) ©2024 All Points Camping Club of NZ Inc Editor: Miriam Richardson
editor@campingthekiwiway.org
campingthekiwiway.org Published quarterly by All Points Camping Club of NZ Inc &
NZ Lifestyle Camping Ltd Advertising Advertise in our magazine contact editor@campingthekiwiway.org

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  • Camping the Kiwi Way, Issue 2, Summer 2022

    A magazine by and for campers in New Zealand Summer 2022 Choose which topic to show ISSUE 2 BUY PDF INDEX Camping the Kiwi Way, 2, Summer 2022 Table of contents Editorial For councils and government Come camping Stop and Stay Contribute About Cover image: Gore Bay. ©2024 M Richardson Read More Taking a left turn Are you a mainstream traveler, always following the main highways or are you a diversionist, taking that chance to detour from the main route to explore and maybe encounter something new or different? On our recent trip north we decided to veer from the main flow of traffic and take a left turn. Read More Gore Bay Gore Bay Camp is a small camp. The facilities are old, but usable. Such a great place to go for a weekend break close to our home in Christchurch. Read More Cycle touring: Part II, Southland to the West Coast After my ride from Canterbury to Southland, the next step was to continue my clockwise circuit of the Island. Read More Ready for tomorrow’s ride I’m in Rotorua today (MTB Mecca) ready for tomorrow’s ride, the Whakarewarewa Forest Loop: 33km, 3hr. Another one of the 23 Great Rides of NZ. ckw.nz/great-rides ©2022 Andrew Morton Read More Freedom camping, November 1964 One of my first memories of camping was at ‘Spec Creek’. You won’t find it on a map — it was just some little creek on the side of the road, somewhere in Central Otago, where our car broke down. There was nothing there. Read More How many freedom campers are there? Nobody knows. The Ministry has made some guesses. Read More Talking to four van loads of international tourists On my last roadie I met and chatted with four van loads of international tourists from UK, Australia and Germany who have been freedom camping around NZ in small (slider-type) hire vans from Escape or Jucy. Read More Camping / caravan tips — Setup / packup Do you struggle when you set up your camp or your caravan? Read More Pick and pedal Is that e-bike right for you? Many New Zealanders are now moving to e-bikes and they definitely have health advantages while being cheap to operate and maintain. Read More Back in the days — Circa 2008 Back in the days — Circa 2008. That caravan was damned heavy behind the bike. Read More Implications for councils of the proposed ‘Nash bill Here are the issues to consider with the major legislative change which is currently proposed and going through Select Committee hearings. Read More Buckets, gladwrap, and gossip The Minister of Tourism the opened the speaking with gossip of buckets covered in gladwrap being used as toilets in motorhomes. Read More Wild camping with a dog on a wet wild night It was a very wet, rainy camp with my dog in a dense bush. Read More Choosing an internet provider It’s a thorny problem, deciding how to connect to the internet on the road — so many different choices, plans and options; so many unfamiliar concepts. Here’s a ‘simple’ guide. Read More The Wild Wairarapa Coast We spent a few days on the coast out from Martinborough, Te Awati camping area and then back to North Tora Reserve, some very rough coastline. Read More Ready for a family weekend away camping Ready for a family weekend away camping. Read More National Parks : Game Can you place all the national parks? Read More How we solved a problem and started a new business It’s four years now since John first decided to do something to make emptying our toilet cassette easier and cleaner. Read More Overnight beside the Aparima River I slept overnight beside the Aparima River near Opio (Southland). Read More Worth a detour: The Marokopa River Valley Next time you’re in the Waitomo area (the Waikato region of the North Island) it’s worth the detour to check out three natural landmarks that are really close together, on the Te Anga Road. Read More Freedom camping on the East Cape Gisborne District Council have very clear freedom camping bylaws which demand waste management, #leavenotrace principles. Read More Nokomai station Nokomai station on the way to Queenstown. We went there as kids; now we take our kids there. Read More Caravan & Motorhome Electrics by Collyn Rivers This is a book for people who want to understand how their electrics work as well as for people who are designing / building / converting a caravan or motorhome. Read More Fishing at Kingston Secured a magical spot beside the lakes edge at Kingston freedom camp and went fishing. Read More South Island Lakes: Game Can you fill in the blanks? Read More Camping without a fridge: chilly bins and cooler bags In the old days, people used “meat safes” or “safes” but my experience is with chilly bins or Esky cooler bags. Read More Pannekoeken for breakfast Every trip we make a breakfast fruits pancake. Usually apple pannekoeken. Read More Hitting the Northland beaches — Stop and Stay Heading up to the top of the North Island to see Cape Reinga is on most people’s bucket lists. For those who enjoy a bit of camping, finding that perfect spot to stay is an added bonus. Finding two such places is something special. Tapotupotu DOC campsite. Matauri Bay Holiday Park Read More TIP: Solar panel cleaning Except in rainy areas solar panels need cleaning from time to time. Read More MORE

  • Camping the Kiwi Way, Issue 9, Spring 2024

    A magazine by and for campers in New Zealand Contributors Select Author BUY AUTHOR INDEX The Pigroot SH85 Heather Auckram Rabbit holes, rugby field, quirky goal posts Read More 11 autumn 2025 Adventure in Te Aroha Maggie O’Rourke The town has two freedom camps. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Camping at CampFest Jo Ward CampFest, Bulls. February. ©2025 Jo Ward. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Sailing through the Waiheke Channel Graham Leslie 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 Read More 11 autumn 2025 Camping at the museum Margaret Earle You can wander around and even have your dinner in the picturesque gardens that surround the museum buildings. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Wairere falls Maggie O’Rourke Peace, tranquility, a chance to go for a walk to the waterfall, crystal hunting or even a swim makes it worthwhile. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Choosing your next camping vehicle is not always easy Gary Stoneley 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. Read More 11 autumn 2025 GAME: DOC campsites 5: Upper South Island Rhonda Marshall Fill in the spaces. Read More 11 autumn 2025 A shady spot to park Heather Auckram I pulled into Lowburn free camp on the shores of Lake Dunstan and found a shady spot to park. Read More 11 autumn 2025 First time on the ferry Marty Ireland 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. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Canterbury, Waihora Tony Knights Canterbury, Waihora ©2025 Tony Knights. More p36 Read More 11 autumn 2025 Fitting Auto levellers Ian Read I thought this would be the answer to the plastic drive up ramps many use. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Far from flat M Richardson Many not-to-be-missed freedom camping spots are far from flat. Pines, Lake Pukaki. ©2019 M Richardson Read More 11 autumn 2025 Camping at the Mohaka River Farm Alfred and Sofia Rico We chose a spot right with a commanding view of the river and wind farm in the distance. Read More 11 autumn 2025 A good day’s camping starts with a thermette Graham Leslie A good day’s camping starts using a thermette to boil the water for coffee and for its small fire to then make toast. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Before you light a fire DOC & NIWA Be aware of the risks. Check fireweather. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Fireplace at Mangaweka M Richardson Fireplace at Mangaweka camp, riverside picnic area. ©2012 M Richardson Read More 11 autumn 2025 Re-building my Toyota van part 2 Roland Jones I became aware of some shortcomings in the design Read More 11 autumn 2025 Made it to Campfest Jo Ward Roland made it to Campfest, Bulls, March.©2025 Jo Ward. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Freedom camping: need to know, 2025 Miriam Richardson What you need to know about freedom camping. Read More 11 autumn 2025 But I am not freedom camping… Megan Hieatt 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. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Getting your camping vehicle certified Gary Stoneley An independent national network for self-containment certification Read More 11 autumn 2025 The ‘caravan train’ at Kekerungu. Linda Butler The ‘caravan train’ at Kekerungu. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Whisky Gully M Richardson Whisky Gully, Tapanui, Southland. Lovely views over the plains, and a great walk up the valley, and another through the bush. Read More 11 autumn 2025 The red lights? Andrew Morton It’s like having the glow of a camp fire, without the fire risk. A party for one! Read More 11 autumn 2025 Back on the boat (our caravan that floats) Graham Leslie It’s been nine years since we had a sailing holiday in our trailer yacht, Quasimodo. Read More 11 autumn 2025 St Kilda, Dunedin M Richardson A lovely spot looking out over the beach towards St Clair. Dunedin allows freedom camping in non-reserve parking places. 
©2022 M Richardson Read More 11 autumn 2025 A camp oven is much more than just a pot Margaret Earle 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. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Recipes for camping Margaret Earle Hot cross buns, Lentil and eggplant stew with gnocchi, Pork and vegetables in hoisin sauce. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Lake Kaniere 1959 Graham Leslie Citreon & pop-top at Lake Kaniere. Read More 11 autumn 2025 On the first day it rained and blew Heather Auckram The togs never saw the light of day at this weekend’s camp at Fortrose. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Late Summer journey: Southland & West Coast Tony Kissel My home for the next few weeks Read More 11 autumn 2025 Stop and Stay, Central North Island Maggie O’Rourke Tuppence, Pirongia, Cafe 77, Manawaru, Rosie and Brian’s in Reporoa Read More 11 autumn 2025 Nugget Point lighthouse Dave Adamson Here is a photo of the Nugget Point lighthouse. As we saw it today. March 6. ©2025 Dave Adamson Read More 11 autumn 2025 Interesting and tempting to purchase! Linda Butler Running off a cordless drill Read More 11 autumn 2025 Luxury camping Jo Ward Camping at CampFest. ©2025 Jo Ward Read More 11 autumn 2025 Hobby: Fishing and Diving Marty Ireland My introduction to fishing as a child: I recall being taken to the Waimakariri river and using a string hand-line with red meat as bait, I don’t recall any success . Read More 11 autumn 2025 Fishing as the sun goes down M Richardson Fishing as the sun goes down. Ōtaki River mouth free camp. March. ©2025 M Richardson Read More 11 autumn 2025 The cracks kept coming Carolyn and Keith London It wasn’t the best week as we had such bad weather Read More 11 autumn 2025 Woke to fog Maggie O’Rourke Where’s summer? Crazy. Yesterday it was 28° here, I melted. Read More 11 autumn 2025 A night at Ferry Reserve Wayne Ravelich A night at Ferry Reserve on our way to Morisons Bush. ©2025 Wayne Ravelich Read More 11 autumn 2025 Bedtime Bubbles Andrew Morton Bedtime Bubbles & wash in Kaiapoi for my wee mate after 57 nights on the road without a bath. ©2025 Andrew Morton Read More 11 autumn 2025 Waiohine Gorge Jessica Mae Bajet Just got back from an adventure-filled Waiohine Gorge campsite! Read More 11 autumn 2025 Loading a caravan safely Collyn Rivers There is a common and very dangerous belief held by many caravan owners that it is fine to have a heavy load at the rear as long as it is balanced by a similar load at the front. That is virtually a recipe for jack-knifing. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Campfest Cheryl Roberts A huge draw card, was the stage and music, talent contest, open mike time and the bands which played on to 9pm. This brought a carnival atmosphere to the camp. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Late summer fishing M Richardson Late summer fishing at the Ōtaki River Mouth free camp. February 2025. ©2025 M Richardson Read More 11 autumn 2025 20-odd years Fran One thing I learnt after travelling full-time for 20 odd years: It doesn’t matter so much where you are, as long as you are present where you are. Mind you, I still struggle with that at times, wanting nature and just the sounds of nature. lol. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Tuppence, Pirongia Maggie O’Rourke It didn’t take long before I felt like I was at home for my four day stay. Read More 11 autumn 2025 We came early Linda Butler The weather was so nice that we came out early. All that is missing is you.©2025 Linda Butler Read More 11 autumn 2025 New Year at Waihora Domain Linda Butler This venue is our favourite go-to for Christmas due to its proximity to everything. If you are travelling or want company for Christmas next year, do consider joining us. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Cafe 77, Manawaru Maggie O’Rourke It’s a lovely rural spot 15 mins from Te Aroha and 20 mins from Matamata. They have a lot of visits from cyclists doing the Hauraki Rail Trail and tourists. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Rosie and Brian’s Maggie O’Rourke I tell you, what a welcome! I think why people stay is due to our lovely welcoming hosts Rosie and Brian. They have been operating this site in their paddocks for 8 years, back then it was a gold coin to stay and to help campers out. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Havelock Mussel Festival Marty Ireland For the first time we had a camp up event for those wanting to try the Havelock Mussel Festival. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Editorial: and so we go on Miriam Richardson The challenges of the changes to freedom camping Read More 11 autumn 2025 Double-digit highways Bette Cosgrove & Miriam Richardson SH32, SH45, SH60: Do you know them? Read More 10 summer 2024 Butchers Dam aurora Shellie Evans How small are we in this world? Not us but another caravanner oblivious to the skies above. Read More 10 summer 2024 We got bogged: “Because it’d be funner,” he said Craig Nelson Well. There we were. Bogged. Read More 10 summer 2024 And people wonder why I like camping Tony Kissel And people wonder why I like camping. Read More 10 summer 2024 What a difference a day makes Trevor Karton What a difference a day makes Read More 10 summer 2024 Waitaki first day Gary Kircher, Mayor for Waitak Another pilgrimage to the Waitaki lakes this morning, marking the start to the camping season. Read More 10 summer 2024 Ōtaki Rivermouth M Richardson Ōtaki Rivermouth Read More 10 summer 2024 All roads lead to Camp Fest Gary Stoneley No matter which direction you are coming to Camp Fest from, there are many worthwhile, interesting places to explore and enjoy. North, South, East or West, or just a short distance from the Camp Fest venue there are some great opportunities to take a break and check out something a bit different. Read More 10 summer 2024 I really like the Waiouru Army Museum joymareephotography I really like the Waiouru Army Museum as a safe place to park up for the night. Read More 10 summer 2024 Camping in Tairāwhiti this summer Bette Cosgrove This remote and extraordinarily beautiful part of the Pacific Coast Highway is fully open and welcoming campers for the summer season. Read More 10 summer 2024 Freedom camping news Bette Cosgrove No end to confusion and misinformation out there about what is lawful or required to be a freedom camper. No consistency. No fair control of freedom camping. Read More 10 summer 2024 But I am not freedom camping… Miriam Richardson Each council makes its choices when it trains its enforcement officers: what criteria determines ‘freedom camping’ or ‘preparing to freedom camp’; how to recognise a ‘day-trip excursion’ vs ‘preparing to freedom camp.’ There is no way for the traveller to know in advance what criteria any particular council is using. Read More 10 summer 2024 A roof-top tent M Richardson A roof-top tent captured at the Ōtaki Rivermouth freedom camp as the sun was going down. Read More 10 summer 2024 Revolutionizing Kiwi camping with Fix’n’Rail Mustafa Pasha The design behind Fix’n’Rail supports a circular economy by giving new life to portable toilets that may otherwise end up in landfills. Read More 10 summer 2024 What is out there Tony Kissel It’s amazing what is out there to be seen when you are tucked up in bed Read More 10 summer 2024 This is the summer to visit Queenstown Miriam Richardson There are parking bylaws and nationwide reserve laws that continue to affect freedom camping in Queenstown this summer, but the years-long prohibitive bans are gone from Queenstown Lakes District. Read More 10 summer 2024 The Wairau Gary Wills After a peaceful night’s sleep a hearty breakfast on the Wairau river is always a good way to start the day Read More 10 summer 2024 Getting your camping vehicle certified Gary Stoneley NZ Lifestyle Camping’s network of more than 150 testing officers offer self-containment testing for all types of campers Read More 10 summer 2024 Dealing with a caravan flat Duncan Upjohn Have you had a flat tyre on your caravan? I have now had three and would like to pass on some experience that may help you. Read More 10 summer 2024 Sunday morning caravan Lego Beverley Stoneley Sunday morning caravan Lego with our boys, Eddie and Boston. Read More 10 summer 2024 Old Blue Shellie Evans The camp still has quite a few hardy campers on-site, it’s Labour Day weekend after all. You wait, the sun will be shining tomorrow & the fish biting! Read More 10 summer 2024 Kea attack Tony Kissel Setting up my tent this weekend I noticed about a dozen little holes in the roof. Read More 10 summer 2024 First time out with my new tent Tony Kissel So far I’ve had gale force winds and 30mm rain in the last 24 hours… Read More 10 summer 2024 Thornbury-Aparima Bridge Reserve Heather Auckram If you are travelling along the Southern Scenic Coast then 10 minutes out of Riverton, turn off Highway 99 and follow the Thornbury Gropers Bush Road. Read More 10 summer 2024 Temple Stream Tony Kissel A nice relaxing weekend at one of my favourite spots, Temple Stream DOC Campsite. Read More 10 summer 2024 Marfells Beach M Richardson Marfells Beach is a DOC camp (pay online, whew, there is mobile coverage this time) has wild silverbeet. Read More 10 summer 2024 Exploring Clandyboye Linda Butler All Points Camping enjoyed craft shopping, toasting marshmallows in the fire pit and Devonshire teas at the Milford POP. Read More 10 summer 2024 Being able to get out into nature Alice Leslie “Being able to get out into nature and go places that I would not physically be able to reach on my own is such a joy and privilege.” Read More 10 summer 2024 Making camping more accessible for everyone Alice Leslie Making a campsite accessible involves more than installing accessible toilets. Read More 10 summer 2024 Caravan tales Lynn and Charlie Hogg Our boys were 8 and 6 years old, the younger one, Rueben, having severe autism. I knew it wasn’t going to be easy to go camping and that we would learn to deal with things as they happened and some we could prepare for beforehand. Read More 10 summer 2024 Dannevirke Holiday Park is making its facilities more accessible Margaret Earle When I stayed at the holiday park earlier this year, Keith showed me the work being done to make the facilities more accessible. Read More 10 summer 2024 What a view to wake up to Dave Adamson What a view to wake up to this morning. National Park, Waiouru Read More 10 summer 2024 Danseys Pass Margaret Earle While we were exploring the geosites in the Waitaki Valley, we saw several signs to Danseys Pass. Read More 10 summer 2024 From rugby to pets — How Covid19 started the tail wagging on HELPP VET Katie and David Barton-Ginger After years in the fast-paced and ever-changing world of sports and technology, David had spotted a gap in the market for a tech-forward solution around pets and instant video advice. Read More 10 summer 2024 Pippa in the hammock Bette Cosgrove Pippa in the hammock Read More 10 summer 2024 Planning to camp with your pet? Resources Bette Cosgrove We always take Pippa with us and she loves the adventures as much as we do. I thought I’d list a few of the resources I’ve found helpful on our travels with our furry family member, but this is by no means a definitive list. Read More 10 summer 2024 My day at the Ellesmere A&P Show Tony Knights Don’t miss local A & P shows when you travel the country. Read More 10 summer 2024 The Slow Road Jonathan Collins I caught up with the authors and fellow camping adventurers of this amazing book, The Slow Road, documenting their year travelling around NZ. Read More 10 summer 2024 My day at Ferrymead Tony Knights My day at Ferrymead Heritage Park, Christchurch. Read More 10 summer 2024 NZ Cheese Festival Marty Ireland Besides a great selection of well-priced food venders, there was also a variety of specialty foods including cheese, mushrooms, paté, cured meats, sweet treats, wine, beer. And we had ‘Music on the Green’ to relax to. Read More 10 summer 2024 A long weekend on the Waikato River Roland Jones Cooked my favourite breakfast when camping: pancakes with boysenberry jam Read More 10 summer 2024 Safe toilet chemicals Collyn Rivers Safe toilet chemicals are essential, but some toilet chemicals kill essential bacteria in septic and environmental systems: some are toxic — this article explains all. Read More 10 summer 2024 The fairy forest walk Martin & Diana Ireland We did the fairy forest walk at Dog Walk Stream, Hanmer, and lo and behold the fairies camp too! Read More 10 summer 2024 Teeming at Terako Downs Julie Adam — the Kite Lady Not bothering much about the forecast warning for rain over Labour Weekend, I loaded up the camper, with clothes, food and my two dogs, and off we went to Terako Downs. Read More 10 summer 2024 Terako Downs entrance Debbie Tutton Terako Downs entrance, Labour Weekend Read More 10 summer 2024 Up, up the Waiorongomai Valley Greg Lokes We donned our tramping gear and went for a 4 hour hike along the bush trails that start at the Waiorongomai Valley carpark Read More 10 summer 2024 ISSN 2815-827X (Online) | ISSN:2815-8261 (Print) ISSUE 9 editor@campingthekiwiway.org

  • Camping the Kiwi Way, Issue 4, Winter 2023

    A magazine by and for campers in New Zealand Winter 2023 Choose which topic to show ISSUE 4 BUY PDF INDEX Camping the Kiwi Way, 4, Winter 2023 Table of contents Editorial For councils and government Come camping Stop and Stay Contribute About Cover image: Punakaiki. ©2023 Two Kids and a Caravan Read More Let’s go south for a few weeks’ ‘Let’s go South for a few weeks.’
‘How many weeks?’
‘Eight.’ 
‘How about six?’ 
‘OK. let’s see how it goes.’ Read More Winter’s not going to stop Mavis Winter’s not going to stop Mavis enjoying one of the many spots available at Pahoia Beach Park! 
Bay of Plenty. ©2023 Cheine Matheson Read More Small town friendly Here are some suggestions on how to go about attracting campers to your town. Read More Why we chose our Swift Sprite Quattro caravan We’ve had heaps of people have asked us for feedback on our caravan and why we chose it so here it is. Read More One hundred nights a year I am on track with my original goal of 100 nights away per year and mountain bike as much as I can in other regions. Read More Greenies on the road: Managing food scraps I’ve been turning our food scraps into compost for many a year now, and there’s no way I’m sending them to the landfill now. We chose to use bokashi buckets in our housetruck, as we already had them. A worm farm could also work, though bokashi is possibly more forgiving and takes all food waste — bones and shells included. Read More 8 degrees of harm Societal harm caused by the new self contained motor vehicles legislation. With change there always consequences. While some changes are positive and beneficial sometimes consequences cause a degree of harm. Read More Self containment changes in brief What you need to know if you are currently self-contained, currently certified self-contained, planning to be self-contained, not self-contained, or wanting to freedom camp, now the law has changed. Read More A stove jack Best mod for camping so far, a stove jack that I got sewn into the awning. Keil MacDiarmid ©2023 Keil MacDiarmid Read More It was cold at Mavora Lakes It was cold at Mavora Lakes. Plenty of snow around. I think the Mrs thought I was a bit crazy suggesting a night away in the van this time of year Read More Winter’s here… How do you make winter camping more comfortable? Here’s a few favourite tips and tricks for keeping warm, dealing with cold, wind, rainy days, and embracing the colder months outdoors for enjoyable winter camping trips. It just takes a little extra preparation and the right gear. Read More Pegs for tough weather A commercial and a DIY (metal) version of a peg for windy weather. Read More I am on track I am on track with my original goal of 100 nights per year & mountain bike as much as I can in other regions. Teardrop. © 2023 Andrew Morton Read More Get on Ya Bike For the novice cyclist, the historical Karangahake Gorge cycle/walking track — along the old railway embankment— is a safe and gentle way to introduce an inexperienced cyclist. Read More Two long blacks and a cheese scone No, this is not about 12 weeks of coffee tasting around the South Island in a small van by a couple of over 80s Read More I did it! My very first solo camping and tramping trip! 
Two epic days in Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. Read More Gold miner Wattie Thompson I came across this derelict house built by Wattie Thompson who had panned the river for gold for over 50 years. Read More Before the cyclone: Freedom Camping, Eastern Hawke’s Bay, Winter 2022 We feel so privileged and fortunate to have made this journey a year ago, gathering such beautiful memories of the landscape as it was. Read More Winter at Nokomai Station Winter at Nokomai Station on the way to Queenstown. ©2023 Dallas Hibbs Read More CampFest — Bulls, 2023 Several hundred campers, locals and visitors met at Bulls Domain in March for the first CampFest. An inclusive camping event for all types of camper with live music and market stalls. Read More Kiwi Burn Hut Loop Track, Mavora Lakes Many trampers have vouched that Kiwi Burn Hut is a popular and great option for families, so we thought we’d check it out and put it to a true family-friendly test. With my toddler (and his dada) in tow, we set out to do the full Kiwi Burn Loop Track and spend one night at the hut halfway through. Read More Waikato west coast road trip We headed to Raglan along some back country roads. Read More Camping as a young family 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. Read More Quinneys Bush Family Holiday Camp Looking for a one stop camp for the family with the dog as well ? Then Quinneys Bush is the place to go. Read More Our morning view, heater on Our morning view, heater on. Ruapehu. Hoping for warmer when we get to Kimbolton today. ©2023 Helen Garthwaite Read More Vege nachos: Recipes for camping This recipe is easy to make. It uses mostly tinned foods so is a great meal to make when you are running low on fresh foods or if you have no fridge. Increase or decrease the quantities of the ingredients depending on how many people you are feeding. Read More Kimbolton Sculpture Festival 2023 The annual festival is a mix of small to very large artworks, sculptures with mainly a rural theme, put together using all manner of bits and pieces from shearing blades to bike tyres. Read More Fill in the grid: campers in winter Each of the underlined words below should be recorded into the list on the left. Place each word according to the number of letters in the word. Then transfer the words into the Fill-it-in-grid. Read More Halfway through my 73 days traveling Left Auckland 34 days ago, halfway through my 73 days traveling the South Island. Now in Cromwell then Arrowtown on the weekend. Noticed that it’s getting colder. Now I appreciate my diesel heater. ©2023 Roland Jones Read More MORE

  • Index: 5 Spring 2023 | Camping the Kiwi Way

    Spring 2023 ISSUE 5 BUY PDF CONTENTS INDEX Issue 5 Camping the Kiwi Way, 5, Spring 2023 Table of contents • Editorial • For councils and government • Come camping • Stop and Stay Contribute • About Cover image: Lake Monowai. ©2023 Kayla Laatz Next Grandad’s Grandad’s caravan A caravan travels through five generations. Next The Homestead, St Bathans I’ve been enjoying a few days away at one of my favourite spots, The Homestead Campsite near Saint Bathans. Next Building a connected NZ camping and tourism industry To ensure a sustainable recreational camping industry related interest groups need to be more engaged and appreciative of the issues each group faces. Next At the beach Next 10 Tips for safe caravan towing Here are 10 tips for safe towing: caravans and their tow vehicles have much the same accident rates as other forms of motor transport, their main type of accident, jack-knifing, however, is different. Next The only ones at Lake Pukaki I can’t believe we are the only ones at Lake Pukaki tonight. So incredibly grateful to have captured these skies. Next Lake Monowai campsite Our small family of 3 set up camp in a quiet and secluded paradise in the heart of Fiordland National Park Next Why not stop and stay a while? Introducing Stop and Stay, where to stop when travelling and camping in NZ — use it, share it, add to it. Next Easy-to-make flat breads — Recipes for camping These recipes come from the fabulous book New Zealand Backcountry Cooking by Paul and Rebecca Garland. Next Cooking with fire NZ Fun Adventures was pleased to see so many outdoor enthusiasts join with us for this, now annual, event in our events calendar. Next Really feeling autumny now! Really feeling autumny now! Whakaipo Bay, DOC camp at Taupo. Next Pros and Cons of full time family travel We get heaps of people message us and ask about the pros and cons of travelling full time so we thought we’d put pen to paper and share the highs and lows of full time travel with kids Next More cold season tips Sharing our best hacks which made life so much easier on a recent Matariki vanning trip. Next A small, beautiful cassette toilet There is a cassette toilet in that beautifully crafted cabinet. Next Winter adventures Winter doesn’t mean the end of camping adventures! Instagram Next Freedom camping & self-containment status, spring 2023 The short version Next Freedom camping: who does what The structure of the self containment system. Next Update: Self-containment and freedom camping changes The Government’s recent changes to Freedom Camping and self-containment certification are now being implemented. These changes mean that over the next 18 to 24 months new regulations may impact your freedom camping. Next Freedom camping under the new law There are new penalties and some exemptions. Are you homeless, or making a lifestyle choice? Who gets fined and how they are notified. The law is vague. Councils and enforcement officers have to make it work. Next Cooking on the road: planning food for…off the road A 4-day camp adventure at Lake Tarawera Hot Water Beach, a long way from roads and power: how to manage the food? Next Thinking about your overnight park Do you park your camper facing outwards? (Quick evac if needed.) Or just how you feel? Next The Desert Road The Desert Road On our first road trip with our new caravan. We made it successfully from Wellington to Whangarei. Next Freedom inside the fence We were looking for a freedom park for the night, but following the recommendation of friends we came here, through the big gates, to this pest-free reserve and we discovered it was so much more than a parking spot. Next Small town: Waiau A small, North Canterbury, gem of a town, with friendly, welcoming locals, walks, exhibits, cycle rides, shops and free overnighting. Perfect for a couple of nights. Or more. Next Small town New Zealand: Find the words Puzzle From North and South Islands see how many you recognise. Next A small paint kit, a few good brushes… I have found that it is the obscure, forgotten little places that hold the most interest and subject material for paintings and rewarding experiences. Next This is the story of three types of self-contained vehicles… Baby Bear, Mama Bear and Papa Bear campers Next The Aeropress: quality coffee with an easy clean up No more sloppy grinds in the bottom of the waste bucket. No more looking for bushes to throw them under. Next A Classic Geraldine Classic Caravan Club Next View More

  • Index: 10 Spring 2024 | Camping the Kiwi Way

    Summer 2024 ISSUE 10 BUY PDF CONTENTS INDEX ISSUE 10 Camping the Kiwi Way, Summer 2024 Next Double-digit highways SH32, SH45, SH60: Do you know them? Next SH 32/41, West of Lake Taupo On the road less travelled, down double-digit highways, which wind alongside the mighty Waikato and follow the western and southern shores of Lake Taupo, I find some of my favourite freedom camping sites. Next SH45 The Surf Coast Highway, Te Ika a Maui North Island Exploring SH45 along the western side of Mount Taranaki was a new coddiwompling adventure for us. South Taranaki is a freedom-camping-friendly district, with many small towns along the way offering vehicle and tent options to free camp. So we were excited to spend a few days there and back on a visit to New Plymouth. Next SH60 Richmond to Collingwood, Tasman SH60 begins in Richmond, travels through Motueka and Takaka and ends after 117km at Collingwood. Next Butchers Dam aurora How small are we in this world? Not us but another caravanner oblivious to the skies above. Next We got bogged: “Because it’d be funner,” he said Well. There we were. Bogged. Next And people wonder why I like camping And people wonder why I like camping. Next Springing Your camping stories from spring. Tents. Weather. The night sky. Places to go, places to stay, things to do. Next What a difference a day makes What a difference a day makes Next Waitaki first day Another pilgrimage to the Waitaki lakes this morning, marking the start to the camping season. Next Ōtaki Rivermouth Ōtaki Rivermouth Next NIWA summer forecast Warmer than average; more days over 25°C; more dry spells… Next Camp Fest ‘25 Pack up your tent or camping vehicle and join us at the Bulls Domain for a weekend of fun, music, food and family-friendly entertainment. Next All roads lead to Camp Fest No matter which direction you are coming to Camp Fest from, there are many worthwhile, interesting places to explore and enjoy. North, South, East or West, or just a short distance from the Camp Fest venue there are some great opportunities to take a break and check out something a bit different. Next I really like the Waiouru Army Museum I really like the Waiouru Army Museum as a safe place to park up for the night. Next Camping in Tairāwhiti this summer This remote and extraordinarily beautiful part of the Pacific Coast Highway is fully open and welcoming campers for the summer season. Next Freedom camping news No end to confusion and misinformation out there about what is lawful or required to be a freedom camper. No consistency. No fair control of freedom camping. Next Self-containment warrant cards: Which ones are valid? Check your card against these, to see whether you can still freedom camp. Next But I am not freedom camping… Each council makes its choices when it trains its enforcement officers: what criteria determines ‘freedom camping’ or ‘preparing to freedom camp’; how to recognise a ‘day-trip excursion’ vs ‘preparing to freedom camp.’ There is no way for the traveller to know in advance what criteria any particular council is using. Next A roof-top tent A roof-top tent captured at the Ōtaki Rivermouth freedom camp as the sun was going down. Next Revolutionizing Kiwi camping with Fix’n’Rail The design behind Fix’n’Rail supports a circular economy by giving new life to portable toilets that may otherwise end up in landfills. Next What is out there It’s amazing what is out there to be seen when you are tucked up in bed Next This is the summer to visit Queenstown There are parking bylaws and nationwide reserve laws that continue to affect freedom camping in Queenstown this summer, but the years-long prohibitive bans are gone from Queenstown Lakes District. Next The Wairau After a peaceful night’s sleep a hearty breakfast on the Wairau river is always a good way to start the day Next Getting your camping vehicle certified NZ Lifestyle Camping’s network of more than 150 testing officers offer self-containment testing for all types of campers Next Dealing with a caravan flat Have you had a flat tyre on your caravan? I have now had three and would like to pass on some experience that may help you. Next Sunday morning caravan Lego Sunday morning caravan Lego with our boys, Eddie and Boston. Next Old Blue The camp still has quite a few hardy campers on-site, it’s Labour Day weekend after all. You wait, the sun will be shining tomorrow & the fish biting! Next Kea attack Setting up my tent this weekend I noticed about a dozen little holes in the roof. Next View More

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