Stories from winter and spring campers around New Zealand. Summer 2025 ISSUE 13 CONTENTS PDF BUY TOC As the seasons change Travels around the South Island 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. Read More No snow down low: winter camp 3/3 I am having one winter camp each winter month. This was my third, in August. Read More It’s not always sunshine & roses Nine severe weather forecasts in Canterbury. Read More Love spring road trips Considering the forecast I got off lightly with no rain, (Mon–Thu) but there were 30km/h+ winds off Lake Wanaka so I did not put up my 270° Batwing awning this trip. 35,000 steps and some cold sunny days. Love spring road trips. Ice on the windscreen overnight. ©2025 Andrew Morton Read More I was going to walk to the end of the valley 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 Read More Four of us went camping. We are the only ones here, apart from the sandflies… Still plenty of skin left for them to feast on tomorrow. Wooded Gully, North Canterbury. ©2025 Linda Butler Read More Happy Friday. Who’s camping? Penultimate winter camping weekend. Thanks Carterton District Council for a multi-use, free site. Expecting 1°C tonight. Read More Home for the next week Lake Ohau. A tad chilly in the mornings. Read More Final winter camp at Lake Tekapo in August Happy until ‘severe weather’ hit at 5am this morning. Snow on mountains, not on my tyres, which is how I like it. -5.7°C. Snow on Monday night, stunning days to walk 40,000 steps, up to the Mt John Observatory & back a couple times. Spring camping here I come. Read More

Stories from winter campers around New Zealand. Winter 2025 ISSUE 12 CONTENTS PDF BUY TOC Chilly chilly chilly out there Just some more pics from Onearo Taranaki Read More Rollercoaster It has been somewhat of a rollercoaster ride of late. Read More Colac Bay Views for miles. We could see Foveaux Strait and Stewart Island. The stars at night are amazing. Read More HUH ! Cracked it! Whadiya know. Couple of mins later we got heat. Read More Stuck! Oh no! After all the rain in the deep south the gravel track had turned to slush Read More Winter camp Invercargill, July Camp 2, of my 'one winter camp a month'. Read More Frost Woke to a -4˚ frost in Southland this morning. Slept with my woolly hat and socks on and was cosy enough. I also have a good diesel heater and a warm dog. Read More Winter camp, Portobello, June I love Winter camping. Read More Winter tramping food There were some pretty yummy looking dinners getting eaten on our tramp last weekend…. This is what I’m all about. Read More Winter at Miranda Holiday Park Scone mix is made, hope it’s enough, lol. Paddle boards mended. Games sorted. Togs packed. Marshmallow toasting etc after dinner. Read More

Autumn 2024 ISSUE 7 BUY PDF CONTENTS I NDEX ISSUE 7 Camping the Kiwi Way, 7, Autumn 2024 Up Table of contents • Editorial • For councils and government • Come camping • Stop and Stay Contribute • About Cover image: Coddiwompling ©2024 Bette Cosgrove The packdown In our previous years, we could never pack down in time and were always hot and bothered by the end. This year, we nailed it with time to spare! Up Predictable problems with the new CSC green warrant system A gaze into the green crystal ball of hope for a consistent, reliable freedom camping vehicle certification system, reveals an extremely stormy and very cloudy future. Up Celebrating Summer Six pages of stories from around the country and the season. Up We made it to Curio Bay Well we made it to Curio Bay on Monday afternoon, after an 8¾ hour drive. Up The dogs had visitors The dogs had visitors at Knottingly Park and Arboretum camp. Up Foray into paradise I can’t really take in how gorgeous the McKenzie Basin is. Up Self-containment warrant cards: Which one is yours? What you can do with your particular warrant card. Up Tucks Bay, Coramandel Home for the night became Tucks Bay, the overflow part of the Long Bay Campground, Coromandel Up I could live like this forever I could live like this forever. Up Three adults, three kids & five dogs We settled on Lake Opuha for our latest trip. Up Not FREE but truly freedom at its best SH 35 is a magical journey. Put it on your list. Up Love Woodville Ferry Reserve Love Woodville Ferry Reserve, hardly anyone here. Up So you want to freedom camp We are in a transition period from the old ‘blue’ warrant system to a new ‘green’ warrant system. The transition period is set to expire 7 June ’25. There is a small possibility that the Minister might choose to extend the transition period: it could help, with so many needing to be certified by so few. Up Hammock time Hammock time, Tokomaru Bay Up So thankful After 21 days #vanlife freedom camping… Up In two minds In two minds about posting this as it was so wonderful to have had it all to ourselves (the way I like it this side of Xmas!) for 3 nights! But its such a cool place I can’t not share and recommend it. Up Enjoying the shade Great place to enjoy the shade. Orton Bradley Park. Up Peaceful Fortrose A beautiful peaceful place, Fortrose, in The Catlins. Up What is ‘self-contained’, anyway? Self-containment is at the heart of the the latest raft of freedom camping changes instituted in 2023. Up The life and times of a Ford Trader Camper truck The original camper truck in 1973 was aFord Trader . Up Setting up at Campfest Setting up at Campfest, Bulls, Feb 24. ©2024 Tracey Davis. Up Escape to Papatowai After the chaos of Christmas our frazzled nerves needed restoring. We threw a few supplies into the campervan and headed for the healing calm of Papatowai. Up Eclectic bunch What an eclectic bunch of lovely people camping all sorts of ways. Up A lovely long weekend away at Lake Ōhau I’ve just had a lovely long weekend away at Lake Ōhau in my little Wanda. Up Enforcement of freedom camping rules Offences to avoid when freedom camping. Who has to pay, Knowing or not knowing you have been ‘infringed’. What information must enforcement officers give? What information are you required to give? You can be required to leave. Impounding things. Up We had a great stay at Tokomaru Bay Our camp was right on the beach looking directly out to where the sun would rise. Up Family camping… part of my DNA Family camping… part of my DNA for 60 years. Up Two nights (again) at our local reserve Two nights (again) at our local reserve… Waitohi Bush Reserve … great place to just unwind and listen to the bellbirds. Up Home for the next few weeks Ruataniwha Conservation Park. Up View More

Place you can stop and stay in New Zealand Summer 2025 ISSUE 13 CONTENTS PDF BUY TOC STOP AND STAY Athenree hot springs and campground Close to Waihi, Waihi Beach and Katikati this is a prime campground. Read More Brunel Peaks Cafe, Blackmount I wonder how many of you know about the Stop and Stay nestled at the foothills of the Takitimu mountains? Read More Omokoroa Domain Omokoroa is only 20km northwest of Tauranga’s CBD and 24km to Katikati. Read More Harrison Cut, Papamoa Four mins drive to Papamoa Plaza or a 30 min walk. Read More Uretara Domain I stayed here for three nights; a great spot. Every Friday night they have a Farmers market at the adjacent A&P Show grounds Read More Mid winter dinner Canterbury There is something precious about meeting around the table. Sharing food, or in this case buying your own! Read More Home for the next week Lake Ohau. A tad chilly in the mornings. Read More

Index ISSUE 3 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 Festivals & Shows Festivals where you can stay, that are on this Autumn (and a bit beyond) Read more Events Camping events on this Autumn 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 View More Autumn 2023 ISSUE 3 BUY PDF CONTENTS

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 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

ALL ISSUES BUY AUTHORS Authors Index Fee Kat 7 Autumn 2024 Three adults, three kids & five dogs We settled on Lake Opuha for our latest trip. Read Keil MacDiarmid 4 Winter 2023 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 Tineke Harris Colac Bay Views for miles. We could see Foveaux Strait and Stewart Island. The stars at night are amazing. Read Tony Knights 7 Autumn 2024 Heading to The Burt Well after a week of covid and still not a lot of energy I decided bugger it and I’m heading to The Burt Read joymareephotography 10 summer 2024 I really like the Waiouru Army Museum I really like the Waiouru Army Museum as a safe place to park up for the night. Read Alex Koveskali 7 Autumn 2024 It was a tent It’s too big for a chair and it’s not moving in the water so I can only guess it’s another tent blown away, full of belongings. Read Alex Koveskali 10 summer 2024 Heating a pie I’ve worked out an effective way to heat up pies. Read Alfred and Sofia Rico 11 autumn 2025 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 Alice Leslie 10 summer 2024 Making camping more accessible for everyone Making a campsite accessible involves more than installing accessible toilets. Read Alice Leslie 10 summer 2024 Being able to get out into nature “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 Allan Henderson 2 Summer 2022 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 Allan Henderson 8 Winter 2024 Only getting in 123 Watts Well some days it makes no difference at all how much solar you have on the roof. ©2024 Allan Henderson Read Andrew Morton 1 Spring 2022 Biking in Otago in Autumn Taking a bike trip around Otago. The teardrop camper at 
Champagne Gully on Lake Dunstan. Autumn. Andrew Morton. Read Andrew Morton 1 Spring 2022 The teardrop in Arrowtown Autumn. 
Cycling in Otago. 
Camping in the teardrop. 
Andrew Morton Read Andrew Morton 1 Spring 2022 Biking in Southland A three-hour late-night drive to Lumsden freedom camping spot at the station, arriving 11.30pm. Woke to a stunning day, chilly, but an awesome day for riding. Read Andrew Morton 2 Summer 2022 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 Andrew Morton 3 Autumn 2023 Mountain biking If it was that easy, everyone would do it. Read Andrew Morton 3 Autumn 2023 Tear drop camping on a NI bike trip Camping on a NI bike trip: the teardrop, tarp, comfy chairs, a table and a BBQ. Read Andrew Morton 3 Autumn 2023 Pipiriki Eight days so far; 1300km in the car plus 216km on the mountain bike, and 45 days to go. Read Andrew Morton 4 Winter 2023 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 Andrew Morton 4 Winter 2023 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 Andrew Morton 6 Summer 2023 Teardrop camping Teardrop camping Read Andrew Morton 7 Autumn 2024 Truly a Summer to remember Currently on night 23 of this 86-night trip. In Murchison next week I celebrate my 250th night since getting my teardrop. Read Andrew Morton 8 Winter 2024 Cycle camping Cycle camping with a teardrop and a fly. ©2024 Andrew Morton Read Andrew Morton 8 Winter 2024 On the cycle trail at Bannockburn On the cycle trail at Bannockburn. ©2023 Andrew Morton Read Andrew Morton 11 autumn 2025 The red lights? It’s like having the glow of a camp fire, without the fire risk. A party for one! Read Andrew Morton 11 autumn 2025 Bedtime Bubbles Bedtime Bubbles & wash in Kaiapoi for my wee mate after 57 nights on the road without a bath. ©2025 Andrew Morton Read Andrew Morton Winter camp, Portobello, June I love Winter camping. Read Andrew Morton Winter camp Invercargill, July Camp 2, of my 'one winter camp a month'. Read Andrew Morton Love spring road trips Considering the forecast I got off lightly with no rain, (Mon–Thu) but there were 30km/h+ winds off Lake Wanaka so I did not put up my 270° Batwing awning this trip. 35,000 steps and some cold sunny days. Love spring road trips. Ice on the windscreen overnight. ©2025 Andrew Morton Read Up ISSN 2815-827X (Online) | ISSN:2815-8261 (Print) ISSUE 9 editor@campingthekiwiway.org

A magazine by and for campers in New Zealand Winter 2025 Select which topic to show ISSUE 12 BUY PDF ToC Camping the Kiwi Way, 12, Winter 2025 Table of contents > Editorial > Come camping > Stop and Stay > Contribute > About > Cover image: Honeymoon: by the time they got to Lindis Pass they had snow to deal with. ©2025 Graham Leslie Read More CHILLY CHILLY CHILLY OUT THERE Camping in winter. Brrrrr. Read More South Island caravan adventure April is a spectacular time of year to be in this alpine landscape. Read More Wāhine on Water | Sea Kayakers (WoW SK) If the idea of camping via sea kayak appeals to you, meet other like-minded women kayakers in our WoW SK community Read More Love Taupō We would give the Taupō District council a 7 out of 10 for their updated Freedom Camping Bylaw. Read More Now we have the power to go off-grid Our goal was to increase our battery capacity to store more power, and we needed to look at how we charged them, and how to keep track of the power going into and out. Read More Just some more pics from Onearo Taranaki Read More Portable power stations Extra backup power for low-solar days, or for those who do short journeys: portable power. Read More Stuck! Oh no! After all the rain in the deep south the gravel track had turned to slush Read More Mains electricity & your caravan, for dummies The power points in the caravan work just like the ones in your house but if you load them all up at the same time you will overload it and it will trip/ turn off. Read More SIx days in the high country June 19. June 21. June 25. Read More Campfest is coming to the South Island! Let’s show the North how it’s done! Read More The Camping Train We decided to have a camping train as there were 3 events being held during March at Havelock, Nelson and Greymouth. Read More The All Points Camping Club of NZ Membership support, Friendly, inclusive camping events, Nationwide savings, Lobbying support for campers’ rights. Read More Bringing the caravan up to the new self-containment level I have been working on our 17 foot caravan to bring it up to the new requirements for freedom camping. A big challenge was the toilet. Read More Self-containment warrant cards Find out what is valid for freedom camping Read More Winter camp, Portobello, June I love Winter camping. Read More Parking brakes and perils When transporting a new-to-you caravan, it is essential to stop 15 minutes into the trip and check the temperature of the wheels with your hand. Read More Rollercoaster It has been somewhat of a rollercoaster ride of late. Read More Winter camp Invercargill, July Camp 2, of my 'one winter camp a month'. Read More Winter in the Tararuas for first time trampers Our group tramp to Atiwhakatu Hut in the Tararua Ranges was full of first-time hikers that had never stayed in a hut before. Read More Winter tramping food There were some pretty yummy looking dinners getting eaten on our tramp last weekend…. This is what I’m all about. Read More A honeymoon, in a caravan, in winter, in 1960 In July 65 years ago my parents headed off on their honeymoon with a 1930 Model A Ford towing my Grandad’s caravan. Read More Weather, climate and camping: editorial Campers of all stripes are feeling the impact of our changing weather. Read More DOC update New licence system for Taupō trout fishery, Rare slab hut refurbishment keeps traditional ways alive, Fossicking rules broken as gold fever strikes,Watch out for ruru/morepork Read More Colac Bay Views for miles. We could see Foveaux Strait and Stewart Island. The stars at night are amazing. Read More Warming winter food Hot soup and warm bread are a great combination in winter. Here’s a couple of simple soup recipes that I make regularly and two self-saucing puddings. Read More Making the toast off-grid – use gas Don’t use an electric toaster when camping off-grid unless you have more battery power stored than you can ever use and a large, professionally installed power inverter. Gas is a much better option. Read More Frost Woke to a -4˚ frost in Southland this morning. Slept with my woolly hat and socks on and was cosy enough. I also have a good diesel heater and a warm dog. Read More Stopping, Staying, Skiing Staying near the ski fields. Read More MORE

A magazine by and for campers in New Zealand Summer 2025 Select which topic to show ISSUE 13 BUY PDF ToC Camping the Kiwi Way, 13, Spring 2025 Table of contents > Editorial > Come camping > Stop and Stay > Contribute > About > Cover image: Lake Ohau, home for the next week. ©2025 Tony Kissel Read More As the seasons change Love spring road trips. I was going to walk to the end of the valley… On a wild beach. Four of us went camping. Happy Friday. Who’s camping? Home for the next week. Final winter camp at Lake Tekapo Read More A short trip to some big country — Route 52 A beautiful and remote part of the country. Our flying trip, which covered many kilometres, left a real appetite to head back into this fascinating area. Read More Road trip for a mid-winter meal It had been quite some time since I had been to Canterbury and the thought of meeting up with fellow club members, that I hadn’t seen for many months, appealed. Read More Frustration continues over QLDC’s freedom camping approach Freedom campers, both international and domestic visitors, face frustration with the proposed bylaw restrictions in the Queenstown Lakes District. Many campers simply refuse to go there. Read More The hospital visit for my bus In March my bus went into the Rigs’n Things hospital for some major surgery. The operation was done by Dr Chris with the utmost care and to a very high standard. Read More Water water everywhere On a recent club camp I did a wee survey of the parked vehicles, caravans, motorhomes, buses and others to observe the water supply and disposal systems. Read More A simple camp shower Our friend Jean Roger said she used old plastic milk bottles to make a simple solar shower. We have just tried this on our sailing holiday and it works brilliantly. Read More Recipes for camping: Fresh flavours Spring and summer bring a great array of fresh vegetables. Ingredients like fresh ginger, lime, sesame oil, red curry paste and lemon bring fresh flavours to curries, salads and side dishes. Read More Lightning risk in RVs Lightning frightens, but lightning risk in RVs is very low. That risk however is far from random. Here’s how to reduce it yet further. Read More On maintenance Here are my whimsical maintenance tips from my bus Keltic Star. Read More Travels around the South Island 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. Read More No snow down low: winter camp 3/3 I am having one winter camp each winter month. This was my third, in August. Read More Buyer beware update: We won! We had to go to the Disputes Tribunal regarding our leaky 9 year old caravan. Read More Butcher’s Pool Tucked away on a side road off SH5 (near Reporoa), is this free hot pool. Read More Windy Pack Down Tips One of the hardest things to do is to know when enough is enough, and when it’s time to pack up and leave. The very best time is just before the weather event hits. Read More Campfest South Island There is something happening for the entire family over this family-orientated weekend. Read More It’s not always sunshine & roses Nine severe weather forecasts in Canterbury. Read More DOC Update DOC charges for parking at four South Island sites. Do your bit for nature. Remediated mine becomes a Reefton attraction. Read More Recipes on the road Lucy’s gluten-free scones, crustless quiche, zero carb chicken bread loaf , home made butter: Kiwi gold. Read More The camping train departs 3 March 2026 Enjoy the whole trip, or meet up or depart from any location along the way! Read More Te Puna Quarry in spring This is such a hidden gem with sculptures of dragons, a castle slide for kids, water wheel, art hiding in every corner, and all kinds of themed gardens. Read More Stop and Stay Places to stay. Read More Athenree hot springs and campground Close to Waihi, Waihi Beach and Katikati this is a prime campground. Read More Brunel Peaks Cafe, Blackmount I wonder how many of you know about the Stop and Stay nestled at the foothills of the Takitimu mountains? Read More Omokoroa Domain Omokoroa is only 20km northwest of Tauranga’s CBD and 24km to Katikati. Read More Harrison Cut, Papamoa Four mins drive to Papamoa Plaza or a 30 min walk. Read More Uretara Domain I stayed here for three nights; a great spot. Every Friday night they have a Farmers market at the adjacent A&P Show grounds Read More Mid winter dinner Canterbury There is something precious about meeting around the table. Sharing food, or in this case buying your own! Read More First aid practice at camp! Penny was keen to put the newly learnt knowledge of how to assist someone up, into practice. Down on the floor she went! Read More MORE

A magazine by and for campers in New Zealand Contributors Select Author BUY AUTHOR INDEX As the seasons change Various Love spring road trips. I was going to walk to the end of the valley… On a wild beach. Four of us went camping. Happy Friday. Who’s camping? Home for the next week. Final winter camp at Lake Tekapo Read More A short trip to some big country — Route 52 Christine Batt A beautiful and remote part of the country. Our flying trip, which covered many kilometres, left a real appetite to head back into this fascinating area. Read More Road trip for a mid-winter meal Heather Auckram It had been quite some time since I had been to Canterbury and the thought of meeting up with fellow club members, that I hadn’t seen for many months, appealed. Read More Frustration continues over QLDC’s freedom camping approach Bette Cosgrove Freedom campers, both international and domestic visitors, face frustration with the proposed bylaw restrictions in the Queenstown Lakes District. Many campers simply refuse to go there. Read More The hospital visit for my bus Kelvin Watson In March my bus went into the Rigs’n Things hospital for some major surgery. The operation was done by Dr Chris with the utmost care and to a very high standard. Read More Water water everywhere Marty Ireland On a recent club camp I did a wee survey of the parked vehicles, caravans, motorhomes, buses and others to observe the water supply and disposal systems. Read More A simple camp shower Graham Leslie Our friend Jean Roger said she used old plastic milk bottles to make a simple solar shower. We have just tried this on our sailing holiday and it works brilliantly. Read More Recipes for camping: Fresh flavours Margaret Earle Spring and summer bring a great array of fresh vegetables. Ingredients like fresh ginger, lime, sesame oil, red curry paste and lemon bring fresh flavours to curries, salads and side dishes. Read More Lightning risk in RVs Collyn Rivers Lightning frightens, but lightning risk in RVs is very low. That risk however is far from random. Here’s how to reduce it yet further. Read More On maintenance Maggie O’Rourke Here are my whimsical maintenance tips from my bus Keltic Star. Read More Travels around the South Island Susan Wood 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. Read More No snow down low: winter camp 3/3 Andrew Morton I am having one winter camp each winter month. This was my third, in August. Read More Buyer beware update: We won! Anon We had to go to the Disputes Tribunal regarding our leaky 9 year old caravan. Read More Butcher’s Pool Miriam Richardson Tucked away on a side road off SH5 (near Reporoa), is this free hot pool. Read More Windy Pack Down Tips Jonathan Collins One of the hardest things to do is to know when enough is enough, and when it’s time to pack up and leave. The very best time is just before the weather event hits. Read More Campfest South Island Linda Butler There is something happening for the entire family over this family-orientated weekend. Read More It’s not always sunshine & roses Andrew Morton Nine severe weather forecasts in Canterbury. Read More DOC Update DOC DOC charges for parking at four South Island sites. Do your bit for nature. Remediated mine becomes a Reefton attraction. Read More Recipes on the road Various Lucy’s gluten-free scones, crustless quiche, zero carb chicken bread loaf , home made butter: Kiwi gold. Read More The camping train departs 3 March 2026 Linda Butler Enjoy the whole trip, or meet up or depart from any location along the way! Read More Te Puna Quarry in spring Maggie O’Rourke This is such a hidden gem with sculptures of dragons, a castle slide for kids, water wheel, art hiding in every corner, and all kinds of themed gardens. Read More Athenree hot springs and campground Maggie O’Rourke Close to Waihi, Waihi Beach and Katikati this is a prime campground. Read More Brunel Peaks Cafe, Blackmount Heather Auckram I wonder how many of you know about the Stop and Stay nestled at the foothills of the Takitimu mountains? Read More Omokoroa Domain Maggie O’Rourke Omokoroa is only 20km northwest of Tauranga’s CBD and 24km to Katikati. Read More Harrison Cut, Papamoa Maggie O’Rourke Four mins drive to Papamoa Plaza or a 30 min walk. Read More Uretara Domain Maggie O’Rourke I stayed here for three nights; a great spot. Every Friday night they have a Farmers market at the adjacent A&P Show grounds Read More Mid winter dinner Canterbury Linda Butler There is something precious about meeting around the table. Sharing food, or in this case buying your own! Read More First aid practice at camp! Linda Butler Penny was keen to put the newly learnt knowledge of how to assist someone up, into practice. Down on the floor she went! Read More Coffee morning Katikati Maggie O’Rourke Our first coffee morning was held at the Chrome Cafe in Katikati. Read More Getting your camping vehicle certified Gary Stoneley An independent national network for self-containment certification. Read More Love spring road trips Andrew Morton Considering the forecast I got off lightly with no rain, (Mon–Thu) but there were 30km/h+ winds off Lake Wanaka so I did not put up my 270° Batwing awning this trip. 35,000 steps and some cold sunny days. Love spring road trips. Ice on the windscreen overnight. ©2025 Andrew Morton Read More I was going to walk to the end of the valley Tony Kissel 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 Read More On a wild beach Bette Cosgrove Winter nights — wouldn’t you love to be cosy and snuggled up on a wild beach listening to the wind whip the waves? Read More Four of us went camping. Linda Butler We are the only ones here, apart from the sandflies… Still plenty of skin left for them to feast on tomorrow. Wooded Gully, North Canterbury. ©2025 Linda Butler Read More Happy Friday. Who’s camping? Bette Cosgrove Penultimate winter camping weekend. Thanks Carterton District Council for a multi-use, free site. Expecting 1°C tonight. Read More Home for the next week Tony Kissel Lake Ohau. A tad chilly in the mornings. Read More Final winter camp at Lake Tekapo in August Andrew Morton Happy until ‘severe weather’ hit at 5am this morning. Snow on mountains, not on my tyres, which is how I like it. -5.7°C. Snow on Monday night, stunning days to walk 40,000 steps, up to the Mt John Observatory & back a couple times. Spring camping here I come. Read More Editorial Miriam Richardson Your stories are our stories. Take the photos, and tell us all the small stories as well as the big ones. Changing to 3 issues a year. Read More South Island caravan adventure Rose Campbell April is a spectacular time of year to be in this alpine landscape. Read More Wāhine on Water | Sea Kayakers (WoW SK) Dallas Veitch If the idea of camping via sea kayak appeals to you, meet other like-minded women kayakers in our WoW SK community Read More Love Taupō Gary Stoneley We would give the Taupō District council a 7 out of 10 for their updated Freedom Camping Bylaw. Read More winter-2025 Now we have the power to go off-grid Graham Leslie Our goal was to increase our battery capacity to store more power, and we needed to look at how we charged them, and how to keep track of the power going into and out. Read More Just some more pics from Onearo Sally Perfect Taranaki Read More Portable power stations Miriam Richardson Extra backup power for low-solar days, or for those who do short journeys: portable power. Read More Stuck! Heather Auckram Oh no! After all the rain in the deep south the gravel track had turned to slush Read More Mains electricity & your caravan, for dummies Wayne Rravelich The power points in the caravan work just like the ones in your house but if you load them all up at the same time you will overload it and it will trip/ turn off. Read More SIx days in the high country Shellie Evans June 19. June 21. June 25. Read More Campfest is coming to the South Island! Linda Butler Let’s show the North how it’s done! Read More The Camping Train Linda Butler We decided to have a camping train as there were 3 events being held during March at Havelock, Nelson and Greymouth. Read More Bringing the caravan up to the new self-containment level Lance and Robyn Jones I have been working on our 17 foot caravan to bring it up to the new requirements for freedom camping. A big challenge was the toilet. Read More Winter camp, Portobello, June Andrew Morton I love Winter camping. Read More Parking brakes and perils Paeroa Towing Service When transporting a new-to-you caravan, it is essential to stop 15 minutes into the trip and check the temperature of the wheels with your hand. Read More Rollercoaster Francis Donegan It has been somewhat of a rollercoaster ride of late. Read More Winter camp Invercargill, July Andrew Morton Camp 2, of my 'one winter camp a month'. Read More Winter in the Tararuas for first time trampers Jono Collins Our group tramp to Atiwhakatu Hut in the Tararua Ranges was full of first-time hikers that had never stayed in a hut before. Read More Winter tramping food Jono Collins There were some pretty yummy looking dinners getting eaten on our tramp last weekend…. This is what I’m all about. Read More A honeymoon, in a caravan, in winter, in 1960 Graham Leslie In July 65 years ago my parents headed off on their honeymoon with a 1930 Model A Ford towing my Grandad’s caravan. Read More Weather, climate and camping: editorial Miriam Richardson Campers of all stripes are feeling the impact of our changing weather. Read More DOC update DOC New licence system for Taupō trout fishery, Rare slab hut refurbishment keeps traditional ways alive, Fossicking rules broken as gold fever strikes,Watch out for ruru/morepork Read More Colac Bay Tineke Harris Views for miles. We could see Foveaux Strait and Stewart Island. The stars at night are amazing. Read More Warming winter food Margaret Earle Hot soup and warm bread are a great combination in winter. Here’s a couple of simple soup recipes that I make regularly and two self-saucing puddings. Read More Making the toast off-grid – use gas Graham Leslie Don’t use an electric toaster when camping off-grid unless you have more battery power stored than you can ever use and a large, professionally installed power inverter. Gas is a much better option. Read More Frost Heather Auckram Woke to a -4˚ frost in Southland this morning. Slept with my woolly hat and socks on and was cosy enough. I also have a good diesel heater and a warm dog. Read More Stopping, Staying, Skiing Angela Bryan Staying near the ski fields. Read More Things that go bump in the night Marty Ireland Night time sounds can seem louder and closer than they actually are. Read More Vulnerable roads… Miriam Richardson In good, weather-related news, the road replacing the Manawatu Gorge, Te Ahu a Turanga, has opened, as has the Ōtaki Gorge Rd to the Ōtaki Forks DOC campground, in Kapiti. Read More New Zealand Lifestyle Camping Gary Stoneley An independent national network for self-containment certification. Read More Bluff Farm Leigh Naylor If you’ve never been to Bluff Farm then you are missing a treat. To the west the alluring foothills of Oxford where the sun leaves its final splash before the stunning night sky envelopes us Read More Matariki weekend camp Marty Ireland Donegal House is rural and scenic with mountain views, several small lakes, and an Irish-themed bar and restaurant and close to Kaikōura. Read More Winter at Miranda Holiday Park Lorraine Middleton Scone mix is made, hope it’s enough, lol. Paddle boards mended. Games sorted. Togs packed. Marshmallow toasting etc after dinner. Read More HUH ! Cracked it! Nick Hope Whadiya know. Couple of mins later we got heat. Read More 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 ISSN 2815-827X (Online) | ISSN:2815-8261 (Print) ISSUE 9 editor@campingthekiwiway.org

Autumn 2025 ISSUE 11 BUY PDF CONTENTS Issue 11, Autumn 2025 Cover image: Camp ovens ©2025 Graham Leslie Editorial Come Camping Stop and Stay Contribute About ISSUE 11 Table of contents Here and there last summer GO The Pigroot SH85 GO Adventure in Te Aroha GO Op shop finds GO Camping at CampFest GO Camping at the museum GO Sailing through the Waiheke Channel GO Wairere falls GO Choosing your next camping vehicle is not always easy GO GAME: DOC campsites 5: Upper South Island GO A shady spot to park GO First time on the ferry GO Canterbury, Waihora GO Fitting Auto levellers GO Far from flat GO Camping at the Mohaka River Farm GO A good day’s camping starts with a thermette GO Before you light a fire GO Fireplace at Mangaweka GO Re-building my Toyota van part 2 GO Made it to Campfest GO Freedom camping: need to know, 2025 GO Self-containment warrant cards: Which ones are good for what? GO But I am not freedom camping… GO Getting your camping vehicle certified GO The ‘caravan train’ at Kekerungu. GO Whisky Gully GO The red lights? GO Back on the boat (our caravan that floats) GO St Kilda, Dunedin GO A camp oven is much more than just a pot GO Recipes for camping GO Lake Kaniere 1959 GO NIWA autumn forecast GO On the first day it rained and blew GO Late Summer journey: Southland & West Coast GO Stop and Stay, Central North Island GO Nugget Point lighthouse GO Interesting and tempting to purchase! GO Luxury camping GO Hobby: Fishing and Diving GO Fishing as the sun goes down GO The cracks kept coming GO Woke to fog GO A night at Ferry Reserve GO Bedtime Bubbles GO Waiohine Gorge GO DOC update GO Loading a caravan safely GO Campfest GO Late summer fishing GO 20-odd years GO Tuppence, Pirongia GO We came early GO New Year at Waihora Domain GO Cafe 77, Manawaru GO Rosie and Brian’s GO Havelock Mussel Festival GO Editorial: and so we go on GO Come camping GO All Points Camping GO Councils & Government Freedom camping: need to know, 2025 Read Self-containment warrant cards: Which ones are good for what? Read But I am not freedom camping… Read Editorial: and so we go on Read Self-containment & Freedom Camping Adventure in Te Aroha Read Wairere falls Read A shady spot to park Read Far from flat Read Freedom camping: need to know, 2025 Read But I am not freedom camping… Read Whisky Gully Read St Kilda, Dunedin Read On the first day it rained and blew Read Fishing as the sun goes down Read A night at Ferry Reserve Read Editorial: and so we go on Read

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