A magazine by and for campers in New Zealand Autumn 2024 Choose which topics to show ISSUE 7 BUY PDF INDEX Camping the Kiwi Way, 7, Autumn 2024 Table of contents Editorial For councils and government Come camping Stop and Stay Contribute About Cover image: Coddiwompling ©2024 Bette Cosgrove Read More 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! Read More 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. Read More Celebrating Summer Six pages of stories from around the country and the season. Read More We made it to Curio Bay Well we made it to Curio Bay on Monday afternoon, after an 8¾ hour drive. Read More The dogs had visitors The dogs had visitors at Knottingly Park and Arboretum camp. Read More Foray into paradise I can’t really take in how gorgeous the McKenzie Basin is. Read More Self-containment warrant cards: Which one is yours? What you can do with your particular warrant card. Read More Tucks Bay, Coramandel Home for the night became Tucks Bay, the overflow part of the Long Bay Campground, Coromandel Read More I could live like this forever I could live like this forever. Read More Three adults, three kids & five dogs We settled on Lake Opuha for our latest trip. Read More Not FREE but truly freedom at its best SH 35 is a magical journey. Put it on your list. Read More Love Woodville Ferry Reserve Love Woodville Ferry Reserve, hardly anyone here. Read More 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. Read More Hammock time Hammock time, Tokomaru Bay Read More So thankful After 21 days #vanlife freedom camping… Read More 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. Read More Enjoying the shade Great place to enjoy the shade. Orton Bradley Park. Read More Peaceful Fortrose A beautiful peaceful place, Fortrose, in The Catlins. Read More What is ‘self-contained’, anyway? Self-containment is at the heart of the the latest raft of freedom camping changes instituted in 2023. Read More The life and times of a Ford Trader Camper truck The original camper truck in 1973 was aFord Trader . Read More Setting up at Campfest Setting up at Campfest, Bulls, Feb 24. ©2024 Tracey Davis. Read More 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. Read More Eclectic bunch What an eclectic bunch of lovely people camping all sorts of ways. Read More A lovely long weekend away at Lake Ōhau I’ve just had a lovely long weekend away at Lake Ōhau in my little Wanda. Read More 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. Read More We had a great stay at Tokomaru Bay Our camp was right on the beach looking directly out to where the sun would rise. Read More Family camping… part of my DNA Family camping… part of my DNA for 60 years. Read More 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. Read More Home for the next few weeks Ruataniwha Conservation Park. 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

Winter 2025 ISSUE 12 BUY PDF CONTENTS Issue 12, Winter 2025 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 Graeme Leslie Table of contents ISSUE 12 Read CHILLY CHILLY CHILLY OUT THERE Read South Island caravan adventure Read Wāhine on Water | Sea Kayakers (WoW SK) Read Love Taupō Read Now we have the power to go off-grid Read Just some more pics from Onearo Read Portable power stations Read Stuck! Read Mains electricity & your caravan, for dummies Read SIx days in the high country Read Campfest is coming to the South Island! Read The Camping Train Read The All Points Camping Club of NZ Read Bringing the caravan up to the new self-containment level Read Self-containment warrant cards Read Winter camp, Portobello, June Read Parking brakes and perils Read Rollercoaster Read Winter camp Invercargill, July Read Winter in the Tararuas for first time trampers Read Winter tramping food Read A honeymoon, in a caravan, in winter, in 1960 Read Weather, climate and camping: editorial Read DOC update Read Colac Bay Read Warming winter food Read Making the toast off-grid – use gas Read Frost Read Stopping, Staying, Skiing Read Things that go bump in the night Read Vulnerable roads… Read New Zealand Lifestyle Camping Read Bluff Farm Read Matariki weekend camp Read Come Camping Read Winter at Miranda Holiday Park Read HUH ! Cracked it! Councils & Government Read Self-containment warrant cards Read Love Taupō Read Vulnerable roads… Read Weather, climate and camping: editorial Read Bringing the caravan up to the new self-containment level Self-containment & Freedom Camping Read Self-containment warrant cards Read Love Taupō Read Weather, climate and camping: editorial Read Stuck! Read Colac Bay Read Now we have the power to go off-grid Read Things that go bump in the night Read Bringing the caravan up to the new self-containment level Read Portable power stations Read A honeymoon, in a caravan, in winter, in 1960 Read The Camping Train Read New Zealand Lifestyle Camping

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 A Classic Geraldine Classic Caravan Club 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 View More

A magazine by and for campers in New Zealand Summer 2024 Select which topic to show ISSUE 10 BUY PDF ToC Camping the Kiwi Way, Summer 2024 Table of contents Editorial Come camping Stop and Stay Contribute About Cover image Waiorongomai Valley ©2024 Greg Lokes Read More Double-digit highways SH32, SH45, SH60: Do you know them? Read More 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. Read More 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. Read More SH60 Richmond to Collingwood, Tasman SH60 begins in Richmond, travels through Motueka and Takaka and ends after 117km at Collingwood. Read More Butchers Dam aurora How small are we in this world? Not us but another caravanner oblivious to the skies above. Read More We got bogged: “Because it’d be funner,” he said Well. There we were. Bogged. Read More And people wonder why I like camping And people wonder why I like camping. Read More Springing Your camping stories from spring. Tents. Weather. The night sky. Places to go, places to stay, things to do. Read More What a difference a day makes What a difference a day makes Read More Waitaki first day Another pilgrimage to the Waitaki lakes this morning, marking the start to the camping season. Read More Ōtaki Rivermouth Ōtaki Rivermouth Read More NIWA summer forecast Warmer than average; more days over 25°C; more dry spells… Read More 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. Read More 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. Read More 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 More 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. Read More 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. Read More Self-containment warrant cards: Which ones are valid? Check your card against these, to see whether you can still freedom camp. Read More 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. Read More A roof-top tent A roof-top tent captured at the Ōtaki Rivermouth freedom camp as the sun was going down. Read More 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. Read More What is out there It’s amazing what is out there to be seen when you are tucked up in bed Read More 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. Read More The Wairau After a peaceful night’s sleep a hearty breakfast on the Wairau river is always a good way to start the day Read More 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 Read More 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. Read More Sunday morning caravan Lego Sunday morning caravan Lego with our boys, Eddie and Boston. Read More 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! Read More Kea attack Setting up my tent this weekend I noticed about a dozen little holes in the roof. Read More MORE

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 ISSN: 2815-827X (Online) ©2024 All Points Camping Club of NZ Inc Editor: Miriam Richardson
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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

Articles from Spring campers around New Zealand. Summer 2024 ISSUE 10 BUY PDF CONTENTS TOC Summer 2024 ISSUE 10 CONTENTS PDF BUY INDEX Springing Your camping stories from spring. Tents. Weather. The night sky. Places to go, places to stay, things to do. Butchers Dam aurora How small are we in this world? Not us but another caravanner oblivious to the skies above. Read More Ōtaki Rivermouth Ōtaki Rivermouth Read More What is out there It’s amazing what is out there to be seen when you are tucked up in bed Read More First time out with my new tent So far I’ve had gale force winds and 30mm rain in the last 24 hours… Read More Exploring Clandyboye All Points Camping enjoyed craft shopping, toasting marshmallows in the fire pit and Devonshire teas at the Milford POP. Read More My day at the Ellesmere A&P Show Don’t miss local A & P shows when you travel the country. Read More A long weekend on the Waikato River Cooked my favourite breakfast when camping: pancakes with boysenberry jam Read More Fishing in the snow Fishing in the snow. Ohau B canal. Spring Read More King’s Birthday camp at Kekerengu There were stars out on Saturday night, but Sunday dawned overcast with a cool breeze. Read More Fantastic time at the Onearo campground Fantastic time at the Onearo campground. Fun time with all. Read More What a difference a day makes What a difference a day makes Read More 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 More The Wairau After a peaceful night’s sleep a hearty breakfast on the Wairau river is always a good way to start the day Read More Temple Stream A nice relaxing weekend at one of my favourite spots, Temple Stream DOC Campsite. Read More What a view to wake up to What a view to wake up to this morning. National Park, Waiouru Read More My day at Ferrymead My day at Ferrymead Heritage Park, Christchurch. Read More Terako Downs entrance Terako Downs entrance, Labour Weekend Read More Trying out my new quilt Slept in it last night on the lounge floor with all the windows open. Read More Foxton Beach All sorts of campers at the Foxton Beach Spring Fling camping weekend. Read More Waitaki first day Another pilgrimage to the Waitaki lakes this morning, marking the start to the camping season. Read More A roof-top tent A roof-top tent captured at the Ōtaki Rivermouth freedom camp as the sun was going down. Read More Kea attack Setting up my tent this weekend I noticed about a dozen little holes in the roof. Read More Marfells Beach Marfells Beach is a DOC camp (pay online, whew, there is mobile coverage this time) has wild silverbeet. Read More Danseys Pass While we were exploring the geosites in the Waitaki Valley, we saw several signs to Danseys Pass. Read More NZ Cheese Festival 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 Ordinary cycle Staying in Oamaru after attending a cycle event at the Waimate velodrome organised by the Oamaru Ordinary Cycle Club. Read More Uretiti Stayed for two nights at the Uretiti DOC campsite (Northland). for the first time. Read More Three nights at Conway Flats A Pacific-blue sea and sky. Sleeping to the sound of the sea. Read More ISSN 2815-827X (Online) | ISSN:2815-8261 (Print) ISSUE 10 editor@campingthekiwiway.org

A magazine by and for campers in New Zealand Topics from all issues Choose which topic to show INDEX Stop and Stay Places to stay. Read More Camping the Kiwi Way, 13, Spring 2025 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 Bette Cosgrove Self-containment warrant cards: which ones are valid? Find out which warrants are valid for freedom camping, Summer 2025/26. Read More Butcher’s Pool Tucked away on a side road off SH5 (near Reporoa), is this free hot pool. Read More Miriam Richardson Editorial 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 Miriam Richardson 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 Christine Batt 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 Various 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 Andrew Morton 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 Tony Kissel On a wild beach 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 Bette Cosgrove 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 Linda Butler 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 Bette Cosgrove Home for the next week Lake Ohau. A tad chilly in the mornings. Read More Tony Kissel 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 Andrew Morton 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 Marty Ireland 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 Graham Leslie 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 Andrew Morton 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 Kelvin Watson 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 Susan Wood 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 Jonathan Collins 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 Heather Auckram Campfest South Island There is something happening for the entire family over this family-orientated weekend. Read More Linda Butler On maintenance Here are my whimsical maintenance tips from my bus Keltic Star. Read More Maggie O’Rourke It’s not always sunshine & roses Nine severe weather forecasts in Canterbury. Read More Andrew Morton 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 Collyn Rivers DOC Update DOC charges for parking at four South Island sites. Do your bit for nature. Remediated mine becomes a Reefton attraction. Read More DOC 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 Margaret Earle Recipes on the road Lucy’s gluten-free scones, crustless quiche, zero carb chicken bread loaf , home made butter: Kiwi gold. Read More Various Athenree hot springs and campground Close to Waihi, Waihi Beach and Katikati this is a prime campground. Read More Maggie O’Rourke MORE

A magazine by and for campers in New Zealand Summer 2023 Choose which topic to show ISSUE 6 BUY PDF INDEX Camping the Kiwi Way, 6, Summer 2023 Table of contents Editorial For councils and government Come camping Stop and Stay Contribute About Cover image: Camp oven. ©2023 M Richardson Read More Self-containment certification: Which one is yours? Identify which kind of self containment you have, and be clear about where you are allowed to camp, so you can avoid fines and hassles Read More Labour weekend at Mangawhai Read More What to do? With the new self-containment system in disarray, what do you do with your new build, conversion or upgrade? Four choices. Read More The freedom camping law needs to change Seven things to fix • Use the current standard. • Remove the fixed toilet fetish. • Remove the offence “preparing to freedom camp” — who can determine intentions? • Make the delivery of offence notices fair. • Remove the revised definition of homelessness. • Ensure adequate facilities for all travellers. • Differentiate between citizens and tourists. Read More Well worth the walk Wharariki Beach is a wild, magnificent, and windswept long sandy beach, home of the Archway Islands, and can be found at the northernmost point of the South Island — west of Cape Farewell Read More Teardrop camping Teardrop camping Read More Mavis and all her DIY It all started with needing a new roof hatch… well not exactly needing, but more a case of wanting. Out with the old and in with the new. Read More You have to be here… We gathered in Alexandra in Autumn, four of us and a dog. It’s a great season for biking in Central Otago, not too hot, and the weather is usually settled. Read More Who is advocating for New Zealanders who go camping? Three national groups speak on behalf of NZ campers: the All Points Camping Club of NZ, the NZMCA, and the Responsible Campers Association Read More Biking the Waikato River Trails Here’s the exciting opportunities for your stay and cycle journey on the Waikato River Trails. Read More Dehydrated dinners Initially I bought a dehydrator to make fruit snacks for tramping. Over time, friends inspired me to use my dehydrator to make pre-cooked dinners. Read More There’s no need to rush this Summer. Is it better on the other side? The new self-containment regulations that the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board are trying to implement have more bumps, twists and turns than the North Island Saddle Road. Read More Fire safety: Caravans and sleep-outs Caravans and sleep-outs are great fun, but they also carry a much greater risk of fire than a traditional home. These tips will help keep you safe: Read More Fire blankets Fire blankets are useful for covering cooking related fires, and for wrapping around a person to smother a clothing fire. Read More Lithium-ion battery safety Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are everywhere, from e-bikes & vapes and power tools. They are light, compact, and long-lasting, but can be a fire hazard if they are damaged, mishandled, or improperly disposed of. Read More LiFePO4 are a safe choice for a motorhome or caravan Phosphate-based batteries, like lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, offer a superior chemical and mechanical structure that does not overheat to unsafe levels. Read More The best medicine Sometimes the best medicine you need is going somewhere with no phone signal so you can spend the whole day just giving each other shit. Read More Electrical warrant of fitness certifications Well the holiday season is almost upon us and nearly here, and everyone will be getting their caravans, motorhomes and boats checked to make sure everything is operational. Read More Van tour of the op shops We love freedom camping, and great charity recycle shops. My vintage-clothes-obsessed daughter and I did a wee roadie and filled her with treasures (lower North Island). Read More Bus Porn at Winter Woodie Bus Porn at Winter Woodie, Woodville, June. Read More RV Fridge Basics Most fridges are essentially pumps. They move heat from where it is not wanted to where it does not matter. All work like this. They differ in how they do it — and also how well they do it. This article covers the basics. Read More NZers go everywhere to camp This trip is the adventure I’ve dreamed of my whole life. Something different that will challenge me and possibly the closest I can get to Timbuktu for now, so I’m super excited. Read More The worst part about going camping is coming home! Being out in nature and sitting around the fire sharing stories is my happy place as I’m sure it is for many people. Read More Ten tips for a successful family camping trip If you’re preparing to head off on your Summer family camping trip, whether it’s a short trip or a long trip, we’ve put together 10 tips to make your trip just that bit smoother. Read More Car journeys with kids No matter the age of your children, there’s always the car journey and the inevitable “are we there yet?” and “how much longer?” Read More Sunday morning flag raising Sunday morning flag raising The Bay of Plenty family camp at Paengaroa. Read More 8 days a week and 8 years to celebrate On the 31 December 2023 our inclusive, national camping club will be 8 years old. The All Points Camping Club was officially launched 31 December 2015. It’s been a journey and a half. Read More NZ’s independent national network for self-containment certification authority With a national network of more than 170 self-containment testing officers, NZ Lifestyle Camping supports the NZ leisure camping industry Read More Fishing Fishing. Read More MORE

A magazine by and for campers in New Zealand Camping the Kiwi Way, 1, Spring 2022 Table of contents Editorial For councils and government Contribute About Come camping Stop and Stay Cover image: 1958, camping in the poptop. ©2022 Graham Leslie Read More The Harris Range Our campsite, and the critter pleased to make it there. Read More Cycle touring: Canterbury to Southland Tent and gear on board, Stephen sets off on the first leg of his tour around the South Island. We tag along, this issue, as far as Winton in Southland. Read More Thinking of Cycle touring? From my first trip as a teenager on a 10-speed I’ve developed a love of independent cycle touring. Read More Te Rātā Bay, Lake Tarawera Our trip was full of swimming in the thermal-warmed water around the lake, jet skiing, exploring, and cooking in the ground. Read More The big picture on the proposed changes for freedom camping The problems and the solutions do not match. Read More Seventh week Seventh week on the road in Aotearoa in this beauty. Read More The controversial Nash Self-contained Motor Vehicles Legislation Bill The proposals, should they go ahead, will not achieve the outcome Nash intends and they are not workable. There is no identified benefit to any sector of the NZ leisure camping industry or to local authorities. Read More Just a little R&R Just a little R&R at Orton Bradley Park Read More Time to have your say on the “Self-contained Motor Vehicles Legislation Bill” If passed this legislation will affect ALL campers and the camping industry in New Zealand for many years to come Read More 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 More My 2 cents on the Nash proposals As a freedom camper, campervan business owner and citizen of NZ, I find these proposals extremely concerning. Read More Piano Flat Piano Flat DoC standard campsite is a favourite spot an hour from Gore, Southland in the Waikaia Forest Conservation Area with the Waikaia River flowing through the expansive camping area. Read More Travelling the world on a motorcycle There are more ways than one to travel the country, or the world, for that matter. LeRoy Knierim decided to do it on a motorcycle. It took ten years to circle the globe. Read More A North Island freedom-camping adventure After my South Island trip, I decided I wanted to road trip the North Island and go all the way up to Cape Reinga. For me, freedom camping in the car was the best way to do it. Read More TIPS Camping with preschoolers We started our camping trips over this past summer with a then 3yo and 4yo (and two large dogs). Read More What makes a great and safe freedom camping space? Enough room for comfort and safety; services and things to do nearby; a good sign (everyone wins with good, clear signs); and its fantastic if there is also a great view. Read More Firth of Thames Our view last night on the Firth of Thames. Read More Make a difference: Let's CHANGE the narrative Let’s spread message that responsible Freedom Campers are a help. Read More Lake Camp — freedom camp This is one of the Ashburton Lakes in the Hakatere Conservation Park. You reach it by turning off at Mt Somers then just drive until you reach it on the left. Read More TIPS for the cold Spring still sends cold weather our way. Consider these winter tips, and don’t be daunted. Read More TIPS: Weekending Making the most of short trips Read More Roady: The new App on the block The Roady App gives you access to local travel knowledge and makes it easy to plan epic New Zealand trips. Read More Whakamaru There are some great freedom camping spots around Whakamaru. Read More Getting the internet on the road There are two ways to get on the internet while on the road: with your mobile phone or with mobile broadband. Read More A teardrop camper My little teardrop started life in 2016 as an idea to have something I could use to get away and recharge myself. Read More Do you know what you want in a caravan — or are you just winging it? What we thought we wanted soon changed as we sat in and viewed a number of vans over about 3 months. Read More The Caravan & Motorhome Book Understanding your rv: Australian Collyn Rivers has travelled in a wide range of different sorts of RVs and learned in real life. Read More DOC and its Campsite Pass There is a 30-day pass or a 365-day pass, that covers most DOC campsites. Read More Sleeping with the sandflies: Lake Monowai Lake Monowai was quiet and still as if time itself had stopped. Read More Spring 2022 Choose which topic to show ISSUE 1 BUY PDF INDEX MORE

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