7 Autumn 2024 Autumn 2024 ISSUE 7 BUY PDF CONTENTS Click on image for full view and caption Al Points Camping gathreing at Waihopai Community Centre and Reserve Our All Points Camping NZ park and camp was at the Waihopai Community Centre and Reserve, 16km away from the Marlborough Wine and Food Festival. ©2024 Marty Ireland Jet trail overhead. We had a large area to choose from. We had a large area to choose from, with the use of the small hall with lounge, kitchen, toilets and river-fed fresh water supply. ©2024 Marty Ireland. A mercy dash by Morgan Plumbing Friday saw the need for a mercy dash by the local plumbers (Morgan Plumbing) to effect running repairs on the toilets which was done with efficiency and much appreciated. ©2024 Marty Ireland Setup at Waihopai ©2024 Marty Ireland Setup at Waihopai ©2024 Marty Ireland Arriving at Waihopai. ©2024 Marty Ireland Setup at Waihopai ©2024 Marty Ireland Water supply ©2024 Marty Ireland. A private stretch of river. ©2024 Marty Ireland A private stretch of river. ©2024 Marty Ireland ©2024 Marty Ireland A private stretch of river. ©2024 Marty Ireland Nibbles Day visitors joined us to swim in the private swimming hole, enjoy pre-dinner drinks and nibbles and wide ranging discussions, as one does, along with some good laughs as we tried and tasted home-made spirits.©2024 Marty Ireland wine food waihopai pre dinner drinks and nibbles.jpg Day visitors joined us to swim in the private swimming hole, enjoy pre-dinner drinks and nibbles and wide ranging discussions, as one does, along with some good laughs as we tried and tasted home-made spirits.©2024 Marty Ireland Waihopai camp and the Marlborough Wine and Food Festival Marty Ireland Marlborough’s iconic wine and food event was held at the Renwick Sports Domain in Blenheim in February, which living up to its reputation for sunny, fine weather. Previously held at the Brancott Vineyard, attendees felt the change of management and venue detracted, and the new payment system, that seemed to attract extra fees, took the joy out of the experience for many. Our All Points Camping NZ park and camp was at the Waihopai Community Centre and Reserve, 16km away, past the renowned Spy Base facility, now minus the two controversial cover domes. For $20 per van per night we had a large area to choose from, with the use of the small hall with lounge, kitchen, toilets and river-fed fresh water supply. Friday saw the need for a mercy dash by the local plumbers (Morgan Plumbing) to effect running repairs on the toilets which was done with efficiency and much appreciated. We were a small group from Blenheim and Christchurch, and day visitors joined us to swim in the private swimming hole, enjoy pre-dinner drinks and nibbles and wide ranging discussions, as one does, along with some good laughs as we tried and tasted home-made spirits. The weather was hot and sunny with a temperature drop-off in the morning and some strong wind one evening dropping some guy ropes on the awnings. One stunning feature was the stars visible over head at night time. A great weekend in a great place. GO TO Celebrating Summer drinks, nibbles, discussions, good laughs Campground. Not affected by law changes. Up Up 7 Autumn 2024 , p 36 ISSN 2815-827X (Online) | ISSN:2815-8261 (Print) ISSUE 4 editor@campingthekiwiway.org

3 Autumn 2023 3 Autumn 2023 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption sometimes it's about enjoying things simply Small kayak camping Andy Baldwin I see a lot of really big setups on Facebook, so I thought I'd share my 'small' kayak camping setup for the weekend. You don't really need a lot to have a good time camping. On this occasion I didn't even bother with a cooker, just pre-prepared cold food, a tent and a sleeping bag. I think sometimes it's about enjoying things simply. Life can be complicated enough. Read about kayak camping at Blumine Island. http://ckw.nz/blumine Up Up 3 Autumn 2023 , p 10

6 Summer 2023 6 Summer 2023 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption fire-blanket_mw.webp Fire blankets Fire and Emergency New Zealand Fire blankets are useful for covering cooking related fires, and for wrapping around a person to smother a clothing fire . Fire blankets are made of fabrics that are fire resistant and can be purchased at most hardware stores. Store fire blankets in a location close to your kitchen. Fire blankets can usually be bought from your local hardware store. Source: ckw.nz/fire-blankets © Fire and Emergency New Zealand. Creative Commons (CC-BY-NC-ND) More: Caravan fire safety More: Lithium-ion battery safety More: Do you need a permit for your BBQ? (Gas & charcoal) Up Up 6 Summer 2023 , p 14

11 autumn 2025 11 autumn 2025 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption Fishing in the twilight at the Otaki River mouth. ©2025 Miriam Richardson Adjusting to the new rules Editorial: and so we go on Miriam Richardson The challenges of changing government policy and regulations are easing, with the extension to the freedom camping self-containment transition end date to 2026. We have 12 more months to meet the new requirements if we want to freedom camp (see p2). At the same time it less clear, on private property, whether the old ‘blue’ certification is as welcome as the new ‘green’ certification. Around the country the ‘social licence’ for freedom camping is under pressure. Local councils and regions are updating their bylaws in response to government policy changes. This requires consultation with their locals who are less and less keen to see freedom campers at their local scenic spots. Very few councils are now providing for tents or for those who are not self-contained. This is very sad for many families and younger NZers who can’t afford purpose-built vehicles. Councils seem inclined to create restricted areas for freedom camping which results in a ghetto effect which is less pleasant for campers and more unsightly and intrusive for locals. Setting a low vehicle limit at a site leads to predictable problems as those driving from 2, 3, 4 hours away have no idea how many are already occupying limited spots, and squeeze in later — where else can they go? Setting particular car parks, has its own problems as many camping vehicles are not car-sized and there is a fire hazard for closely crammed camping vehicles. Time limits: Stop for a meal in Kaikōura after 5pm will get you a freedom camping fine. Some councils say leave by 7am, 8am, 9am — sheesh! not all campers are young! Have your say when council’s consult, and so camping voices can be heard. If we don’t no-one else will. Tiaki mai, tiaki atu, Miriam Richardson, Editor Up Up 11 autumn 2025 , p 4

2 Summer 2022 2 Summer 2022 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption Nokomai station Dallas Hibbs Nokomai station on the way to Queenstown. We went there as kids; now we take our kids there. © 2022 Dallas Hibbs Up Up 2 Summer 2022 , p 35

8 Winter 2024 Winter 2024 ISSUE 8 BUY PDF CONTENTS Click on image for full view and caption The Woodturners Kauri Gallery Parkover NI Dargaville, FREE thewoodturnersstudio.co.nz Offers overnight parking as well as woodturning tuition, a gallery and a shop. Great views of the river, close to dairy, an opshop, takeaways and shopping. WHO: self-contained vehicles, cabins. FACILITIES: large vehicles. Low cost ACTIVITiES: woodturning, kauri gallery, 20 mins walk to town or museum. Dargaville Museum NI Northland, Dargaville, LOW COST dargavillemuseum.co.nz Overlooking the town and river, it tells fascinating stories of the Kauri Coast, Māori, maritime & pioneer. WHO: self-contained vehicles. FACILITIES: large vehicles. ACTIVITiES: picnic spots, walking tracks, cycle trail, also see the Heritage Machinery Museum, pā site. Historic Maritime Museum and Park NI Paeroa, LOW COST historicalmaritimepark.co.nz Home to a collection of goldfield/maritime history. Beautifully laid out grounds, river board walks, daily boat rides and friendly hosts. WHO: self-contained vehicles. FACILITIES: large vehicles, power available ($), ACTIVITiES: museum, picnics, river cruise, rail trail, walking tracks, cycling, kayak launch, pet friendly. Coach House Museum NI Fielding, Manawatū, LOW COST coachhousemuseum.nz Enjoy an outstanding collection of rural NZ heritage— over 140 years of history. Who: self-contained vehicles. Facilities: large vehicles, toilets (open hours), water, pet friendly, wheelchair access. Activities: museum, walk to town. Hawera Holiday Park NI Taranaki, COSTS ckw.nz/hawera-hp Peaceful camp at the edge of town. Hawera’s museums are unique and innovative: Elvis, an underground canal boat ride, local models. WHO: cars, tents, motorhomes. FACILITIES: dump station, power, toilets, showers, kitchen, lounge, laundry, wifi, BBQ, family friendly, 5 mins walk to the CBD, pets by arrangement. ACTIVITIES: 3 museums, galleries, climb the tower, 4 opshops, swimming, walking, cycling. Tui Mangatainoka Reserve Campground NI Pahiatua, Wairarapa, FREE ckw.nz/tui Located across the road from the famous Tui Brewery, where you can take a tour. Who: self-contained vehicles. Facilities: toilets, dump station, water, restaurant, pet friendly Activities: brewery tours, walks, swimming, picnics, kayaking, fishing. Antique & Classic Boat Museum SI St Arnaud, LOW COST classicboatmuseum.co.nz Park beside the museum, and enjoy the collection of in-board, out-board and non-powered boats. WHO: self-contained vehicles. FACILITIES: none. ACTIVITIES: museum, walks, cycling, swimming, boating, fishing, bird watching, tramping, local adventures. Hanmer DOC Amenity Area SI North Canterbury, FREE A reasonably flat free camping area near town: hot pools, ice rink, shopping, eateries. WHO: tents, vans, campervans. FACILITIES: toilet just next door, 15 mins walk to town. ACTIVITIES: hot pools, swimming, museum, craft and art galleries, shopping, eateries, golf, walking, tramping, cycling, many adventure opportunities. Milford POP, Frenally Craft Shop SI Temuka, Sth Canterbury, LOW COST ckw.nz/fb-milford-pop This former school has space to unwind and socialise, indoor and out. Buy crafts or craft supplies. Take a class. Come for a visit, and stay over if you are self-contained. Who: self-contained vehicles. Facilities: craft shop, classes, morning & afternoon teas, pet friendly. Activities: playground, indoor/outdoor social areas, crafting classes. House of Hop Brewery and Restaurant SI Geraldine, FREE facebook.com/houseofhopnz
 houseofhop.co.nz Situated in a quiet rural setting with on site restaurant and craft brewery where you get epic craft beer and sensational food. Who: self-contained vehicles. Facilities: large vehicles, playground, , sheep and alpacas to watch, pet friendly. activities: brewery, restaurant, walks. Naseby Holiday Park SI Central Otago, COSTS nasebyhp.nz In the “ice capital of NZ”, with historic old buildings, quaint pubs and café food. WHO: tents, vans, campervans. FACILITIES: power, water, dump station, rubbish, toilets, showers, laundry, kitchen, lounge, playground, wheelchair access, large vehicles, 10 min walk to the town. ACTIVITIES: luge, curling, ice-skating, dog sled riding, Dark Skies star gazing, walks, mountain biking, orienteering, cycling, walking, gold panning, close to Otago Rail Trail. Tui Base Camp SI Tuatapere, Southland, COSTS tuibasecamp.co.nz Walk to the Bushman’s Museum, craft and art galleries. Family friendly, weekly rates. WHO: tents, vans, campervans, backpackers. FACILITIES: toilet, showers, laundry, kitchen, power, spa, sauna, dump station, playground, wifi, café, bar, pet friendly. ACTIVITIES: museum, galleries, mini golf, bush walks, tramping, guided trips, jet boating. GO TO Autumn Gold for the rainy days STOP and STAY Stop and stay in winter Stop and Stay Places that provide poor-weather activities onsite or nearby. stopandstaynz.org NORTH ISLAND The Woodturners Kauri Gallery Parkover Dargaville, LOW COST thewoodturnersstudio.co.nz Offers overnight parking as well as woodturning tuition, a gallery and a shop. Great views of the river, close to dairy, an opshop, takeaways and shopping. WHO: self-contained vehicles, cabins. FACILITIES: large vehicles. ACTIVITiES: woodturning, kauri gallery, 20 mins walk to town or museum. Dargaville Museum Northland, LOW COST dargavillemuseum.co.nz Overlooking the town and river, it tells fascinating stories of the Kauri Coast, Māori, maritime & pioneer. WHO: self-contained vehicles. FACILITIES: large vehicles. ACTIVITiES: picnic spots, walking tracks, cycle trail, also see the Heritage Machinery Museum, pā site. Historic Maritime Museum and Park Paeroa, LOW COST historicalmaritimepark.co.nz Home to a collection of goldfield/maritime history. Beautifully laid out grounds, river board walks, daily boat rides and friendly hosts. WHO: self-contained vehicles. FACILITIES: large vehicles, power available ($), ACTIVITiES: museum, picnics, river cruise, rail trail, walking tracks, cycling, kayak launch, pet friendly. Coach House Museum Fielding, Manawatū, LOW COST coachhousemuseum.nz Enjoy an outstanding collection of rural NZ heritage— over 140 years of history. WHO: self-contained vehicles. FACILITIES: large vehicles, toilets (open hours), water, pet friendly, wheelchair access. ACTIVITIES: museum, walk to town. Hawera Holiday Park Taranaki, COSTS ckw.nz/hawera-hp Peaceful camp at the edge of town. Hawera’s museums are unique and innovative: Elvis, an underground canal boat ride, local models. WHO: cars, tents, motorhomes. FACILITIES: dump station, power, toilets, showers, kitchen, lounge, laundry, wifi, BBQ, family friendly, 5 mins walk to the CBD, pets by arrangement. ACTIVITIES: 3 museums, galleries, climb the tower, 4 opshops, swimming, walking, cycling. Tui Mangatainoka Reserve Campground Pahiatua, Wairarapa, FREE ckw.nz/tui Located across the road from the famous Tui Brewery, where you can take a tour. WHO: self-contained vehicles. FACILITIES: toilets, dump station, water, restaurant, pet friendly ACTIVITIES: brewery tours, walks, swimming, picnics, kayaking, fishing. SOUTH ISLAND Antique & Classic Boat Museum St Arnaud, LOW COST classicboatmuseum.co.nz Park beside the museum, and enjoy the collection of in-board, out-board and non-powered boats. WHO: self-contained vehicles. FACILITIES: none. ACTIVITIES: museum, walks, cycling, swimming, boating, fishing, bird watching, tramping, local adventures. Hanmer DOC Amenity Area North Canterbury, FREE A reasonably flat free camping area near town: hot pools, ice rink, shopping, eateries. WHO: tents, vans, campervans. FACILITIES: toilet just next door, 15 mins walk to town. ACTIVITIES: hot pools, swimming, museum, craft and art galleries, shopping, eateries, golf, walking, tramping, cycling, many adventure opportunities. Milford POP, Frenally Craft Shop Temuka, LOW COST ckw.nz/fb-milford-pop This former school has space to unwind and socialise, indoor and out. Buy crafts or craft supplies. Take a class. Come for a visit, and stay over if you are self-contained. WHO: self-contained vehicles. FACILITIES: craft shop, classes, morning & afternoon teas, pet friendly. ACTIVITIES: playground, indoor/outdoor social areas, crafting classes. Join All Points Camping for a weekend here in September 2024 ckw.nz/clandeboye House of Hop Brewery and Restaurant Geraldine, South Canterbury, FREE facebook.com/houseofhopnz houseofhop.co.nz Situated in a quiet rural setting with on site restaurant and craft brewery where you get epic craft beer and sensational food. WHO: self-contained vehicles. FACILITIES: large vehicles, playground, sheep and alpacas to watch, pet friendly. ACTIVITIES: brewery, restaurant, walks. Naseby Holiday Park Central Otago, COSTS nasebyhp.nz In the “ice capital of NZ”, with historic old buildings, quaint pubs and café food. WHO: tents, vans, campervans. FACILITIES: power, water, dump station, rubbish, toilets, showers, laundry, kitchen, lounge, playground, wheelchair access, large vehicles, 10 min walk to the town. ACTIVITIES: luge, curling, ice-skating, dog sled riding, Dark Skies star gazing, walks, mountain biking, orienteering, cycling, walking, gold panning, close to Otago Rail Trail. Tui Base Camp Tuatapere, Southland, COSTS tuibasecamp.co.nz Walk to the Bushman’s Museum, craft and art galleries. Family friendly, weekly rates. WHO: tents, vans, campervans, backpackers. FACILITIES: toilet, showers, laundry, kitchen, power, spa, sauna, dump station, playground, wifi, café, bar, pet friendly. ACTIVITIES: museum, galleries, mini golf, bush walks, tramping, guided trips, jet boating. A list for travellers and campers in NZ — use it, share it, add to it. View, download or print: stopandstaynz.org Add your spots for stopping: ckw.nz/add-one-now Open to all, courtesy of NZ's national camping club, All Points Camping . Up Up 8 Winter 2024 , p 40

2 Summer 2022 2 Summer 2022 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption Table of contents, Summer, issue 2 Editor 2 Implications for councils of the proposed ‘Nash bill’ 4 Editorial: A long hot summer 4 How many freedom campers are there? 4 Buckets, gladwrap, and gossip 5 Taking a left turn 8 Gore Bay 9 Cycle touring: Part II, Southland to the West Coast 13 Camping / caravan Tips 14 Freedom camping, November 1964 15 Worth a detour Marakopa 16 Wild Camping with a dog 17 Pick and pedal 19 The wild Wairarapa coast 20 Game: National Parks 20 Game: South Island Lakes 21 How we solved a problem and started a new business 23 Caravan & Motorhome Electrics 24 Pannekoeken for breakfast 24 Freedom camping on the East Cape 25 Camping without a fridge 27 Choosing an internet provider 28 Talking to four van loads of international tourists 29 Hints and tips on toilet cassettes 30 Test the person not the vehicle: Responsible Campers Association 31 Instagrammable 32 Katikati coastal estuary cycle way 32 Fishing at Kingston 33 Preparing for the cold winter “brrrrrr's” 34 Tanners Point 34 Purakaunui Bay Campsite 35 Clifden suspension bridge 36 NZers go camping : clubs & groups on Facebook Cycling groups Women travelling Camping groups 37 Hitting the Northland beaches — Stop and Stay 38 EVENTS — Camping 38 EVENTS — Festivals and Shows Up Up 2 Summer 2022 , p 3

5 Spring 2023 5 Spring 2023 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption 10-tips-PassingTruck.png Their main type of accident is jack-knifing 10 Tips for safe caravan towing Collyn Rivers 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. Overtake whilst towing with great care. Pic: AL-KO, rvBooks.co.au Tip One: limit speed Never tow above 100 km/h (especially if overtaking). Driving too fast is by far the major cause of caravan-related accidents. Tip Two: do not exceed maximum legal weight Never load a tow vehicle or trailer above the maximum weight limits stipulated by the manufacturers. Doing so is illegal, dangerous and will invalidate your insurance. Knowing the weight of your tow vehicle and trailer is as important as carrying your passport overseas. Tip Three: correct weight ratio Ideally, a laden trailer’s weight should exceed a laden tow vehicle’s weight (ideally only 80%). If you follow this recommendation, in RV Book’s opinion, you will have no need for a Weight Distributing Hitch. The use of such a hitch is advisable if the caravan‘s laden weight exceeds the tow vehicle’s laden weight, but that vehicle’s ‘cornering power’ is then inherently reduced. Tip Four: adequate tow ball mass It is essential to have your trailer’s front end heavier than its rear. For camper trailers, not less than 5% of the trailer’s laden weight should be on the tow ball. For Australian caravans the percentage should be 8% to 10% (the longer and heavier the caravan, the higher the percentage needed). UK/EU-made caravans are by and large much lighter — they need 6–7%. This mass must remain reasonably constant. It should not vary as water tank content varies. Towing stability is since proven to relate to tow ball mass. The lower the trailer’s percentage of its weight on the tow ball, the lower the stability. Furthermore, the lower that tow ball mass, the lower the so-called critical speed. The critical speed is that above which a strongly snaking caravan cannot be driver corrected. Any heavy trailer longer than about 5 metres with less than 7% tow ball mass is (in RV Books’ opinion) an accident waiting an opportunity to happen. Its critical speed may be as low as 50–70 km/h. Find out more about critical speed here: ckw.nz /why-roll-sway Tip Five: Correct weight distribution Heavy items in a trailer should be stowed low down and close to the axle(s). Store only lighter items higher up and away from the axle(s). Never store heavy items at the front or rear of the trailer. Tip Six: limiting height Keep everything as low as feasible across your entire rig consistent with adequate ground clearance. The lowest part of a rig is usually the tow vehicle’s differential housing/s or exhaust. Tip Seven: tow vehicle choice Choose a tow vehicle that has: • A maximum towing capacity greater than the laden weight of your trailer. • An adequate maximum tow ball allowance for your trailer. • Has the longest possible wheelbase (i.e. distance between its front and rear axle/s). • Has the shortest possible distance from rear axle to tow ball. Find out more about choosing the right tow vehicle here: ckw.nz/choose-tow-vehicle . Tip Eight: trailer choice Choose a trailer that: • is as light as possible • is as short as possible • has the longest possible distance between the tow ball and its centre of mass. Extended A-frames help, but at the expense of increased turning circles. Tip Nine: Tyres Use ‘Light Truck’ tyres to assist trailer and tow vehicle handling. Their stiffer sidewalls enable them to carry their maximum weight at all times, and they are better able to resist yaw and snaking. They are a little noisier and have a slightly harder ride compared to normal tyres, but safety is more important. Never increase the tow vehicle’s front tyre pressure for towing. Always increase the tow vehicle’s rear tyre pressure by 50‑70 kPa (7–10 psi) whilst towing. In borderline cases simply using these pressures eliminates the need for a Weight Distributing Hitch. Tip Ten: Read our book Why Caravans Roll Over—and how to prevent it Our book — Why Caravans Roll Over—and how to prevent it — explains just how and why caravans roll over. It has many pages that advise how you can reduce the risk. An invaluable feature is a Question & Answer section that enables you to assess your own rig’s likely stability. It shows how to remedy the failings. Reproduced with permission. ckw.nz/10-towing-tipsrvbooks.com.au Up Up 5 Spring 2023 , p 9

7 Autumn 2024 Autumn 2024 ISSUE 7 BUY PDF CONTENTS Click on image for full view and caption Saw 21 sunrises and 21 sunsets plus billions of stars ©2024 Bette Cosgrove 30 + swims; 3 lakes 4 rivers 9 beaches ©2024 Bette Cosgrove 21 days #vanlife ©2024 Bette Cosgrove 3 Sunday pannekoeken days ©2024 Bette Cosgrove So thankful Bette Cosgrove After 21 days #vanlife freedom camping: 30 + swims; 3 lakes 4 rivers 9 beaches 12 FREE camps 2 koha sites 2 DOC paid sites 21 days of a happy dog 4 dump stations 3 Sunday pannekoeken days 1 Christmas dinner BBQ in the rain 19 sunny days 6 hours on the paddleboard 5 nights in family or friends’ driveways 15 regions of Te Ika-a-Maui crossed 2 meals of amazing fresh fush n chips 1 paua pie Multiple new friends made in lovely small towns where we spent $$$ at every stop. Saw 21 sunrises and 21 sunsets plus billions of stars. Photos ©2024 Bette Cosgrove STATUS: Free camping with a non-fixed toilet. Impossible after law changes. GO TO Celebrating Summer billions of stars Up Up 7 Autumn 2024 , p 9 ISSN 2815-827X (Online) | ISSN:2815-8261 (Print) ISSUE 4 editor@campingthekiwiway.org

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. BUY PDF CONTENTS Spring 2023 ISSUE 5 Up Update: Self-containment and freedom camping changes Gary Stoneley, NZ Lifestyle Camping Ltd he 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. However the changes only apply to free (not paid) camping, on council, LINZ land and some Department of Conservation land. The changes do not affect any overnight stays on private or commercial properties, other crown land, club sites or organised events nor anywhere payment is made. Where camping on council land is ● allowed / designated for ‘ALL’ campers, or ● specifically designated for ‘non self-contained vehicles’ or ● paid sites, car parks etc., the new legislation  /  regulations should not affect your camping. The existing self-containment standard (NZS 5465:2001) still applies and is recognised throughout NZ. Currently a campervan  /  motorhome etc. can be certified for self-containment whether it has a fixed  /  cassette or portable toilet. However, new certifications with a portable toilet are not now recognised under the amended Freedom Camping Act for free camping on land as specified earlier‡. Such certifications remain acceptable for all other camping areas. From 7 June 2024 new certifications, under the existing standard (NZS 5465:2001), will also not be recognised under the amended Freedom Camping Act. From 7 December this year, approved Certifying Authorities, once established, will be able to issue new certificates with green warrant cards for motor vehicles with fixed toilets. Such certificates attract a new government levy of $120 on top of any fees charged by the testing officer s and certifying authorities. You will be able to choose the type of self-containment certificate you want. Four levels of self-containment certification From 7 December 2023, under the Freedom Camping Act there will be 4 levels of self-containment certification (3 blue and 1 green) which can apply and which councils will need to monitor. It appears that there will also be 3 separate national registers of self-contained vehicles: the new Plumbers, GasfItters and Drainlayers Board register (green warrants) plus the NZ Lifestyle Camping and NZMCA registers for blue warrants. Certified Blue before 6/23, any toilet: OK to freedom camp on public land until 6 June 2025 Certified Blue: fixed toilet: OK to freedom camp on public land until 6 June 2025. Certified Blue: portable toilet: OK on private or commercial properties, crown land (not LINZ or council), club sites, organised events and anywhere payment is made. Certified Green: fixed toilet: OK to freedom camp on public land. It should be noted that while the current self-containment standard is prescriptive, e.g. minimum fresh water, waste water and toilet capacities per the number of occupants, the new regulations are not prescriptive with no stated minimums. It will take some time to get consistency in implementing the new regulations. You will appreciate the issuing authorities and testing officers and councils have a lot to work through over the next few months to manage and apply the multiple systems. We acknowledge the MBIE Responsible Camping Team for their three year endeavour ,and millions of dollars spent ,to make things so much simpler for local authorities and the wider industry. Links • Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board: ckw.nz/pgdb-info • MBIE — Responsible Camping Changes: ckw.nz/mbie-info • Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers (Self-Contained - Vehicles) Regulations 2023 Download a pdf of this (398kb): ckw.nz/sc-regs-pdf • Who does what: self containment and freedom camping p3 Government has worded the legislation to allow tent camping while enacting infringement fees for vehicle-based camping , on the same free-camping reserves (with or without self-containment and portable toilets). It seems unlikely that councils will adopt a policy that separates family camping groups and expressly targets certain campers. Note: All NZS 5465:2001 NZ Standard self-containments remain valid for 4 years from the date of issue, but they are subject to freedom camping restrictions on council-managed land. ‡ Land affected by the new law: free camping on council, LINZ land and some Department of Conservation land. FAQ ? Can I still get a self-containment certificate for my vehicle with a portable toilet? Yes , talk to your local testing officer. The new certificate with a portable toilet will not be recognised under the Freedom Camping Act which means there are limitations on free, public camping. ? Do I have to get issued with a new green warrant card (with $120 levy) after 7 December 2023 if I have a blue card and a fixed toilet? No , a new blue self-containment warrant card is valid for 4 years. It will be recognised until 6 June 2025 for free public camping under the Freedom Camping Act. Up Up Up Testing officers and councils have a lot to work through over the next few months to manage and apply the multiple systems. 1/0

3 Autumn 2023 3 Autumn 2023 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption Table of contents, Autumn, issue 3 Editor 2 What’s in a name? Freedom camping 2 Greymouth Star pinged 3 NZ is a camping culture 4 Editorial: looking back looking forward 5 Tautuku Hut Track: Family-friendly tramping in the Catlins 7 A beautiful country, but… 7 Our little escape pod 7 Vans can be SMALL but MIGHTY resources 7 Ten hours into a power cut 8 HELLO 2023 9 Nowhere special 10 Kayak camping 10 Why do I love camping so much? 11 Can the travelling camper save NZ's small rural communities? 12 Exploring the Rangitikei 13 CAMP FEST 14 Bulls for CAMP FEST: to and from 16 SOG®: Fresh air in your toilet 17 Hidden gems: Small towns 19 If the law changes: Managing self-containment 21 Cycle camping: Part 3: completing the South Island circuit 23 Mountain biking 24 Walter Peak 25 Recipes for camping 26 Kaweka Forest Park 28 The power of freedom camping bylaws 29 Waiting on a law change 31 Waihopai Reserve 31 Chameleon 32 NZers go camping: clubs & groups: Fiat Ducato Motorhome Owners NZ Mountain Mamas NZ 33 Stop and Stay Rarangi DOC campground Ngati Toa Domain 34 EVENTS — Camping 34 EVENTS — Festivals and Shows Up Up 3 Autumn 2023 , p

4 Winter 2023 Winter 2023 ISSUE 4 BUY PDF CONTENTS Up Kiwi Burn Hut Loop Track, Mavora Lakes Kayla Laatz Up 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. Walking to Kiwi Burn Hut Right at the start of the walk we faced one of the coolest features (in my opinion) of the track, the Kiwi Burn swing bridge. A chain metal bridge spanning approximately 15 metres across and standing at least 10 meters high over the gushing Mararoa River. Not at all for the faint of heart! Signs state only one person at a time should cross the bridge, and when you’re on it I think you’ll agree. I was nervous to cross while carrying an extra 20kg of toddler + backpack with me, but I figured it was better for me than my much taller partner to cross carrying it all. A bit wobbly going across, and a bit unsettling viewing the patches in the chain link as you’re right in the middle, but we did it! After crossing the bridge, a DOC sign details the 3 walking tracks that intersect at this point: Left to Kiwi Burn Hut (1hr 30min), forward to Kiwi Burn Loop Track (3hr 30min), or right to South Mavora Lake (2hr 30min). We decided to take the shorter route to Kiwi Burn Hut first and went left. Since I was carrying such a heavy load, my walking pace was a little slower than the suggested times shown on the sign. The first hour of the walk is super easy and even a bit peaceful, taking you on a flat walk along the Mararoa River and through the Snowdon Forest. A few small streams crossed the path along the way, but were really easy to cross without getting wet feet. With the sound of running water most of the way and the bird chirps coming from above, there were heaps of talking points to keep our young one mentally engaged and entertained. Besides the nearby river at the start, this track is totally safe to let toddlers tot around on too. Before we even started to work up a sweat, we were out of the forest and entered an open, flat grassy clearing. We followed the path stamped down into the knee high grass and the orange triangle markers. We crossed the very windy Kiwi Burn a few times as we rounded to the left of the clearing. Just as I began to think about the lack of shade and the scorching sun on us, we saw something amazing. The top of the hut finally came into view. I was shocked to see it so soon, as we truly hadn’t walked for long at all. It was a very welcome sight though with a cranky, hungry toddler on my back. After an hour and a half of easy walking, we had made it to Kiwi Burn Hut. Kiwi Burn Hut Kiwi Burn Hut overlooks a large, open valley filled with grassy wetlands surrounded by lush green mountains. There’s lots of room for little ones to safely play both inside and out. Behind the hut is a small, shallow stream which is great fun for kids on a hot summer’s day. Inside the hut we were pleased to find two separate bedrooms, each with 6 wooden bunks. We didn’t have the hut to ourselves, so this really eased my mind having the privacy of a separate room in case our little guy didn’t sleep so well that night. A luxury you don’t often get! The kitchen has a spacious bench top for preparing meals, a sink with running water (fed by the rain water tank outside) and a wood-fired stove. The stove could potentially be a hazard to young ones who don’t yet understand the concept of heat or fire, but there’s plenty of room inside to keep them far enough away from it. Outside we found 3 metal fire pits covered with a metal grill, perfect for grilling up meat or late night smores! Back to the Carpark from Kiwi Burn Hut From Kiwi Burn Hut you have two options to get back to the parking area. The shorter route, returning on the same track you came in on (1hr 30min) or the longer route, walking the full loop track back (2 hours). We were curious about what more views the full loop track offered, so opted to take the longer path to the left. Right away we lost sight of the path, but every few minutes we spotted a tiny orange triangle peeking up out of the 1.5 metre high grass. At times it didn’t even feel like we were following a track anymore, just stamping our own way forward. Not only was it hard to constantly dodge sharp grass from poking both mine and my child’s eyes, we also had to avoid tons of prickly weeds scattered throughout the bushes. Lastly, there were a ton of small streams hidden under the wet, dewy grass that were impossible to see until you had already stepped in (or nearly tripped over) them. Wet boots, wet pants, blisters, no shade cover and the very bumpy terrain underfoot made this section quite unenjoyable for us. When my son wanted a break from the carrier, we had to keep pushing forward because there weren’t many suitable spots to put him down for at least an hour and a half. It was mentally tough, and for a while there I think we all regretted the choice to take the long way back to the car. But we were so relieved to re-enter the forest again that we quickly forgot about the tricky section now behind us. After another hour of easy, peaceful walking through the forest, we arrived back at the swing bridge. Overall, it took us just over 4 hours to complete the full Kiwi Burn Hut Loop Track. We all agreed that we did not wish to ever repeat the wetlands portion of the walk again, but would happily return to the hut via the shorter walking track. Despite the tough walk on day two, the chance to easily stay overnight in Mavora made it all worth it. The final verdict is in: Kiwi Burn Hut is the perfect hut for families with young children. Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 12.5 km Trail Type: Loop Elevation Gain: 300 meters Time: 4 hours Hut Coordinates: 45°21'18.7"S 168°05'27.4"E Mountain Mamas NZ is an online community of New Zealand based mamas with a love of the great outdoors. mountainmamasnz.com instagram.com/mountainmamasnz facebook.com/mountainmamasnz Up Up The final verdict is in: Kiwi Burn Hut is the perfect hut for families with young children. The first hour of the walk is super easy and even a bit peaceful, taking you on a flat walk along the Mararoa River and through the Snowdon Forest. Photos: ©2023 Kayla Laatz. Mountain Mamas NZ The Kiwi Burn Swing Bridge. Right at the start of the walk we faced one of the coolest features (in my opinion) of the track, the Kiwi Burn Swingbridge. A chain metal bridge spanning approximately 15 metres across and standing at least 10 meters high over the gushing Mararoa River. Not at all for the faint of heart! Photos: ©2023 Kayla Laatz. Mountain Mamas NZ Back at the swing bridge After another hour of easy, peaceful walking through the forest, we arrived back at the swing bridge. Photos: ©2023 Kayla Laatz. Mountain Mamas NZ The first hour of the walk is super easy and even a bit peaceful, taking you on a flat walk along the Mararoa River and through the Snowdon Forest. Photos: ©2023 Kayla Laatz. Mountain Mamas NZ 1/11 ISSN 2815-827X (Online) | ISSN:2815-8261 (Print) editor@campingthekiwiway.org