About us A magazine by and for campers — inspiring, informing, questioning, learning. Where to go, how to do it, rewards and challenges. The nuts and bolts as well as the politics. produced for for campers of all kinds, we hope we can unite the many different camping people and groups we have in NZ to create a unified voice and energy for current and future generations of New Zealanders. In each issue you will find: stories and pictures from campers, camping and festival events, ‘Stop and Stay’ places, information, advice, tips, experiences, some info on the political landscape. We have articles of interest to councils and government — comment, feedback, implications, remedi es. Share your stories Campers, and groups or clubs promoting NZers enjoying our great outdoors, we would like to share your stories. Tenting, caravanning, motorhoming, van camping, bike camping, hiking and more. Camping photos and stories. Club stories and photos. Upcoming events that include camping. Opinion pieces on camping issues. Send us • Photos 1mb or more in size. • Email words and (separate) images: 
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Spring 2024 ISSUE 9 BUY PDF CONTENTS INDEX ISSUE 9 Camping the Kiwi Way, 9, Spring 2024 Table of contents • Editorial • Councils and government list • Come camping • Stop and Stay Contribute • About Cover image: Steampunk. ©2024 Margarte Earle Read more Gourmet snag Q. What’s better than a gourmet snag on some fresh Turkish bread, with relish, cooked and eaten outdoors while freedom camping? Read more Steampunk— from north to south and back again “It’s a chance to get dressed up and have some have fun” in Oamaru and Thames. Read more Lake Pukaki Lake Pukaki in winter. I can’t get enough of this place. Freedom camping! ©2024 M Richardson Read more The re-build of my Toyota van When I built the van, I knew that sometime later I would have to upgrade it. Read more Ekatahuna Camping at the Eketahuna campground, April 2024 ©2024 Bette Cosgrove Read more The West Coast in winter One winter’s morning in June, my son and I spontaneously took the campervan on a road trip up the coast. Read more Solar basics for dummies Solar power for us campers is a simple process. All you need is a solar panel, a solar controller, and a battery. Read more Ready for sun Ready for sunbathing and a book. Morrisons Bush. ©2023 Bette Cosgrove Read more Converting your camper van: The Cruzar Campervan story We’d been converting campervans as a hobby for a few years and discovered we loved building and creating things together. Plus, we were tired of our dull 9–5 jobs… Read more Caravan at Whanganui Vintage weekend Vintage caravan at a Whanganui Vintage weekend 2024 ©2024 Margaret Earle Read more Towing your caravan — tips, tricks and weights Firstly, make sure your caravan is ready to move. Read more Buyer beware At the time of writing this, the caravan still sits empty, untouched in our back yard. We are in discussions with our lawyer. Read more Buying used caravans Unlike cars, a well-made caravan may last for decades with only minor areas that need attention. Read more Cautionary tyre tale Passing over a bit of road where the rumble strip had been removed but not filled in, my tyre got stuck in the rut and shredded. Read more A great great grandchild A multi-generation caravan and great great grandchild. ©2024 Bette Cosgrove Read more A night in an arboretum I filled the fridge, tossed in some clothes, a hot water bottle, the dog and hit the road Read more Beautiful obscure things When you are out camping you notice beautiful and obscure things. ©2024 Gary Hitchcock Read more A winter day on Farewell Spit Winter is not the best time to visit Farewell Spit from a bird point of view, but I was there, so I took the tour anyway, and it was spectacular. Read more Freedom camping Freedom van camping ©2023 Bette Cosgrove Read more On the shoulder of a god I had a great view of Mt Ngāuruhoe on my first day there, though it was invisible for the rest of my stay. Read more Whitebaiting Whitebaiting. Rakaia River Mouth ©2024 David Liddel Read more Campground at Opoutere Campground, Opoutere, Stop and Stay, Coromandel Read more It was freezing This winter was my first in the Otago cold— a bit of a learning curve. Read more Home roasted coffee beans Sitting under the awning, I enjoy a read or an ale while roasting coffee beans. Read more Lake Pukaki Lake Pukaki, freedom camping in Winter: I cant get enough of this place. Any season. ©2024 M Richardson Read more Freedom camping and self-containment Where are we at? At a government level, a council level, a certification level, at a camper level. Read more Developing an innovative camping toilet solution: Fix-a-Potty™ In short, I designed Fix-a-Potty™ for the campervan community to provide more affordable and compact toilet options, with the intention of helping everyone continue to enjoy all that New Zealand has to offer. Read more A new cassette toilet for small spaces: The making of the BlackMOA™ A response to a legislative challenge has brought us the compact, front-opening BlackMOA™ Cassette Toilet Read more Fix’n’Rail Due out late October, the Fix’n’Rail is a heavy duty sliding rail and secure bracket that lets you slide a portable toilet in and out of its storage area Read more View More

Spring 2022 ISSUE 1 BUY PDF CONTENTS Index ISSUE 1 Camping the Kiwi Way, 1, Spring 2022 Table of contents • Editorial • For councils and government • Come camping • Stop and Stay Contribute • About 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 View More

Articles from summer campers around New Zealand. Autumn 2024 ISSUE 7 CONTENTS PDF BUY INDEX Autumn 2024 ISSUE 7 CONTENTS PDF BUY INDEX CELEBRATING SUMMER 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 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 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 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 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 A small, perfectly formed bikepacking trip Haven’t done a huge amount of biking this summer, but sometimes all it takes is a small, perfectly formed bikepacking trip to rekindle the love. Read More Heading to The Burt Well after a week of covid and still not a lot of energy I decided bugger it and I’m heading to The Burt Read More Haere ra Haere rā everyone. Shame we can’t stay longer. Read More Truly a Summer to remember Currently on night 23 of this 86-night trip. In Murchison next week I celebrate my 250th night since getting my teardrop. Read More Christmas at Lake Aniwhenua Christmas at Lake Aniwhenua, with 6 others, all old friends from around the North Island Read 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 Labour weekend at Mangawhai 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 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 Contributors Select Author BUY AUTHOR INDEX The Pigroot SH85 Heather Auckram Rabbit holes, rugby field, quirky goal posts Read More 11 autumn 2025 Adventure in Te Aroha Maggie O’Rourke The town has two freedom camps. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Camping at CampFest Jo Ward CampFest, Bulls. February. ©2025 Jo Ward. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Sailing through the Waiheke Channel Graham Leslie Sailing through the Waiheke Channel on our way to the northern coast of Waiheke. The wind has finally turned to the south. Feb. ©2025 Graham Leslie Read More 11 autumn 2025 Camping at the museum Margaret Earle You can wander around and even have your dinner in the picturesque gardens that surround the museum buildings. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Wairere falls Maggie O’Rourke Peace, tranquility, a chance to go for a walk to the waterfall, crystal hunting or even a swim makes it worthwhile. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Choosing your next camping vehicle is not always easy Gary Stoneley After close to 30 years of camping, firstly with a NZ-made 1970’s classic caravan followed by a luxurious UK Bailey Senator, it was a hard choice to get a caravan that would meet our needs. Read More 11 autumn 2025 GAME: DOC campsites 5: Upper South Island Rhonda Marshall Fill in the spaces. Read More 11 autumn 2025 A shady spot to park Heather Auckram I pulled into Lowburn free camp on the shores of Lake Dunstan and found a shady spot to park. Read More 11 autumn 2025 First time on the ferry Marty Ireland As Mainlanders, living in Blenheim we decided, part way thru 2024, to try a ferry crossing with car and caravan and go to an APCNZ event in the North Island. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Canterbury, Waihora Tony Knights Canterbury, Waihora ©2025 Tony Knights. More p36 Read More 11 autumn 2025 Fitting Auto levellers Ian Read I thought this would be the answer to the plastic drive up ramps many use. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Far from flat M Richardson Many not-to-be-missed freedom camping spots are far from flat. Pines, Lake Pukaki. ©2019 M Richardson Read More 11 autumn 2025 Camping at the Mohaka River Farm Alfred and Sofia Rico We chose a spot right with a commanding view of the river and wind farm in the distance. Read More 11 autumn 2025 A good day’s camping starts with a thermette Graham Leslie A good day’s camping starts using a thermette to boil the water for coffee and for its small fire to then make toast. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Before you light a fire DOC & NIWA Be aware of the risks. Check fireweather. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Fireplace at Mangaweka M Richardson Fireplace at Mangaweka camp, riverside picnic area. ©2012 M Richardson Read More 11 autumn 2025 Re-building my Toyota van part 2 Roland Jones I became aware of some shortcomings in the design Read More 11 autumn 2025 Made it to Campfest Jo Ward Roland made it to Campfest, Bulls, March.©2025 Jo Ward. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Freedom camping: need to know, 2025 Miriam Richardson What you need to know about freedom camping. Read More 11 autumn 2025 But I am not freedom camping… Megan Hieatt I’m just waiting to get a freedom camping fine as some official will decide that I’m camping when I’m actually parked using my RV as my means of transport, particularly in busy places like Queenstown, Tekapo or Wanaka. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Getting your camping vehicle certified Gary Stoneley An independent national network for self-containment certification Read More 11 autumn 2025 The ‘caravan train’ at Kekerungu. Linda Butler The ‘caravan train’ at Kekerungu. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Whisky Gully M Richardson Whisky Gully, Tapanui, Southland. Lovely views over the plains, and a great walk up the valley, and another through the bush. Read More 11 autumn 2025 The red lights? Andrew Morton It’s like having the glow of a camp fire, without the fire risk. A party for one! Read More 11 autumn 2025 Back on the boat (our caravan that floats) Graham Leslie It’s been nine years since we had a sailing holiday in our trailer yacht, Quasimodo. Read More 11 autumn 2025 St Kilda, Dunedin M Richardson A lovely spot looking out over the beach towards St Clair. Dunedin allows freedom camping in non-reserve parking places. 
©2022 M Richardson Read More 11 autumn 2025 A camp oven is much more than just a pot Margaret Earle Camp ovens are designed for cooking on a fire, but they can also be used on gas burners. You can use a camp oven to cook everything from stews and curries to roasts, bread, cakes and puddings. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Recipes for camping Margaret Earle Hot cross buns, Lentil and eggplant stew with gnocchi, Pork and vegetables in hoisin sauce. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Lake Kaniere 1959 Graham Leslie Citreon & pop-top at Lake Kaniere. Read More 11 autumn 2025 On the first day it rained and blew Heather Auckram The togs never saw the light of day at this weekend’s camp at Fortrose. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Late Summer journey: Southland & West Coast Tony Kissel My home for the next few weeks Read More 11 autumn 2025 Stop and Stay, Central North Island Maggie O’Rourke Tuppence, Pirongia, Cafe 77, Manawaru, Rosie and Brian’s in Reporoa Read More 11 autumn 2025 Nugget Point lighthouse Dave Adamson Here is a photo of the Nugget Point lighthouse. As we saw it today. March 6. ©2025 Dave Adamson Read More 11 autumn 2025 Interesting and tempting to purchase! Linda Butler Running off a cordless drill Read More 11 autumn 2025 Luxury camping Jo Ward Camping at CampFest. ©2025 Jo Ward Read More 11 autumn 2025 Hobby: Fishing and Diving Marty Ireland My introduction to fishing as a child: I recall being taken to the Waimakariri river and using a string hand-line with red meat as bait, I don’t recall any success . Read More 11 autumn 2025 Fishing as the sun goes down M Richardson Fishing as the sun goes down. Ōtaki River mouth free camp. March. ©2025 M Richardson Read More 11 autumn 2025 The cracks kept coming Carolyn and Keith London It wasn’t the best week as we had such bad weather Read More 11 autumn 2025 Woke to fog Maggie O’Rourke Where’s summer? Crazy. Yesterday it was 28° here, I melted. Read More 11 autumn 2025 A night at Ferry Reserve Wayne Ravelich A night at Ferry Reserve on our way to Morisons Bush. ©2025 Wayne Ravelich Read More 11 autumn 2025 Bedtime Bubbles Andrew Morton Bedtime Bubbles & wash in Kaiapoi for my wee mate after 57 nights on the road without a bath. ©2025 Andrew Morton Read More 11 autumn 2025 Waiohine Gorge Jessica Mae Bajet Just got back from an adventure-filled Waiohine Gorge campsite! Read More 11 autumn 2025 Loading a caravan safely Collyn Rivers There is a common and very dangerous belief held by many caravan owners that it is fine to have a heavy load at the rear as long as it is balanced by a similar load at the front. That is virtually a recipe for jack-knifing. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Campfest Cheryl Roberts A huge draw card, was the stage and music, talent contest, open mike time and the bands which played on to 9pm. This brought a carnival atmosphere to the camp. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Late summer fishing M Richardson Late summer fishing at the Ōtaki River Mouth free camp. February 2025. ©2025 M Richardson Read More 11 autumn 2025 20-odd years Fran One thing I learnt after travelling full-time for 20 odd years: It doesn’t matter so much where you are, as long as you are present where you are. Mind you, I still struggle with that at times, wanting nature and just the sounds of nature. lol. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Tuppence, Pirongia Maggie O’Rourke It didn’t take long before I felt like I was at home for my four day stay. Read More 11 autumn 2025 We came early Linda Butler The weather was so nice that we came out early. All that is missing is you.©2025 Linda Butler Read More 11 autumn 2025 New Year at Waihora Domain Linda Butler This venue is our favourite go-to for Christmas due to its proximity to everything. If you are travelling or want company for Christmas next year, do consider joining us. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Cafe 77, Manawaru Maggie O’Rourke It’s a lovely rural spot 15 mins from Te Aroha and 20 mins from Matamata. They have a lot of visits from cyclists doing the Hauraki Rail Trail and tourists. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Rosie and Brian’s Maggie O’Rourke I tell you, what a welcome! I think why people stay is due to our lovely welcoming hosts Rosie and Brian. They have been operating this site in their paddocks for 8 years, back then it was a gold coin to stay and to help campers out. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Havelock Mussel Festival Marty Ireland For the first time we had a camp up event for those wanting to try the Havelock Mussel Festival. Read More 11 autumn 2025 Editorial: and so we go on Miriam Richardson The challenges of the changes to freedom camping Read More 11 autumn 2025 Double-digit highways Bette Cosgrove & Miriam Richardson SH32, SH45, SH60: Do you know them? Read More 10 summer 2024 Butchers Dam aurora Shellie Evans How small are we in this world? Not us but another caravanner oblivious to the skies above. Read More 10 summer 2024 We got bogged: “Because it’d be funner,” he said Craig Nelson Well. There we were. Bogged. Read More 10 summer 2024 And people wonder why I like camping Tony Kissel And people wonder why I like camping. Read More 10 summer 2024 What a difference a day makes Trevor Karton What a difference a day makes Read More 10 summer 2024 Waitaki first day Gary Kircher, Mayor for Waitak Another pilgrimage to the Waitaki lakes this morning, marking the start to the camping season. Read More 10 summer 2024 Ōtaki Rivermouth M Richardson Ōtaki Rivermouth Read More 10 summer 2024 All roads lead to Camp Fest Gary Stoneley No matter which direction you are coming to Camp Fest from, there are many worthwhile, interesting places to explore and enjoy. North, South, East or West, or just a short distance from the Camp Fest venue there are some great opportunities to take a break and check out something a bit different. Read More 10 summer 2024 I really like the Waiouru Army Museum joymareephotography I really like the Waiouru Army Museum as a safe place to park up for the night. Read More 10 summer 2024 Camping in Tairāwhiti this summer Bette Cosgrove This remote and extraordinarily beautiful part of the Pacific Coast Highway is fully open and welcoming campers for the summer season. Read More 10 summer 2024 Freedom camping news Bette Cosgrove No end to confusion and misinformation out there about what is lawful or required to be a freedom camper. No consistency. No fair control of freedom camping. Read More 10 summer 2024 But I am not freedom camping… Miriam Richardson Each council makes its choices when it trains its enforcement officers: what criteria determines ‘freedom camping’ or ‘preparing to freedom camp’; how to recognise a ‘day-trip excursion’ vs ‘preparing to freedom camp.’ There is no way for the traveller to know in advance what criteria any particular council is using. Read More 10 summer 2024 A roof-top tent M Richardson A roof-top tent captured at the Ōtaki Rivermouth freedom camp as the sun was going down. Read More 10 summer 2024 Revolutionizing Kiwi camping with Fix’n’Rail Mustafa Pasha The design behind Fix’n’Rail supports a circular economy by giving new life to portable toilets that may otherwise end up in landfills. Read More 10 summer 2024 What is out there Tony Kissel It’s amazing what is out there to be seen when you are tucked up in bed Read More 10 summer 2024 This is the summer to visit Queenstown Miriam Richardson There are parking bylaws and nationwide reserve laws that continue to affect freedom camping in Queenstown this summer, but the years-long prohibitive bans are gone from Queenstown Lakes District. Read More 10 summer 2024 The Wairau Gary Wills After a peaceful night’s sleep a hearty breakfast on the Wairau river is always a good way to start the day Read More 10 summer 2024 Getting your camping vehicle certified Gary Stoneley NZ Lifestyle Camping’s network of more than 150 testing officers offer self-containment testing for all types of campers Read More 10 summer 2024 Dealing with a caravan flat Duncan Upjohn Have you had a flat tyre on your caravan? I have now had three and would like to pass on some experience that may help you. Read More 10 summer 2024 Sunday morning caravan Lego Beverley Stoneley Sunday morning caravan Lego with our boys, Eddie and Boston. Read More 10 summer 2024 Old Blue Shellie Evans The camp still has quite a few hardy campers on-site, it’s Labour Day weekend after all. You wait, the sun will be shining tomorrow & the fish biting! Read More 10 summer 2024 Kea attack Tony Kissel Setting up my tent this weekend I noticed about a dozen little holes in the roof. Read More 10 summer 2024 First time out with my new tent Tony Kissel So far I’ve had gale force winds and 30mm rain in the last 24 hours… Read More 10 summer 2024 Thornbury-Aparima Bridge Reserve Heather Auckram If you are travelling along the Southern Scenic Coast then 10 minutes out of Riverton, turn off Highway 99 and follow the Thornbury Gropers Bush Road. Read More 10 summer 2024 Temple Stream Tony Kissel A nice relaxing weekend at one of my favourite spots, Temple Stream DOC Campsite. Read More 10 summer 2024 Marfells Beach M Richardson Marfells Beach is a DOC camp (pay online, whew, there is mobile coverage this time) has wild silverbeet. Read More 10 summer 2024 Exploring Clandyboye Linda Butler All Points Camping enjoyed craft shopping, toasting marshmallows in the fire pit and Devonshire teas at the Milford POP. Read More 10 summer 2024 Being able to get out into nature Alice Leslie “Being able to get out into nature and go places that I would not physically be able to reach on my own is such a joy and privilege.” Read More 10 summer 2024 Making camping more accessible for everyone Alice Leslie Making a campsite accessible involves more than installing accessible toilets. Read More 10 summer 2024 Caravan tales Lynn and Charlie Hogg Our boys were 8 and 6 years old, the younger one, Rueben, having severe autism. I knew it wasn’t going to be easy to go camping and that we would learn to deal with things as they happened and some we could prepare for beforehand. Read More 10 summer 2024 Dannevirke Holiday Park is making its facilities more accessible Margaret Earle When I stayed at the holiday park earlier this year, Keith showed me the work being done to make the facilities more accessible. Read More 10 summer 2024 What a view to wake up to Dave Adamson What a view to wake up to this morning. National Park, Waiouru Read More 10 summer 2024 Danseys Pass Margaret Earle While we were exploring the geosites in the Waitaki Valley, we saw several signs to Danseys Pass. Read More 10 summer 2024 From rugby to pets — How Covid19 started the tail wagging on HELPP VET Katie and David Barton-Ginger After years in the fast-paced and ever-changing world of sports and technology, David had spotted a gap in the market for a tech-forward solution around pets and instant video advice. Read More 10 summer 2024 Pippa in the hammock Bette Cosgrove Pippa in the hammock Read More 10 summer 2024 Planning to camp with your pet? Resources Bette Cosgrove We always take Pippa with us and she loves the adventures as much as we do. I thought I’d list a few of the resources I’ve found helpful on our travels with our furry family member, but this is by no means a definitive list. Read More 10 summer 2024 My day at the Ellesmere A&P Show Tony Knights Don’t miss local A & P shows when you travel the country. Read More 10 summer 2024 The Slow Road Jonathan Collins I caught up with the authors and fellow camping adventurers of this amazing book, The Slow Road, documenting their year travelling around NZ. Read More 10 summer 2024 My day at Ferrymead Tony Knights My day at Ferrymead Heritage Park, Christchurch. Read More 10 summer 2024 NZ Cheese Festival Marty Ireland Besides a great selection of well-priced food venders, there was also a variety of specialty foods including cheese, mushrooms, paté, cured meats, sweet treats, wine, beer. And we had ‘Music on the Green’ to relax to. Read More 10 summer 2024 A long weekend on the Waikato River Roland Jones Cooked my favourite breakfast when camping: pancakes with boysenberry jam Read More 10 summer 2024 Safe toilet chemicals Collyn Rivers Safe toilet chemicals are essential, but some toilet chemicals kill essential bacteria in septic and environmental systems: some are toxic — this article explains all. Read More 10 summer 2024 The fairy forest walk Martin & Diana Ireland We did the fairy forest walk at Dog Walk Stream, Hanmer, and lo and behold the fairies camp too! Read More 10 summer 2024 Teeming at Terako Downs Julie Adam — the Kite Lady Not bothering much about the forecast warning for rain over Labour Weekend, I loaded up the camper, with clothes, food and my two dogs, and off we went to Terako Downs. Read More 10 summer 2024 Terako Downs entrance Debbie Tutton Terako Downs entrance, Labour Weekend Read More 10 summer 2024 Up, up the Waiorongomai Valley Greg Lokes We donned our tramping gear and went for a 4 hour hike along the bush trails that start at the Waiorongomai Valley carpark Read More 10 summer 2024 ISSN 2815-827X (Online) | ISSN:2815-8261 (Print) ISSUE 9 editor@campingthekiwiway.org

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

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Index ISSUE 3 Camping the Kiwi Way, 3, Autumn 2023 Table of contents • Editorial • For councils and government • Come camping • Stop and Stay Contribute • About Cover image: Morisons Bush ©2022 Margaret Earle Read more NZ is a camping culture NZ is a camping culture This makes us who we are, connects us to our environment like nothing else Read more 700 Campers at Kaitoke Kaitoke saw over 700 campers on Waitangi weekend. Read more Tautuku Hut Track: Family-friendly tramping in the Catlins Tautuku Hut is a lesser-known DOC hut in the Catlins. It is short and sweet, making it a great first overnight tramp for families. Myself and another mama picked this as our first overnight tramp with our babies. Read more Events Camping events on this Autumn Read more Festivals & Shows Festivals where you can stay, that are on this Autumn (and a bit beyond) Read more A beautiful country, but… Hold on a minute, we are campers and have most of the items required to survive the first few days of an emergency without outside assistance. Read more Our little escape pod We love our little caravan not just for holidays but for other emergency get-a-ways, should the situation call for it. Read more Vans can be SMALL but MIGHTY resources Vans can be SMALL but MIGHTY resources. Orange Sky are providing shower and laundry services to many in flood-affected areas right now. Read more Ten hours into a power cut Ten hours into a power cut with this cyclone .... THEN I remembered I've got full batteries in Mavis! Cheine Matheson Read more A storm over the DOC Homestead campsite A storm over the DOC Homestead campsite near St Bathans, Central Otago. ©2023 Tony Kissel Read more Along a sandy beach I rode on a trailer being towed along a long sandy beach. I squashed a few sandflies and went to bed blissfully happy each night. Read more HELLO 2023 I was invited to spend the New Year with friends at their crib at Papatowai. Read more Mavis bringing in the New Year Mavis bringing in the New Year at Pahoia Beach, Bay of Plenty. © 2023 Cheine Matheson Read more What’s in a name? Is freedom camping actually free? Who and how many are freedom camping? Read more Greymouth Star pinged Their title: “Freedom campers pinged”. A prime example of poor and emotive reporting. Read more Nowhere special Our trip to the Bridge to Nowhere, on the Whanganui river, will always be a special memory that I share with my 84 year old mother. Read more Small kayak camping I see a lot of really big setups on Facebook, so I thought I'd share my 'small' kayak camping setup for the weekend. Read more Simple is good Yep, simple is good. Tony Dennerley Read more Can the travelling camper save NZ's small rural communities? Smaller rural communities should be welcoming these thousands of travellers with open arms. Read more View More Autumn 2023 ISSUE 3 BUY PDF CONTENTS

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

Articles from Autumn campers around New Zealand. Winter 2024 ISSUE 8 CONTENTS PDF BUY INDEX Winter 2024 ISSUE 8 CONTENTS PDF BUY INDEX AUTUMN GOLD AUTUMN GOLD Autumn stories from around New Zealand Read More On the cycle trail at Bannockburn On the cycle trail at Bannockburn. ©2023 Andrew Morton Read More Folding electric bike in the middle of nowhere Just met a 75 year old lady on an electric folding bike in the middle of nowhere. ©2024 Stephen Wood Read More Skippers Canyon Quite happy to have taken the tour and not my truck up Skippers Canyon. ©2024 Trisha Fisk Read More Longslip Station Well, how’s this for a welcome back into the Mackenzie Basin! — Longslip Station, Lindis Pass. ©2024 Shellie Evans. ckw.nz/shellie-fb Read More Fantail Martin got the winning photo of the birds last weekend. Fantail. ©2024 Martin Butler Read More Fire circle Fire circle on a still Autumn night. Magical. 
©2024 Bette Cosgrove Read More Clydesdales at Erewhon A fabulous Clydesdale wagon ride one winter at Erewhon. ©2024 M Richardson Read More Greg's Eye at Rays Rest Friday evening and Saturday morning at Rays Rest. It never disappoints. © 2024 Greg Lokes. More on FB: Greg's Eye: ckw.nz/gregs-eye Read More Got run off the road Got run off the road last weekend. ©2024 Vanessa Parkinson Read More Ballooning in Canterbury Today was an early start to ballooning in Canterbury. ©2024 Tony Knights. Ballooning Canterbury Read More The top of Dansey’s Pass The top of Dansey’s Pass (935 metres) looking out toward Oamaru 50 kms in the distance. ©2024 Tony Kissel Read More Rugby at Mt Somers Campers enjoying a local rugby game at Mt Somers. See p31. ©2024 Linda Butler Read More Beautiful vintage buses and trucks Lots of beautiful vintage buses and trucks in the morning mist ©2024 Rv and Tiny House Living NZ Read More To the top of the Ahuriri Valley A nice walk to the top of the Ahuriri Valley, I had the place to my self. ©2024 Tony Kissel Read More A wrap Time to start heading back south after weeks cycling. Bike packed for this afternoon’s bus trip. ©2024 Stephen Wood Read More My stew is bubbling My stew is bubbling on the fire... ©2024 RV and Tiny House Living NZ Read More Hakataramea Pass ©2024 David Liddall Read More Only getting in 123 Watts Well some days it makes no difference at all how much solar you have on the roof. ©2024 Allan Henderson Read More Moving camp When you decide to move camp to a sunnier spot mid morning. ©2024 Beverley Stoneley Read More Glendhu Bay, Lake Wanaka Glendhu Bay camping ground ©2024 M Richardson Read More The phone is beautiful Take phone to a beautiful lake-edge perch... © 2024 M Richardson Read More Packing the van for Booktown Packing the van for a weekend at the Featherston Booktown Karukatea Festival 2024. ©2024 Bette Cosgrove Read More Lake Wardel Autumn snow behind Lake Wardel, a free camping spot near Twizel, McKenzie Country. ©2022 M Richardson Read More ISSN 2815-827X (Online) | ISSN:2815-8261 (Print) ISSUE 8 editor@campingthekiwiway.org

Summer 2022 ISSUE 2 BUY PDF CONTENTS Index ISSUE 2 Camping the Kiwi Way, 2, Summer 2022 Read more Table of contents • Editorial • For councils and government • Come camping • Stop and Stay Contribute • About Cover image: Gore Bay. ©2024 M Richardson Taking a left turn Are you a mainstream traveler, always following the main highways or are you a diversionist, taking that chance to detour from the main route to explore and maybe encounter something new or different? On our recent trip north we decided to veer from the main flow of traffic and take a left turn. Read more Gore Bay Gore Bay Camp is a small camp. The facilities are old, but usable. Such a great place to go for a weekend break close to our home in Christchurch. Read more Cycle touring: Part II, Southland to the West Coast After my ride from Canterbury to Southland, the next step was to continue my clockwise circuit of the Island. Read more Ready for tomorrow’s ride I’m in Rotorua today (MTB Mecca) ready for tomorrow’s ride, the Whakarewarewa Forest Loop: 33km, 3hr. Another one of the 23 Great Rides of NZ. ckw.nz/great-rides ©2022 Andrew Morton Read more Freedom camping, November 1964 One of my first memories of camping was at ‘Spec Creek’. You won’t find it on a map — it was just some little creek on the side of the road, somewhere in Central Otago, where our car broke down. There was nothing there. Read more How many freedom campers are there? Nobody knows. The Ministry has made some guesses. Read more Talking to four van loads of international tourists On my last roadie I met and chatted with four van loads of international tourists from UK, Australia and Germany who have been freedom camping around NZ in small (slider-type) hire vans from Escape or Jucy. Read more Camping / caravan tips — Setup / packup Do you struggle when you set up your camp or your caravan? Read more Pick and pedal Is that e-bike right for you? Many New Zealanders are now moving to e-bikes and they definitely have health advantages while being cheap to operate and maintain. Read more Back in the days — Circa 2008 Back in the days — Circa 2008. That caravan was damned heavy behind the bike. Read more Implications for councils of the proposed ‘Nash bill Here are the issues to consider with the major legislative change which is currently proposed and going through Select Committee hearings. Read more Buckets, gladwrap, and gossip The Minister of Tourism the opened the speaking with gossip of buckets covered in gladwrap being used as toilets in motorhomes. Read more Wild camping with a dog on a wet wild night It was a very wet, rainy camp with my dog in a dense bush. Read more Choosing an internet provider It’s a thorny problem, deciding how to connect to the internet on the road — so many different choices, plans and options; so many unfamiliar concepts. Here’s a ‘simple’ guide. Read more The Wild Wairarapa Coast We spent a few days on the coast out from Martinborough, Te Awati camping area and then back to North Tora Reserve, some very rough coastline. Read more Ready for a family weekend away camping Ready for a family weekend away camping. Read more National Parks : Game Can you place all the national parks? Read more How we solved a problem and started a new business It’s four years now since John first decided to do something to make emptying our toilet cassette easier and cleaner. Read more Overnight beside the Aparima River I slept overnight beside the Aparima River near Opio (Southland). Read more View More