CAMPING THE KIWI WAY

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Stories around the country.

Rabbit holes, rugby field, quirky goal posts

The town has two freedom camps.

CampFest, Bulls. February. ©2025 Jo Ward.

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 More p11

You can wander around and even have your dinner in the picturesque gardens that surround the museum buildings.

Peace, tranquility, a chance to go for a walk to the waterfall, crystal hunting or even a swim makes it worthwhile.

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.

Fill in the spaces.

I pulled into Lowburn free camp on the shores of Lake Dunstan and found a shady spot to park.

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.

Canterbury, Waihora ©2025 Tony Knights. More p36

I thought this would be the answer to the plastic drive up ramps many use.

Many not-to-be-missed freedom camping spots are far from flat. Pines, Lake Pukaki. ©2019 M Richardson

We chose a spot right with a commanding view of the river and wind farm in the distance.

A good day’s camping starts using a thermette to boil the water for coffee and for its small fire to then make toast.

Be aware of the risks. Check fireweather.

Fireplace at Mangaweka camp, riverside picnic area. ©2012 M Richardson

I became aware of some shortcomings in the design