Pitching the tent: 6 DOC campsites to visit

By Nikki Addison

September 25, 2017

Pitching the tent: 6 DOC campsites to visit

Add these campgrounds to your holiday travel bucket list for the ultimate Kiwi camping experience.

Camping is a classic Kiwi and Aussie summer tradition, making for a cheap, fun family holiday. New Zealand’s Department of Conservation (DOC) have some of the best local campgrounds for experiencing nature and enjoying outdoor activities such as swimming and hiking. If you’re planning on loading up the station wagon this Summer but not sure where to head, add one of these beautiful campsites to your map.

For a great dinner to cook in advance and take with you, try our Quiche with Sweet Potato Crust.

Pitch your tent on a white sand beach dotted with Pōhutukawa trees. This campsite includes cold showers and offers many activities, including fishing, snorkelling, kayaking and diving.

A huge campsite nestled on the banks of the Tairua River and in the shadow of impressive forest-covered rock cliffs. As well as swimming in the river, there is an old gold mine nearby to explore.

Camp beside the stunning, glassy Lake Rerewhakaaitu. This campsite has cooking facilities and space for a boat to launch. Activities include bird watching, swimming and boating.

If remoteness if what you’re after, look no further. With water from the river your only resource, Glenfalls provides a real wilderness experience. An hour’s drive from Taupo and Napier, there is ample opportunity for fishing, swimming, canoeing and rafting.

Set up camp next to this impressive lake in the Waimakariri Basin. There is plenty of room for bird watching. Boil your water from the stream at this scenic campsite.

Located in the Queenstown region along the Routebourn River, Sylvan Campsite is perfect for embracing the South Island’s natural beauty. Try your hand at fly fishing and enjoy the luxury of flushing toilets.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE

Popular New Zealand

A local’s guide to Wanaka: where to eat, drink and explore

Travel Topics

10 best tips for stronger, healthier, better-looking hair

Sarah Jessica Parker admits to struggling with social media and fan expectations

Johnny Depp defamation case against Amber Heard

Key moments in the Johnny Depp and Amber Heard defamation trial

BECOME A MiNDFOOD SUBSCRIBER TODAY

Let us keep you up to date with our weekly MiNDFOOD e-newsletters which include the weekly menu plan, health and news updates or tempt your taste buds with the MiNDFOOD Daily Recipe.