10 Best Family-Friendly Camping Spots in New Zealand for 2024

Hey there, fellow Kiwi adventurers! Ready to embark on an unforgettable family camping trip in 2024? Then this Family Friendly Camping Spots guide is for you.

You’re in for a treat! New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes offer the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories with your loved ones.

Did you know that over 40% of Kiwis go camping at least once a year? It’s time to join the fun!

We’ve scoured the country to bring you the 10 best family-friendly camping spots that’ll have your kids begging for “just one more night” under the stars.

So, grab your tents, pack the chilly bin, and let’s dive into New Zealand’s top camping destinations for 2024!

1-Abel Tasman National Park: Golden Sands and Crystal-Clear Waters

Abel Tasman National Park is our family’s ultimate coastal getaway. It’s easy to reach, just a short drive from Nelson, making it perfect for a weekend escape or longer holiday.

We always camp at Totaranui Campground. It’s right on the beach and has great facilities – hot showers are a lifesaver after a day of adventures!

The sites are spacious, and there’s a mix of shaded and open spots.

Kayaking is our favorite activity here. We’ve paddled to secluded coves and even spotted seals lounging on rocks.

The hiking trails are fantastic too, with options for all ages. The coastal track offers stunning views at every turn.

Wildlife spotting has become a family game. We’ve seen tui birds, weka, and even a blue penguin once! The kids love exploring the rock pools at low tide, finding all sorts of marine critters.

The park has good facilities, with clean toilets and fresh water available. There’s even a small shop at Totaranui for basics.

Abel Tasman isn’t just a national park – it’s our family’s slice of paradise.

Don’t forget to bring water shoes; those golden sands can get hot!

2-Taupo Holiday Resort: Lakeside Fun for All Ages

Taupo Holiday Resort is our go-to spot for a family-friendly lakeside break.

It’s got everything you need for a comfortable stay, all within a stone’s throw of the magnificent Lake Taupo.

The range of accommodation is brilliant.

We’ve tried both powered sites for our campervan and cozy cabins. There’s something to suit every budget and preference.

The on-site activities keep the kids entertained for hours. The thermal pools are a hit – nothing beats a warm soak after a day of adventures.

The playgrounds are great too, and there’s even a jump pillow that the kids can’t get enough of.

Being right on the lake edge is fantastic. We’ve spent countless hours swimming, paddling, and building sandcastles.

The resort also has kayaks and paddleboards for hire, which is a fun way to explore the lake.

It’s perfectly located for exploring other Taupo attractions too. We’ve done the Huka Falls jet boat ride and visited the Craters of the Moon geothermal walk – both just a short drive away.

Taupo Holiday Resort isn’t just a campground – it’s a family adventure base. Just remember to book early in peak season!

3-Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve: A Middle-earth Adventure

Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve is a slice of Middle-earth right here in New Zealand.

I’ll never forget the look on my kids’ faces when they realized we were standing where “The Hobbit” was filmed! It’s become our go-to spot for family adventures.

Camping here is a blast, even if I’m not the best at pitching tents. The sound of the river at night is pure magic.

There’s a bunch of family-friendly walks, like the Circle Walk, which is perfect for little legs and offers stunning views of the river and bush.

The swimming holes are a hit with the kids. Crystal clear water and rock jumps – what’s not to love? Just watch out for the current, it can be sneaky strong.

We’ve had some cool wildlife encounters too. Keep an eye out for weka, these cheeky flightless birds that’ll steal your lunch if you’re not careful!

Don’t miss the massive kahikatea trees. Standing under these ancient giants is humbling. And if you need a break from nature, the Linkwater general store nearby has the best ice cream around.

Pelorus Bridge is more than just a scenic spot – it’s a place to recharge and make memories. Just don’t forget the insect repellent!

4-Kai Iwi Lakes, Northland: Freshwater Paradise

Let me tell you about Kai Iwi Lakes in Northland – it’s a freshwater paradise that’s become our family’s summer go-to.

We stumbled upon this gem a few years back, and now we can’t get enough of it.

There are three lakes here, each with its own charm. Lake Taharoa’s the big daddy, with crystal-clear water that’s so blue it looks photoshopped.

Waikare’s a bit smaller but just as gorgeous, while Kai Iwi’s the baby of the bunch.

We always camp at Pine Beach. It’s right on Lake Taharoa and perfect for families. The facilities are decent, and you can’t beat waking up to that view. Just book early – it fills up fast in summer!

The water activities here are off the charts. Swimming’s a no-brainer with the warm, clear water. We brought our kayaks one year, and it was a blast paddling around.

Last summer, we tried paddleboarding for the first time. Let’s just say I spent more time in the water than on the board, but the kids were naturals.

There’s plenty to explore nearby too. We took a day trip to the Waipoua Forest to see Tāne Mahuta, this massive kauri tree. It’s mind-blowing how old and huge it is.

Kai Iwi Lakes is more than just a campsite – it’s where we’ve made some of our best family memories. Just remember to pack the sunscreen – that Northland sun is no joke!

5-Hanmer Springs Forest Camp: Alpine Retreat

Hanmer Springs Forest Camp is our family’s go-to alpine getaway. Nestled in the Canterbury region, it’s surrounded by stunning mountains and forests.

The scenery here is straight out of a postcard!

We love the camping options. There’s something for everyone, from basic tent sites to powered spots for campervans.

The facilities are clean and well-maintained, which is a big plus when you’re camping with kids.

The best part? It’s just a stone’s throw from Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa.

After a day of outdoor adventures, there’s nothing better than soaking in those warm, mineral-rich pools. The kids go crazy for the waterslides!

We’ve explored tons of family-friendly hiking trails around the camp. The Conical Hill walk is our favorite – the view from the top is worth every step.

For the more adventurous, there are some great mountain biking tracks too.

Hanmer Springs Forest Camp is more than just a campsite – it’s our little slice of alpine paradise.

Just remember to pack for all weather conditions. The mountain climate can be unpredictable!

6-Whananaki Holiday Park, Northland: Coastal Charm

Whananaki Holiday Park in Northland is a coastal gem that we stumbled upon a few years back. The star attraction?

New Zealand’s longest footbridge! Crossing it became a daily adventure for our kids.

We opted for beachfront camping, and let me tell you, waking up to the sound of waves is unbeatable.

There are also cabins if you’re not into tenting. The facilities are basic but clean – it’s all part of the laid-back coastal vibe.

Family activities here are endless. We tried our hand at fishing off the rocks (with mixed success), and the kids had a blast learning to surf on the gentle waves.

Beach exploration became our daily ritual – so many rock pools to investigate!

One of the highlights was learning about local Maori culture. We visited a nearby marae and the kids were fascinated by the stories and traditions.

Whananaki is more than just a holiday park – it’s a place where time slows down and family memories are made. Don’t forget to bring your camera – the sunsets here are spectacular!

7-Tarawera Falls Campsite, Bay of Plenty: Nature’s Hidden Gem

Tarawera Falls Campsite in Bay of Plenty is truly a hidden gem.

The moment we saw the falls, our jaws dropped. It’s like something out of a fantasy movie – water gushing out of a sheer cliff face!

The campsite itself is pretty basic, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a real back-to-nature experience.

Just be prepared for a bit of a drive on a gravel road to get there. Trust me, it’s worth it.

We found hiking options for all ages. The short walk to the falls viewpoint is easy enough for little legs, while the longer Tarawera Outlet track gave us a real adventure.

Lake Tarawera is a stone’s throw away, offering great spots for fishing and swimming. The water’s chilly, but on a hot day, it’s incredibly refreshing.

Tarawera Falls Campsite isn’t just a place to pitch a tent – it’s a place to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. Just remember to bring all your camping supplies.

8-Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve, Nelson-Tasman: Golden Bay Bliss

Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve is our family’s slice of Golden Bay heaven.

The campground is a real gem, with top-notch facilities that make camping with kids a breeze. We love how everything’s within easy reach.

The beach here is stunning – golden sand and crystal-clear water. We’ve spent countless hours building sandcastles, paddling in the shallows, and trying our hand at kayaking.

The kids even had their first go at stand-up paddleboarding here!

For the more adventurous, the mountain biking trails are a blast. There’s something for everyone, from easy rides for the little ones to more challenging tracks for us adults.

The views from the trails are breathtaking.

One of the best things about Kaiteriteri is its proximity to Abel Tasman National Park. We’ve taken a few day trips there, exploring the coastal tracks and secluded beaches.

It’s like having two holidays in one!

Kaiteriteri isn’t just a campground – it’s a family adventure base. Just remember to book early in peak season. This place is popular for a reason!

9-Mangawhai Heads Holiday Park, Northland: Surf and Sun

Mangawhai Heads Holiday Park has become our annual summer pilgrimage.

The beachfront location is unbeatable, and we love how we can choose between powered sites or cozy cabins depending on our mood.

The surf here is fantastic.

We signed the kids up for lessons, and now they’re better at catching waves than I am! When we’re not in the water, we’re building epic sandcastles or exploring the rock pools at low tide.

The Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway is a must-do. It’s a bit of a climb, but the views are worth every step. We always pack a picnic to enjoy at the top – it’s become a family tradition.

We love exploring the local area too. The Mangawhai Museum is surprisingly interesting (even for the kids!), and the artisan shops in town are great for picking up unique souvenirs.

Mangawhai Heads isn’t just a holiday park – it’s our yearly dose of surf, sun, and family fun. Don’t forget to try the local fish and chips. They’re the best!

10-Lake Tekapo Holiday Park, Canterbury: Stargazing Paradise

Lake Tekapo Holiday Park is out of this world – literally! Being in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve means the stargazing here is incredible.

We’ve never seen so many stars in our lives!

The camping facilities are great, with options for tents, campervans, and even cozy cabins. We usually go for a powered site – it’s nice to have those little comforts when you’re star-struck.

We took a family stargazing tour, and it blew our minds. The kids were fascinated learning about the constellations and peering through telescopes. It’s become their favorite bedtime story topic!

During the day, there’s plenty to explore. The Church of the Good Shepherd is picturesque, and we love soaking in the hot springs after a day of adventures.

The turquoise blue of the lake never fails to amaze us.

Lake Tekapo isn’t just a holiday park – it’s a gateway to the cosmos. Just remember to pack warm clothes. Those starry nights can get chilly!

Conclusion

There you have it, Kiwi families – your ultimate guide to the 10 best family-friendly camping spots in New Zealand for 2024!

From the golden sands of Abel Tasman to the starry skies of Lake Tekapo, these destinations offer something special for every member of your clan.

Remember, the greatest gift you can give your kids is the joy of exploring our beautiful country together.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your epic family camping adventure today! Pack those marshmallows,tents,camping chairs, dust off the cricket set, and get ready to create memories that’ll last a lifetime.

The great Kiwi outdoors is calling – will you answer?

FAQ

Q1: What’s the best time of year for family camping in New Zealand?

Summer (December-February) is ideal with warm weather, but it’s busy. Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds.

Winter camping (June-August) is challenging, with some sites closed. Always check weather forecasts and campsite availability before your trip.

Q2: What essential gear should we pack for a family camping trip in New Zealand?

Pack a weather-appropriate tent, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, water containers, first aid kit, insect repellent, sunscreen, warm clothing, rain gear, torches, power bank, camp chairs, rubbish bags, and entertainment items. Don’t forget a chilly bin for food.

Check your campsite’s specific requirements before packing.

Q3: Are there any safety considerations specific to camping in New Zealand?

Be prepared for changeable weather and practice water safety. Use insect repellent for sandflies. Check fire regulations.

Know earthquake procedures. Use high-SPF sunscreen. Avoid ongaonga (native nettle). Follow freedom camping rules. Save 111 for emergencies and download the “Emergency NZ” app.

Q4: How can we minimize our environmental impact while camping in New Zealand?

Follow “Leave No Trace” principles. Use biodegradable products and reusable items. Stick to designated areas.

Respect wildlife. Conserve water. Use eco-friendly sunscreens and repellents. Support local conservation. Educate children on environmental care.

Consider carbon offsetting. Choose campsites with strong eco-policies