The hot sizzling summer continues: The Rockgas team share their favourite Kiwi campgrounds

Watching the Sunset on Fitzroy Beach, New Plymouth

Whether you’re a bush baby, a beach goer, a lake lover or just want to get away from it all, New Zealand’s serene lakes, white or black sand beaches and bush landscapes offer a plethora of affordable camping options.  Just pack up the portable BBQ, tent or caravan, add sunscreen and mozzie repellent, the much needed chilly bin and you’re good to go. 

There’s still plenty of summer left to get out and explore for a long weekend, or take advantage of an early Easter. Members of our Rockgas team share some of their favourite summer spots from around the country. 

Tucked away in Northland’s tranquil countryside, Kai Iwi Lakes crystalline waters and pristine surroundings have attracted campers for years. There’s plenty to choose from, with three freshwater lakes – Lake Taharoa, Lake Waikere, and Lake Kai Iwi.  

Campers can pitch their tents or park their campervans at the Kai Iwi Lakes Campground. Load up the kayaks, jetboats or paddle boards, or simply go for a swim. Or if you prefer something more laid back, relax under an umbrella with your favourite tipple and gorgeous view across the water. 

Kai iwi lakes in New Zealand , looking toward the campsite

From the far north to the west coast – our next pick is the campground on Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park in Taranaki. The campground has recently been upgraded and is right on the beach, with a golf course next door. 

Enjoy views of Mt Taranaki, catch some waves at the renowned surf spots or beachcomb along the shoreline. With town only a hop, skip or a short cycle away along the coastal walkway, you get the best of both worlds. A beach holiday, but easy access to restaurants and the Puke Ariki Museum if you want some non-beachside activities. 

A night shot of New Plymouth and the coastline from Fitzroy beach

Just a short drive from Auckland lies Tawharanui Regional Park, a protected coastal sanctuary known for its kiwi habitat, diverse ecosystems and exceptional beach. As you drive into the DOC operated campground, avoiding the Pukekos that thrive behind the predator free fence, you can pitch your tent within walking distance to the beach. 

Even though you are close to the bustling village of Matakana, at night it’s like you are in the wilderness as you can hear the kiwi calling to each other. Lucky campers have even spotted them on the tracks on the way back from the expertly maintained compostable toilets. 

Tawharanui Regional Park offers scenic views and great swimming.

Speaking of nature and our favourite Christmas tree, the Pohutukawa, our next campground is fringed with this beautiful tree, offering lots of shade for hot campers. Perched on the eastern shores of the Coromandel Peninsula, Papa Aroha is a boaties paradise. The mussel farms are not far from the campground boat ramp, where the snapper like to hang around.  

Campers can choose from beachfront sites or sheltered spots amidst the trees, each offering stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf. Don’t have a boat? You can fish off the rocks, hiking along coastal trails, or simply enjoying a picnic by the sea.

Papa Aroha Holiday park beach

Prefer river fish to our salty friends? Nestled along the banks of the Rakaia River in Canterbury, the South Bank Fishing Huts and Camp offer a retreat for anglers or those who just like relaxing in the Canterbury sunshine. 

With its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings, this riverside camping ground provides the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway. On a clear night, the sky is also a treat, with no light pollution enabling a great star gazing experience. 

Rakaia Huts camping ground

There is something on offer across the motu for every type of camper. Rockgas has refill stations right across New Zealand too, so if you do run out of gas, your local Rockgas supplier can sort you out in a jiffy. 

So pack your gear, hit the road, and discover a new part of Godzone.

And if you are planning to do some BBQing, be sure to get your LPG BBQ bottle refilled from a Rockgas location near you beforehand.