Self-contained campervans with freedom camping permits access hundreds of free sites across New Zealand. Holiday parks (from NZD$20/night) are the budget backbone of Kiwi road trips.
Why We Chose It
New Zealand's holiday park network covers the country, offering powered and unpowered sites, kitchen facilities, and bathrooms from around NZD$20 per night. Many are in spectacular settings — lakeside, coastal, or mountain. Freedom camping in a self-contained vehicle is free at hundreds of designated sites. Book holiday park sites ahead in December–February when demand peaks. The Campermate and Rankers apps are essential for finding and reviewing sites.
What Stands Out
- NZD $20–45 per night
- Nationwide network
- Spectacular settings
- Self-contained freedom camping (free)
- Essential for road trips