Top 10 Spots for a Classic Kiwi Camping Holiday In the South Island

Gentle Annie Seaside Accommodation and Camping Ground

A beautiful family-run campground at the mouth of the Mokihinui River (50km north of Westport), the location of Gentle Annie is lush, unspoilt and natural. With a wide range of accommodation options available, it’s an ideal place for a stress-free summer holiday.

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Situated on the shores of Lake Tekapo, this lakefront accommodation features all the facilities you need for a great holiday – whether you’re in a tent, a small campervan, large motorhome, or a cabin. With 24-hour security, two kitchens, a BBQ area, and two playgrounds, the added bonus is definitely the gorgeous view.

Quinney’s Bush Camp

Set in spacious grounds of 10 ha with native trees and safe river swimming, Quinney’s Bush in Motupiko, Nelson, promotes memorable, traditional family holidays. With so many activities – from farm animals to a river slide, BMX track and skate park – the kids will never want to leave.

Farmyard Holiday Park

Four kilometres south of Geraldine, and a 90 minute drive south from Christchurch Airport, the highlight of this idyllic farm property is, of course, the animals! Wallabys, donkeys, alpacas, llamas, goats, guinea pigs, water buffalo (plus many more) live on the farm for all to enjoy, and a cockatoo named Polly will welcome you in reception. This is absolutely a unique family holiday destination.

Driftaway Queenstown

Opened in 2022, Driftaway is located right on the shore of Lake Wakatipu. With no shortage of things to keep your kids busy, you’ll have to drag them away from the playground, jumping pillow and indoor activity room for rainy days, not to mention Queenstown’s best swimming beach, which is located right in front of the park!

The Camp at Lake Hawea

Beautifully basic and authentic, The Camp offers a range of traditional and unique Kiwi camping experiences. This is a great option for kids who love the outdoors, as the bike and walking trails, fishing spots, and lake offer endless summer fun.

Moeraki Boulders Holiday Park @ Hampden Beach

Families have been flocking to beautiful Hampden Beach for many generations to enjoy the safe swimming beach or kayaking in the lagoon. A small, unique and typical Kiwi beach campground with lots of character, this is a stunning summer holiday location.

Tasman Holiday Parks – Te Anau

With some of the most breathtaking natural scenery you’ll ever see, Tasman Holiday Parks – Te Anau is just steps away from Lake Te Anau, and a short walk from the supermarkets, restaurants and cinema in town. Plus, it has freshwater hot tubs to soak in at the end of the day, bliss!

Hokitika’s Kiwi Holiday Park and Motels

Just a 15-minute walk to Hokitika’s town centre and beach, this holiday park has an cool children’s playground with jumping pillow, plus free unlimited WiFi, a TV and games room, modern amenities and free use of a portacot and high chair!

Any TOP 10 Holiday Park

With 49 holiday parks around New Zealand (21 in the South Island), these parks offer a consistently quality camping location for families. With clean facilities and heaps of activities for kids – from pools to playgrounds – you’re guaranteed a special (and safe) camping experience. We recommend Ross Beach, Motueka and Wakana.

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