Instantly Lost
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South Island ▷ Canterbury ▷ Ashburton ▷
Hakatere Camping Reserve
Nice spot to begin our 2 weeks in NZ via campervan.
Host was really friendly, views were nice, quiet at night and facilities available (sink, potable water, flush toilets)
Also one of the cheaper spots we came across.
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South Island ▷ Southland ▷ Gore ▷
Dunsdale Recreation Reserve and camping area
Attempted to get here in June 2022, Google maps must not have been reliable because it was taking us through what looked like private farmland with a lot of open but could-be locked gates while you sleep
. Didn't want to risk it or anger any of the locals so didn't stay here and moved on.
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South Island ▷ Southland ▷ Invercargill ▷
Winton
Perfect spot for overnight.
Public restrooms and a lively pub available across the street.
Area gets pretty muddy with rain so be mindful of where you park and what kind of vehicle you have.
Surprisingly quiet for being right next to the main road.
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South Island ▷ Mount Cook - MacKenzie ▷ Twizel ▷
Lake Pukaki Overnight Campervan Parking
Stayed at one of the many sites on the road to this site.
Gorgeous mountains and lake all to ourselves. Milky Way and stars in abundance at night! Probably our favorite spot in our 2 weeks on the South Island.
Only 45 minutes to the Hooker Valley hike.
Pit toilet at the entrance.
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South Island ▷ Canterbury ▷ Geraldine ▷
Winchester Bridge
Large shaded area, pit toilet and rubbish bin available.
Moderate amount of noise from the road at night.
Careful if staying after a rain, area gets muddy quick, luckily van didn't get stuck but it was a close call.
Good for a quick snooze overnight.
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South Island ▷ Fiordland ▷ Te Anau ▷
Deer Flat Campsite
Amazing spot under the trees next to the river.
Came in Winter so not a soul around. Surrounded by mossy hills, trees, snow capped mountains and rushing river. Even found a geocache right near the site.
Pit toilets a little scary but useable.
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South Island ▷ Southland ▷ Balclutha ▷
Kaka Point Camping Ground
Recommended for Catlins exploration and Nuggets Point.
Also a really great meal down the way at The Point restaurant.
Free hot shower, full kitchen facilities, pretty much whatever you need.