Basic Facility Camping

Raw Coast, Basic Digs

Southland basic camping is the real deal. The region is wild and exposed, and the campsites match that energy. My pick in the whole area is Purakanui Bay - when the weather plays ball, that gravel road drive in is completely worth it. Beachside, beautiful, and if you're a surfer, get yourself there when it's blowing offshore. A-grade beachbreak.

Wind is a Factor

The coastal spots along the Catlins and Southern Scenic Route can get hammered by wind, so have a backup plan. If the coast is too brutal, Orepuki Tavern offers a sheltered campsite for campervans where your site fee comes back to you as drinks at the bar. Southern hospitality, that. The Papatowai campground is another option near Papatowai township, though it gets pretty boggy in winter and there are better spots nearby if you poke around.