New Zealand’s great outdoors is never far away and, even if you live in the centre of a big city, you can be in a wilderness area within an hour. A favourite way for New Zealanders to fully experience their country’s diverse landscape is to pitch a tent under the stars or park a caravan or campervan. All kinds of camping experiences are on offer, from remote wilderness camps to roadside lay-bys and five-star holiday parks that boast a full range of amenities.

The Department of Conservation (www.doc.govt.nz) manages campsites throughout its network of parks and reserves. Services and facilities range from pit toilets and stream water to grounds with a camp warden, hot showers, lighting and a rubbish collection. You should be self-sufficient and, to preserve the pristine environment, you must leave no trace of your visit. Fees apply, except at informal sites, and some sites are heavily used at different times of the year, so it’s advisable to book ahead. Fees range from $3 to $14 per person.

Hundreds of commercial campgrounds are spread throughout the country and, as well as offering powered and unpowered sites, many have cabins, on-site caravans or fully equipped motel-style units to rent. The amenities block usually consists of a kitchen (you provide the food and utensils), showers, toilets and a laundry with coin-operated machines. There may be a games room, swimming pool, playground and other extras. Popular campgrounds will be heavily booked in summer, especially over the Christmas and new-year period. Plan ahead or avoid peak times, remembering that things quieten down considerably in the second and third weeks of January. Fees vary, but a powered site for two people will cost about $25.

DoC allows freedom camping in some areas and local councils allow campervans to pull off the road for the night in certain places. You should always check regulations. Local visitor information centres (i-SITEs) can advise you.

A large number of holiday parks and campgrounds belong to either Holiday Accommodation Parks of New Zealand (HAPNZ, www.holidayparks.co.nz, 04 298 3283) or Top 10 Holiday Parks (www.top10.co.nz, 0800 867 836). Both networks have a range of locations and camping experiences, all of which offer affordable, self-catering holiday accommodation and facilities. You can book online or request a print directory of member parks, which are also described online.