Style: December 10, 2021

58 Style | Travel
Conservation sites
DOC aims to foster recreation in nature, connecting people
with our nation’s stunning environment and unique heritage.
The organisation manages more than 200 campsites throughout
New Zealand – from forest settings to lakeshores and sandy
beaches. Around 95 are designated ‘backcountry’ or ‘basic’.
Some are bookable, whereas others are first-in-best-dressed.
“There’s still plenty of availability at many popular campsites
this summer,” advises Steve Taylor, DOC’s Heritage and
Visitors Director. “Booking ahead secures people a spot during
this busy timeframe.”
At the time of printing, these DOC holiday spots in the
South Island all had spaces available in December and January.
Services vary, but many of the places listed here have powered
and non-powered sites, showers, kitchen and toilet amenities,
and drinking water. Check what is at each site before booking
(DOC.govt.nz/campsites). The DOC Campsite Pass can be
used to book in some areas, although can be date-dependent.
ABOVE: Momorangi Bay, Marlborough.
Your friends are stocking up on insect
repellent, getting the car serviced
and cancelling their food boxes. They’re
going camping, joining the mass exodus
that occurs once Christmas leftovers
have been smashed and the Home
Alone movies dutifully chuckled at. If
the unpredictability of 2021 has done a
number on you and you haven’t sorted
a campsite for the holidays yet – no
worries! Bookable, or even nonbookable
sites are available.
Medium to large commercial
campgrounds, like Top 10 Holiday
Parks (top10.co.nz), are popular as
they’re often found in prime locations,
are well-serviced and have plenty of
entertainment for families. Those at the
smaller end of the scale are Department
of Conservation (DOC) sites, or those
run by community groups. There are
apps that facilitate you staying on
private property (campable.com), or if
you’re on wheels, there’s the option of
freedom camping.
NELSON/TASMAN
KERR BAY AND WEST BAY
Both sites are located next to Lake Rotoiti in the
Nelson Lakes region – surrounded by beech forest,
with a boat-launch ramp nearby.
MARLBOROUGH
PELORUS BRIDGE
Camp amongst kahikatea, beech and rimu trees by the Pelorus
River, which is suitable for swimming, fishing and kayaking.
Walking tracks abound. There’s a café and shop on-site.
MOMORANGI BAY
A family campsite beside a sheltered bay, popular for
swimming, boating and fishing. A short walk and
glow-worm grotto is on-site. Campers can access
Wi-Fi, a playground and shop.
Lake Rotoiti