New Zealand has some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the world. From stunning coastlines to rugged mountains, unique geological wonders, and a plethora of natural hot springs, there is something for everyone. For those who love the outdoors and are looking to explore the country’s unique terrain, camping in New Zealand’s Heritage Trail regions is an unforgettable experience.
The Heritage Trail stretches from the far north of the North Island to the far south of the South Island. Spanning a distance of nearly 2000 kilometres, this epic journey is beloved by campers and adventurers alike for the sheer range of landscapes and experiences it promises. This guide will explore the highlights of this trail, from where to camp to the best sights and attractions.
Where to Camp
New Zealand’s Heritage Trail regions are home to some of the most picturesque campsites in the world, offering unparalleled views and access to the country’s natural wonders. The following are some of the best camping sites to check out during a Heritage Trail journey:
- Awanui Campsite in the Far North of the North Island – located in the heart of Northland, Awanui campsite provides access to Waipoua Forest and the famous Kauri tree, Tane Mahuta.
- Taupiri Bay Campsite in the Coromandel Peninsula – situated on the spectacular Coromandel Peninsula, Taupiri Bay is a great base for exploring the stunning beaches and bush of the region.
- Rangiriri Campsite in the Waikato Region – situated on the banks of the Waikato River, Rangiriri campsite gives campers stunning views of the river, with easy access to the area’s many attractions, including the Waitomo Caves.
- Mount Taranaki Campsite in the Egmont National Park – situated at the base of Mount Taranaki, this campsite offers unparalleled views of the park and access to some of the best hikes in New Zealand.
- Banks Peninsula Campsite in the South Island – located on the spectacular Banks Peninsula, this campsite offers unparalleled views of the bay and easy access to some of the best hikes in the South Island.
- Queenstown Campsite in the Southern Alps – situated at the base of the Southern Alps, this campsite offers some of the most stunning views of the mountains, as well as access to some of the best hikes in the region.
Things to Do
New Zealand is home to countless attractions and activities, all of which can be enjoyed while camping in its Heritage Trail regions. From exploring the country’s unique and diverse wildlife to taking part in a range of watersports, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few of the must-see attractions when camping along the Heritage Trail:
- Geothermal Hot Springs – Soak in the healing mineral waters of the Te Puia hot springs in the North Island.
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves – Experience the ethereal beauty of the Waitomo glowworms in the North Island.
- Mou Waho Island – Explore the unique wildlife of Mou Waho Island in the South Island.
- Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park – Take in the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park in the South Island.
- Kaikoura Whale Watching – Take a boat ride in Kaikoura to experience the incredible sight of whales in the wild.
- Queenstown Bungy Jumping – Test your nerve with a bungy jump in Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world.
Safety Tips
The Heritage Trail is a great way to explore the stunning wilderness of New Zealand, but due to the remote nature of many of the campsites, it is important to take safety precautions when camping in the country. Here are some tips to keep in mind when camping in New Zealand’s Heritage Trail regions:
- Always check the local weather forecast before setting out on your camping trip, as the weather can change quickly in some of the more remote areas.
- Know your limits and avoid taking any unnecessary risks when exploring the wilderness.
- Bring appropriate navigational tools for your journey and be aware of your location at all times.
- Make sure you are familiar with wilderness survival techniques and know how to use them in an emergency.
- Ensure you have adequate supplies for the duration of your trip and be aware of any local hazards.
- Respect the local environment and take all necessary measures to minimise your environmental impact.
Camping in New Zealand’s Heritage Trail regions is an unforgettable experience, offering campers the chance to explore some of the most spectacular natural scenery in the world. From the far north of the North Island to the far south of the South Island, this epic journey is one that should not be missed. So, get ready to explore the country’s stunning landscapes and take in the sights and attractions of the Heritage Trail, a journey that will stay with you forever.