New Zealand is a beautiful country full of stunning landscapes, incredible wildlife and fantastic camping spots. With its diverse terrain, wonderful climate and a range of habitats, it’s no surprise that New Zealand has become a popular destination for wildlife viewing. Whether you’re looking for a short-term camping trip or a longer stay, the country has plenty of great spots that offer unique opportunities to spot some of the country’s most iconic animals. Here, we take a look at some of the best camping spots for wildlife viewing in New Zealand.
Kiwi Wildlife Sanctuaries
Kiwi Wildlife Sanctuaries are a great way to get up close to New Zealand’s native birdlife. Many of these sanctuaries are open for overnight visitors and provide the perfect opportunity for camping and wildlife viewing. There are several options available, ranging from small sanctuaries with a handful of birds to larger ones with hundreds of birds. These sanctuaries have some of the most diverse and varied opportunities for spotting and photographing birds, so you’re sure to find a spot to your liking.
Paparoa National Park
Paparoa National Park is located on the South Island and is renowned for its stunning scenery and unique wildlife. This park is a great choice for campers and wildlife watchers, with plenty of opportunities to view some of the local wildlife in their natural habitat. Paparoa is the only national park in New Zealand to offer camping within the wildlife sanctuary, so if you’re looking for a unique experience, this is one of the best spots to stay.
Abel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for its stunning beaches, but it’s also one of the best spots for wildlife viewing in New Zealand. This park is home to a huge variety of wildlife, including dolphins, seals, penguins and seabirds, so there’s plenty to explore. The park has camping sites available, but visitors need to be self-sufficient and careful to follow the rules.
Must-Do Experiences in New Zealand
If you’re looking to get even closer to the wildlife of New Zealand, there are some great experiences that you can’t afford to miss out on. Here are a few of our top picks:
- Whale Watching: Head out on a boat trip and spot some of the country’s iconic whales, such as humpback and southern right whales.
- Seal Colony: Visit a seal colony and take in the stunning scenery and watch the seals interacting close-up.
- Kakapo Tours: Sign up for a guided tour and learn about the native, flightless kakapo.
- Island Safaris: Explore some of the country’s pristine and remote islands and spot some of the unique wildlife.
There are also plenty of opportunities to spot some of the country’s other iconic wildlife, such as penguins, albatrosses, sea lions and New Zealand fur seals. Whether you’re camping in a national park or visiting a wildlife sanctuary, you’re sure to spot some unique wildlife in New Zealand.
Tips for Camping in New Zealand
When camping in New Zealand, there are some important things to keep in mind in order to stay safe and enjoy your trip. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your camping experience:
- Know the Weather: New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable, so make sure to check the forecast before you set out.
- Respect the Wildlife: Always respect the animals and their habitat when wildlife watching and never get too close.
- Be Prepared: Make sure you bring plenty of supplies, including food, water and clothing.
- Respect the Environment: Be mindful of leaving a minimal impact when camping and dispose of all rubbish responsibly.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to catch a glimpse of New Zealand’s iconic wildlife or just enjoy the stunning scenery, New Zealand has something to offer every visitor. From kiwi wildlife sanctuaries to Paparoa National Park and Abel Tasman National Park, there are plenty of great spots for camping and wildlife viewing throughout the country. With its diverse terrain, warm climate and range of habitats, New Zealand is a perfect destination for your next camping trip.