Canterbury – Alpine Passes, Plains & Starry Nights

Canterbury offers the most diverse camping landscape in New Zealand. Within a few hours' drive, the scenery shifts from the patchwork plains and braided rivers to the dramatic peaks of the Southern Alps and the turquoise waters of glacier-fed lakes.

For campers, this region has it all. You can freedom camp near Lake Pukaki with Mount Cook as your backdrop, enjoy a luxury holiday park experience in the alpine village of Hanmer Springs, or find a secluded Department of Conservation (DOC) site in Arthur's Pass National Park.

Why Go Camping Here?

• The Southern Alps: Home to Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. Camping at White Horse Hill offers front-row seats to towering glaciers.

• World-Class Stargazing: The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. Lake Tekapo is the perfect spot to park up and watch the Milky Way.

• Wildlife Encounters: Visit Kaikōura to camp near the coast where giant sperm whales and playful dusky dolphins frequent the waters.

• French Charm: Drive to Akaroa on the Banks Peninsula, a historic French settlement with beautiful bays, penguin colonies, and boutique camping spots.

Must-Do Camping Activities

• Soak in Hanmer Springs: After a few days in a tent, treat yourself to the natural thermal pools and spa in this alpine resort town.

• Hike the Hooker Valley Track: An easy but spectacular walk near Mount Cook that crosses three swing bridges to a glacial lake with floating icebergs.

• Whale Watching in Kaikōura: Take a boat or flight to see the marine giants, or simply spot seals basking on the rocks near your campsite.

• Ski or Snowboard: In winter, park your campervan near Mount Hutt or Porters for some of the best skiing in the country.

• Jet Boating: Experience the thrill of jet boating on the braided Rakaia or Waimakariri Rivers.