New Zealand’s geography is characterised by breathtaking mountain ranges, scenic views and miles of coastline with clear, blue waters and sandy beaches. The country is basically a dream come true for locals and tourists who love the outdoors. If you’re an avid camper, staying overnight near the water is not something you should pass up.
To help you prepare, here are some handy tips on picking camping gear you should pack and some information on what you can expect.
Beachside and Seaside Camping
Camping is a staple part of the Kiwi lifestyle, and you’d be hard pressed to find a local who hasn’t spent a night in the outdoors either in a tent or a motorhome. If you fancy setting up camp near the coastline, a lake or a river, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to locations.
There are many Holiday Parks that are located conveniently near beaches like the Wagener Holiday Park in Northland, the Pohara Beach Holiday Park at Golden Bay, and the Riverside Holiday Park in Mangawhai. These are perfect spots for people who want a laidback camping experience since campgrounds often provide basic facilities like kitchens, flush toilets and showers. Campers have to pay a fixed fee and are expected to clean their camp areas before leaving.
Other excellent campgrounds you should try visiting are the Kaueranga Valley in Coromandel, the Makarora Wilderness Resort in Southern Lakes, the Waipatiki Beach Farm Park along the Hawkes Bay and the Kai Iwi Lakes in Northland.
Watersports and Water Activities
Surrounded by different bodies of water, New Zealand is known far and wide as a watersports mecca. The pristine beaches will make you want to kick back and enjoy the sun as soon as you get there, but be sure to try your hand at some of the more exciting activities the water has to offer like kayaking, fishing, surfing, stand up paddle boarding, windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Sailing and going on a boat cruise are great opportunities to see the beautiful sights and learn about the native wildlife. The country has diverse marine life from various species of fish and shellfish to seals and penguins. New Zealand is also home to the world’s rarest dolphin, Hector’s dolphin and has 34 marine reserves dedicated to preserving underwater wonderlands. Check out diving or snorkeling possibilities if you want to take a closer look.
Waterproof Tents and Gear
If you’re planning to camp as close as you can to the water, you’re going to need some quality waterproof camping gear. Here are some tips you need to keep in mind the next time you head to a tent sale in NZ.
As a rule of thumb, choose your tent based on where you plan to camp. In this case, you’re going to need a tent that can withstand the hot summer sun, a bit of rain and probably some strong sea breezes. One of the first things you might hear mentioned when looking at tents is the season rating. Most tents fall into the three season category, good for use in spring, summer and autumn seasons and suitable for camping at the beach. Four season tents are for use year round and are built to stand up to harsh winter weather as well. Check that the tent design is suitable for your needs and can hold up in winds, has enough room for you and your family and all the gear and toys you’re taking to the beach. You should also look into the waterproof rating of the tent you choose and make sure it will handle showers. A tarp and paracord are a handy addition to provide shelter from the sun or if needed helps ward off rain, the cold and condensation when placed over a tent.
For the rest of your camping gear requirements, there is a huge range of handy supplies available from clothing and sleeping bags to backpacks and multi-tools. It’s good practice to pack water-resistant gear wherever you go anyway, so these are well worth your investment. For assistance in choosing the right tent and camping gear for you and your next trip Intents Outdoors will be more than happy to help. Simply email us at info@intentsoutdoors.co.nz with any questions you might have.
Sources:
Perfect Pitch: 10 Kiwi Classic Campsites, NZHerald.co.nz
Backpacking 101: Choosing Your Gear, OutsideOnline.com