Little River Campground

70 Rankers Reviews

8 Face-to-Face

4 Banks Peninsula

Check Availability

Accommodations

Maps

FREE Header

Camping NZ NEW

Welcome to New Zealand's most comprehensive database of freely available camping information. This is the only travel map of its kind in NZ.

Photos

Riverside van and tent sites. Plenty of sunny or shady sites
Cool for kids of all ages.
Eco composting toliets.
Relax beside the river.
A tent in The Glade. No vehicle access.
Outdoor kitchen area.
Bathroom sinks
Playing in the cold river.
Sites can be snug but there's room for games.
In ground trampoline. Bounce at your own risk.
Sunset from lake view. A 15 minute walk from your campsite.
Our sure to rise logo. Retro, like our campground.

Information

Little River Campground

Sheltered and sunny sites. A perfect place to start or finish your Banks Peninsula adventure. Woodland and bird sanctuary. Free WIFI and travel advice. Hot showers $2 for 4 minutes. Please support local business and you'll experience a unique camp.

Only 45 minutes from Christchurch and 45 minutes from Akaroa. Nestled in the secluded picturesque Okuti Valley with private native bush reserve to explore. Riverside park like setting with good hot showers, sheltered kitchen area - sinks, fridge, microwave, gas hobs, jug and toaster. Be adventurous, get off the beaten tourist track and discover our little piece of paradise.

We aim to be an eco campground- the toilets are dry eco, Clivus Multrum, so don't expect air hand driers. We ate a zero waste area but provide composting facilities. If you enjoy native bush, birds, views and want to see some nature we are a perfect place to stay. Cabins are retro kiwi bach style and rustic.

If you come here for the great outdoors over quality facilities we hope you'll rank us favourably. Please write a review if you have something unique to add. Thanks, Marcus and Megan.

Details

Feature Value Info

Organisation

Manaia Nature Habitat Holiday Park

Commercial organisation

Location

South IslandCanterburyBanks Peninsula

Categories

  • Activity__camping_grounds_holiday_parksCamping Grounds

Operating Season And Hours

Open until 28 April. 9am-9pm.

Directions

To Coordinates

Coordinates

-43.7855336731906

172.829539680481

Latitude
-43.7855336731906
Longitude
172.829539680481

Websites

Reviews

    ✓ Lovely natural surroundings

    ✓ Clean and tidy facilities

    ✓ Family-friendly activities

    ✓ Friendly and helpful host

    ✓ Peaceful and quiet

    𐄂 Inconsistent pricing

    𐄂 Poor WiFi

    • I feel bad about the 7/10.
    • An absolutely stunning place to stay.
    • Dinky little place.
    • Very rustic but lovely campsite.
    • What a fantastic site and a welcoming host.
    Rating Count Percentage
    10/10 49
    70%
    9/10 6
    9%
    8/10 4
    6%
    7/10 6
    9%
    6/10 1
    1%
    5/10 1
    1%
    4/10 1
    1%
    3/10 1
    1%
    2/10 1
    1%
    1/10 0
    0%
  • 5.0/5

    Absolutely gorgeous!

    A real kiwi campground. Surrounded by nature, the eels are awesome. Very clean and tidy. Love it here!

    Reviewed 8 months ago

    Kim's avatar

    Kim

    Customer

  • 4.5/5

    The first stay of our camper trip.

    A lovely quirky little place with a bit of a hippy vibe. Lots of bush/trees made for particularly pretty and private camping pitches. Clean long drops. Friendly owner gave us first time camper tips which were invaluable - thanks 😊

    Reviewed 8 months ago and experienced in January 2024

    UNITED KINGDOM
    Janet Lewis's avatar

    Janet Lewis

    Customer

  • 4.5/5

    Dinky little place.

    Fabulous 4 minute 2 dollar shower.

    Reviewed 12 months ago

    Louise's avatar

    Louise

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Very rustic but lovely campsite.

    Compost toilets which were actually fine, hot showers. The outdoor kitchen was really cute and had everything you needed - sinks, cooking facilities etc.

    We stayed right by the river which was so peaceful. So many amazing walks around the campsite, amazing huge swing and mudslides (which were unfortunately closed when we were there). There was also an abandoned film set in the middle of the forest - definitely kept us entertained!

    Really amazing stay for our last night in our campervan!

    Reviewed over 1 year ago

    Katie Edser's avatar

    Katie Edser

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Wonderful place, quiet, clean owned by Marcus, friendly and helpful !

    We paid 20 per adult but it’s worth it. Very good experience !

    Reviewed over 1 year ago

  • 5.0/5

    Awesome campground by a lovely creek; despite the summer crowds we had a nice and quiet camping spot and enjoyed a lovely short hike around the place.

    Reviewed almost 2 years ago

    Citlali & Mike's avatar

    Citlali & Mike

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Amazing place to stay, great facilities and lovely grounds.

    Super friendly manager.

    Reviewed almost 2 years ago

    Matthew's avatar

    Matthew

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Quiet, stunning and all you need!

    Very cute atmosphere, very clean facilities, lovely owner, good wifi. I loved it!

    Reviewed almost 2 years ago

    Julia's avatar

    Julia

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Such an incredible wee oasis!!

    Quirky cabins and great camping sites along the river. Adding to this, exciting and well thought mud slide, giant swing and a peaceful board walk for all abilities. The hosts are soooo welcoming and helpful 😊

    Reviewed almost 2 years ago

    Sonia Rocha's avatar

    Sonia Rocha

    Customer

  • 2.0/5

    This camping is a rip-off, we paid $25 each per night, and we heard others that paid $100 each for 2 nights.

    There is free WiFi, but it's only 50MB and quite slow, so you can't videocall or watch a video online. The kitchen area is alright, a bit messy, but probably the best part of the camping. The showers are supposed to be hot for 4 minutes for $2, they are only 30 seconds warm and the rest is ice cold.

    The owner is a nice guy but it feels like he just makes the prices up in his head whatever he feels like.

    Reviewed 7 months ago

    Felix's avatar

    Felix

    Customer

  • 2.0/5

    This camping is a rip-off, we paid $25 each per night, and we heard others that paid $100 each for 2 nights.

    There is free WiFi, but it's only 50MB and quite slow, so you can't videocall or watch a video online. The kitchen area is alright, a bit messy, but probably the best part of the camping. The showers are supposed to be hot for 4 minutes for $2, they are only 30 seconds warm and the rest is ice cold.

    The owner is a nice guy but it feels like he just makes the prices up in his head whatever he feels like.

    Reviewed 7 months ago

    Felix's avatar

    Felix

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Absolutely gorgeous!

    A real kiwi campground. Surrounded by nature, the eels are awesome. Very clean and tidy. Love it here!

    Reviewed 8 months ago

    Kim's avatar

    Kim

    Customer

  • 4.5/5

    The first stay of our camper trip.

    A lovely quirky little place with a bit of a hippy vibe. Lots of bush/trees made for particularly pretty and private camping pitches. Clean long drops. Friendly owner gave us first time camper tips which were invaluable - thanks 😊

    Reviewed 8 months ago and experienced in January 2024

    UNITED KINGDOM
    Janet Lewis's avatar

    Janet Lewis

    Customer

  • 4.5/5

    Dinky little place.

    Fabulous 4 minute 2 dollar shower.

    Reviewed 12 months ago

    Louise's avatar

    Louise

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Very rustic but lovely campsite.

    Compost toilets which were actually fine, hot showers. The outdoor kitchen was really cute and had everything you needed - sinks, cooking facilities etc.

    We stayed right by the river which was so peaceful. So many amazing walks around the campsite, amazing huge swing and mudslides (which were unfortunately closed when we were there). There was also an abandoned film set in the middle of the forest - definitely kept us entertained!

    Really amazing stay for our last night in our campervan!

    Reviewed over 1 year ago

    Katie Edser's avatar

    Katie Edser

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Wonderful place, quiet, clean owned by Marcus, friendly and helpful !

    We paid 20 per adult but it’s worth it. Very good experience !

    Reviewed over 1 year ago

  • 5.0/5

    Such an incredible wee oasis!!

    Quirky cabins and great camping sites along the river. Adding to this, exciting and well thought mud slide, giant swing and a peaceful board walk for all abilities. The hosts are soooo welcoming and helpful 😊

    Reviewed almost 2 years ago

    Sonia Rocha's avatar

    Sonia Rocha

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Amazing place to stay, great facilities and lovely grounds.

    Super friendly manager.

    Reviewed almost 2 years ago

    Matthew's avatar

    Matthew

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Awesome campground by a lovely creek; despite the summer crowds we had a nice and quiet camping spot and enjoyed a lovely short hike around the place.

    Reviewed almost 2 years ago

    Citlali & Mike's avatar

    Citlali & Mike

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Quiet, stunning and all you need!

    Very cute atmosphere, very clean facilities, lovely owner, good wifi. I loved it!

    Reviewed almost 2 years ago

    Julia's avatar

    Julia

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    We had an awesome couple of nights camping here.

    Our two 8 year old kids had an absolute blast on the water slide, swings, feeding eels and toasting marshmallows. The facilities are very good and clean and Marcus who runs the camp does a fantastic job. No doubt we will be back again over the summer.

    Reviewed about 3 years ago

    Scott's avatar

    Scott

    Customer

    Thanks for taking the time to review us and your feedback is appreciated. Hope to see you again.

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    What a fantastic site and a welcoming host.

    The kids loved it as much as we did, so many adventures to be had, good old fashion camping at its best.

    Reviewed about 3 years ago

    :Shane:'s avatar

    :Shane:

    Customer

    Thanks for the review. We say, if the kids are enjoying it, the parents can relax and enjoy it too. We celebrate the old fashion back to basics camp ethos.

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    Just spent a week at the camping ground and absolutely loved it.

    I was wondering how it would be camping with our two year old as he has no fear and will run off, but at Little River Campground I didn’t have to worry about him at all as we had a great site where the communal play area was in full sight and Caspar was entertained all day. Marcus helped us choose a nice shady/sunny spot by the river. We had heaps of fun on the giant swing, slippery slide and with the campfire. Great visit to tumbledown bay where we swam with seals and dolphins. Even enjoyed one rainy day chatting and hanging out in the communal kitchen lounge area. Appreciated the fact that no cars are allowed next to the tents ( you can park them a few metres away) and that we were asked politely to keep the noise down in the evening when people needed to sleep :) I highly recommend the stay!

    Reviewed almost 4 years ago

    Julieanne Eason's avatar

    Julieanne Eason

    Customer

    Thanks Julieanne,

    Your description of your stay makes us happy. We try our best to find the most suitable site depending on guests need. We even have an area, The Meadow for those with no kids.

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    We love this place.

    So close to Christchurch and kids (5,6,8) love exploring the area and feeding the eels. Great memories are created here. Highly recommend.

    Reviewed almost 4 years ago

    Jess and Shaun's avatar

    Jess and Shaun

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Our first time to Little River campground and we loved it!

    Great facilities, lovely hosts and beautiful surroundings.

    Definitely a special spots, awesome river for kids to explore, heaps to do.

    Reviewed almost 4 years ago

    Lucy and Chris 's avatar

    Lucy and Chris

    Customer

  • 3.5/5

    The hosts of this site are very friendly and hard working but clearly overtaxed.

    The site is getting tired and needs some maintenance. We stayed in a tent in the “glade” where one picnic table was broken and unusable. There were several recliner chairs left out in the elements and deteriorating. The park was busy and the small kitchen was overtaxed. Signs indicated water needed to be treated and water in the sinks at the bathrooms was brown. It’s a good location, decent place, and great people. It just needs some more attention.

    Reviewed over 4 years ago

    Captain Erick's avatar

    Captain Erick

    Customer

    Hello Erick, Than ks for your honest review, which we take responsibility for. We are a small, one person business and I can only attend to so much. The camp always needs work done on it and we try our hardest. We clearly state that we are back to basics, rustic and it is more about the native bush, river and quiet location that attracts people, not the old furniture. The chairs and picnic table are gone. The brown water is unusual but can occur after heavy rain. You have motivated me to sort things out, thanks.

    I hope you have a good holiday. Marcus

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    Really nice place and really friendly owner.

    It has a gorgeous landscape. 15$/person. Just keeping in mind that you need 2$ extra for the shower (it’s really worth it). No reception, but powerful wifi! Compost toilets!😍 Everything clean! Totally recommend it! Just careful with sandflies (as always XD)

    Reviewed over 4 years ago

    Carla's avatar

    Carla

    Customer

    Thanks Carla, I am happy you had a good time here and have given use 10/10. Yiu explain our facilities well. (the sand flies are not every day thankfully). Enjoy your holidays, Marcus

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative

  • 3.5/5

    I feel bad about the 7/10.

    The owner is making a real effort to make this place a great site, and it is certainly different from any of the big chain campgrounds. The campervan pitches are a little cheek-by-jowl, and it was a bit of a squeeze to make sure we didn't hit guy ropes and trees to get into ours. Having said that, the site is perfect for families with young kids who don't want a bog-standard holiday park. There's a lot to keep youngsters entertained, and I can see why it's so popular, just not for us older fuddy-duddies.

    Reviewed almost 5 years ago

    Hi Richard and Chris,

    Thanks for the review. The camp can get busy over the few days of New Year and at school holiday weekends. We do state the sites can be snug at this time but most of the time we have sites available. We pride ourselves on not being part of a chain, unique and boutique is more us! Marcus

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    An absolutely stunning place to stay.

    Marcus is a hardworking and lovely host, who insures your stay is not only comfortable but also enjoyable. The facilities, though rustic are well maintained. The river/picnic area is breathtaking as are the walks. A true kiwi gem.

    Reviewed almost 5 years ago

    Darla's avatar

    Darla

    Customer

    Thanks Darla,

    We appreciate the time for writing the review and you've summed us up well. What we lack in facilities we try and make up in good friendly hospitality. Marcus

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative

  • 4.5/5

    Fabulous campground: the place, atmosphere, birdsong, the stream, the eels, cabins, bungalows, outdoor kitchen...

    everything is unique at Markus's ground!

    Reviewed almost 5 years ago and experienced in January 2019

    Raphy's avatar

    Raphy

    Customer

    Thanks Raphy, I'm please you enjoyed what the camp has to offer. It is well worth exploring the 5 hectares of native bush and appreciating nature- the bellbirds, wood pigeons, eels and ancient trees. Marcus

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    After a day in Akaroa, we stopped here and were delighted.

    It’s quite unlike the chain holiday parks, with a laid back, relaxed vibe. We loved it! There are compost toilets and a kitchen/lounge that is in a partly open structure, but all worked great. $15 per person, but you have to pay extra for showers. There is also a lovely nature trail, a giant swing and an abandoned film set in the forest - so fun to explore. If you’re ok with things being a little different from a chain holiday park, you’ll love it!

    Reviewed almost 5 years ago

    UNITED KINGDOM
    Timothy Davies's avatar

    Timothy Davies

    Customer

    Thanks for the review Tim, It is appreciated and as we say, we cater for guests that have an open mind and like a bit more creativity and not being sterile like a chain holiday park. It is what makes us different and worth a visit.

    Marcus

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    This is a great little campground.

    Stream at the bottom of the hill, walk trails through the bush to the top of the hill, birds in the trees (and not just sparrows) and good clean facilities. If you enjoy nature but don't want to be too far from the nearest coffee shop (just 5km to Little River Café) this is a good option for you. Thoroughly enjoyed our two nights there over Easter, as did all the happy families there at the time.

    Reviewed over 5 years ago

    Joan & Tony's avatar

    Joan & Tony

    Customer

    Hello Joan and Tony,

    Thank you so much for taking the time to write a 10/10 review. We try our hardest to keep the campground clean and to make it a fun place to stay for kids and adults. We have a very natural area that thrives with bird life and plants, so it is a good place to discover nature. All the best and maybe we will see you again. Kind regards Marcus

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    Very nice and helpful owner.

    He helped planning our trip and gave us some insider tips. Facilities are very clean. Kitchen had everything we needed and there was a lot of food for free use. Nice walking tracks around the side and if you still get bored there’s also wifi available.

    Reviewed over 5 years ago

    Sophie's avatar

    Sophie

    Customer

    Hi Sophie,

    Thanks for the great review and I am always happy to help guests with holiday plans so you discover the 'real NZ'. Some of our favourite places are off the beaten track with few people and stunning scenery.....the southern bays as an example of hidden beaches close to the campground. All the best with your NZ adventures, Marcus.

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    My favorite campground of our 3 weeks trip with our campervan.

    Stayed there for two nights. Marcus is super friendly and helpful. Love the bushwalk, the sounds of nature and all the creative and fun stuff around, like the swings in the wood or the random car or bus seats around with lovely views. A lot of details made with love, that makes such a nice atmosphere. The dry toilets work perfectly. Such a good idea!

    Reviewed over 5 years ago

    AUSTRIA
    Melanie Berger's avatar

    Melanie Berger

    Customer

    Hello Melanie, Thanks so much for your great description of our campground and native habitat. We are always happy when guests enjoy their stay. Our place is not for everyone, but if you are interested in somewhere more than a place to park a van, and love nature, we would welcome your visit. We try and be as environmentally conscious as possible, with the dry toilets saving 1000s of litres of water a year as an example. Thanks again, Marcus

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    Markus was enthusiastic about telling and helping us through our journey on the South Island.

    Everything was great, showers were hot and water pressure was awesome.

    Bathrooms were clean and Kitchen was a great mixing of nations exchanging holiday experiences.

    Oh yea, one more thing, the rope swing is a must, even at 57!!!

    Thanks,

    mb

    Reviewed almost 6 years ago

    Mark Blezard 's avatar

    Mark Blezard

    Customer

    Hi Mark, Thanks for your review, it is appreciated. Great also that you tried the giant swing. Never too old to have fun eh? Nice to know guests are enjoying the hot showers, along with everything else. We try and improve the facilities as we have time. Take care and happy holidays, Marcus

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    Little River Campground was the first and the best Campground on our Roadtrip.

    The Place itself and the Host is lovely, the kitchen / facilities are clean (hot showers) and you can get free Wi-fi. Everything for only 15$ per person if you’re staying in a tent.

    Reviewed about 6 years ago

    Marie Sassenberg's avatar

    Marie Sassenberg

    Customer

    Hi Marie, Thanks for taking the time to review us positively. The best campground! We love hearing that thank you. The fee is $15/adult, whether you are in a tent or campervan. Enjoy your travels. Marcus and Megan

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    Awesome camping ground that takes you back to nature.

    Beautiful river, tracks and lovely small camp ground with great facilities. Marcus the host was also very accommodating and around if required. Will definitely be back.

    Reviewed about 6 years ago

    Gina's avatar

    Gina

    Customer

    Hi Gina,

    Thanks for the 10 out 10. I try my best to be helpful when I am around, which is most of the time. See you sometime. Marcus

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    This place was exactly what we were looking for.

    Pulled in after a long day on the road and was able to set up without any problems. Perfectly centered between Akaroa and Christchurch with plenty of options to explore. The hot showers and WiFi were an added bonus. Would definitely stay again.

    Reviewed about 6 years ago

    EH's avatar

    EH

    Customer

    Hi Eh,

    Cheers for the review and description of our campground. We are not everyones 'cap of tea' but if you are into nature and exploring we have 5 hectares with old native trees and birds....and the giant swing, and feeding the eel, and seeing the old film set 'chinatown'. Thanks, Marcus

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative

  • 4.5/5

    Wonderful place, surrounded by pure nature, great spot with clean toilets and hot showers (+ laundry) and a kitchen area.

    Very friendly people too ! Many activities around, I highly recomand this camp ! (Wifi wasn’t working but the camping just openned so it’s not an issue)

    Reviewed about 6 years ago

    Joe's avatar

    Joe

    Customer

    Thanks Joe, I'm pleased you enjoyed your stay and thought the facilities were clean. We are always trying to improve things like the wifi, showers, tracks, facilities but as we're a small camp and I am the only one working here so things can take longer than anticipated. I hope you had a great holiday in NZ. Marcus

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    We spent 10 nights in our Caravan Camping and found the camp quite and a very well run camp.

    You could not fault the the toilets, showers and they were always spotlessly clean. The cost is reasonable compared to other place we have stayed specially for the ordinary Kiwi Camper. We will be going back for another holiday and have already told our friends to visit for a stay. Thanks Marcus for a great holiday.

    Reviewed over 6 years ago

    Thanks for the nice review Denice and Ken,

    It was a pleasure hosting you and pleased you enjoyed it, even if it is not the west coast. See you some other time, Marcus and Megan.

    NEW ZEALAND
    Marcus Puentener's avatar

    Marcus Puentener

    Representative