Stuart
North Island ▷ Rotorua Region ▷ Rotorua ▷
3.5/5
Was full when we got there but saw a review saying an overflow car park owned by the council by the Sudima Hotel which can confirm is true (just a 30 second drive away).
No rangers so we were unclear as to whether it was an official freedom camping spot, but at least 8 campervans there. Only downfall is you’re about a 5-10 walk from a toilet, which locks overnight. In probably the nicest part of Rotorua near the Government gardens, and yes it does smell of sulphur.
North Island ▷ Hawkes Bay ▷ Napier ▷
4.5/5
Lovely seaside spot with toilets and plenty of spaces.
Get there early to get a sea view. About a 25?minute walk in to Napier centre.
South Island ▷ Canterbury ▷ Akaroa ▷
4.0/5
Ideal location and within walking distance of the town.
Toilets about a 2-3 minute walk, but a nice area to relax next to water. Would definitely recommend! Get there early as it was full by about 6 when we went.