Alex Towler
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South Island ▷ Mount Cook - MacKenzie ▷ Mount Cook ▷
White Horse Hill Campground
4.0/5
Very well maintained DOC campsite with flushing toilets, treated drinking water, and kitchen area.
Excellent access hiking access to see the beautiful Mt Cook. A perfect spot for glacial enthusiasts alike. Lots of cute rabbits and wildlife, as well as informative signs about the area and it’s geological history.
The only faults were that I’m presuming a lot of people don’t book in advanced and it isn’t monitored by park rangers, so get to the car park early to secure a spot. It’s worth the $15. Also, being in the dark sky reserve, I was disappointed by large hotel at the base of the hill causing light pollution. I recommend walking up the Hooker Track to Freda’s Rock for excellent star gazing.
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North Island ▷ Coromandel ▷ Hahei ▷
Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park
5.0/5
We stayed in the Cabbage Patch campground and loved it!
The ladies at the front desk were very accommodating with our requests to be somewhere quiet. There are plenty of pockets to tuck your tents away for a more private camping experience. All amenities are within 2-3 minute walking distance. Free hot showers with no timers and bathrooms are clean.
Upon checkin, we were told when the best time is to explore hot water beach. You’re also given a detailed map and description to get to the beach. Free shovels are provided. The tide was out between 12-3am for us I’d highly recommend the night experience!
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North Island ▷ Waikato ▷ Tokoroa ▷
Lake Whakamaru Reserve
4.5/5
If you’re looking for a spot near Taupo, this option is fantastic!
The campsite is huge and flat with stunning views of the lake. There is easy access for swimming.
Great drop toilets with TP and hand sanitiser. Hot showers are a bonus! Giving it 9/10 only because not all of the facilities were open.
There’s a small section of potholes on the gravel road towards camp, however they’re not major!