Wanaka Region

The Spots Worth Knowing

Basic camping around Wanaka is genuinely good. My pick is Kidds Bush Reserve on Lake Hawea - a real beaut of a DOC site right by the water. Just know the drive in isn't great for larger campervans, so if you're in a big rig, it's probably not your one. Albert Town Camping Ground is the other solid option - no bookings needed, first come first served, and there's plenty of space so you're usually fine rocking up.

Kidds Bush as a Base for the Hills

The thing that makes Kidds Bush particularly useful is how close it puts you to Isthmus Peak. Isthmus is quieter than Roys Peak - maybe one in twenty of the same people - and the views are every bit as good. Both are exposed with no shade, so you want an early start either way. Staying at Kidds Bush the night before means you can head off at first light with a head torch, or even set yourself up for a sunset hike since the campsite is close enough to make that work.