If you’re anything like me, the best long weekends are the ones spent outdoors — camping under the stars, waking up to lake views, or falling asleep to the sound of waves on a remote beach. Over the years, my family and I have found a few spots in New Zealand that keep calling us back — from turquoise alpine lakes to golden beaches and ancient forests. Whether you’re rolling in a campervan or pitching a tent, these five long weekend escapes are the ones I personally recommend when friends ask me where to go for a memorable outdoor adventure.
The Scenic drive along the Thames Coast is a great way to start a long weekend!
1. Lake Tekapo & Mount Cook (South Island)
Why go: Stunning turquoise waters, alpine scenery, hikes, and world-class stargazing.
Where to Camp
- Lakes Edge Holiday Park (Tekapo)
- Glentanner Holiday Park (Mount Cook Road)
- White horse Hill Campground (Mount Cook)
If you want to wake up to breathtaking lake or alpine views, the Mackenzie Basin is hard to beat. Tekapo and Mount Cook offer some fabulous holiday-park and DoC campsites suitable for both tents and campervans, for different budgets. Spend your days exploring nearby walking tracks which you can find in our full Guide to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, soaking in the Tekapo Springs hot pools, or simply relaxing under one of the clearest night skies in the world. Make sure to check out one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand while visiting - the Church of the Good Shepherd.
Read our Lake Tekapo Travel Guide for more handy tips and travel ideas
Local Tip: Nights can be chilly — pack warm sleeping gear and layered clothing.
For Laura's birthday, I had her thrown out of a plane above Lake Tekapo! Thanks Mount Cook Skydiving!
2. Abel Tasman National Park/Golden Bay (South Island)
We took our daughter on her first camping trip to Golden Bay!
Why go: Golden beaches, turquoise waters, and unforgettable coastal camping.
Where to Camp
- Abel Tasman Marahau Beach Camp (Marahau)
- Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve (Kaiteriteri)
- Golden Bay Holiday Park (Golden Bay)
- Motueka TOP 10 Holiday Park (Motueka
- Tōtaranui Campground (Golden Bay)
Abel Tasman and Golden Bay is the ultimate long weekend adventure. Base yourself at more remote campgrounds like Marahau or Golden Bay, or stay closer to shops and restaurants at places like Kaiteriteri and Motueka. If you’re feeling adventurous, stay at one of the DOC campsites along the coast, with Tōtaranui being a popular spot for locals. Spend your days on the famous sea kayaking tour, as you adventure between bays, hiking short sections of the Abel Tasman Coast Track, and checking out the sights of Golden Bay like
Te Waikoropupu Springs and Wharariki Beach.
When Laura first visited New Zealand, an Abel Tasman Sea Kayak was one of our favourite activities
Find out more in our guide to Exploring Unforgettable Spots in Nelson Tasman
Local Tip: Book your campsite in advance, especially if you want prime beachfront spots.
3. Tongariro National Park (Central North Island)
Why go: Volcanic landscapes, emerald lakes, and the worlds best day hike!
Where to Camp
If you’re chasing adventure, Tongariro National Park delivers. Set up camp at one of the park’s scenic sites, then spend the day hiking or exploring volcanic terrain. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a must-do, but for those looking for a longer adventure, tackle the full Northern Circuit!
Local Tip: You now MUST book to do the Famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Book in advance so you don't miss out!
Laura and I got up early and found we had the track mostly to ourselves!
4. Coromandel Peninsula (North Island)
Why go: Sun, sand, and seaside camping bliss.
Where to Camp
With so many amazing camping options in the Coromandel, we thought we'd direect you to a full directory.
Just a few hours from Auckland, the Coromandel is perfect for a short beachside escape. Pitch your tent or park your campervan near Hot Water Beach, Cathedral Cove, or the often missed New Chum Beach - named one of the best remote beaches in the world by the Observer! Spend your days kayaking, swimming, and exploring hidden beaches.
Local Tip: Keep in mind the tides for both Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove (2 hours either side of low tide is a good aim point)
Even the walk to Cathedral Cove is something special!
5. Waipoua Forest & Kai Iwi Lakes (North Island)
Why go: Ancient kauri trees, tranquil lakes, and peaceful forest camping.
Where to Camp
- Kauri Coast TOP 10 Holiday Park (Kauri Coast)
- Tokerau Beach (Tokerau
- Kai Iwi Lakes Camping Ground (Kai Iwi Lakes)
- Waipoua Te Roroa Campground (Waipoua)
Here's one that's on my list to visit as well! Home to Tāne Mahuta, the largest known kauri tree, Waipoua Forest is perfect for campers who love a nature escape. You can also stay at Kai Iwi Lakes for waterside camping with great swimming and picnic spots, or explore one of the many trails in this stunning area.
Local Tip: Always check for fire bans in forested areas and bring insect repellent for a comfortable stay - especially in late spring and summer.
Plan Your Long Weekend with CamperMate
These long weekend escapes aren’t just destinations — they’re experiences. From stargazing at Lake Tekapo to kayaking along Abel Tasman’s golden beaches, hiking volcanic trails in Tongariro, chasing sun and surf in the Coromandel, or exploring giant kauri trees at Waipoua Forest, each spot has something special to offer.
If you want to plan your trip like a local, grab the CamperMate app before you go — it’ll show you the best campgrounds, DOC sites, dump stations, and must-see stops along the way. Trust me, having all that info in your pocket makes the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one. Pack your tent, fire up the campervan, and get ready for a long weekend you’ll want to relive again and again.
