Destinations
Banks Peninsula campgrounds: 9 best coastal spots
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Camping on the Banks Peninsula means rolling hills, turquoise inlets and quaint villages. Set on the east coast of the South Island, this volcanic peninsula features two large harbours along with many smaller bays to explore. Just over an hour’s drive from Christchurch, it’s the perfect destination for a weekend break (but you’ll definitely want to stay for longer)!
And with our list of the best campgrounds on the Banks Peninsula, you’ll have the ultimate base for your Canterbury adventure. Read to learn the price, location, features and nearby attractions for each campsite.
Banks Peninsula campgrounds: 9 spots you can’t miss
1. Pigeon Bay Camping Ground
74 Wharf Road, Pigeon Bay 7583, New Zealand | From $15 per night
Offering basic facilities for a great price, this is one of the best value-for-money campgrounds on the Banks Peninsula. You won’t find showers, kitchen or power here, but site fees start at just $15.
It’s a true camping experience to get you back into nature! Head 20 minutes down the road and check out Onawe Peninsula, which has a great walking track that takes less than an hour with stunning views at the end. There are also plenty of parks and reserves on the Banks Peninsula waiting to be discovered, from indented bays to wild beaches, striking mountains and much more.
Book now.
2. Okains Bay Campground
357 Okains Bay Road, Okains Bay 7583, New Zealand | From $14 per night
The Okains Bay Camping Ground is located in the serene Okains Bay on the Banks Peninsula. It’s the ideal family-friendly camping right on the beach, with plenty of kid-friendly activities on hand.
The Banks Peninsula itself was formed years ago by a number of volcanoes, which created two large natural harbours: Lyttelton and Akaroa. There are plenty of sheltered bays on the inside (including Okains Bay) that are perfect for boating, or simply walking along and taking in the incredible scenery.
Head to the Okains Bay Maori and Colonial Museum or take off on Little Okains Walk, which takes you to Little Okains Bay, a very important part of history that also offers incredible views.
Back at the campsite, make use of their kitchens, toilets, washing facilities, showers and more. There’s even plenty of fun for the kids with two flying foxes, a climbing frame, swings and a slide.
3. Duvauchelle Holiday Park
19 Seafield Road, Duvauchelle 7581, New Zealand | Non-powered sites from $27 per person
Sitting on the water’s edge in Duvauchelle on the Banks Peninsula, this holiday park offers incredible views of the harbour.
Play golf at nearby Akaroa Golf Club’s 18-hole course, pay a visit to Barry’s Bay Cheese Factory for some delicious morsels, or simply take a leisurely stroll through the neighbourhood shops.
After a busy day exploring, head back to the campsite where you will find two ablution blocks with toilets and timer-operated showers. There’s also a separate disabled toilet and shower unit. There’s a dump station and a fully equipped kitchen and TV room. You’ll have plenty of fun onsite too with two tennis courts, a big adventure playground and a boat ramp.
4. Akaroa TOP 10 Holiday Park
96 Morgans Road, Akaroa 7542, New Zealand | Non-powered sites from $40 per night
This is one of the best campgrounds on the Banks Peninsula for families with a beautiful view of the French style village of Akaroa.
Spend your days dining at one of the many restaurants, browse the local arts and crafts shops, or enjoy water activities right on the harbour, from swimming with the dolphins and jet boating to sailing, fishing, and paddle boats.
Plus, you won’t even have to leave the campsite if you don’t want to! Splash about in their heated swimming pool, check out the TV and games room, head to the toddler playroom, or cook up a storm on the gas barbecue. They have a well-equipped camp kitchen, outdoor BBQ, toilets, showers and plenty more.
5. Catons Bay Freedom Camp
Little River 7591, New Zealand | Free
Enjoy a spot of free camping at Catons Bay Freedom Camp. Located right on the lake (which isn’t for swimming!), it serves up some great views.
There are very basic facilities at Catons Bay campsite. Just across a small wooden bridge, you can use a public toilet (but without running water). It’s important to follow the freedom camping rules while you’re there, making sure you take all rubbish with you and leaving no trace.
6. Little River Campground
287 Okuti Valley Road, Little River 7591, New Zealand | From $20 per person
Need some campgrounds on the Banks Peninsula for a summer getaway? This stunning campground is only open during the warmer months.
Little River is the gateway to Banks Peninsula, with plenty to see and do around the area. There are lots of beaches just perfect for taking a dip and surfing. You can take off on one of the many bike trails, or walk the sights and soak it all in.
The facilities at this campground are next level. Not only can you enjoy hot showers, outdoor kitchen, BBQ, laundry and their seasonal herb garden, but there’s so much more! Take the kids for a wild ride on their Scary Slippery Slides, take a turn on the giant swing, head to the river and feed the eels, or enjoy the playground with a trampoline.
7. Awaroa/Godley Head Campsite
2 Godley Head Road, Sumner, Christchurch, New Zealand | From $15 per person
If you’re searching for campgrounds on the Banks Peninsula that are a little bit different, then camp in the middle of a WW11 defence battery site! As well as brushing up on some local history, you can enjoy incredible ocean views and scenic walks around the area.
There is also a mountain bike track that takes you to the main road, where you can jump on the Anaconda Track and head to Taylors Mistake beach.
The site has all the facilities you need with flush toilets and water from a tap available. You can also enjoy bird watching, biking and hiking in the area.
8. Onuku Farm Hostel
89 Hamiltons Road, Akaroa - Onuku 7520, New Zealand | From $20 per person
Onuku Farm Hostel is another Banks Peninsula campsite that closes during the winter months, so be sure to check dates before you travel. But it’s definitely worth doing your research - it’s the ideal spot to unwind and explore in the thick of nature.
Make some time to check out the nearby area with 260 hectares of farm land to explore! Head to the highest lookout and take off on a dolphin swimming or kayaking trip depending on your interests. There are also many breathtaking coastal walks for you to wander along with amazing views.
The camping ground is equipped with kitchens, washing machine and toilets, along with a shop where you can pick up the essentials.
Book now.
9. Orton Bradley Park Camping
Marine Drive, Charteris Bay 8971, New Zealand | From $24 per night
Enjoy self-contained camping in your van all year round at the Orton Bradley Park. Surround yourself with 650 hectares of bush walking tracks to discover. There are more than 25km of tracks, with safe water holes and streams you can stop off at for a peaceful swim nearby.
The facilities are basic with toilets on site, but you can truly immerse yourself in nature and spend days exploring the surrounding area.
Hire a van for your Banks Peninsula camping trip
With so many amazing experiences on offer, Banks Peninsula should be at the top of your New Zealand bucket list. Immerse yourself in nature and history by day, and sleep under the stars at some of the best campgrounds on the Banks Peninsula by night!
But first, sort out campervan hire in Christchurch with Camplify. And if you need some places to stay along the way, check out these campgrounds near Christchurch.
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