Waimate District - NZMCA Motorhome Friendly Town

In 2014 Waimate was declared motorhome-friendly. The New Zealand Motor Caravan Association has approved the whole district under the motorhome-friendly scheme. There is a public dump facility at 26 Studholme Street, Waimate.  Kelceys Bush, Knottingley Park & St Andrews Domain also have dump stations. The NZMCA also have a camp in Waimate that is exclusive for their members. 

Apple Tree Lodge

Situated inland about 3 km off SH1 at the junction of Lower Hook Road and Kingsburys Road, the lodge houses our fruit pickers in season (Dec-Feb) but is available throughout the year for small groups. It has five bedrooms and can sleep 15 people. The separate lounge and small games area has wifi available. The kitchen has gas hobs and is equipped for self catering. There are three combined shower/toilet rooms, and a laundry is available. Two caravan points are on site. 

Cafe close by (open for breakfast).

Address: 311 Kingsbury Road, Hook
Phone: 03 689 5849

Atwill Park Outdoor Centre

The Waimate Scout group's base and camp. Full camping facilities plus an outdoor confidence course.

Address: Upper Mill Road, Waimate
Phone:  03 689 8883

Freedom Camping

Waimate District Council currently allows freedom camping at several sites around the Waimate District. There is a public dump station at 26 Studholme Street in the Waimate township, and the other camping grounds have ablutions and dump stations that can be used for a fee.

Gunn's Bush Camp

Nestled in beautiful native bush, the camp is perfect for schools, church groups, clubs and businesses for team building, and family groups who want a retreat-like location. Accommodation is in bunk rooms with 104 beds, communal kitchen and hall facilities, two bathroom blocks and an abundance of lawn for camping and outdoor activities.

Address: 36 Gunns Bush Road
Phone: 027 688 0945

Glenavy’s Waitaki River Motor Camp

Affordable large powered and non powered sites for your van, cosy cabins to stay and awesome communal facilities and park like grounds. Walk to the river, catch a fish or maybe dine at the Hotel, takeaways at the store or treat yourself at Riverstone Restaurant. NZMCA member discounts. Gold card discounts.

Address: 7-9 Cherry Avenue, Glenavy
Phone: 03 689 2856

Kelceys Bush Holiday Park

This unique park offers nature at its best, nestled in the Hunter Hills next to native bush. Ocean and forest views.  Cabins, tourist flats, caravan and tent sites.

Address: Upper Mill Road, Waimate
Phone: 03 689 8057

Knottingley Park and Arboretum

Knottingley Park and Arboretum is set in a magnificent 36 ha park of old exotic trees in a peaceful setting, 2km from Waimate. It is often described as a 'hidden jewel' by those who unexpectedly stumble upon it.  The park also has a playground and picnic tables.

Address: Waihao Back Road, Waimate
Phone: 027 439 2759

Lindisfarne Camp

Lindisfarne Camp is a stunning setting for large groups to use for educational and recreational activities. The hall can hold a dance for 200 or a meal for 100 and the over-night accomodation includes beds for 60. The location is on a terraced site above the river surrounded by fully established trees. 

Address: Camp Lindisfarne Trust, 1535 Cannington Road, Upper Pareora Gorge, Cannington
Phone: 03 614 3760

Morven Camping Ground

The camping ground is managed by the Morven Domain Board. There are 12 power sites and 50+ non power sites. Toilets and kitchen. No showers. Domain and tennis courts available to use.

Fees and charges: Powered and non-powered sites, per person, per night $10.00

Address: 23 Morven Beach Road
Phone:  Julie Proffitt 03 689 4938 or 027 694 9565

Mt Nimrod Reserve

A quiet Department of Conservation campsite on the eastern flank of the Hunter Hills. There is a 3.5km forest walk to a podocarp forest remnant. Dogs not allowed. Campervans permitted with campsite pass.

Address: 41 Mt Nimrod Road, Hunter Hills 7984

Otaio Gorge Campsite

This Department of Conservation reserve is set in pockets of native bush beside the upper reaches of the Otaio River in the Hunters Hills, about 40 kms from Waimate via Backline Road, or SH1. There are deep pools for fishing or swimming, plus a walking track. The walking track is short, however you can boulder hop across the river and explore the gorge. Alternatively go off track and go bush bashing through the native trees. The sounds from the river and native birds are a real feature of this area. Campsites, fireplaces, flush toilets.

Address: Hunter Hills 7972

St Andrews Recreation Reserve

A large grass campsite with basic facilities off the main road just south of St Andrews township. Plenty of room. 10 power sites and numerous non-power sites. 

Address: St Andrews Domain, SH1, St Andrews
Phone: 027 924 7663

Victoria Park Camping Ground

Great camping, outstanding location in the Waimate township. Family friendly. The Park itself features superb garden settings, animal enclosures, tennis courts, cycling oval and playground. Site owned/operated by Waimate District Council.

Address: Naylor Street, Waimate
Phone: 027 439 2759

Waimate Lakes Camping Reserves

The Waimate District Council operates four large camp sites in the Waitaki Valley, which are open for the season from September to May. They are sited along the shores of Lakes Aviemore and Waitaki and are particularly popular for those people who enjoy spending their recreation time in and around water.

Phone: 027 439 2759