Visit Waipu and the beaches of the North

New Zealand is a fabulous country to visit – I came here first 4o years ago and enjoyed hitch-hiking around. I met some amazing people along the way.

But hitch-hiking does not get you down those wonderful side roads where you can find magical out of the way spots, even at the height of summer – places like Helena Bay or the Forgotten World Highway. Maybe you have been to New Zealand before, and this trip you want to take your time and savour the journey.

Here are some suggestions to save money travelling in New Zealand…

1. Hire a small car rather than a campervan

It is much cheaper and almost everywhere in NZ there is a campground with cabins which is a really economic option.  AA has a great guide to NZ campgrounds .

Every now and again you can splurge on a flash Hotel – two of my favourites which are definately worth staying in are two hotels in the Copthorne Group – Omapere  and Waitangi – both in amazing settings, and with strong Maori flavour.

A small car is also great on our roads which are often narrow and hilly.  

2. NZ Special Deals Websites

Check out daily deals  – keep an eye out for what you might need.

3. Get a Chilly Bin

One of the priorities is to keep your milk or beer or wine cold for a stop on the side of the road.  I searched on TradeMe today and found several small 12V powered fridges on offer here or you can buy a simple non powered chilly bin with Ice Packs.

4. Visit the Warehouse

New Zealand’s own ‘everyone gets a bargain’ store is The Warehouse,  their ubiquitous big red sheds are all over New Zealand.  Great place for a chilly bin, or those things that make traveling easier – a thermos, some plates and knives or some snorkel gear.

5. Re-Locate a Car or Campervan

You need to get from A to B, and sometimes a company needs to get a car or campervan from A to B.  It is a win/win – here is a website that lists them all Transfer Car.  Usually fuel, car ferry and insurance is covered, and you get a limited number of days to make the journey.