MOTORHOME Holiday Parks & Parks In Hawke's Bay -- Find Holiday Parks |

Hawke's Bay stretches along New Zealand's North Island east coast with golden beaches, world-class wineries, and the art deco city of Napier creating one of the country's most diverse camping destinations. The region's Mediterranean-style climate and fertile plains have earned it the nickname 'New Zealand's fruit bowl,' while its proximity to Te Urewera National Park adds serious outdoor adventure to the mix. From coastal campgrounds where you'll wake to Pacific Ocean views to vineyard sites surrounded by premium Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, this region delivers experiences you won't find anywhere else in New Zealand.

The area hosts several RV parks and campgrounds, with all some free camping options balanced by a solid lineup of full-service holiday parks offering powered sites, dump stations, and modern amenities. Most parks cater to both caravans and motorhomes, with many featuring pull-through sites that accommodate larger rigs. You'll find everything from basic DOC campsites to luxury holiday parks with swimming pools, playgrounds, and camp kitchens.

From your campsite, you're positioned perfectly to explore Napier's famous art deco architecture -- the city was rebuilt in the 1930s after a devastating earthquake and now showcases the world's most concentrated collection of art deco buildings. Wine enthusiasts can tour dozens of cellar doors within a 30-minute drive, while families gravitate toward Splash Planet water park and the National Aquarium. The nearby Kaweka and Ruahine Ranges offer tramping tracks that range from gentle walks to multi-day adventures, and you're only 90 minutes from the geothermal wonders of Taupo.

Boondockers will appreciate the region's DOC campsites, particularly those along the coast where you can camp steps from black sand beaches. Full-hookup enthusiasts have their pick of well-appointed holiday parks in Napier, Hastings, and Havelock North, most featuring camp stores, laundries, and barbecue areas. Budget-conscious travelers can find powered sites at motor camps starting around $35 NZD per night, while premium beachfront locations command $60-80 NZD during peak season.

Summer (December-February) brings the warmest weather and highest visitor numbers, especially during the Mission Concert season when international acts perform at Mission Estate Winery. Autumn delivers perfect camping conditions with warm days, cool nights, and harvest season festivities at wineries throughout March and April. Winter remains mild compared to other New Zealand regions, though some coastal campgrounds reduce their services between June and August.

Our comprehensive listings below help you find the perfect base for exploring everything from Napier's seaside promenade to the region's acclaimed food and wine trail.

Dump stations are only one piece of the trip puzzle. Before you set out for your Hawkes Bay trip, it's worth taking thirty minutes to check that the basics are in place — the four areas below are where unprepared RVers most often get stung.

Powered sites at Hawke's Bay holiday parks typically range from $35-45 NZD per night for basic amenities, jumping to $60-80 NZD at premium beachfront locations during peak summer months. Unpowered sites start around $25 NZD, while full-hookup sites with sewer connections command $50-70 NZD nightly. DOC campsites offer the most budget-friendly option at $8-15 NZD per adult, though facilities are basic and you'll need to be fully self-contained.

Of the region's campgrounds, a portion% offer free camping while a portion% charge nightly rates, reflecting New Zealand's general trend toward paid camping with proper facilities. Free options are limited to DOC sites and some council areas, but these often lack dump stations and power connections. Most paid campgrounds include hot showers, kitchen facilities, and laundry access in their rates.

Seasonal pricing hits hardest from December through February, with some parks charging 50% more than winter rates. Mission Concert weekends in February see the highest premiums, often doubling standard rates. Book early for summer stays or consider shoulder seasons when rates drop significantly and weather remains pleasant.

Fuel costs run higher than Australia or the US, currently around $2.20-2.40 NZD per liter for diesel. Grocery prices are substantial, with basics like milk ($3.50), bread ($4-6), and meat ($15-25/kg) adding up quickly. Shop at Pak'nSave for the best prices, or visit local farmers markets for seasonal produce deals. Many campgrounds offer camp kitchens with full cooking facilities, helping reduce restaurant expenses in this foodie region.