Why choose a powered campsite or holiday park?
A powered campsite takes the hassle out of campervan travel. With electricity, hot showers, and kitchen facilities, you get all the perks of camping without sacrificing comfort. Plus, having power means you can make full use of your maui campervan, whether it’s charging devices, brewing your morning coffee, or heating up a quick meal in the microwave.
Powered camping sites suit all kinds of travellers. Families love the extra space and playgrounds, couples get a cosy and convenient place to park up, and solo travellers can enjoy a secure spot for the night. Many parks also have laundry facilities, barbecue areas, and communal lounges, making it easy to settle in and relax.
Top powered campsites and holiday parks near Christchurch
If you’re looking for a powered campsite in Christchurch, there are plenty of great options within easy reach of the city centre. These holiday parks offer a comfortable place to park up while keeping you close to local attractions, dining spots, and essential services.
Best powered camping sites in Christchurch
North South Holiday Park
Just a few minutes from Christchurch Airport, North South Holiday Park is a convenient spot to park up, whether you’re kicking off your road trip or wrapping up the final leg. The powered sites are spacious, with plenty of trees for shade and a bit of extra privacy.
This holiday park is well set up for campervan travellers, with a fully equipped kitchen, laundry, and even a swimming pool to cool off in during summer. There’s also a playground, making it a great option for families. If you need to pick up supplies or grab a bite to eat, a quick drive will take you to supermarkets, cafes, and restaurants.
For those keen to explore, it’s only a short trip into the city, where you’ll find plenty of things to do at night, from riverside dining to evening markets. North South Holiday Park is an easy, comfortable choice for a Christchurch stay, with everything you need right on hand.
Tasman Holiday Park
If you’re after a powered campsite with easy access to Christchurch’s top attractions, Tasman Holiday Park is a great choice. Located in Papanui, just a short drive from the city centre, it’s well-placed for exploring Christchurch while still offering a peaceful place to park up for the night.
The powered sites are spacious and set within well-maintained grounds, with access to modern facilities, including a fully equipped kitchen, laundry, and hot showers. There’s also a heated swimming pool, hot tubs, and a jumping pillow for kids – ideal if you’re travelling as a family.
Food lovers will appreciate being close to some of the city’s best eateries. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual cafe brunch or a fine-dining experience, there’s plenty to choose from in the nearby suburbs and central city. If you're looking for recommendations, check out our foodie’s guide to Christchurch for some of the best spots to eat and drink.
Spencer Beach Top 10 Holiday Park
For a powered campsite with easy beach access and plenty of outdoor activities nearby, Spencer Beach Top 10 Holiday Park is a great option. Located just 20 minutes from central Christchurch, this park is ideal for those wanting a quieter stay while still being close to the city.
The park sits within a coastal reserve, with walking tracks, a golf course, and a wildlife park all within reach. The wide, sandy stretch of Spencer Beach is just a short walk away – perfect for a morning stroll or watching the sunset over the water. If you’re up for some adventure, the Bottle Lake Blue Track offers a scenic mountain biking route through the pine forest.
For those keen to explore more of the area on foot, there are some fantastic trails to check out – take a look at our guide to the best walks and hikes near Christchurch for inspiration.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Best powered campsites near Christchurch
Akaroa Top 10 Holiday Park
For those happy to venture a little further from Christchurch, Akaroa Top 10 Holiday Park is well worth the drive. Set on a hillside overlooking Akaroa Harbour, this peaceful spot offers incredible views and a relaxed atmosphere while still being close to the town’s cafes, shops, and waterfront.
Akaroa is known for its French-inspired charm and unique wildlife encounters. From the holiday park, it’s a short walk into town, where you can sample local cheeses, browse boutique stores, or set off on a harbour cruise to see Hector’s dolphins – one of the world’s rarest dolphin species.
The park has spacious powered sites and well-maintained facilities, including a communal kitchen, laundry, and barbecues. After a day of exploring, the outdoor seating areas are a great place to unwind and take in the harbour views.
If you’re planning a longer road trip, Akaroa is a highlight on the Christchurch to Marlborough and Nelson route, making this holiday park a great overnight stop before continuing further north.
Waipara Sleepers
If you’re heading north from Christchurch, Waipara Sleepers offers a unique place to park up for the night in the heart of North Canterbury’s wine country. Located just an hour’s drive from the city, this quirky holiday park is set on a historic railway site, giving it plenty of character.
Waipara is best known for its vineyards, and with several top wineries just minutes away, it’s a great stop for those keen to sample the region’s renowned pinot noir and riesling. After an afternoon of wine tasting, you can return to the peaceful setting of Waipara Sleepers, where powered campervan sites are available among the original railway carriages that give the park its charm.
Facilities include a communal kitchen, barbecues, and outdoor seating areas, making it an easy and comfortable place to stay.
If you're continuing south, Waipara is a great stop along the Christchurch to Queenstown route, offering a relaxed break before the longer drive ahead.
Little River Campground
Tucked away in the scenic Banks Peninsula, Little River Campground is a great option for campervan travellers looking for a more off-the-beaten-path stay. Located about 45 minutes from Christchurch, this eco-friendly campground offers a peaceful setting surrounded by native bush, with plenty of walking tracks and birdlife to enjoy.
Little River itself is a charming stop, home to local art galleries, a historic railway station, and a popular cafe. The campground is also a handy base for exploring the Banks Peninsula, whether you’re heading toward Akaroa or looking for scenic cycling routes. Powered sites are available, and the campground’s relaxed atmosphere makes it a great choice for those wanting a quieter stay away from the city.
If you’re planning a road trip around Canterbury, Little River is a worthwhile stop along the Christchurch campervan itinerary, offering a restful break before continuing further into the peninsula.
Pet-friendly holiday parks near Christchurch
For many travellers, a road trip wouldn’t be the same without their four-legged companion. Thankfully, there are several pet-friendly holiday parks near Christchurch that offer powered sites where you and your pet can settle in comfortably.
North South Holiday Park and Tasman Holiday Park both welcome pets, making them great options for those wanting to stay close to the city. These parks offer spacious powered sites with easy access to walking areas and nearby parks.
For a beachside escape, Waikuku Beach Holiday Park is a fantastic choice. Located 40 minutes north of Christchurch, this relaxed coastal campground is just a short walk from the beach and estuary – perfect for dogs to explore.
If you’re heading inland, Ashley Gorge Kiwi Holiday Park offers a peaceful, pet-friendly stay among the foothills of the Southern Alps. With plenty of space and access to the Ashley River, it’s a great spot for both humans and pets to stretch their legs.
Start planning your Christchurch campervan trip
Whether you’re after a central spot close to the city or a peaceful retreat on the outskirts, there are plenty of great powered campsites near Christchurch to choose from. With access to electricity, hot showers, and other essential facilities, these holiday parks make campervan travel easy and comfortable.
Ready to hit the road? Book your maui campervan and explore Christchurch and the Canterbury region at your own pace.