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Jim Hickey - Source: ONE News -
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Summer is on the way, and if you are dusting down the caravan and hunting out those tent poles, ONE News weather expert Jim Hickey, has got some tips that might come in handy - See related video!
Also, see below for more handy tips about camping from Jasons.com.
Remember, ensuring happy campers requires some careful planning, particularly with a potentially mutinous family in tow! Here's a few tips on how to go about things the right way:
The Top Five Rules of a Happy Camper:
1. Make sure you check on the facilities so you know what to bring
- especially if you're off to a remote area. There's nothing worse
than arriving without food supplies to find the store (if there is
one) only stocks the basics - or expecting a powered site and
suddenly discovering those appliances are all redundant.
2. If you're camping over the peak summer period (December to early
March), book well in advance as popular beach and lakeside
campgrounds fill up quickly. Remember, campgrounds in more remote
areas usually operate on a 'first come, first served' basis, so
reserving a site won't be an option.
3. Find out about security and 'quiet' hours - nothing evaporates
holiday cheer faster than disrespectful neighbours late at
night.
4. Make sure you check out any hazards in the area for children eg
streams, rivers and busy roads.
5. Minimise your impact on the environment
What to take:
Cricket bats and balls, Barbecue and fuel, Beach or deck chairs,
Beach gear and towels, Books and magazines, Camera,
Compass, Coins, (for laundry/shower facilities) First
Aid Kit, Fishing gear, Frisbee, Gumboots,
Hammock, Insect repellent, Matches or
lighter, Mobile phone/charger, or phone card, Pocket
knife, Rain gear, Rope, Rubbish bags,
Sunblock, and sunhats, Sunglasses, Tent and pegs, Torch
and extra batteries.
Camping with kids:
Pack extra clothing and shoes, and proper rain gear.
Take along some toys, puzzles, board games, books or cards for
those rainy days.
Bring plenty of snacks and drinks.
Apply their sunblock and insect repellent regularly.
Driving tips for motorhomes and cars towing
caravans:
The speed limit on the open road is 100 kph, and 50 kph in
residential areas, unless otherwise marked.
Traffic builds up behind your motorhome or caravan, pull over at a
rest area to allow traffic to pass.
Motorhomes and caravans can have significant windage, so take
special care when cornering.
Winding roads, difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions
will slow your journey, so allow plenty of time to reach your
destination. Comfortable driving distances in a day are about
200-300km.
If you are driving or staying in remote country areas, ensure that
the gas canister and petrol tank are full.
Freedom camping:
Many travellers enjoy the chance to park beside a tranquil
beach or lake, but freedom camping is only permitted in some parts
of New Zealand. Local government agencies regulate camping
restrictions for their areas, so check with the nearest Visitor
Information Centre first.
Handy Websites:
Order your free
Jasons Holiday
Parks & Campgrounds accommodation directory.
Top 10 Holiday Parks -
Information and reservations for the Top 10 Holiday Parks and
Campgrounds chain.
Kiwi Holiday Parks
- Information and reservations for the Kiwi Holiday Parks
chain.
Maui motorhomes and rental
cars - Information and bookings for Maui motorhomes and rental
cars.
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