Motor camps, swimming holes, day walks, and the practical knowledge that comes from thirty years in the Maitai Valley. Written by someone who actually lives here.
The Maitai swims best two days after rain -- the level drops but the water stays cool and the pools are deeper than you expect.
Book Bark Bay hut for a Tuesday. Weekend walkers clear out Monday morning and the sandflies are no worse midweek.
The Nelson farmers market on Saturday is worth the early start, but skip the car park on Hardy Street -- walk in from Trafalgar Park.
Pelorus Bridge campsite books out every long weekend. If you have not booked by Wednesday, try Maitai Valley or Hacket instead.
No sponsorship, no free stays. Murray pays for every campsite and writes what he finds.
Nelson
Worth the driveRiver access from your tent site, clean ablution blocks, and ten minutes from town. The camp closed in 2018 but the valley campsites run by NCC are still the best budget option in Nelson.
Marlborough
Book early or miss outThe swimming hole alone is worth the trip. DOC campsite with decent facilities but it fills every long weekend and school holidays. The walk to the bridge takes five minutes.
Abel Tasman
Go in January, skip DecemberGolden sand, clear water, and the best beach camping in the South Island. December is chaos. January after the 10th is perfect -- families have gone home and the weather is still reliable.