How it's calculated
Per-adult total = adults × nights × rate per adultPer-site total = nights × rate per siteThe lower total is the cheaper option for your group
The per-adult total grows with every extra adult, while the per-site total does not. That is why the answer changes between a couple and a family.
Worked example
2 adults staying 5 nights at NZ$20 per adult pay NZ$200. The same stay at NZ$50 per site costs NZ$250, so per-adult is cheaper.
Assumptions
- Children are left out. Many DOC campsites charge a reduced rate for ages 5 to 17 and nothing for infants, and holiday parks set their own child rates.
- The default rates are examples, not quotes. In the DOC data as of 11 August 2026, 63 DOC campsites are free, and the lowest adult rate listed at paid ones runs from NZ$5 to NZ$25 per night.
- Holiday parks set their own prices, which change with the season, power and site size. Check the park before you book.
Sources
Common questions
How much does a campsite cost per night in New Zealand?+
DOC campsites are either free or charge per adult. In the DOC data as of 11 August 2026, the lowest adult rate at paid DOC campsites runs from NZ$5 to NZ$25 per night, with a median of NZ$12.75. Holiday parks set their own site prices, so compare the total for your group.
Is per person or per site cheaper for a family?+
Per site usually wins as the group grows, because the site price stays the same while per-adult charges multiply. Enter your own rates to see where the break-even point falls.
Do children pay at DOC campsites?+
At many DOC campsites children aged 5 to 17 pay a reduced rate and infants stay free. The fee for each campsite is on its DOC page.
Related guides
More road trip calculators
Plan it in KiwiCamping
Find the stops, then do the maths.
KiwiCamping is free to download for iPhone. Bookable holiday parks, stays and tours are free in the app. DOC campsites, huts, dump stations and the guides open with the Pass.