Tucked into the eastern foothills of Tararua Forest Park near Masterton in the Wellington region, Kiriwhakapapa is a lovely family campsite set beside a creek. The setting is spacious and peaceful, with an old logging and exotic redwood forest trail area nearby, plus plenty of good walking and hiking tracks to explore from the camp.

It's a non-powered, tent-based site with flush toilets, a shelter for cooking, and water available from the stream. Campfires are allowed except during fire bans, so you can enjoy an evening by the fire pit. There's plenty of room to spread out, and the toilets are kept clean.

With no cellphone reception, it's a great place to switch off and soak up the bush surroundings. A relaxed, well-regarded base for a family weekend or a day spent exploring the surrounding forest trails.