From 15 April 2024, the opening hours are Monday to Friday, 8am to 4.30pm.

Email maitaivalley@ncc.govt.nz for booking enquiries. Please be aware that these hours may vary from time to time.

We are currently undergoing renovations which includes groundwork to our drainage system and associated landscaping.

The work may continue into the summer period, however no work will be taking place between 24 December 2024 and 6 January 2025.

We understand these disruptions may impact on the quality of your stay and want to make you aware prior to booking. 

Located just minutes from the city centre, we offer affordable camping in a bush-like setting with a variety of activities to suit your taste. Take a walk along the river, go mountain biking on the many trails in the surrounding hills, or take a dip in the nearby swimming hole.

For only $14.20 per person (non-powered), you can use our kitchen/toilets while camping under the stars amongst the beautiful native trees. Nature at its best.

The Maitai Valley Motor Camp also makes a great base for exploring Nelson City. Check out our list of suggested activities below. So come, relax, and enjoy all that the Maitai has to offer.

Accommodations

At the Maitai Valley Motor Camp, we offer both non-powered and powered camping sites, as well as cabins for rent. All include free use of our kitchen and toilets. With our a la carte options, we allow you the flexibility to customize your stay in a way that suits you.

Checkout is at 10am. The kitchen is closed between 10am-noon, and after 9pm for cleaning.

Unpowered Sites

 Looking to power off and enjoy nature? Our unpowered sites are just for you. Pick a patch just about anywhere you like and you are set.

Powered Sites

Like to be in the great outdoors but still want to be able to plug in? Pull up to a power post and you are all set.

Please note that all vehicles and RCD cables need to have a current electrical Warrant of Fitness to plug into our power stations.

Cabins

Looking to put a roof over your head and a bunk to sleep in after a long day on the trail?

Our cabins come with just the basics: a set of bunks, a double-sized bed, and a fridge. Just a stone's throw away from the shower block and kitchen. Bring your own bedding.

A la carte Options

Activities

There is a refreshing swimming hole for your enjoyment - perfect for a quick dip and then lounging around in the sun. You will also find yourself at the gateway to some of the best tracks that New Zealand has to offer.

Hike or Bike the Dun Mountain Trail

When you are in the sunniest place in New Zealand, just about every day is a good day for a relaxing hike or an exhilarating ride. The scenery on the Dun Mountain Trail is truly world-class.  When you ride this trail you really feel like you are on top of the world.  Early sections give glimpses of the Waimea Plains and more extensive views can also be enjoyed back across Nelson and beyond to Tasman Bay and Abel Tasman National Park.   The trail climbs right above the treeline at Windy Point and finishes with a 10km downhill ride that offers one of the most exhilarating riding experiences in the country.

Hike to the Centre of New Zealand

Work up an appetite and enjoy a picnic atop the Center of New Zealand. Approximately an hour and a half from camp (one way), the walk to the Centre of New Zealand starts after crossing the bridge at the Dun Mountain trailhead. Follow the main track to the right, past the golf course. After crossing the Nile Street bridge turn right onto Maitai Road and take the path on the left behind the houses next to the mailboxes. Other access points are a short distance from the mailboxes further up the Maitai Road. This walk is also accessible from the Botanical Reserve where the first rugby game was played in New Zealand in 1870 (at the end of Hardy Street).

Other Walks and Mountain bike tracks from the Maitai Camp

• Maitai Valley Caves
• Rush Pools
• Maitai Dam
• Tantragee Loop
• Dun Mountain walkway
• Sharlands Creek
• Pukatea Track
• Maitai Valley Walk
• Central and Teal saddle Loop
• Central and Sharlands Road Loop
• Fringed Hill
• Dun Mountain Railway to the third House
• Fireball
• Brook Valley walk

See the Cycling Maps page for more info.
 

Things to do around Nelson

Nelson's Gardens

For those who know how to appreciate culture, Nelson is home to some delightful gardens. Next to the Suter Art Gallery is Queens Gardens, a collection of gardens including the Huangshi Chinese Garden. As you head into Nelson on Atawhai Drive you will also find the Japanese Miyazu Garden where you can learn about Nelson's sister city.

Tahunanui Beach

Soak up the sun and enjoy a day at the beach with some fish and chips! Be sure to use sunscreen and good sense when sunbathing.

Location

Maitai Valley Motor Camp
472 Maitai Valley Road
Nelson, 7010
New Zealand

Approximately five minutes after turning off Nile Street.

Contact Us

Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.

Office Hours
9.00 – 10am, 4.00pm – 5.00pm (winter)
7.00pm (summer).

Email: maitaivalley@ncc.govt.nz
Phone / Fax: 64 03 548 7729
Address:
Maitai Valley Motor Camp
CMB 3
472 Maitai Valley Road
Nelson, 7010
New Zealand