If you're looking for an inexpensive or a very friendly, welcoming place to stay while on the road in New Zealand, these are the best places to check out. Prices are Dec 2013/Jan 2014.
adastra: Friendliest campsite in all of NZ! It doesn't have much in terms of facilities, but the host Kevin is the most welcoming person we ever experienced! 10$ pp/night, 3$ shower, 15$ breakfast/pizza.
adastra: DOC campsite with flush toilets, hot showers & kitchens! Huge spaces. 17$ per adult per night. No phone reception, but still well worth a stay.
adastra: Very large DOC campsite with lake access and beautiful scenery. Drop toilets available, no showers or kitchens though. 6$ per adult per night.
adastra: Very basic, but great value for money and breathtaking scenery. Toilets & hot showers, kitchen is useless though. 8.50$ per adult per night. No phone reception.
adastra: Very large campground with a cozy kitchen and communal area. Lots of very friendly, chatty locals. Grounds also used by clubs during local sports events. Unpowered site for 2 people is 20$.