Staying at different campgrounds around New Zealand, I’ve started to see the same type of person again and again. Here’s a list of the main stereotypes… do you agree?<\/p>\n
The Retiree<\/h4>\n
They are most likely to have a caravan or a motorhome with the man driving. They have a bit of extra cash and the newest model. I usually get advice from the guy and he seems genuinely surprised that I can do everything without a man. They usually look like a settled couple with all the comforts of home and are the long term travellers.<\/p>\n
The last couple – he commented about my skill at reversing into the site. I’m glad I hadn’t seen him, as it’s disconcerting having someone watch me try and it’s guaranteed to suddenly become harder – it’s happened.<\/p>\n
Weekend Families<\/h4>\n
They are the families that are there for the weekends – usually in caravans with the bikes, camping chairs and tent extensions. The kids run around screaming and having the time of their lives.<\/p>\n
![\"tent\"](\"http:\/\/travellingk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/Tent.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Sporty Kiwi<\/h4>\n
They are in the tents or sometimes cars, with a bike sitting outside. They are just there for the weekend or short break to enjoy cycling or hiking or some other extreme sport. They usually dominate the kitchen and make the most of the campsite facilities.<\/p>\n
The Traveller<\/h4>\n
They are usually in the van or motorhome and are either a young couple keen to hike or hesitant drivers that are taking as many selfies as possible.<\/p>\n
While exploring along a gravel road in Glenorchy, I was concerned about driving through a river as it was deeper than the others. While dithering about, two cars charged through with Korean drivers and put my uncertainty to shame.<\/p>\n
There is a couple next to me that are European half hippie, half hipster! She’s covered in tattoos and wearing beautiful Instagram worth clothes that show off her tattoos – yoga mat is out. He’s got dreads and plenty of tattoos, but also wearing new and trendy clothes. They’ve gone with a new Jucy rental.<\/p>\n
![\"motorhomes\"](\"http:\/\/travellingk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/Motorhomes.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Long Term Stayers<\/h4>\n
They are the ones that call the campsite home and usually have a caravan – either a new UK\/European model or a run down old NZ model. They are either unemployed, working in the area or working at the campground for free rent. They are usually a little rough around the edges but willing to have a chat! I think they are all connected to the water and waste system, as I seem to be the only one lugging my grey water tank around!<\/p>\n
There was a lovely older lady who walked past with her dog. I see she has a caravan with a shed and BBQ. She got out her lawn mover for her tiny little space.<\/p>\n
One long-term caravan renter – in our first conversation – talked about the drug problem in the area and how her last boyfriend was violent. She was working in the area and found the campsite friends and safe. Definitely full on and blunt but decided quickly that she liked me.<\/p>\n
Another caravan owner I saw today in town, sitting next to a stall selling his book – about being a Maori ex-Mongrel Mob leader.<\/p>\n
\n
![\"caravan-car-and-me\"](\"http:\/\/travellingk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/caravan-car-and-me.jpg\")
<\/h3>\nI don’t seem to fit in any group!<\/h3>\n
After travelling over a month and a half – I’ve started to tire of moving every day or so. I need some more lazy days. Living next to short-term travellers makes me feel guilty for having a lazy day – like I’m wasting my time.<\/p>\n
Should I try to find some land to rent? Live more like a tiny house owner? I could work on the land in exchange for rent – get some solar panels, actually use an awning and try an outdoor shower? Use WWOOF<\/a> (work volunteers while living with locals) for contacts or something similar. I saw this video recently which really highlighted the exchange of work for rent – Living Simply in a Tiny Off Grid Cabin<\/a>. Shall I start getting dirt under my fingernails?<\/p>\n