Young campers from across the country - and Australia - have rolled in for a few days of learning the joys and pitfalls of camping out for the first time.
Not everyone is slumming it - 'glamping' spots were snapped up months ago by those keen to enjoy a little more comfort in the great outdoors.
"It's nice and chilled out which is what we're after, a bit of a holiday - especially when you're hung over," one glamping pair said.
More party-goers have gone for the complete camping experience at this year's Rhythm & Alps festival, with other camping grounds in the Southern Lakes district fully booked for New Year.
"All the New Zealand festivals are fantastic. The difference here is that beautiful Queenstown and Wanaka lakes is a big drawcard - not just for New Zealanders but for international guests," festival director Alex Turnbull said.
There's little reason to leave, with a food vendor village, and plenty of activities to keep people entertained and make new friends.
"I went from four friends to 40, and that's what brings me back," Christchurch camper Andrew Isitt said.
Organisers say they have the same, if not more facilities as other camping grounds in the district, with an outdoor watering hole just a few hundred metres from the main stage.
The hot, dry conditions even encouraged many campers to cool down on Friday afternoon.
Things will definitely heat up again tonight and tomorrow, with 60 musical acts spread across three stages backed up by some impressive 3D projection and light shows.
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