10 Epic Campsites in the North Island, New Zealand
We’ve put together 10 of our favorite camping Crumbs from the North Island map on Breadcrumbs. Why have we done this? Well, because the ultimate Kiwi summer is built off the back of pitching a tent, firing up the barbie and unleashing the bare feet. Prepare the sunblock, your about to get lit up by the hotness of these campsites. But also remember to respect that hotness by leaving no trace, paying camping fees and camping (and importantly Pooing) only where you are allowed.
Urupukapuka Island – Bay of Islands
This Bay of Islands classic is the perfect kiwi camping spot – with fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, diving or hiking all laying in wait right outside the tent folds! Accessible by boat or water taxi. Managed by Doc, click the link in the title to find out more!
Waikahoa Bay Campsite – Mimiwhangata, Northland
Pohutukawa trees, hot white sandy beaches, and crystal blue water is what you expect on the kiwi summer postcard – and thats what is in store at Waikahoa Bay! Bring a kayak and a fishing rod and you might just catch yourself some dinner (just check out the Marine Park Regulations first). If you’re feeling lucky, go for a night stroll for a chance to spot a native Kiwi!
Maitai Bay Campsite – Karikari peninsula, Northland
Maitai Bay in the Kaitaia area offers a popular, sheltered campsite nestled amongst beautiful pohutukawa exploding with the birdsong of Tui. Not just a spot for the boaties, fisherman/woman or divers out there – Maitai bay also boasts close access to some fantastic walking trails including the “Fig Tree Track” or the “Maitai Bay Headland Track”.
Hot Water Beach Campground – Te Rata Bay, Tarawera
Not the well-known “hot water beach” of The Coromandel – this hot water beach is a little more secluded and off the beaten track! Accessible via the 5-6 hour hike on the Tarawera Trail or via water taxi – this bookings only campsite features your own little natural hot pool! Do some research before going… No running water or power.
Anaura bay – East Cape, Gisborne
Anaura bay is the ideal spot for a longer getaway! Somewhere to park up for a week or so and forget anything else exists. With a beautiful beach at your front doorstep & hiking trails within close reach you won’t be short of activities! Bookings are necessary, as is self-containment!
Motuora Island – Auckland Region
Accessible only by water taxi or private boat, this pest-free paradise is an ideal spot to spend a night or two! The island is an eco-paradise where you may even spot native brown kiwi. Keep your eyes peeled for one of the many rope-swings that call Motuora home!
Morrison’s Bush – Wairarapa
Spacious and social campsite right on the river! Just 15-20 minutes drive to either Greytown or Martinborough this campsite is an ideal spot for a weekend out of Wellington! Be sure to contact Bryan Tucker (025570616) before going & pay the fee to the honesty box. Self-contained only!
Motuihe Island – Auckland Region
Ideal for those looking to catch a break from Auckland – Motuihe Island is just a 45 minute water taxi from the city! Another pest-free island, you might even be lucky enough to see a wild tuatara here!
Flax Mill Bay Campground – Coromandel
There are just some of us out there who aren’t really designed to go camping. That is where Flax Mill Bay comes into the mix. With well cared for facilities, spacious campsites and a lovely sheltered beach this is the spot for the non-camping campers. Only 15-20 mins from the local Coro hotspots such as Hahei, Cathedral Cove & Hot Water Beach, this is a great spot to base yourself for some Coromandel goodness.
Waiohine Gorge Campsite – Wairarapa
Featuring a river that Trump would say is at “record clean” (its clean AF), Waiohine gorge is the ultimate forest retreat! Activities range from hiking any one of the numerous trails into the Tararuas from here or taking an inner tube up the river to float your way back to the campsite! You would be rude not to include Waiohine on your summer hitlist.
If you think we’ve missed a gem of a campsite or two in the North Island – get in touch & let us know!
This work includes the Department of Conservation’s images which are licensed by Breadcrumbs limited for re-use under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International licence at http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/