14 Incredible Campgrounds in Northland, New Zealand

Summary of post: The best campgrounds in Northland, New Zealand—plus what to do near each camping spot!

Above Auckland lies New Zealand’s Northland region, which boasts a subtropical climate, stunning beaches, ancient kauri forests—and some of the country’s best campgrounds.

When we lived in Auckland, we went camping in Northland almost every weekend we could (when we weren’t camping in the Coromandel, that is!).

Seriously—if you like camping in scenic (and beachy) places like we do, then you’ve got to head to Northland! It’s one of the best destinations for camping on the North Island.

What could be better than hiking in a beautiful jungly forest or hanging out at the beach all day and then walking right back to your tent or van for the evening? This is summertime living at its best! 

And when you’re in the “Winterless North,” well…you can pretend like it’s summer all year long.

Read on for our guide to some of the best campgrounds in Northland, and what to do near each one.

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Northland Campground Map

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Types of Campgrounds in Northland, New Zealand

Freedom Camping in Northland

In this guide, we’ve focused on paid campgrounds rather than freedom campsites. There are just so many amazing campgrounds in Northland, and we prefer to stay in them rather than a parking lot (which is usually what a freedom camping site will entail).

That being said, if you’re looking for freedom camping in Northland, you can find free campsites in the Far North here, and Whangarei District here.

Make sure you read the rules before heading out to freedom camp—most sites require you to have a self-contained vehicle.

Northland DOC Campgrounds

DOC (Department of Conservation) campsites are where to go if you want a back-to-basics camping experience. Northland’s DOC campsites are some of our absolute favorites in the whole country, as they’re usually in absolutely beautiful locations.

At a DOC campsite, expect bare-bones facilities. DOC campsites will always have bathrooms (sometimes it’ll just be a drop-toilet, though), and sometimes they’ll have running water—but you may need to boil the water first before drinking it. 

Basically, bring everything you need to a DOC campsite: a camp cooking stove and fuel, full water jug, light source, etc.

The DOC campgrounds in Northland (and in most places in NZ) do not have powered campsites. You can still camp at a DOC campsite in a campervan or RV, but just be aware that you won’t have access to electricity during your stay.

One other thing worth noting is that DOC campgrounds don’t often have rubbish/recycling facilities. So, remember that you’ll need to pack out whatever you’ve packed in!

Tip: If you’re planning to camp at lots of DOC campsites in New Zealand, it may be worth getting a DOC campsite pass. Note that the pass cannot be used at all of the DOC campsites in Northland. In this guide, we’ll note which DOC sites accept the pass and which ones don’t.

Northland Holiday Park Campgrounds 

If you want to camp without really “roughing it,” then you’ll like staying at a holiday park. Holiday parks have a lot more amenities than a DOC campsite does.

At a holiday park, expect to find bathrooms with hot water and showers; full camp kitchens (like what you’d find in a hostel); fresh drinking water; and often more amenities like playgrounds, laundry facilities, etc. 

A note about camp kitchens: most holiday park kitchens have a fridge/freezer, stovetop(s), toaster, kettle, and microwave—but you should bring your own cookware and dishes, as those are not always supplied.

Holiday parks will have powered and unpowered campsites, so you can pitch a tent or park up your van (and charge it up). Another great feature at holiday parks is that they have camping cabins—and sometimes even motel-style units that are fully self-contained with their own kitchen and bathroom. 

Northland Private Campgrounds 

There are some fantastic private campgrounds in Northland. Facilities at a private campground can vary, so when we include one on our list here, we’ll make sure to list out any amenities so you know what to expect.

Now let’s get to the good stuff…read on to discover some of the best campgrounds in Northland!

The Best Campgrounds in Northland, New Zealand

Note: this Northland campground list isn’t in any particular order from best to worst (or vice versa)…we’ve just roughly tried to organize them from south to north.

1. Mangawhai Heads Holiday Park, Mangawhai Heads

Why you should camp here: Camp in a cute seaside town near a gorgeous Northland surf beach and coastal walkway.

• Type of campground: Holiday Park
• Camping options available: Unpowered & powered tent and van/RV sites; camping cabins; holiday units
• Cost: Campsites start at $22 per person; cabins/units range from $70-150+ 
• Amenities: Free unlimited wifi; coin-operated hot showers; camp kitchens; BBQs; coin-operated laundry facilities & clothes drying line; playground; boat ramp next to park; dump station; rubbish & recycling facilities.
• Where to buy food supplies & petrol: There are a couple of small supermarkets and petrol stations in Mangawhai. We usually grab food/drinks in Auckland before heading up to Mangawhai.

Magical Mangawhai is a wonderful destination for any beach-lover—and the Mangawhai Heads Holiday Park is a great place to base yourself from.

Located on the Mangawhai Estuary, this holiday park boasts some stunning waterfront views. Mangawhai Beach is just around the corner from the campground.

Choose from tent sites, powered campervan sites, cabins, and motel-style units. 

It’s worth noting that this is a very family-friendly campground and it can get quite busy in the summer during school holidays. If you go in the shoulder or off-season, though, you won’t find it very crowded here.

Things to do around the Mangawhai Heads Holiday Park

• Relax or surf at the Mangawhai Heads Beach
• Hike the Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway, one of the best day walks in Northland.
• Eat delicious Mexican food at Gringas, or pizza & craft beer at the Wood Street Pizzeria.

2. Camp Waipu Cove, Waipu

Why you should camp here: This is an absolute beachfront campground in an adorable beach town, with tons of amenities onsite and activities nearby.

• Type of campground: Holiday Park
• Camping options available: Unpowered & powered tent and van/RV sites; camping cabins; self-contained units
• Cost: Campsites start at $26 per person; cabins/units range from $95-150+
• Amenities: Free wifi; hot showers; outdoor showers; camp kitchens; BBQs; laundry facilities & clothes drying line; playgrounds; tv & games room; tennis court; rubbish & recycling facilities; general store nearby selling basics + fish & chips.
• Where to buy food supplies & petrol: Waipu has a small Four Square supermarket and a petrol station. We usually grab food/drinks in Auckland before heading up to Waipu.

This beachfront holiday park is a fantastic place to camp and is especially popular with families.

Situated in the picturesque Bream Bay, Camp Waipu Cove is just steps away from the gorgeous white sands of Waipu Beach.

If you’re looking for a campground in Northland but don’t feel like roughing it, then you’ll love Camp Waipu Cove.

One of the best things about this campground (besides its location!) is that it has heaps of different camping options. You can pitch a tent, park your campervan/RV, or book one of their great little cabins. Basically, there’s something for everyone here.

There’s so much to do around this campground, too. It makes for an amazing getaway from Auckland or a fantastic camping stop along a larger Northland road trip!

Things to do around Camp Waipu Cove:

• Hang out at Waipu Beach.
• Walk from Waipu Cove to Lang’s Beach along the Waipu Coastal Walkway. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy along the way.
• Visit the Waipu Caves, one of the best free places to see glow worms in New Zealand.
• Go swimming at Piroa Falls.
• Grab a bite to eat at one of Waipu’s many great eateries. We love these spots:
  • McLeod’s Pizza Barn (their pizzas are legendary around these parts).
  • Goody Goody for a coffee and/or sandwich.
  • The Cove Cafe for a delicious brunch or takeaway meal made from local ingredients.

3. Kauri Coast Top 10 Holiday Park, Dargaville Area

Why you should camp here: Walk amongst ancient kauri trees and look for kiwi (the birds!) in the wild near this riverside holiday park.

• Type of campground: Holiday Park
• Camping options available: Unpowered & powered tent & campervan/RV campsites; cabins; motel-style units
• Cost: Campsites start at $48 for two people; cabins and units from $92-150+
• Amenities: Bathrooms with hot showers; indoor & outdoor camp kitchens; BBQs; playground (and a flying fox); laundry facilities; petanque & table tennis; river swimming hole & float tubes for hire
• Where to buy food supplies & petrol: Grab supplies in Warkworth or Dargaville on the drive in from Auckland.

This forested, riverside holiday park is truly top-notch. From its fantastic facilities to its gorgeous setting, this is a great base for exploring the Kauri Coast!

Unlike the other Northland campgrounds on this list, the Kauri Coast Top 10 isn’t right by the ocean (although it’s not very far from the beach). Instead, camp here if you want to be right near the majestic Northland kauri forests.

The campground has powered and unpowered campsites, plus cabins and units.

If you’re looking for more reasons to stay here: the bathrooms and kitchen are super clean, they have BBQs for guests to use, and there are tons of things for both adults and kids to do on-site (including swimming, river tubing, and looking for glow worms). 

While you could easily just spend all of your time hanging at this lovely campground, there are so many good adventures nearby—so make sure you stay for a couple of nights (and see our suggestions below for some great local attractions). 

Things to do near the Kauri Coast Top 10 Holiday Park:

• Go for walks in the Waipoua Forest to spot ancient kauri trees.
  • Tane Mahuta, or the “God of the Forest,” is the largest living kauri tree still in existence—don’t miss seeing this incredible giant! 
  • Another walk not to miss is the short trail to Te Matua Ngahere, the second largest living kauri tree.
• Search for kiwi at night in the Trounson Kauri Park!
  • You can either go look for kiwi on your own, or book a guided tour with the campground—check with the front desk for more details.
  • If you want to look for kiwi on your own, make sure to 1) go at night; 2) bring a torch (flashlight) or headlamp with a red light setting (so you don’t scare the kiwi away), and 3) make sure to stick to the boardwalk trail.
  • The Trounson Kauri Park is a beautiful place for a walk during the daytime, too. We recommend going for a walk during the day to get yourself oriented with the lay of the land—then go back at night to look for kiwi! 
• Head to the Kai Iwi Lakes for a refreshing swim (on a sunny day, the lake water looks straight out of the tropics!). Bring a picnic lunch and hang out for the day.
  • Bonus: there’s another nice campground at the Kai Iwi Lakes!

4. Motutara Farm, Whananaki

Why you should camp here: Go off-grid by the beach at one of New Zealand’s most epic seaside campgrounds.

• Type of campground: Private Campground
• Camping options available: Unpowered tent & van campsites (no powered sites available)
• Cost: $18 per adult; $9 per child (5-14); free for kids under 5 yrs. Between Boxing Day and Waitangi Day (roughly end of December to early February), there’s a minimum campsite fee of $36.
• Amenities: pit toilets, cold water showers; drinking water
• Where to buy food supplies & petrol: Grab all of your food/drinks/petrol in Whangarei on the drive into Whananaki. If you’ve forgotten anything, there’s a small shop in Whananaki that sells basic food items, plus coffees and takeaways (but no petrol).

This private campground is our #1 campground in all of New Zealand.

A bold claim, we know—but Motutara Farm is simply amazing.

Choose from campsites perched above two secluded beach coves—King’s Beach and Barron Beach. There’s also a calm estuary beach, which we like to launch our kayaks from.

Grassy campsites dot the hills above each beach, and many of the sites have epic ocean views.

Pohutukawa trees surround the campground, offering shade and pops of red color in the summertime months. 

It’s a quick walk down to the beaches, so you truly don’t need to hop back in your car during your stay. Unless, of course, you need to restock your beer and snack supplies.

The campground facilities here are basic, but you really don’t need much when you’re in paradise! If you ask us, this is the Shangri-La of NZ campgrounds. 

Things to do near Motutara Farm:

• Hang out at the campground’s secluded beaches, King’s Beach and Barron Beach.
• Walk across the Whananaki Footbridge, the longest footbridge in the Southern Hemisphere.
• Take a day trip and drive to the Tutukaka Coast for some exploring. Don’t miss Matapouri Bay, which is quite possibly the most beautiful beach on the North Island (and that’s saying a lot!). While there, do the short walk from Matapouri Beach to secluded Whale Bay (it’s wonderful).

5. Puriri Bay (Whangaruru North Head) Campsite, Whangaruru

Why you should camp here: Pitch your tent or park your van at a scenic beachside DOC campground, with opportunities for swimming, boating, and walks right at your doorstep.

• Type of campground: DOC Campsite (DOC campsite pass can be used here)
• Camping options available: unpowered campsites for tents/vans/RVs
• Cost: $15 for adults; $7.50 for kids (age 5-17), free for kids under 5 (there are slightly higher rates between 26 Dec – 8 Feb)
• Amenities: Flush toilets, cold showers, water taps (you’ll need to boil or filter water before drinking)
• Where to buy food supplies & petrol: Grab supplies in Whangarei on the drive up.

You’d be hard-pressed to find a more scenic DOC campsite than the camping ground at Puriri Bay (aka Whangaruru North Head).

This camping ground is 100%  beachfront—and the beach is a stunner. You’ll be situated in a beautiful, sheltered bay overlooking the Whangaruru Harbor, with swimming opportunities and nice walks available at camp.

Make sure to bring everything you need with you before heading out to this campground—there’s nowhere close by for supplies. And once you get there, you will most certainly not want to leave!

Things to do near the Puriri Bay Campsite:

• Stop by Whangarei Falls on the drive to Puriri Bay.
• Hang out at the beach! Go swimming, snorkeling…or just read a good book under your beach umbrella.
• Hike on the Whangaruru North Head walking tracks to get some epic coastal views.

6. Aroha Island Eco Park, Kerikeri, Bay of Islands

⚠️ Update 2023 ⚠️ : Unfortunately, Aroha Island has closed for the time being and will not reopen in 2023 or for the upcoming summer season. 💔 I’ll update this guide if that changes in the future, but for now, head to one of the other campsites on this list.

Why you should camp here: This waterfront eco-campground has some of the best opportunities to see kiwi in the wild.

• Type of campground: Private Campground
• Camping options available: unpowered and powered tent and van/RV campsites; one glamping unit; self-contained cottages 
• Cost: Campsites start at $20 per person; cottages from $130+
• Amenities: Bathrooms with running water and hot showers ($1 for 5 minutes); camp kitchen; drinking water; covered BBQ area
• Where to buy food supplies & petrol: Kerikeri has plenty of choices for supermarkets and petrol stations.

“Aroha” means “love” in Te Reo—and once you set foot on this amazing campground in the Kerikeri Inlet, we think you’ll fall in love immediately.

Aroha Island is an eco-sanctuary filled with an astounding array of native birdlife—including resident kiwi who call the island home. When you camp here, you have the opportunity to search for kiwi after dark, and there’s a good chance you’ll spot one! This is a unique and incredibly special Northland campground.

Sunsets at Aroha Island are next-level gorgeous. You might spot pods of dolphins swimming in the inlet. On a clear night, you’ll have superb views of the stars. This is a special, peaceful place with so much natural beauty to enjoy.

From the kind staff, to the sounds of the water lapping against the campground’s shores, to the bird calls and bush surrounding the place….this is a campground that you just need to experience if you love nature. It’s worth noting that the onsite cottages are lovely, too, and are a great option for cooler, rainier months.

Note: Aroha Island relies on rainwater. If you’re in a campervan/RV, help them conserve in the dry summer months by filling up your water tank before heading to camp.

Things to do around Aroha Island:

• Look for kiwi at night right at camp! Here are some kiwi-spotting tips:
  • Kiwi only come out at night and they don’t like bright lights. You’ll want to come prepared with a headlamp or flashlight (torch) that has a red light feature; alternatively, the campground reception has red cellophane you can attach to your light source.
  • Take the track around the island to search for kiwi. We recommend first walking the track in daylight, so you get accustomed to it before nightfall. It’s pretty flat the whole way around, but there are some roots and steps to navigate along the track.
  • As you walk around the track at night, use light footsteps and keep your voice down so you don’t scare the kiwi away! Listen for rustling in the leaves as the kiwi search for grubs… let your ears be your guide, and you might just get lucky enough to see one.
• Walk along the historic Kerikeri River Track and stop by the Stone Store (the Stone Store is a fantastic place to pick up a souvenir from Northland!)
• Marvel at Rainbow Falls
• Head to the Charlie’s Rock swimming hole 
• Visit the Old Packhouse Farmers’ Market for fantastic local produce and food. The market takes place on Saturdays (8 am-1:30 pm) and Sundays (9 am to 1:30 pm).

7. Russell Top 10 Holiday Park, Russell, Bay of Islands

Why you should camp here: Camp right in the heart of a historic Bay of Islands town, with beaches and walks close by.

• Type of campground: Holiday Park
• Camping options available: unpowered and powered tent and campervan/RV campsites; glamping tent; camping cabins; self-contained units
• Cost: Campsites start at $43 per night; cabins from $130+
• Amenities: Free wifi; camp kitchen (and cooking equipment available for hire); BBQs; TV room; coin-operated laundry facilities; hot showers; playground; fish cleaning station 
• Where to buy food supplies & petrol: Grab supplies in Kerikeri or Paihia before hopping on the car ferry to Russell. In Russell, there’s also a small Four Square supermarket and a petrol station.

While it was once deemed the “Hellhole of the Pacific” (it was a notoriously rough & rowdy seafaring locale), Russell is now one of Northland’s most charming towns.

Rich in history and natural beauty, Russell is a fantastic place to explore when you’re in Northland—and the Russell Top 10 Holiday Park is a great place to base yourself from.

With a leafy setting and unbeatable location in Russell, this is a great spot to park your van, pitch a tent, or rent a cabin. You can walk to heaps of attractions right from camp, including the Russell township, beaches, and walking trails.

While this campground is in a more developed area than a lot of the other Northland campgrounds on this list, you’ll love it if you like exploring cute, historic towns.

It’s worth noting that you’ll need to take a vehicle ferry from Paihia to Russell. The ferry leaves every 10 minutes during the day, and you can check the timetables here.

Camping Tip: If you’re in a campervan or motorhome and want to splash out a bit, book a premium campsite with a view! 

Things to do near the Russell Top 10 Holiday Park:

• Walk to the historic Russell township and explore around. For food options, we recommend getting a woodfired pizza and craft beer at Hone’s Garden; sit out in their sheltered tropical patio and let the holiday vibes sweep over you!
• Enjoy some short walks to great coastal viewpoints: Flagstaff Hill & Tapeka Point are both excellent choices. 
• Hit the beach! Tapeka Beach & Long Beach (Oneroa) are both beautiful. From Long Beach, you can walk to a secret local beach called Waitata Bay/Donkey Bay (please do note that Donkey Bay is popular with nudists/naturists, just FYI).

8. Matauri Bay Holiday Park, Bay of Islands

Why you should camp here: Enjoy beachfront camping in a relaxed setting in the Bay of Islands. 

• Type of campground: Holiday Park
• Camping options available: powered & unpowered tent and campervan/RV sites; camping cabins; vintage caravans
• Cost: Campsites start at $22 per person; cabins and caravans from $85-150+
• Amenities: Bathrooms with hot showers, camp kitchen, BBQs, laundry facilities, fish filleting station, general store, petrol sold on-site (facilities are a bit dated overall, but completely adequate).
• Where to buy food supplies & petrol: Grab supplies in Kerikeri or the Waipapa Four Square on the drive in.

Camp in a vintage caravan, pitch a tent or park your van at this awesome, family-run beachside holiday park. 

The Matauri Bay Holiday Park has been well-loved by generations of New Zealanders, and for good reason: this Northland campground is pure summertime happiness!

With ocean views from nearly every site, you really can’t go wrong when choosing a site at this campground.

The holiday park is located just steps away from the golden-sandy shores of beautiful Matauri Bay, one of Northland’s most picturesque beaches. 

When you’ve had enough relaxation time by the beach (is that even possible?), climb up to the top of the Rainbow Warrior Memorial for amazing panoramic views of the sea and islands dotting the landscape.

This campground is a little bit retro and a whole lot of beautiful.

Things to do near the Matauri Bay Holiday Park:

• Hang out at Matauri Bay! Go swimming, snorkeling, fishing…or just read a book at the beach. Pure bliss.
• Hike up to the Rainbow Warrior Memorial right from camp. The Rainbow Warrior was a Greenpeace ship that was bombed on its way to protest a French nuclear test in Moruroa. While the sunken ship is scuttled underwater in Matauri Bay (and is a popular diving spot and fish sanctuary), the memorial sits atop the cliffs above the Matauri Bay campground.
• Head to the Mahinepua Peninsula Track for a day hike—we think this one of Northland’s finest walks. Bring a swimsuit with you as there are awesome swimming coves along the track! 

9. Tauranga Bay Holiday Park, Whangaroa

Why you should camp here: Roll out of your tent or van in the morning and land almost right at the beach!

• Type of campground: Holiday Park
• Camping options available: unpowered & powered tent and campervan/RV campsites; a variety of camping cabins (including adorable log cabins).
• Cost: Campsites start at $20 per person; cabins from $80+ per night
• Amenities: Camp kitchens; bathrooms with token-operated hot showers (a token is $1); free outdoor cold shower; BBQs; coin-operated laundry facilities; rubbish and recycling; camp store selling basic items.
• Where to buy food supplies & petrol: Grab supplies in Kerikeri or at the Waipapa Four Square on the drive in.

At the Tauranga Bay Holiday Park, you get to camp right next to a stunning beach with peachy-pink sand.

They have camping options for everyone, ranging from tent and van sites to log cabins. 

The beach here is a fantastic place for both relaxing and exploring. Go swimming, hang out in your beach chair with a book, or seek out hidden beach coves and rock pools.

Wildlife also abounds at Tauranga Bay: penguins nest on both ends of the beach, and you can often hear kiwi at night.

Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins when you camp here, as they’re known to frequent this bay!

This Northland campground is really something special—it’s one of the best places to get a real kiwi summertime camping experience.

Things to do near Tauranga Bay Holiday Park:

• Hike the nearby Mahinepua Peninsula Track—we’ve also mentioned it in campground #8 above, but it’s close to both campgrounds and is too good to not mention again!
• Another good track is the short (but steep) walk up to St. Paul’s Rock in Whangaroa

10. Taupo Bay Holiday Park, Mangonui Area

Why you should camp here: Camp off-the-beaten-path at a great holiday park right by one of Northland’s most beautiful golden-white sandy beaches.

• Type of campground: Holiday Park
• Camping options available: unpowered & powered tent and van/RV campsites; cabins
• Cost: Campsites start at $18 per person; cabins from $90+
• Amenities: Bathrooms with hot showers; camp kitchen; BBQs; TV room with book exchange; laundry facilities; playground; kayaks and other watersport equipment available for hire; seasonal camp shop
• Where to buy food supplies & petrol: Grab supplies in Kerikeri or at the Waipapa Four Square on the drive in. If you need a supply top-up while at camp, the closest place is the Mangonui Four Square.

The Taupo Bay Holiday Park is yet another gorgeous beachside campground in the Far North. This one’s a bit “off-the-beaten-path” to get to, but it’s well worth the effort!

Once you get to Taupo Bay, be prepared for some beachy-beauty overload. This sheltered bay is a gorgeous white sand crescent with swimmable, crystal-clear waters. The beach is flanked by green headlands, making this spot feel like it could be in Hawaii.

This holiday park couldn’t be in a better spot: you can simply roll out of your tent, van, or cabin and be at the beach within minutes. 

The campground is also well-stocked with gear to help you make the most of your visit; you can hire paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkel gear from the campsite if you don’t have your own in tow.

Things to do near the Taupo Bay Holiday Park:

• Swim, surf, and/or fish at Taupo Bay (you won’t want to leave…)
• Drive to Mangonui and enjoy some of NZ’s most famous fish & chips.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, try the hike to Duke’s Nose (Kaiaraara Rocks) in the Whangaparaoa Harbor. You can either take a water taxi to the Lane Cove Hut and start from there, or take the longer walking track via the Wairakau Stream. Note that this track is for experienced hikers. 

11. Maitai Bay, Karikari Peninsula

Why you should camp here: You’ll get to camp right by two stunning beach coves, with the sound of the ocean lulling you to sleep every night.

• Type of campground: DOC Campsite (DOC campsite pass can be used here)
• Camping options available: unpowered campsites for tents/vans/RVs
• Cost: $15 for adults; $7.50 for kids (age 5-17), free for kids under 5
• Amenities: Flush toilets, cold showers, water taps (you’ll need to boil or filter water before drinking)
• Where to buy food supplies & petrol: Grab supplies in Whangarei or Kerikeri on the drive up.

On a warm summer’s day, waking up at the Maitai Bay campsite is pretty much unbeatable. This is, without a doubt, one of the best campgrounds in Northland.

You can camp right by the beach here, with the sounds of the ocean drifting into your tent all night long. Lots of the sites have epic ocean views.

Go for a beach stroll and swim at one of the two adjacent coves here: Maitai Beach and Merita Beach. Both beaches are gorgeous crescent-shaped coves, with sparkling white sand and crystal-clear water.

After a day at the beach, head back to camp for a snack and cold drink from the chilly bin—repeat this process for the rest of your camping trip, and you’re sure to be 100% relaxed by the end of your stay!

Things to do near the Maitai Bay campsite:

• Hang out at Maitai Beach (and/or Merita Beach) all day…
• If it’s too windy at Maitai Beach, try heading over to nearby Karikari Beach (or honestly, just go there regardless as it’s gorgeous and not ever very busy). 
• Hike up Puheke Hill—then cool off with a swim at Puheke Beach.
• Check out Coca Cola Lake (Lake Rotopokaka), a dune lake with tannin-stained water that’s the color of, you guessed it…cola 😉

12. Ahipara Holiday Park, Ahipara

Why you should camp here: Surfers will love camping at this well-run holiday park near one of Northland’s best surf spots.

• Type of campground: Holiday Park
• Camping options available: Unpowered and powered tent & campervan/RV campsites; cabins; self-contained units
• Cost: Campsites start at $24 per person; cabins from $80+
• Amenities: Free wifi; camp kitchen; BBQs; bathrooms with hot showers; laundry facilities
• Where to buy food supplies & petrol: Grab supplies at the Kataia Pak n Save.

Ahipara is a small seaside town at the southern end of Ninety Mile Beach. It’s famous amongst surfers for its fantastic left-hand surf break, and was featured in the iconic 60’s surf film Endless Summer.

While surfing is the main draw here, Ahipara is a beautiful place regardless, and the Ahipara Holiday Park is a gem. 

The Ahipara Holiday Park is a laid-back and friendly place to camp, and there are great amenities on offer.

Campsites here have grass pitches and there are plenty of trees for shade. The grounds are tidy and there are flowers and greenery growing everywhere. WiFi is available at the campsites, which is a rarity in NZ! The camp kitchen is great, too. We could go on and on about the amenities here!

Choose from tent and van sites to basic cabins and self-contained units. 

Whatever you do, don’t miss a sunset at the beach when you’re camping here—an Ahipara sunset is truly something special!

Things to do near Ahipara Holiday Park:

• Surf, swim, or fish at Ahipara Beach—or just go for a nice long beach walk!
• Eat at North Drift Cafe
• Take a day trip to Cape Reinga, which is about a 1.5-hour drive north of the campground. If you day trip to Cape Reinga, we recommend detouring to Rarawa Beach for a picnic en route—Rarawa Beach has super white silica sand and is just gorgeous! See #13 below for more details.

13. Rarawa Beach DOC Campsite, Far North

Why you should camp here: Pretend you’re on a tropical island while camping near a stunning, sugar-white sandy beach.

• Type of campground: DOC Campsite (DOC campsite pass cannot be used here)
• Camping options available: unpowered campsites for tents/vans/RVs
• Cost: $15 for adults; $7.50 for kids (age 5-17), free for kids under 5
• Amenities: Flush toilets, cold showers, water taps (you’ll need to boil or filter water before drinking)
• Where to buy food supplies & petrol: Grab supplies at the Kataia Pak n Save on the drive up.

Rarawa Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in New Zealand, with stunning white silica sand and crystal-clear waters that just beckon you for a swim. 

The Rarawa Beach DOC campsite is basic but oh-so-scenic. The campsite itself is on a nice grassy patch of land, just steps away from the beach. 

If you’re up for bare-bones beach camping, post up here and spend a day or two sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing! It’s a piece of Northland paradise.

Things to do near Rarawa Beach Campsite:

• Hang out at Rarawa Beach! Honestly, once you get there, you’re not gonna want to leave. Bring a good book, food, and drinks, and let yourself relax at one of New Zealand’s most peaceful and pristine beaches!

14. Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite, Far North

Why you should camp here: Camp near Cape Reinga at a stunning campground with gorgeous pink shell sand, crystal-clear swimmable beach coves, and lush forest.

• Type of campground: DOC Campsite (DOC campsite pass cannot be used here)
• Camping options available: unpowered campsites for tents/vans/RVs
• Cost: $15 for adults; $7.50 for kids (age 5-17), free for kids under 5
• Amenities: Flush toilets, cold showers, water taps (you’ll need to boil or filter water before drinking)
• Where to buy food supplies & petrol: Grab supplies at the Kaitaia Pak n Save on the drive up.

Spirits Bay is a mystical place that’s full of incredible natural beauty. It’s located close to the uppermost part of the country—you’ll be staying almost right at the northern edge of New Zealand.

According to Maori legend, this is the place where spirits depart the earth, and there’s a spiritual, special feeling at this sacred location.

We love camping here for its proximity to a stunning beach, with turquoise waters and crushed-shell sand that tints the beach pink. The ocean here is crystal-clear and great for swimming and fishing. Wild horses roam in the green headland above the campground, adding to the magical feeling you’ll get while staying here.

The road to get to Spirits Bay is unpaved gravel, but most vehicles should be able to make it without any problems. Make sure to bring all the supplies you need for the duration of your stay, as you will not find any shops up here. Also make sure you bring insect repellent, as the mosquitos here can be fierce.

Things to do near the Spirits Bay Campsite:

• Visit Cape Reinga.
• Go sand (or boogie) boarding down the Te Paki Sand Dunes.
• Hike from Spirits Bay to Pandora Beach (bring a picnic lunch to fortify yourself for the walk back!)
• Simply relax and swim at the stunning Spirits Bay beach—and bring your fishing pole if you want to try and catch dinner.

Some Things to Know Before Camping in Northland

• Before you head out to one of these Northland campgrounds, check up on the campground’s website. Some campgrounds close for the winter months. We’ve included links to each campground’s website to help you with your research.

• What you’ll need to bring depends on what type of campsite you’re at. We’ve given an overview of amenities available at each campsite, but do check out each campsite online before you plan your trip. 

• Northland’s campgrounds are often located in remote places. Make sure to stock up on food, fuel and drinks (including water) if you’re heading to some of these campsites. Under each campground in this guide, we’ve noted the “last stop” for supplies if you’re heading north from Auckland or elsewhere.

• Don’t forget your insect repellent and plenty of sunblock! 

• You can go camping in Northland year-round, although some campsites close for the winter months as mentioned above. Below is a breakdown of what camping is like in Northland during each season. 

The Best Time to Go Camping in Northland, New Zealand

Summer (mid-December to mid-February) – High Season

Summer is, by far, the most popular time to go camping in Northland.

This is usually the best time for sunshine and swimming in the ocean. It’s also school holiday time, which means that this is when most families head out for their summertime camping trips.

If you don’t like camping with crowds, then you might want to avoid Northland campgrounds in summer.

In particular, in the weeks between Christmas and New Years’, Northland campgrounds are jam-packed with people. You’ll most certainly need to book campsites well ahead of time if you go camping during those weeks! Note that campsite prices are sometimes higher during this busy period, too.

Late Summer/Autumn (mid-February to mid-April) – Shoulder Season

If you’re keen to go camping when the weather is still settled, and don’t want to camp with crowds, then you might like camping in Northland in autumn.

Autumn, along with spring, is our favorite time to go camping in Northland (honestly, it’s our favorite time to go camping in NZ in general!).

By mid-February, schools are back in session and you’re going to find that campgrounds and beaches are far less busy.

One downside is that the weather can be a bit more fickle in autumn, but in Northland, it’s usually quite pleasant still.

The one exception to this “lack of crowds” we’ve just described is Easter week. The week around Easter tends to be a popular time for families to go on holiday, so do note that campgrounds will be busy then (make sure to book ahead if you’re camping around Easter).

Tip: you can check NZ holiday dates (including Easter) on the government website here.

Late Autumn, Winter & Early Spring (mid-April to Oct) – Off-season

You can go camping in Northland in winter, but do note that some campgrounds close after Easter, and don’t reopen again until October. 

If you really want to go camping without crowds, though, then winter might appeal to you.

Northland is way less busy in winter, and the surrounding landscape will be lush and green. Mosquitoes will also be less prolific. So, there are some real benefits to winter camping!

That being said, if you plan to swim in the ocean, you’ll definitely want a wetsuit. Hiking trails can be muddy, and there’s a much higher chance of getting rainy days.

If you do go camping in Northland in winter, we recommend doing so in a campervan, or book a holiday park cabin. Winter weather is just too unpredictable for tent camping, in our opinion!

Spring (October to mid-December) – Shoulder Season

Spring, along with autumn, is our favorite time to camp in Northland.

You’ll find that Northland campgrounds aren’t very busy this time of year. Waterfalls and greenery are in full force from spring rain. And most campgrounds reopen for the season starting in October (if they’ve closed for winter).

There are some slight downsides to camping in spring. The ocean will still be pretty cold for swimming (bring a wetsuit), hiking trails will be muddy, and the weather could be unsettled (i.e. you might get some spring rainstorms). If you’re prepared for these things though, you’ll have an awesome time camping!

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Thanks for Reading Our Northland Campground Guide!

And there you have it—14 fantastic campgrounds to choose from for your Northland camping adventure.

Happy Camping in Northland!

Want More Camping Adventures? You Might Like These…

• If you like camping by gorgeous sandy beaches, you’ve got to take a Coromandel road trip! When there, don’t miss these beautiful Coromandel beaches.

• Mount Maunganui is another great area to visit if you like the beach. Camp at the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park and hike up the Mount!

• Looking for outdoor things to do around Auckland? Piha Beach is a must-do.
  
  
• Up for exploring even more of New Zealand? Consider a road trip to some of the South Island’s best camping spots!