5 Best Campsites on the North Island
So you’ve planned on renting a Campervan , and you’re getting ready for a fantastic camping trip across New Zealand’s North Island.
Time for the most critical question: Where are you going to camp?
Whether you want to stay on a gorgeous tropical beach or by a lush green forest, the North Island offers many stunning campsites that will leave you wanting to come back every year.
In this article, we’ll show you five of the best.
1. Uretiti Beach Campsite
Resting alongside a beautiful beach with stunning blue waters, Uretiti Beach Campsite looks like a scene from a movie. The campground itself is massive, so you do not have to worry about the size of the vehicle you choose to rent. As it is run by the Department of Conservation (DOC), the facilities are kept clean and ready to use.
You need not worry about having any questions or concerns, as the camp ranger lives on-site and is ready to help. The sandy beach itself is only a thirty-second walk away from the campground, so you can visit the cool waves whenever you like. Start your days off right with a long walk along the beach, watching the vibrant sunrise over the Whangarei Heads.
2. Aroha Island Charitable Trust Campground
Within the Kerikeri inlet lies a hidden paradise- the Aroha Island Charitable Trust Campground. This campground offers peaceful nature walks around the island, where you might be lucky enough to spot the local kiwi. You can traverse a route that takes you around the island and lets you see the mangroves and native wildlife, and the whole walk only takes thirty minutes.
The facilities are kept clean and functional for a pleasant experience, and guests can even utilize the camp’s free wifi whenever they like. If any problems should arise, the campground’s friendly staff are available to help when you need it.
3. Matai Bay Campsite
Located in the Doubtless Bay area is another beautiful spot available for camping, the Matai Bay Campsite. The stunning beach at this campsite has crystal clear waters where you can go swim. These waters are so clean you can even see the native fish swimming with you!
Not only that, but the surrounding land also has scenic sites for calming walks where you can take in the view of the beautiful Pacific Ocean. If you stay on the top campground, you can get an even more breathtaking view of the picturesque landscape and it’s only a thirty second walk down to the beach. As the Department of Conservation also runs this campsite, the facilities are kept in excellent condition.
4. Ahipara Holiday Park
If you are looking for something a little different but still very affordable, look no further than Ahipara Holiday Park. This campsite’s amazing campground is only a five-minute walk away from stunning Ninety Mile Beach, which is perfect for long walks and sightseeing.
This site offers convenient, strong wifi, clean kitchen facilities supplied with cooking equipment, and tidy bathrooms. The campsite even offers unlimited hot showers, so you can make sure you stay sand-free after a joyous time on the beach. Ahipara Holiday Park has a unique vibe, often hosting a mix of travellers, surfers, and families - it almost feels like you are not in New Zealand at all.
If you are craving adventure away from home, but you do not want to deal with the expensive costs involved in travelling abroad, you can come to this campsite for that exotic holiday atmosphere.
5. Trounson Kauri Park Campground
Located right next to a stunning Kauri forest park is a true hidden gem, the Trounson Kauri Park Campground. If you prefer lush green forests over clear blue waters, then this is the campground for you. Unlock the beauty of the North Island’s native Kauri trees by taking a walk through unspoiled nature. If you’re really lucky, you might even spot the local kiwi in the wilderness!
While the campground itself is smaller than the other sites on this list, that does not make it any less wonderful. This cozy campsite offers a kitchen supplied with a fridge, kettle, and toaster. Make sure to keep clean and happy using their hot showers!
Now that you know the five best campsites on New Zealand’s North Island, don’t hesitate to get out there and plan a camping adventure of your own!
But to get out to these beautiful landscapes, you’re going to need a well-equipped, high-quality camping vehicle.