Camping in New Zealand is a great way to experience the outstanding scenery. On the edge of coastal beaches in the North and South Island, you’ll find some of the more scenic campsites to spend the night.
1. Urupukapuka Bay Campsite
Urupukapuka Bay Campsite is located on Urupukapuka Island in the Bay of Islands and is the largest campsite on the small island. The tent sites at this location are along the beachfront, making for some incredible morning views from bed! Travel here by ferry for day trips from small towns Russell and Paihia.
2. Maitai Bay Campsite
Located on the Karikari Peninsula in Waikato Bay, this is a campsite right up north, over 300km from Auckland. It ticks all the boxes for the perfect camping in New Zealand experience. Maitai Bay is secluded and remote with a rural feel and with neighbouring beaches in all directions. A great camping spot for families and those with boats.
3. Port Jackson Campsite
The Coromandel Peninsula is a well-known area, popular for its wonderful beaches and small beach towns. Northern Coromandel is no exception, with fantastic bays and vast stretches of the Hauraki Gulf to discover. Port Jackson campsite is near Fletcher Bay and allows for camping at the water’s edge.
4. Punakaiki Beach Camp
Punakaiki is on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island, between Westport and Greymouth. Surround yourself with rugged cliff faces at Punakaiki Beach Camp. This is a well-equipped campsite, with attractions such as the Pancake Rocks nearby. Punakaiki is an untouched West Coast beach with an incredibly relaxed atmosphere. The perfect place to spend the night.
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5. Tōtaranui Campsite
Tōtaranui Campground is part of Abel Tasman National Park and is as scenic as campsites come. Experience those Abel Tasman golden sand beaches at Tōtaranui beach and some nearby bushwalking tracks. Finish the day in your tent, watching the sunset over Tōtaranui Bay.
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6. Waipatiki Beach Holiday Park
Waipatiki Beach Holiday Park, nestled 35km from Napier, is a gem for families seeking a serene camping experience. Its prime location offers splendid views and a brief 3-minute stroll to a sandy beach renowned for its excellent swimming, surfcasting, and diving opportunities. The park is abundant in birdlife and close to superb bush and coastal walking trails. Accommodations include cabins, and both powered and non-powered sites.
