The Coromandel is campervan heaven—boasting golden beaches, native bush trails, and laid-back seaside towns. We’ve reviewed local freedom camping bylaws, DOC sites, and top holiday parks to bring you this curated guide. Whether you’re after a waterfront treasure or a bush escape, this list has something for everyone.
🏨 Paid Holiday Parks with Full Facilities
Papa Aroha Holiday Park – Whangapoua
- Type: Holiday park | Cost: From ~$30pp
- Facilities: Powered/unpowered sites, cabins, kitchen, BBQs, toilets, showers
- Why it’s great: A well-facilitated base a few steps from stunning beaches—great for both relaxation and adventure, including Cathedral Cove access tripadvisor.com.sg+15tcdc.govt.nz+15nzmca.org.nz+15.
- Tips: Book early for beachfront spots; picnic tables and hot showers onsite.
Hahei Beach Resort – Hahei
- Type: Holiday park | Cost: From ~$30pp
- Facilities: Powered/unpowered sites, kitchen, laundry, showers, playground
- Why it’s great: Ideal for families and perfect walking distance to Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach .
- Tips: Reserve ahead in peak seasons; front-row lake views available.
Ready to book your campground? Most campervan sites in Aotearoa – New Zealand are bookable directly through the holiday park’s website or apps like CamperMate and Rankers. If you’re looking for cabins or motel-style units instead, many of these can be booked via Booking.com or Tripadvisor
And don’t forget Travel Insurance that covers campervan trips — especially handy if you’re carrying gear or heading remote.
🚐 Freedom Camping (Self‑Contained Only)
There are plenty of scenic freedom-camping spots around the peninsula. We sifted through NZMCA reviews and council bylaws to find the best—many of the waterfront ones can be busy or noisy at weekends, so these spots offer more peace and space.
MacDonald Reserve – Ōpito Bay
- Type: Freedom camping (self-contained only) | Cost: Free
- Facilities: None
- Why it’s great: Waterfront grassy reserve, backed by bush and birdlife
- Tips: No tents allowed; keep it clean and don’t camp overnight elsewhere nearby.
Simpsons Beach – Wharekaho
- Type: Freedom camping (self-contained only) | Cost: Free
- Facilities: None
- Why it’s great: Quiet coastal spot with amazing sea views—readers rave about its peace and location .
- Tips: Boat launch nearby; use public toilets in Whitianga if needed.
🌳 DOC Campsites (Basic Facilities)
Fantail Bay Campsite – Kauaeranga Valley
- Type: DOC campsite | Cost: Free (cold showers)
- Facilities: Toilets, water tap, picnic tables .
- Why it’s great: Lovely bush setting, excellent as a base for Pinnacles walks or Kauaeranga Valley exploration.
- Tips: Open Labour Weekend–Easter; pack-out rubbish—no bins onsite.
Stony Bay Campsite – Northern Coromandel
- Type: DOC campsite | Cost: Free (cold showers)
- Facilities: Toilets and water tap .
- Why it’s great: Remote eastern-side site, ideal for beach-lovers and campers seeking quiet coastal vibes.
- Tips: Accessible via gravel roads; bring your own stove.
Port Jackson DOC Campsite – Pinnacles Track Base
- Type: DOC campsite | Cost: Free (cold showers)
- Facilities: Toilets, cooking shelter, cold showers, fresh water .
- Why it’s great: Secluded coastal campsite with trail access and native bush ambiance.
- Tips: Book ahead over summer; gravel roads suit most campervans.
Note: DOC (Department of Conservation) campsites may require bookings depending on the season. Always check site details, availability, and current conditions at the Official DOC Camping page.
🧭 Quick Map & Camping Tips
| Area | Paid Park Option | Freedom Options | DOC Campsites |
| Wharekaho / Hahei | Hahei Beach Resort | Simpsons Beach | — |
| Ōpito Bay / Whitianga | Papa Aroha Holiday Park | MacDonald Reserve<br>Evers‑Swindell Reserve | — |
| Kauaeranga Valley | — | — | Fantail Bay |
| Northern Coast | — | — | Stony Bay |
| Port Jackson | — | — | Port Jackson DOC Campsite |
🚐 Need a Campervan for Your Journey?
Looking to explore Aotearoa – New Zealand by road? Start by comparing motorhome options with Motorhome Republic. It’s a simple way to find the best fit for your travel style — whether you’re after a cosy van for two or a fully equipped home on wheels.
Tēnā te ngaru whati, tēnā te ngaru puku
There is a wave that breaks, there is a wave that swells