Best Campgrounds in Te Tai Tokerau – Northland

Te Tai Tokerau – Northland is a dream destination for campervan travellers — think white-sand beaches, ancient kauri forests, and laid-back coastal towns steeped in history. Whether you’re freedom camping near Ahipara or plugging into a powered site close to Cape Rēinga, there’s no shortage of welcoming spots to park up. Here’s a selection of the best campgrounds in Te Tai Tokerau – Northland to help you find the perfect place to stay.

🏨 Paid Holiday Parks with Full Facilities

🏄‍♂️ Ahipara Holiday Park – Ahipara, Te Tai Tokerau – Northland

• Type: Holiday Park | Cost: From $20pp | Facilities: Powered/non-powered sites, toilets, showers, laundry
• Why it’s great: Ideal for beach lovers and surfers. It’s right at the base of 90 Mile Beach and close to local surf schools.
• Tips: Book in advance during summer. Surfboard hire and chill vibes make it a local favourite.

🌊 Taupō Bay Holiday Park – Taupō Bay, Te Tai Tokerau – Northland

• Type: Holiday park | Cost: From $22pp | Facilities: Powered sites, showers, toilets, kitchen
• Why it’s great: A calm, sheltered bay with clear water – perfect for swimming, kayaking, and escaping the crowds.
• Tips: Feels remote, so come prepared with supplies. Great family stop with a peaceful vibe.

🐑 Pukenui Holiday Park – Pukenui (Kaitaia), Te Tai Tokerau – Northland

• Type: Holiday park | Cost: From ~$18–$25pp | Facilities: Powered sites, kitchen, showers, laundry, dump station, cabins, pet-friendly
• Why it’s great: Just off SH1, this peaceful, family‑friendly park is a perfect base before or after exploring Cape Rēinga and 90 Mile Beach. Guests love the friendly hosts, farmyard animals, hot showers, and clean communal kitchen 
• Tips: Book ahead if you want cabins or during peak season. Great fishing and relaxed atmosphere.

🏕️ Whangārei Top 10 Holiday Park – Whangārei, Te Tai Tokerau – Northland

• Type: Holiday park | Cost: From $25pp | Facilities: Powered/unpowered sites, full amenities, Wi-Fi
• Why it’s great: Central location with great facilities, perfect as a base to explore Whangārei Falls, Abbey Caves, or city dining.
• Tips: Flat sites and spotless bathrooms. Handy for groceries or a rest stop in town.

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 Trip.com or Tripadvisor
And don’t forget Travel Insurance that covers campervan trips especially handy if you’re carrying gear or heading remote.

🌳 DOC & Conservation Camping

🌿 Uretiti Beach DOC Campsite – Waipū, Te Tai Tokerau – Northland

• Type: DOC campground | Cost: $15pp | Facilities: Non-powered, hot showers, toilets, shelter
• Why it’s great: Set behind the dunes, this beachside site is spacious, affordable, and peaceful. Perfect for surfers and sunset lovers.
• Tips: No power, no dogs, bring shade. Hot $2 showers available.

🌺 Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) DOC Campsite – Far North

• Type: DOC campground | Cost: $15pp | Facilities: Basic toilets, untreated stream water
• Why it’s great: Remote, sacred, and stunning – nestled in a protected cove at the very tip of Aotearoa.
• Tips: Access road can be rough. No mobile reception or shops nearby. Carry water and supplies.

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.

🚐 Freedom Camping (Self-Contained Only)

🌳 Raetea North Side Freedom Camping – Raetea Forest, SH1

• Type: Freedom camping (self-contained only) | Cost: Free | Facilities: None
• Why it’s great: Quiet, tucked into native bush just off SH1. Great for those in transit or seeking solitude.
• Tips: Must be in a certified self-contained campervan. No amenities or water.
• Helpful Website: CamperMate Reviews

🏕️ Mangōnui Lions Park – Mangōnui

• Type: Freedom camping (self-contained only) | Cost: Free
• Facilities: Public toilets, freshwater tap, dump station nearby
• Why it’s great: A scenic waterfront spot with easy access to Mangōnui village cafés and the harbour. While some reviewers mention evening traffic noise, its convenience and facilities make it a top pick
• Tips: Park set back from the road if you’re noise-sensitive; keep the area tidy and use the dump station before you leave.

🌅 Sandy Bay Freedom Camping Area – Matapōuri

• Type: Freedom camping (self-contained only) | Cost: Free
• Facilities: Toilets, drinking water, rubbish bins, BBQ area
• Why it’s great: A jaw-dropping coastal site just 3.5 km from Matapōuri. Perfect for stunning sunsets and beach walks, with no need for powered sites
• Tips: Only certified self-contained vehicles allowed, and a one- or two-night maximum stay applies—get there early, as spaces fill fast.

🌌 Waipū Caves Farm Park – Waipū

• Type: Freedom camping & powered spots | Cost: Free (SC) or from $18pp powered
• Facilities: Toilets, coin-operated hot showers, kitchen, cooking shelter, potable water, show cave
• Why it’s great: Combines wild glowworm cave access with helpful facilities—including powered sites for non-SC vehicles. Reviewers rave about the dark-sky stargazing 
• Tips: Road access is gravel and can be rough—drive carefully. Book ahead for cave tours and powered spots, and consider a koha for glowworm conservation.

If you’re planning a full road trip, don’t miss our Suggested Te Tai Tokerau – Northland Itinerary and our complete Te Tai Tokerau – Northland Travel Guide to help shape your journey.

💡 Travel Tips from Locals

• Carry cash for honesty box campsites
• Always check local council freedom camping rules
• Use CamperMate or Rankers for up-to-date site reviews
• Stock up on essentials before heading into remote areas
• Book DOC sites early in peak season via their Website