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.

🚐 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.

🏨 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 Booking.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