Finding a spot to camp in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland can be tricky, as the city itself has limited options. You won’t come across many traditional campgrounds in the CBD where space is tight and parking is expensive. Instead, the best campspots in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland are scattered along the coast or tucked into rural areas, giving you more space, fresh air, and access to stunning beaches and bush walks.
If you’re travelling by campervan, remember that freedom camping rules are strict. You’ll need a certified self-contained vehicle to use the designated areas. Tent travellers will find a mix of holiday parks, regional park campgrounds and even a DOC site, all offering their own unique charm.
To make planning easy, here are five of the best campspots in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland — two paid holiday parks, two free or low-cost regional options, and one DOC site for a true back-to-nature escape.
Tāwharanui Campground – Beachside Escape
Located about 85 km north of the city, Tāwharanui is one of the best campspots in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland for nature lovers. Surrounded by a marine reserve and a wildlife sanctuary, it blends beach fun with conservation.
- 85 km north of Auckland near Matakana
- Golden sandy beach and safe swimming spots
- Abundant native birdlife in the sanctuary
- Book through the Auckland Council website
Pakiri Beach Holiday Park – Surf and Sand
On Auckland’s north-east coast, Pakiri offers long stretches of white sandy beach and a peaceful vibe just outside the city. It’s one of the best campspots in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland for surf, swimming, and relaxation.
- 90 minutes north-east of Auckland
- Beachfront sites with amazing sunrise views
- Surfing, fishing, and horse riding nearby
- Book direct via the Pakiri Beach Holiday Park website
Schischka Campground, Wenderholm Regional Park – Riverside Setting
Only 40–50 minutes from the CBD, Schischka is one of the most convenient campgrounds in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland. Set on the Puhoi River estuary, it combines calm waters with lush bush surroundings.
- 45 minutes north of Auckland near Pūhoi
- Easy access to bush and coastal walks
- Calm estuary for kayaking and swimming
- Book through the Auckland Council website
Te Haruhi Bay Campground, Shakespear Regional Park – Coastal Views
Shakespear Regional Park is known for its peaceful setting and wildlife sanctuary. Te Haruhi Bay Campground is one of the best campspots in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland if you want a quiet break close to the city.
- Located on Whangaparāoa Peninsula, 1 hour north of Auckland
- Harbour views and sandy beaches
- Part of a fenced wildlife sanctuary with rare birds
- Book through the Auckland Council website
Muriwai Beach Campground – Wild West Coast
Just 45 minutes from the city, Muriwai Beach is famous for its dramatic surf, black sand, and gannet colony. The campground has a rugged, coastal feel with good facilities.
- 45 minutes west of Auckland
- Black sand beach and surf breaks
- Walking access to the gannet colony lookout
- Book online via the Muriwai Beach Campground website
🚐 Freedom Camping in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland
While the best campspots in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland tend to be holiday parks, council campgrounds, and DOC sites, there are also a handful of designated freedom camping areas. These are not full campgrounds, but they do allow overnight stays for travellers with a certified self-contained vehicle.
- Some of these spots are free, while others may charge a small fee
- Facilities are very basic, often just toilets or rubbish bins
- Parking is usually limited and stays are often capped at two nights in one location
Freedom camping is a good option if you’re passing through and want a budget-friendly stay, but if you’re looking for more space, facilities, or a family-friendly base, the five best campspots in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland listed above will serve you better.
Auckland Council Parks
If you want to stay in or near Auckland, check out Auckland Council’s regional and holiday park options. Book your spot, glamping, bach or lodge easily via their website:
Book accommodation at Auckland Council parks HERE
Maku te ra e to ana; kei a koe te urunga ake o te ra
Let mine be the setting sun; yours is the dawning of a new day