Kaiaua is one of those places we keep coming back to. No matter where we’re heading, we’ll usually find a reason to divert through here.
It’s easy, relaxed and just works for the way we travel.
What we did
We pulled into our usual spot, a Park Over Property just before Kaiaua near Waharau Regional Park, by Gollan’s Bay Memorial.
This place is a bit of a gem. $10 a night, right across from the beach and you can launch your boat straight from there. Murray and Margaret run it, and Murray has a tractor to help get boats in and out over the rocks, which makes life a lot easier.
It’s set on an orchard, feels safe, and there’s always a mix of campers around. Good chats, local tips, and just a nice vibe all round.
Further toward Kaiaua, there’s a busy freedom camping spot with great views, plenty of space, and it feels safe. It also has bathrooms, which makes it an easy option. It’s right across from the dairy, so you can grab supplies, and yes, they’ve got Kapiti ice cream.
Ray’s Rest is further along again and another good option if you want a bit more space and don’t mind it being more exposed to the wind.
Before we had our own bikes, we actually hired from Shorebirds Cycles, right next to the gas station. Awesome service and really good bikes. We rode part of the Hauraki Rail Trail and made our way up to the Miranda Farm Shop for morning tea, an easy ride and a nice way to take in the area.
Kaiaua itself is a blink-and-you-miss-it kind of town, but it’s got what you need. A solid fish and chip shop we always go back to, a local bar where the fishing stories are flowing and a gas station.
We also stopped in at the Pukorokoro Miranda Shorebird Centre. We like to follow the godwits, and this is one of the places they gather. Watching the birds come in to settle for the evening is something else.
Up on the hill, the Miranda Farm Shop Café and Gallery is worth a stop too. Good food, local products and a nice spot to slow down for a bit.
If you’re after a bit more comfort, Tasman Holiday Parks Miranda is a great option. We treat ourselves here, especially in winter. The natural hot pools are a highlight and well worth it.
What stood out
It’s not one single thing, it’s the whole stretch.
Easy camping options, access to the water, fishing, birdlife, and that quiet coastal feel without the crowds. You can do as much or as little as you want here.
We also like driving this way into Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland. Going through Kawakawa Bay, Clevedon and past the oyster farms is just a nicer run than jumping straight on the motorway.
And if you’re heading toward the Coromandel or planning the Kauaeranga Valley Pinnacles hike, this is a great place to stop and reset.
Tohu Tip & Local Knowledge
- Park Over Property near Waharau is a great base, affordable, safe and right by the beach
- Murray’s tractor makes boat launching easy over the rocky shoreline
- Freedom camp near Kaiaua township has toilets and easy access to supplies
- Ray’s Rest freedom camping is more exposed, so check the weather before staying
- Tasman Holiday Parks Miranda is perfect for a winter stay they have hot pools and good facilities
- Dump station and fresh water available near Waharau, handy for campervans
- Kaiaua dairy is well stocked, good for basics and a quick ice cream stop
- Fuel up when you can, options are limited along this stretch although there is a gas station in Kaiaua
Worth Adding to Your Trip
If you’ve got time, take the coastal drive through Kawakawa Bay and Clevedon instead of heading straight to the motorway. It’s an easy detour and a much better drive.
If you’re planning to explore more of Aotearoa – New Zealand, our campervan itineraries and travel guides are built from places like this, simple, real stops that often end up being the best parts of the journey.
“He wāhi iti, he wāhi pounamu.”
A small place, but a treasured one.