Tapotupotu Campsite
Aupouri Peninsula, Cape Reinga
Reviews
Dan
Ranking: 9/10
Great location right on the beach. Nice star gazing and fresh smelling long drops
Ammar
Ranking: 1/10
The entire place is swarming with wasps. Even the toilet had wasps flying out of the the actual toilet pit.... It appears the campsite is only really maintained during the peak season and the rest of the off peak campers have to suffer with the little to no maintenance that goes on despite us having to pay the same fees. Come on DOC, get it together will ya
Toni
Ranking: 10/10
Went to the cape for the first time and was by myself so quite nervous before I got there however the management staff made this DOC campground feel very safe and what an awesome spot. Got quite busy towards the end of the day but was Easter, weather was spot on and was able to do the walk to the cape reianga lighthouse which took me about 3 hours return, would highly recommend this place and will definitely recommend
Amy
Ranking: 10/10
One of the most beautiful spots I’ve ever been to. The water was so clear and you can smell the Manuka while your swimming. The campground has very basic facilities (cold shower and long drop) but they’re very clean and all you need. There’s a beautiful walk to the cape reinga lighthouse from the end of the beach, 3hr return. Will be back here for sure.
Hannah
Ranking: 8/10
Beautiful location, basically a whole bay to yourself. My partner and I took a caravan down there and thought it was great for $16 each. We drove back up the hill in the evening for reception as you don’t get much down there. The only reason I didn’t give it a 10 was because of the mosquitoes. They were everywhere in caravan unfortunately which isn’t the campsites fault but made it hard to get to sleep and question leaving.
Just make sure your tent or caravan is sealed!
Sandy
Ranking: 10/10
Stunning location. We were here one night on Saturday May 1 and it was very quiet. Only about 4 camper and a handful of other groups.
The night was clear and you can see the Milky Way and other galaxies. It was quiet and calm spot. Agreed that the toilets were very clean and don’t smell at all! We didn’t use the flush toilets but we saw there were several facilities building available.
Do bring cash (&a pen) it is well worth the $15/person/night as it goes towards conservation. You simply self register with their form and deposit the cash in a secure drop box.
The hike to Cape Reinga is 3 hours one way. Although it actually doesn’t take long to hike up the hill to get stunning views. Maybe about 10-15 minutes.
I had one bar of service and sometimes two on the top level of our camper but dont rely on it. We would totally come back again!
Joannda
Ranking: 10/10
Absolutely stunning spot!!! Definitely one of our favourite sites in NZ so far. Well maintained by DOC, worth the $15pp/night. Clean long drop toilets (flush toilets available at entrance) and cold showers. Scenery is incredible and the beach and lagoon perfect for a refreshing dip. Definitely do the walk to Cape Reinga from here - incredibly beautiful 1.5-2 hour hike.
Kat
Ranking: 9/10
Great location, just up the road from Cape Reinga. It's a gravel road down to the camp site but it's in good condition. I'm not sure about tent sites but the campervan sites are flattish - bring some wheel chocks or whatever you need to make sure you're flat and level. The beach is beautiful and pounding, and the lagoon is stunning. Long drop toilets are fine and well maintained. Not super cheap at $45 per night for our family but it was a highlight for us
Kris
Ranking: 10/10
Stayed for just one night. Pretty basic campsite. Clean longdrops and one tap for unfiltered water. Plenty of room for campers. The beach is gorgeous. No cell service.
Sarah Coughlan
Ranking: 9/10
One of our favourite Doc campsites, parked up our camper with views of the sea. Great access from here to coastal walks with incredible views, could see to the Cape Reinga Lighthouse. We even saw a pod of 8 dolphins from our headland walk. Magical location.
Alice
Ranking: 10/10
This place is magic! Stayed here in camper with 2 and 4 year old. Beach was awesome with the additive of the side river bit. Great at high and low tide! Toilets are long drops but didn't smell at all. We had no mozzies yay! The manager was there and we were able to pay by eftpos which was a bonus. Great view of the beach right from our camper. Love, loved it!!!!!!!
Adrian Tyrrell
Ranking: 9/10
A really lovely campsite location with basic but usable facilities.
Warden was very helpful and also had a mini shop with basic provisions of you needed it.
Plenty of space for all sizes of camper/motorhome. Amazing to wake up to as a location.
Gravel track down was fine just take it slow.
Orlane
Ranking: 2/10
Expensive regarding what it has to offer. 15$/person, cold water.
A lot of mosquitos
Emma
Ranking: 8/10
Stayed 14/7/9 Lovely scenic beach by Cape Reinga with clean toilets and cold showers. Toilets were clean but it was $13pp - make sure you have some cash. Ranger comes in once a day.
Kate
Ranking: 8/10
Lovely scenic little site on the beach. Quite exposed so was windy when we were there. 2 or 3 long drops and some running water but not drinking. We paid $26 for 2 people
Kerik
Ranking: 8/10
Good campsite on the beach but it was very busy when we were there. The campsite was crammed full every night. If there is a breeze the mosquitos are not to bad at night and we could leave the windows of our van open. Bring lots of water and food as the site is very far from a town. We did the hike to Cape Reinga which is 5km (one way) and took us 3 hours (return). The hike was amazing. It was hard but the views were incredible and well worth it. The cost of the campsite was $13 per person per night which didn’t align with the review of the site.
Jeff
Ranking: 9/10
Beautiful campsite with clean drop toilets. The view is stunning. Note: it is more expensive than listed on the app. It was $13 per person. Still a great stay
JT
Ranking: 7/10
8$ is not up to Date. now it is scenic and you have to pay 13$ pp. but nothing else changed. close to the beach.
Kristen
Ranking: 7/10
Large camping area that filled up quite a bit throughout the evening. Two toilet blocks (non-flushing) that were relatively clean. Two cold showers available. There are water taps available but needs to be boiled before consuming.
Pretty beach with nice views but frankly it's expensive for what you get.
Andy and Julia
Ranking: 8/10
A large, family run camping ground next to Cape Reinga, right next to the beach. It’s down a gravel road so take care. We paid $26 for 2 people in a camper, which we thought was a little excessive. I guess they make the most out of being so close to a tourist attraction. Drop toilets and outside cold showers, but all were clean. Was a pleasant night, great for stargazing, just a little pricy.
Michael S
Ranking: 5/10
Wespen, Wespen und noch mehr Wespen! Wahnsinn! Wir kamen nach langer Fahrt hier an. Meldeten uns beim Ranger in seinem Wohnwagen an, 13 Dollar pro Person. Plumpsklo und kalte Duschen vorhanden. Keine Waschbecken zum Hände/Zähne putzen. Toiletten war sehr dreckig und haben gestunken.
Als es dunkel wurde und die Wespen endlich weg waren, kamen die Mosquitos, waren so gut wie gar nicht draußen vorm Camper, sonst tolle Location direkt am Strand in ruhiger Bucht!
JAN SCOTT
Ranking: 10/10
Stayed here early November for 2 nights, loved it so much we returned at the end of our trip in January for 3 nights. Signposted on the right as you drive to the lighthouse at Cape Reinga. Once you leave the main road its a drive on unsealed road, bit steep at the end, but very worth the trip. Park in the allocated area, open your doors and take in the view. What a beach, the most stunning location. We were self contained so did not use water of toilet facilities here. Stock up with water and food because you'll want to stay longer than you intended! Safe swimming, when the tide is out walk around the rocks at the end of the beach, truly stunning coastline. We had purchased a DOC pass for every week of our 11 week trip, totally worth it, DOC have the most amazing locations in NZ. This was our favourite campsite. The 2nd time we visited rangers were present, and charged several NZD for rubbish bags. Our tip: take a blanket down to the beach at night and star gaze, no light pollution, beautiful Southern Skies.
Sabine
Ranking: 8/10
Good loacation near cape reinga. Beach is nice. Be aware of wasps and bring insect repellant.
Don Strachan
Ranking: 8/10
Outstanding setting/location. Good value for being so near the Cape. Long drop is what it is but bring your bug spray if you need to go at night! Mossies are fierce. Can be very busy in peak season!!!
Chrissy
Ranking: 10/10
Walked from Spirits Bay- Pandora- Tapotupotu in one day! Was a beautiful hike and a wonderful DOC camp to stay at! The camp was busy and clean and the staff were so friendly and helpful with my continued hiking adventures! I stayed in a tent for $13 and had a beach front site! The waves at this beach were scary for me so I only swam waste deep... highly recommend the Te Paki trail both sides of this camp, a must! Thanks DOC, another outstanding campsite!
Cameron
Ranking: 8/10
Windy drive down to a stunning beach setting with crystal clear star gazing with no light pollution! They found space for us to park even thought it was officially full. Lots of mosquitoes, cold outdoor showers and basic toilets with no other facilities but the location and view were incredible. Cost $36 for two in a camper.
Markus
Ranking: 9/10
Very nice place. Awesome view, great starting point for hikes.
But the toilets were not so nice regarding that it was not for free.
Nielsa
Ranking: 7/10
Excellent camping spot right at the beach.
Lots of space for campers and lots of space for tents.Public toilet which is a hole on the ground with a toilet seat. So don't expect to much of it. Bring your own light at night.
Price for adult is 13 dollars a night. Fill in the form and drop it in the box. I guess it's for the nature and all. But 26 dollar for 2 persons pooping in a hole is maybe bit to much.
View is amazing tho.
Stefano Clerici
Ranking: 10/10
The only DOC camp of our travel and it was really worth while. We were only few campervans in front of a wonderful beach just few kilometers from Cape Renga. Walking alone on a beautiful ocean sandy beach is really an experience. The camp has really minimal facilities, just a drop toilet and a water tap (not for drinking). Probably there were also some cold showers in a different house but we didn't tested them.
The Olivers
Ranking: 10/10
This was our favourite campsite - we were planning to only stay one night but ended up here for three! As others have said it’s basic but the views and peacefulness are unbeatable. There are also amazing trails to explore that go through the camp for those that enjoy hiking or trail running.
Amy Lord
Ranking: 9/10
If you want more of a remote location and beautiful beach, this place is perfect! The facility is clean, outdoor beach showers (cold water), and lots of space. It’s right next to Cape Reinga. The mosquitos are HORRIBLE so be prepared. No cell service or hot water.
Manuel Fessler
Ranking: 6/10
Awesome location, quiet at night and not too busy. But the mosquitos were KILLING me! Slept like 2 hours!
Zelie Frechin
Ranking: 9/10
Quiet campground by the beach and very close to Cape Reinga's lighthouse. Dry toilets and be prepared for a cold shower.
Navdeep Singh
Ranking: 10/10
Really great spot for your camping trip.
Ewan Evans
Ranking: 9/10
Amazing spot with a beautiful beach and stunning views. Gravel road for several km was fine in our largish motorhome. Drop toilets had no smell - awesome - and alcohol hand rub outside to use.
Make sure you take your own drinking water.
We had rain overnight but ground was good and not soggy - you’d need several days of rain for that.
Well maintained and a magical experience. Felt like we were truly at the end of the earth surrounded by beautiful hillsides, a river, and a beach.
Laura
Ranking: 9/10
Beautiful spot right near the beach. We were here on the labor day bank holiday and it was busy but still enough room for all. Great location to enjoy the beach and a spot of fishing off the rocks. We also walked from here to the lighthouse which was a spectacular walk about 2 hours each way. Long drop toilets and cold showers were fine. Lots of people using the small toilet sink to wash up dishes, we had a sink in our van so didn't need to queue for this.
Viola Cube
Ranking: 9/10
Beautiful spot at the beach.
One of our favourite doc campsites. We had lovely weather in July, lots of space directly at the beach. Clean toilets and cold showers but not too cold to have one when the sun is shining:) stayed here for one night, would have stayed longer. Very close to Cape Reinga. Loved it.
Poppy Ritchie
Ranking: 8/10
Stunning site, amazing views out over deserted beach. Dirt road access but in good condition, drop toilets pretty clean. Only bad thing was millions of flies trying to get into the van after dark, had to keep all windows & doors closed at all times but not too much of a problem as it was pretty cold in late June!
Kathrina Handschuh
Ranking: 10/10
Beautiful view! Nice beach! Close to Cape Reinga!
The road to the campground was easy to pass with a small camper van. Outdoor cold shower.
Fifi and Jay
Ranking: 10/10
This place is breathtaking. I loved this campground. Cold showers and clean toilets on a DOC site. Fantastic. Also not far from the main road and close to Cape Reinga. They have separate areas for tents and campers. But plenty of room for everyone. Great swimming, beautiful views and beach. This was one of my favourite sites to stay while touring NZ for 6 months. Definitely gets packed in summer.
Haley Bailey
Ranking: 8/10
Great location to wake up early and watch the sunrise at the lighthouse. However, showers are SUPER cold with no doors, no cell service, and no drinkable water.
Robert Wolf
Ranking: 10/10
Very nice place to stay, stay over the night and you will have it almost to yourself.
Lucile Gendre
Ranking: 8/10
WARNING : NO SHOWER. The toilets were not too bad. The view was really good. Really close to Cape Reinga.
Julia Weiss
Ranking: 10/10
My favourite spot to camp! We stayed for 1 night right at the bay with great view. Cold showers and toilets ok. $8 into donation box. Come early to get a good spot, it was very busy.
Artemis
Ranking: 9/10
Nice and calm, access by a +/- 3km drive on a gravel road. Nice beach almost private in March despite many campervans.
Ideal near Cape Reinga. Far from light pollution, did amazing Milky Way shots by clear sky!
Recommended when coming this far north ;)
Free, self-contained recommended. Didn't check any of potential facilities.
Alun Owen
Ranking: 10/10
Lovely campsite right by the beach. Ideal for a quick dip morning & evening. No mossy's about while we were there. It's a pity people can't read & leave their rubbish behind up by the toilets, it clearly says take your rubbish with you. It cost $16 for the 2 of us in a campervan. Highly recommended.
Mark Haydon
Ranking: 7/10
Beautiful spot right on the beach, great for a walk to Reinga lighthouse. There are non-enclosed cold showers more usually suited to a post beach shower. Fresh water, but no dump facility.
John Smith
Ranking: 8/10
Nice campsite, great beach. It was very crowded in mid February (maybe 50 campers?), but there was still room for more vehicles/tents. The only shower I found was a beach shower (no walls, no privacy, cold water, just meant to wash sand off your feet), but I didn't look very hard as I had a shower in my camper. The bathrooms were decent. Strangely, of 100+ people there at the time, only us and 2 other people were on this great, large beach at sunset and sunrise. But a deserted beach is better than a crowded one, in my opinion. I don't think this campsite has powered sites, but again, I didn't look very hard. There is a long-ish, steep-ish gravel road to descend to get to this site, but it's not that bad.
Yulia Sukhankina
Ranking: 10/10
The place is amazing. The toilets are simple but clean, cold showers are also very clean. The track to Cape Reinga is available, but if you're lazy as me you can drive there.
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Blu Ice
Ranking: 10/10
Great DOC campground. Well looked after. Long drop toilets were clean and good cold water showers. It's a beautiful place to camp.
Matthew Hassam
Ranking: 10/10
Amazing location for a campground, right behind the beautiful beach at Tapotupotu Bay and beside a lovely tidal river. The Te Paki Coastal walkway follows the coastline in both directions from the campground - the trail to Cape Reinga was breathtaking (literally and figuratively)! Clean (odourless) drop toilets and cold showers, and for just $16 per night for two adults (though we had purchased a campsite pass so effectively got it much cheaper than that). Highly recommended.
Martina Boss
Ranking: 9/10
Great campground. $16/pn for 2 people, non-powered campsite. Quite busy with lots of Kiwi families, so better be early to get the best spots. Cold showers but lovely caretakers.
Matthias Wohlgemuth
Ranking: 7/10
An unpowered site for two people costs $16. There were also 50 cents for the refuse bag (obligatory). A very nice place with wonderful beach. Unfortunately, there are only tables, benches, two showers, toilets with flush and washbasin with water tap at the day use area (100m next door). Why this is missing at the campsite is haunting us. In contrast to the day visitors we pay something. For that we get only a plumps loo and foam ... Are you kidding me?
The DOC has many rules. E.g. Only 2-person tents are permitted (not bigger) and the motorhome location is precisely indicated. Unfortunately, the rules are not respected and the camp manager does not mind. Various large tents (4s and 6s tents, party tents) were placed in the motorhome area. From the Campervan you had hardly any view of the sea. Neither the separation of the tent site / motorhome nor the 2-person tent rule are observed or enforced here. Bad cost / benefit ratio.
Catherine Kay
Ranking: 10/10
What a beautiful location! Camped facing the sea just off the beach, it was lovely. Limited facilities - toilets and cold showers but the location is worth it. However they did advise water should be boiled before drinking or not to drink the water which wasn't ideal as we hadn't taken much with us, so be prepared! Down a gravel track but it's not too far!
Geoffrey McCall
Ranking: 9/10
This is a fantastic site in a great location, my wife and I stayed for one night in November 2016 on our way back from Cape Reinga and really enjoyed it. We managed the gravel road fine in our camper, it was well worth it. The only fly in the ointment (other than the sandflies) was a very unpleasant (in my opinion) couple who didn't park in the campervan area but instead parked their large motor home up on the hill overlooking everyone. My wife noticed the female, quite sneakily taking registration numbers of vehicles parked in the campervan area during the evening. When challenged it became clear she intended to pass registration numbers to the DOC to see who hadn't paid. Who knows if she would or not, however I found it intimidating, and I'm sure I am not the only one. I do regret not taking the registration number of their vehicle and passing it to Department of Conservation myself. I am sure this is not what the DOC expect from their members.
Maxine Fallot
Ranking: 10/10
Beautiful campground. Not free. $8 per person, per night. Cold shower with walls.
Ulrica Vilen-Letts
Ranking: 10/10
Stunning campsite right next to the beach, came in November and still quite a popular site. $8 per adult, cold showers and nice toilets. Bring your own water and bins and you'll be sweet. Stock up on food, fuel etc too as it's pretty rural. Enjoy, one of the best campsites we've stayed at.
Ernst Mayerhofer
Ranking: 9/10
Very beautiful place at the beach with many hiking tracks around. We stayed there one night in low season. Despite a lot of people being here, not very noisy and a large site where you can choose your place where ever you want. Cold shower, toilet, water for washing dishes. Payment with honesty box $16 for 2 people.
Michael Braham
Ranking: 10/10
Excellent camping ground, great beach and walks. Good facilities and interesting short drive off the main road near Cape Reinga.
Kelsey Nolan
Ranking: 10/10
GORGEOUS! So lovely we stayed longer than planned. It does get 'busier' even in October, if you show up by 2pm you should find a great spot a stones throw from the beach. The hike from Tapotupotu to Cape Reigna is stunning, we did it in 1:40 there (2 aggressive uphills), and 1:30 back. We're in shape and come from high altitude. ;) DOC sites are well managed, basic facilities (drop toilets, cold open air showers).
Tim Burnett
Ranking: 9/10
A gem. The bay, river and beach look idyllic in the winter sun. Other reviews say it gets crowded in summer and even in winter there are seven other vehicles here. Other sites on this trip have had one or two. Walking back to the flushing loo by the bus turning area is a top tip.
Thomas Le Buzulier
Ranking: 9/10
One of the best campgrounds I have stayed at in the North Island.
Michelle Smit
Ranking: 10/10
Fantastic spot on the beach. Lots of walks in the area. Was very wet when we were there, but managed to find a not boggy site. Our favourite camping spot on our North Island holiday. Road in was a bit hairy in a motorhome, but not too far on the steep gravel. Toilets a bit smelly. Left early from here to go to Cape Reinga and had the whole area to ourselves before the tourist buses arrived. Cheapest DOC site we have stayed in at $6pp pn.
Paul Busson
Ranking: 10/10
Fantastic rugged camp site. Good facilities for a DOC camp. Well looked after. Great fishing. A very special place!
Loz & Jake Masters
Ranking: 10/10
We loved this place. $6 per night, per adult. Doc maintained site with clean cold outdoor showers, one compost toilet block and one flushing toilet block. Plenty of taps available for washing pots etc. There is plenty of room to park your van and there are always plenty of campers here, which makes for a great atmosphere. The campsite is quite far (30-40 min drive) from the nearest shop/gas station, so make sure you have plenty of supplies and fuel and you'll be fine. The views are second to none and there are plenty of coastal and bush walks to do while you're here. This was our fave place to camp and we did both north & south islands. Can't wait to get back here next year!! Would highly recommend.
Alizee Petit
Ranking: 7/10
We stayed only for one night. The place is beautiful, close to the beach. Easy access by the main road (only 2km gravel road). However a bit crowded even in winter, and smell from the not-so-clean-compost toilets when windy.
Gordon Lee
Ranking: 9/10
Great little spot. Nestled between the hills on a small river which flows into the Pacific Ocean a stones throw from the campground. A few minutes drive from the main road on a well serviced gravel road is worth the drive into this scenic camp ground.
Goldfinger
Ranking: 9/10
Great spot!! Poured rain while we were there but site did not become boggy. Flush toilets in day area well worth the walk to. Beautiful, serene area with the sound of the roaring ocean to rock you to sleep. Thanks DOCS for yet another great camp spot. Would rate 10 if drinking water was available.
Bjarne McDonald
Ranking: 9/10
Fabulous and windy. Most amazing view ever! Nice clean toilets, fresh cold showers and a friendly atmosphere... Can be rather windy for a tent.
Hugo Delubac
Ranking: 9/10
A quiet and beautiful place. Cheap (6 NZD per adult). Nice beach and an amazing track to Cape Reinga.
Connie Hopper
Ranking: 10/10
Beautiful campsite, very busy when we were there though. The gravel road is fine for 2WD cars, even after heavy rain. Water supply and drop toilets.
Janneke Hekhuis
Ranking: 8/10
It's a very beautiful site on a great location. It is not big so at the end of day it gets very busy with backpackers. Come early for the best spots. In the 'day' area you can find flush toilets. It's worth the walk.
Bill Milburn
Ranking: 8/10
Nice spot not far from the lighthouse for a day trip. Toilets just down the beach definitely far nicer. Site got very crowded, with vehicles rocking up at all times and squeezing in the site. Most left early to avoid paying their fees, come on people don't be cheap at great DOC sites, bad karma dudes!
Chris Brasell
Ranking: 9/10
Really enjoyed staying here, lovely beach and lagoon - great surf. Cheap and well looked after. Would stay again if it wasn't so far from home!!
mathieu boustie
Ranking: 9/10
The spot not to miss during your trip in NZ.
After hiking on the cape, it's the perfect bay to relax on the beach and sleep.
Well managed by DOC.
Chloe Grand
Ranking: 10/10
THE perfect spot to stay in this beautiful area! It gets busy pretty quickly though, make sure you arrive early. If no ranger on site, fees should be placed in the honesty box in the middle of the camp. Dry toilets were clean (classic flush toilets in the "day area"). Cold showers outside (no cabins). No drinking water. Access: 2km down a narrow gravel road, but you won't regret it! Make sure you walk the 5km to the Cape, from the end of the beach, the scenery is magnificent!
Michelle Rushton
Ranking: 10/10
Loved this site! It had everything we wanted. Swimming in paradise-like conditions and great walking. Sad to leave after 3 days, but had to meet friends. Best DOC campsite yet and only $6. But then I don't mind cold showers and drop toilets.
Alexander Gerbe
Ranking: 5/10
Very nice place, just $6 per person. We were there for 2 nights and enjoyed them! There is no signal and no warm water so I give just 5 points.
Corry Stucki
Ranking: 9/10
Nice place directly at the beach. Toilets were clean. A bit crowded for October and there is only space for about 15 campers. We paid $6 per person. We would go again.
Anna Simon
Ranking: 10/10
This place is just stunning!!!! You can pitch your tent just in front of the water. We read that there are a lot of mosquitos, when we were there it was absolutely fine, no more then everywhere else ;-)
Second night was very stormy so we would recommend to build up your tent shelter (when you know that there is wind coming up!!!). Toilets are okay, lot of bugs and flies (normal for a compost-toilet I guess). Highly recommended!!!
Annie Crafar
Ranking: 10/10
This site was incredible. So relaxed and unspoilt. True kiwi style here. I actually got to like the refreshing cold showers! Extremely memorable stay.
Dennis Biedermann
Ranking: 10/10
This campground was the most beautiful we had on our 3 week trip. It was next to the sea with a nice view. It is a basic campground without power. There were only public toilets and cold showers, but they were clean.
Rebecca Can
Ranking: 8/10
Amazing spot, clean facilities, long gravel road on way in but well worth it
Christine Slowiak
Ranking: 8/10
Located in a beautiful, windy cove a bit far from the main highway, but easily justifiable on a hot day with the scenic beach. We would rate this site higher if we visited in summer instead of winter and enjoyed the waterfront more. There are semi-enclosed cold showers (no roof) with moderately clean toilets and non-treated sink taps. There are no fires, BBQs or kitchen. Incredible connecting hiking trails that we wished we had more time to check out. Ample greenery on which to park cars and campervans. Honesty box for $6 per person per night. -Stayed one night in June 2015.
Kurz Werner
Ranking: 10/10
a grand place in a wonderfull landscape and an excellent starting point for a great trail to the cape (14 km return). The only campground at our journey through NZ (South and North Island) we stayed for 2 nights (12 NZD for 2 P.)
Martin Hall-May
Ranking: 9/10
A beautiful, secluded beach spot at the top of Northland. Would recommend spending more than one night here, as we only spent one and had no time to do the many walks from the area. Location is perfect, showers are very cold and outside, and there are many mosquitoes (turn off any lights before opening vehicle doors). We paid $6 per person unpowered.
Gregory Agnoux
Ranking: 10/10
Very good campsite, cheap, clean (but dry toilets are a bit smelly), view is amazing and not far from Cape Reinga. Would go back there anytime.
Helen Ameis
Ranking: 9/10
Breathtaking scenery, good facilities, quite crowded, absolutely worth the way downhill via gravel road. You definitely should have a swim in the river which takes you floating to the ocean!
Christian Wiertelorz
Ranking: 8/10
One of the most beautiful DOC campsites we visited on the North Island. 6dollars each + 3 Dollars for rubbish, cold showers outside. The sites are very clean, beside the beach and no noises in the night.
There's a nice 2 hour walk to Cape Reinga. Absolutely recommendable!
Ian
Ranking: 9/10
Great place to stay after visiting Cape Reinga after all the crowds had gone, had it nearly to ourselves. The camp site was v busy and pretty crowded (having arrived late in the evening). Site manager was very helpful. No mozzies or sandflies. Nice beach views and boardwalk up river. Long coastal walks. Access via gravel road was fine in a 7m campervan. Additional charge for waste/recycling.
Dave Ruijter
Ranking: 9/10
Beautiful site! It was a bit crowded (almost full) and indeed lots of mosquitos! Walking to the cape takes 2hrs, driving <10 min. Toilets were okay. Showers cold but great. We're two adults with an SCC and paid $12, very nice price!! The drive up north is amazing and the cape is a must visit. Go before 10:30 and you will beat the busses. Take a sand dune dive on your way back, hire a board on the road, at the site they're $15.
Heather Kingston
Ranking: 8/10
DOC Tapotupotu – Very close to Cape Reinga, and a drive down a fairly steep, but do able section in a campervan. You can hike the 5 kms to the Cape from the campsite. Steep hills up and down, but on a clear day you can see forever.
Tobias Herrmann
Ranking: 10/10
Nice shaded camp spots with views on the spectacular secluded beach. lots of connecting walk possibilities. Very friendly manager, clean toilets and showers.
Michiel Brunsveld
Ranking: 9/10
Amazing campsite, must do for everyone visiting the Northland. Stunning location near the beach. Facilities are DoC so minimal. Unfortunately not very clean, but it's all about location at this site. It was totally worth it.
Anna
Ranking: 9/10
This cheap DOC campsite is so beautiful. You can pitch your tent in a way that the first thing you see in the morning is the beautiful ocean. Showers are bad. Connected to walks.
Johannes
Ranking: 8/10
Awesome sight but a lot of sandflies.
Matthias Freiling
Ranking: 10/10
Nice, cheap, in a beautiful bay at a beach!! Just $6 per person, shower, toilet, water, everything you need for a good stay there!
Thomas Dequidt
Ranking: 8/10
The closest campground to Cape Reinga. Nice place, beautiful sunset on the beach, but bring some mosquito repellant! Very cold shower. Otherwise it is nice, $12 per person.
Boneschova Jarka
Ranking: 10/10
Wonderful countryside, calm place, cheap with a shower - love this camp!
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Clarissa Krote
Ranking: 10/10
Amazing place to stay. Not too big, very close to the beach.
Andrew Potratz
Ranking: 10/10
Smallish access road seemed a bit tricky to navigate, but I came at a time of day when the sun was in my eyes, which didn't help. Great campsite, with plenty of space (though it was crowded in late April, probably worse during summer), and clean toilets aplenty. I highly recommend taking some of the trails in, as well as relaxing on the beach (there's a gnarly twisted tree right near the beach that's great for a good sit).
I didn't experience any problems with insects over ANZAC Day, but I've heard it's a hassle other times.
It's a five minute drive to Cape Reinga, so it's a great location. I arrived late and went to the cape early the next morning before anybody else had shown up. Breathtaking. Highly recommend.
Mike Fricker
Ranking: 8/10
12May14, 1 night, $12 per night, 2 of us (50's).
Ha! We paid but the others that didn't got caught by the DoC Rangers! Serve them right too.
Nice site. 2 long drop ablution blocks and a cold shower facility. I don't know why the day visitors further along had flush toilets. Worth the very short walk for decent loos.
Good beach and walks and not too many flies when we were there.
Gravel road to get there but not too bad.
A good place to stay at the top end.
Leon Courtney
Ranking: 10/10
Ver nice camp. Usual DoC facilities - low cost - walks through bush - sea and river sites.
Regan Fairley
Ranking: 10/10
One of the best Doc camp sites in New Zealand. Beautiful beach and river. Bush walks and coastal walk to Cape Reinga. Do have to watch the mosquitoes and sand flies in the evenings due to you being surrounded by water.
Valerio Penita
Ranking: 8/10
Very nice Doc camp-site in a very beautiful part of New Zealand.
arnaud paquet
Ranking: 10/10
Amazing location, 5km away from cape Reinga, with a beautiful track leading to it. For just 6$ each, you have a cold shower and a very nice spot along the beach. Heaps of place and just 3km of gravel to reach it.
Not to be missed!
Adam Balcar
Ranking: 10/10
Beautiful tropical like beach.
David Esner
Ranking: 10/10
Beautiful location by the ocean. Amazing sunrise.
kiwifamily2
Ranking: 9/10
Nice beach and creek, we enjoyed the walk there from Cape Reinga, Good low cost camping.
julian
Ranking: 9/10
Very nice beach, good fishing spots on the left side of the bay, although you have to climb a little bit over the rocks.
Frederic Birke
Ranking: 9/10
Classic DOC campsite, $6per night, clean toilets and cold water showers. In addition to that, one of the loveliest bays I have ever seen.
Douglas Walker
Ranking: 8/10
Wonderful location and decent facilities.
Harry Findeis
Ranking: 7/10
Nice place.
Patricia Busbach
Ranking: 6/10
Really nice location at the beach, good facilities, but far too many mosquitos!!! Even with closes windows they found a way to come inside the campervan. Couldn´t sit outside in the evening and during the night we were fighting with the mosquitos in the camper.
Loesje
Ranking: 10/10
Big popular campsite, but still lots of space, relaxing and quiet. Soooo much space to pitch your tent/park your van, several toiletblocks, lovely cold showers outside to cool down, and great swimming in the sea or in the river which ends up in the sea. Awesomeness! :)
Will and Taylor
Ranking: 9/10
Really close to the lighthouse. Short journey down steep gravel road to campsite. Lots of walks and tramps to do in the area, including a mangrove boardwalk. Was quite busy in the summer.
Beautiful beach and adjoining stream perfect for swimming, surfing and boogie boarding. Lovely. Well done, DOC!
Denis
Ranking: 9/10
One of the best camping grounds in New Zealand. Nice views, cheap and you can swim in the sea.
Valerie
Ranking: 10/10
In front of the beach. Not a lot of facilities, but it is worth the view and it is cheaper.
Bernard Gastaud
Ranking: 4/10
A wonderful place but too small area for vans and tents.
Schael
Ranking: 10/10
Directly by the sea with the walk to Cape Reinga. A great campsite in a little quiet bay!
Keegan Jansen
Ranking: 10/10
Clean, basic but adequate. GREAT location make up for it. Cheap.
Sebastian Hol
Ranking: 8/10
Ranger checks the park every day.
Richard Rite
Ranking: 9/10
Nice campsite, perfect location to explore the cape early in the morning without the crowds of tourists.
Daniel & Manuela
Ranking: 10/10
Great value and pure nature.
Luis Valenzuela
Ranking: 9/10
Really scenic and well serviced, clean toilets, water etc.
Renate Rohlin
Ranking: 4/10
Not as exceptional as we had expected it to be. Very crowded, not good for swimming (waves, winds).
Claudia & Julian
Ranking: 10/10
For a small fee you have a great campsite directly on the beach.
Shelly_Brian
Ranking: 10/10
Most beautiful location, great site & friendly rangers!
Theresa
Ranking: 9/10
Very good location but few facilities.
Lisa Beutler
Ranking: 9/10
Very nice little bay!
Thierry Meylan
Ranking: 9/10
Relaxing place camping on the beach.
Danielle
Ranking: 9/10
Pristine views with camping right next to the beach. Peaceful and grassy campgrounds and a lot of mosquitoes!
Boi Sagarra
Ranking: 9/10
Lonely and fantastic beach, just beside Cape Reinga.
Andreas Rath
Ranking: 10/10
Most beautiful scenery and marvelous beaches. $6 per day.
Harald Schmidt
Ranking: 9/10
Great location and beach. Good for fishing and surfing. No fire allowed :(
Hartheib Schmid
Ranking: 8/10
Great spot, really great!! Just heaps of mosquitoes.
Nikolas Woelzel
Ranking: 7/10
DOC sites are clean, reliable and most important, surrounded by nature!
Sven
Ranking: 10/10
Nice location along the beach, few sandflies :). Quite place.
Jared Hambley
Ranking: 9/10
Right on the beach, great swimming, surfing, fishing right on your doorstep.
Bolt
Ranking: 8/10
Beautiful (only much rain).
Martin
Ranking: 9/10
DOC camping ground in a great spot! Manager was really friendly and gives advice on good walks in the area. Camp just a few meters from a nice empty beach. Toilets and cold water showers.
Cymen Crick
Ranking: 9/10
Stunning campsite at the edge of the earth. Arrive after early afternoon as this normally quiet spot is inundated with tour buses at around midday. Early mornings and evenings are gold.
BryonyS
Ranking: 6/10
Beautiful location, once you arrive over hills, very basic site. Picked due to location, facilities basic - toilets only (non flush). Very quiet - must take Mosquito repellant. No amenties locally or on site so be prepared!
Halley
Ranking: 10/10
Awesome! So beautiful. Toilets need work though.
Maria Lorentzen
Ranking: 8/10
Just on the beach and cheap.
Krause
Ranking: 8/10
Nice location
Leanne Rogan
Ranking: 10/10
Right on the beach, outdoor showers, beautiful scenery
klinger
Ranking: 10/10
Great place for a campground.
Frank de Voogd
Ranking: 9/10
Wonderful landscape. Simple and value for money.