Kai Iwi Lakes Campsite
Promenade Point
Reviews
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Sara
Ranking: 8/10
Beautiful place. Didn’t feel completely safe in winter with some people living in their vans/cars driving up on the parking lot, smoking late at night.
However scenery is beautiful. Bathrooms are okay but for $12 per adult per night not that nice.
Rachel B
Ranking: 9/10
Lake: excellent, clean warm water
Toilets: always clean.
Shower: you need a $2 coin to use it for couple of minutes (5 minutes I think?)
Camping: plenty of space and right in front of the lake.
You can walk or ride a bike around the lake.
Birte
Ranking: 8/10
We really enjoyed our time at the camping ground. There were no showers or facilities for cooking but the toilets up the hill were fine and the area was very clean. Not many campers there (in March). The best part clearly is the beautiful lake with its ~7km track around it and several nice sand beaches. No boats or kayaks when we were there. $15 per person and night is quite a lot for having only toilets and rubbish bins but the scenery makes a stay totally worth it!
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Boukje Diijkstra
Ranking: 8/10
There is almost nothing, toilets up the hill are also used by passers by, but the lake is fantastic, very warm in mid February, starting shallow and a nice white beach. It was very quiet when we were there. We heard that the other camp site also has a playground, but we haven't checked that out. If the weather wasn't getting bad, we would definitely stay another night, although you pay for the location, not the facilities.
Mabel Vanasperen
Ranking: 7/10
Very nice view over the lake; lots of space. The 'regulars' who come there for water sports were quite noisy, so pick a spot as far away from them as you can, e.g. near the gate. Facilities OK but not very well maintained.
Jordan and Marielle
Ranking: 10/10
Great place at a lake with a lovely sandy beach and enough space. The water of the lake was crystal clear. Too bad it rained when we were there because it is a really nice area. Several clean toilets above the campsite on the road. We didn't spot showers, but you can have a nice morning dive in the lake :) Bear in mind that you need to be there before the closing of the gate at 9.30 pm.
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Will and Taylor
Ranking: 8/10
Probably just a summer thing, but when we were there they had a campervan-cafe open that sells chips and drinks.
Definitely bring all the supplies that you need before heading up to this camp, it’s a rather long drive to get up here.
Lake was crystal clear and beach was white sand - amazing!!
Shame about the deforestation in the area, but overall it’s still a nice spot.
Mike3
Ranking: 9/10
The old Radiata Pine trees may have gone but thousands of native trees have been planted in their place which will be far better when they grow. The row of toilets are new and nicer than the older facilities at the other end of the lake. The lakes are sand dune lakes with clear water and a thriving trout population. The grassy camping area is varied and quite attractive. There is also a walk to the West Coast starting just up the road.
yzones
Ranking: 9/10
Was the best place in the world but shame they cut down all the trees. Make sure you take everything you need, Cold showers and toilets. We have been going there for 20 years.