Camping Nirvana: The Top 7 Campgrounds in and near Tauranga
Staff Writer
| Last Updated: March 2024 Let’s be honest, finding the perfect campsite isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. You expect bonfires under starry skies, and maybe even a decent Wi-Fi connection for that last-minute work email (don’t judge).
But then reality hits. Mosquitos the size of pterodactyls, questionable bathroom facilities, and a location that somehow manages to be both too close to screaming toddlers and too far from decent coffee.
Sound familiar? Yeah, me too. That’s why, after years of less-than-ideal camping experiences, I decided to take matters into my own hands.
After a few weeks of camping around Tauranga, I’ve found the best campgrounds within the city and some on the outskirts that have it all, a traditional camping experience and luxuries for those of us who need it. So, here are my top picks!
1. Tauranga Tourist Park
Address: 9 Mayfair Street, Tauranga South, Tauranga 3112, New Zealand
Hours:
- Check In – 1 AM
- Check Out – 10 AM
Phone: +6475783323
Prices:
Tents & Camper Sites
- 25 NZD to 50 NZD for adults
- 12 NZD per child (1- 13 years)
Cabins
- 85 to 100 NZD
Tauranga Tourist Park is an idyllic retreat for campers seeking solace and adventure. And it’s not too far from the city (in case you absolutely must rush back for your usual coffee).
The park itself is well-maintained, with grounds that exude a sense of calm, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
If you’re a traditionalist, pitch your tent under the star-studded sky. Or park your campervan on their spacious sites, equipped with all the essentials. (Hot showers, yes, please.)
For a touch of luxury, opt for the en-suite cabin with private facilities, meaning no need for any awkward midnight meetings at the loo.
Pro Tip: Bring Fido along and explore the nearby trails together.
2. Tasman Holiday Park Papamoa Beach
Tasman Holiday Park Papamoa Beach
Address: Bay of Plenty 535 Papamoa Beach Road, Papamoa Beach, Papamoa 3118, New Zealand
Hours:
- Check In – 3 PM
- Check Out – 10 AM
Phone: +6475720816
Prices:
- Sites – 54 NZD per night
- Cabins – 169 NZD per night
Wake up to the soothing sounds of waves and dig your toes in the sand at Tasman Holiday Park at Papamoa Beach. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, you’re in for an authentic beach camping experience.
It doesn’t matter if you have a tent, caravan, or motorhome too. Tasman Holiday Park has spacious sites waiting for you. They also have beachfront villas and cosy cabins for those seeking simple luxury.
And don’t worry—they’ve got free WiFi, so you won’t be too disconnected from the outside world.
Pro Tip: Take some time to go swimming and surfing at the beach. If you’re not one for the water, a stroll along the coastline is just as good.
3. Welcome Bay Hot Pools & Campground
Welcome Bay Hot Pools & Campground
Address: 429A Welcome Bay Road, Welcome Bay, Tauranga 3175, New Zealand
Hours:
- Check In – 2 PM
- Check Out – 10 AM
Phone: +6475442327
Prices:
- Sites – 50 NZD for 2 people per night
- Cabins – 100 NZD for 2 people per night
The natural thermal mineral pools in Welcome Bay Hot Pools & Campground make it a great place to camp all year round.
Soak away your worries in the main pool, perfect for a refreshing dip, and let the warm waters of the smaller toddler pool soothe your little ones. Or take a plunge in the hotter spa pool, reaching temperatures of 39°C (perfect for those sore muscles).
Before you hit the pools, though, pitch your tent or park your campervan on one of the 20 powered sites, each equipped with electricity, water access, and a picnic table. Or, opt for a touch more comfort with one of their cabins.
Pro Tip: No pets are allowed!
4. Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park
Mount Manunganui Beachside Holiday Park
Address: 1 Adams Avenue, Mount Maunganui 3116, New Zealand
Hours:
- Check In – 12 PM
- Check Out – 10 AM
Phone: +6475754471
Prices:
- Sites – 65 NZD per night
- Cabins – From 110 NZD per night
At the foot of iconic Mount Mauao and directly facing the golden sands of Mount Maunganui Main Beach, Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park offers a prime location for campers seeking a quintessential Kiwi getaway.
Choose from powered or non-powered tent sites, campervan/caravan sites, or opt for the convenience of a fully equipped cabin or caravan. By the way, Wi-Fi access is available for a fee, keeping you connected if needed.
But you won’t need it when you’re literally steps away from the beach. Mount Maunganui Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, or simply enjoying the coastal breeze.
Pro Tip: Hike up Mount Mauao for panoramic views, or explore the nearby Tauranga Harbour.
5. McLaren Falls Park
Address: 190 McLaren Falls Road, Omanawa 3171, New Zealand
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM
Phone: +6475777000
Price:
- 5-16 years old – 11 NZD per night per person
- 17+ years old – 23 NZD per night per person
Set up camp near the magnificent McLaren Falls at McLaren Falls Park. All the good spots are first come, first served, so you better plan your camping trip out beforehand.
Designated areas like Top Flat, Hamilton Point, and Pin Oak Flat provide ample space for tents, caravans, and campervans. For those coming with a group, the 10-bunk hostel is a comfortable and affordable alternative. But you have to stay for a minimum of two nights.
No matter how long you stay at McLaren Falls Park, you’ll never run out of activities to do. Hike the scenic trails leading to the waterfall, explore the tranquil lake by kayak, or cast a line for trout in the fishing areas.
And for a little taste of magic, embark on a night walk along and witness the mesmerising glow of New Zealand’s native glowworms around McLaren Falls.
Pro Tip: You have to arrive at the park before closing time if you want to set up your campsite. They won’t let you in afterwards, even if you have a booking!
6. Bowentown Beach Holiday Park
Address: 510 Seaforth Road, Waihi Beach 3177, New Zealand
Hours:
- Check In – 2 PM
- Check Out – 10 AM
Phone: +6478635381
Prices:
- Tent Sites – 29 NZD per night
- Beachfront Sites – 31 NZD per night
- Seaview Sites – 36 NZD per night
- Kombi Cabin – 120 NZD per night
- Standard Cabin – 119 NZD per night
- Kitchen Cabin – 130 NZD per night
Bowentown Beach Holiday Park is a haven for campers nestled on the shores of Waihi Beach in New Zealand’s sunny Bay of Plenty.
Set up your tent just steps from the shore, and spend your days basking in the sun, swimming in the clear waters, or trying your hand at surfing. For something calmer, the sheltered bay on the other side of the park provides a tranquil spot for kayaking and paddleboarding.
No matter your style, Bowentown Beach caters to your needs. Choose from classic powered or non-powered campsites, some boasting breathtaking sea views. If you prefer a touch more comfort, opt for their Kombi cabin or kitchen cabin.
Bowentown also caters to families with its playground, bike and pedal carts, laundry station, game room, library, and more. And the on-site BBQ areas and a communal fire pit are perfect to use for nights under the starry sky.
Pro Tip: Explore the network of walking and biking trails that wind through the park, offering glimpses of the Kaimai Ranges and the picturesque upper harbour. For a dose of history, visit the nearby gold mining town of Waihi.
7. Tasman Holiday Park Ohiwa Beach
Tasman Holiday Park Ohiwa Beach
Address: 380 Ohiwa Harbour Road, Kutarere 3198, New Zealand
Hours:
- Check In – 1 PM
- Check Out – 10 AM
Phone: +6473154741
Prices:
- Sites – 45 NZD per night
- Cabins – 119 NZD per night
Tasman Holiday Park Ohiwa beckons travellers seeking a classic Kiwi beach getaway. Camping here means being just inches away from Ohiwa Beach!
Spend your days building sandcastles, swimming, or trying your hand at snorkelling, and as the sun sets, grab your camera to capture the breathtaking sunset.
Within the holiday park, you can choose to either set up your tent smack on the coastal shoreline or opt for a beachfront cabin. If you want to explore outside of the holiday park, the nearby town of Hope has tonnes of shops, cafes, and a vibrant market scene.
Pro Tip: Tasman Holiday Park hosts regular events and activities throughout the year, like pizza nights, puzzle days, and more.
