Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite
Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) is a conservation campsite situated in Te Paki Recreation Reserve north of Kaitaia, Northland, accessible via a 16 km gravel road from Waitiki Landing. The site offers a picturesque setting between a sandy beach (5-minute walk) and native forest hills, making it ideal for beach activities and tramping. Facilities include beach access and motorhome dump stations at nearby locations; water requires filtration, purification, or boiling. The campsite is managed by DOC with local iwi Ngāti Kuri and operates year-round with peak season management December to February and at Easter. (via official site)
- beach access
- motorhome dump stations nearby
- GPS location available
Rates & prices
Prices as published on Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite’s official website (NZD).
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults — 18 years and over | NZD 18 per night |
| Children — 5–17 years | NZD 9 per night |
| Infants — 0–4 years | free |
Key facts
At-a-glance details for Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite, from its official website.
Booking & season
Prices & discounts
Facilities & services
Activities & family
Location & access
Rules & policies
Good to know
Opening hours & schedules
Reception, gate and facility hours for Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite.
Facilities & details
Amenities and on-site features reported for Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite.
Know before you go
Practical things to prepare for a trip to Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite.
- Reserve ahead — this campground requires a booking.
- Dogs aren't allowed — arrange a sitter if you're travelling with a pet.
- Bring cash for fees in case card payment isn't available on site.
Location
Where Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite sits on the map and how to get there.
What’s nearby
Shops, drinking water, fuel and attractions within reach of the site.
🏞️ Attractions
hill in New Zealand
beach in Far North District, New Zealand
hill in the Far North District, New Zealand

hill in the Northland Region, New Zealand
Beach in New Zealand
🛒 Amenities & services
🛒 Groceries
- Convenience
⛽ Fuel
- GAS Waitiki Landing
🍽️ Food & drink
- Restaurant
- Fast food
🚻 Toilets & showers
- Showers
- Public toilets
🎾 Sports
- Sports
Weather
Current conditions and the forecast to help you plan your trip.
Best time to visit
Typical monthly temperature and rainfall at Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite.
Good to know
Quick answers to common questions about Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite.
How do I book a site?
Booking is required and must be made through kapowairua.nz. Payment is cashless only: Eftpos, credit card, or electronic transfers.
Are pets allowed?
No domestic animals are allowed except certified disability assist dogs with proof of certification.
Can I have a campfire or open fire?
No open fires, fireworks, paper lanterns, or sky lanterns are permitted at any time. Gas or contained flame cookers are allowed.
What are the contact hours?
Peak season (15 Dec–7 Feb): 7 am–7 pm. Off-season: 8 am–12 pm. Camp managers are on-site Dec–Feb and Easter.
How do I access the campsite?
From Waitiki Landing, travel 16 km on a gravel road via Te Hapua Road and Spirits Bay Road. The beach is a 5-minute walk from the campsite.
How much does it cost to camp at Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite?
The posted price is 15 NZD/night.
Do I need to book ahead for Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite?
Yes, a reservation is required. You can check availability on the official website.
Can I bring an RV or caravan to Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite?
Yes, caravans and RVs are welcome.
Can I pitch a tent at Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite?
Yes, tent camping is allowed.
Is there drinking water at Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite?
Yes, drinking water is available.
Are there toilets at Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite?
Yes, toilets are available on site.
Are showers available at Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite?
Yes, showers are available.
Are there electrical hookups at Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite?
No electrical hookups are available.
Is there WiFi at Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite?
No, there's no internet access on site.
Are dogs allowed at Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite?
No, dogs are not allowed.
Who runs Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite?
Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite is operated by Department of Conservation.
Reviews
Ratings, nightly prices and photos from people who’ve camped here.
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Other campgrounds nearby
More places to camp close to Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite.
- Pandora Campsite · Department of Conservation
- Te Pua Reserve Camp Ground
- Tapotupotu Campsite · Department of Conservation
- Twilight Campsite · Department of Conservation
- Bluff Campsite
- Rarawa Beach Campsite · Department of Conservation