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Ōtaki Forks Campsite

No reviews yet · ~NZD 10 / night (typical night)$$$$$ · Department of Conservation

Ōtaki Forks is a family and dog-friendly conservation campsite located in Tararua Forest Park, 19 km east of Ōtaki township. The facility features 150 large grassy camping sites surrounded by river terraces and regenerating native bush, with excellent access to bush walks and the Waiotauru River for swimming. Amenities include two cooking shelters, three toilet blocks, and three river access points. The campsite operates with an on-site ranger from December to April during the summer season. (via official site)

Tents Car access

Rates & prices

Prices as published on Ōtaki Forks Campsite’s official website (NZD).

ItemPrice
Adults18 years and overNZD 10 per night
Children5–17 yearsNZD 5 per night
Infants0–4 yearsfree per night
Service feefor phone or in-person bookingsNZD 10

Key facts

At-a-glance details for Ōtaki Forks Campsite, from its official website.

Booking & season

SeasonOctober to April
Booking requirementOnline bookings mandatory; same-day bookings available online until 8 pm if spaces remain
PaymentCash via on-site ranger or Iron Ranger; DOC Campsite Pass accepted

Pitches & accommodation

Pitches150

Facilities & services

Internet/PhoneNo phone or internet reception in the area

Location & access

CoordinatesNZTM2000 E1787182, N5471884; Latitude -40.88273913, Longitude 175.22165329
Access19 km east of Ōtaki township, at the end of Ōtaki Gorge Road; gravel road with steep sections and one shallow stream ford
RegionTararua Forest Park, Wellington/Kapiti

Rules & policies

FiresFires not allowed at any time; gas cookers and BBQs permitted
RubbishNo rubbish facilities; all waste must be packed out

Opening hours & schedules

Reception, gate and facility hours for Ōtaki Forks Campsite.

Ranger on-siteDecember to April

Facilities & details

Amenities and on-site features reported for Ōtaki Forks Campsite.

Reservation
Toilets
Drinking wateruntreated
Wheelchair
Dogsleashed

Location

Where Ōtaki Forks Campsite sits on the map and how to get there.

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Nearby cities & towns

Towns and cities closest to Ōtaki Forks Campsite — browse campsites near each.

What’s nearby

Shops, drinking water, fuel and attractions within reach of the site.

🏞️ Attractions

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Waitatapia (862 m)
Waitatapia (862 m)Summits & peaks

hill in New Zealand

2.6 km · ~6 min driveDirections ↗
The Potts ReserveParks & play10.2 km · ~25 min driveDirections ↗
Tent (559 m)Summits & peaks

hill in Wellington Region, New Zealand

23.4 km · ~70 min driveDirections ↗

🛒 Amenities & services

🚻 Toilets & showers

🎾 Sports

Weather

Current conditions and the forecast to help you plan your trip.

Best time to visit

Typical monthly temperature and rainfall at Ōtaki Forks Campsite.

Good to know

Quick answers to common questions about Ōtaki Forks Campsite.

Do I need to book ahead for Ōtaki Forks Campsite?

No — it's first-come, first-served.

Is there drinking water at Ōtaki Forks Campsite?

Yes, drinking water is available.

Are there toilets at Ōtaki Forks Campsite?

Yes, toilets are available on site.

Are dogs allowed at Ōtaki Forks Campsite?

Yes, dogs are allowed.

Is Ōtaki Forks Campsite wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it's wheelchair accessible.

Who runs Ōtaki Forks Campsite?

Ōtaki Forks Campsite is operated by Department of Conservation.

How many pitches does Ōtaki Forks Campsite have?

Ōtaki Forks Campsite has around 150 pitches.

When is Ōtaki Forks Campsite open?

Ōtaki Forks Campsite is open October to April.

What languages are spoken at Ōtaki Forks Campsite?

Staff at Ōtaki Forks Campsite speak English.

Reviews

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