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Rarawa Beach Campsite

No reviews yet · ~NZD 9 / night (typical night)$$$$$ · Department of Conservation
0800 837 254[email protected]

Rarawa Beach Campsite is a conservation campground located along the Paxton Point Conservation Area in Northland, approximately 54 km north of Kaitaia. The site features tent camping among trees on the riverbank with immediate access to Rarawa's renowned white sandy beach. The area is popular for surfing, fishing, and walking, with limited mobile reception but strong beach and water-based activities. Access requires 4 km of gravel road. (via official site)

Tents Car access

Rates & prices

Prices as published on Rarawa Beach Campsite’s official website.

ItemPrice
Adult18+ years18 per night
Child5-17 years9 per night
Infant0-4 yearsfree per night

Key facts

At-a-glance details for Rarawa Beach Campsite, from its official website.

Booking & season

SeasonYear-round; camp managers present December 15–February 7 (peak) and Easter
OperatorNgāti Kuri Facilities Services

Pitches & accommodation

Accommodation typeTent camping sites along riverbank amongst trees

Facilities & services

Mobile receptionLimited
Rubbish disposalNo bins on-site; daily collection during peak season (fee applies), otherwise take in/take out
Dump stationLocations at SH1/Te Paki Stream Road junction or Kaitaia

Activities & family

Water activitiesFishing, swimming, surfing
Land activitiesWalking; access to Rarawa Beach Walk and Te Paki Coastal Track

Location & access

CoordinatesE1607538-N6157437 (-34.72511375, 173.08233232)
Distance from Kaitaia54 km north via SH1
Nearest town servicesHouhora township, 10 minutes south (dairy, petrol, amenities)

Rules & policies

Vehicle accessVehicles cannot drive on the beach per regional council restrictions
Not allowedNo open fires; no fireworks; no sky lanterns; no domestic animals (except certified disability assist dogs)
Water safetySwimming hazards present; rough seas and strong currents noted; supervision required

Opening hours & schedules

Reception, gate and facility hours for Rarawa Beach Campsite.

Reception (Peak season)07:00–19:00
Reception (Off-season)08:00–12:00

Facilities & details

Amenities and on-site features reported for Rarawa Beach Campsite.

Fee
Price15 NZD/night
Reservationrequired
Toilets
Drinking wateruntreated
Showerscold
Wheelchairlimited
Dogs

Know before you go

Practical things to prepare for a trip to Rarawa Beach Campsite.

Location

Where Rarawa Beach Campsite sits on the map and how to get there.

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What’s nearby

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

🏞️ Attractions

Rarawa BeachBeaches & swimming

beach in New Zealand

1.5 km · ~6 min driveDirections ↗
Kowhai BeachBeaches & swimming

Beach in Northland, New Zealand

16.5 km · ~23 min driveDirections ↗
Arethusa ReserveParks & play19.4 km · ~28 min driveDirections ↗

🛒 Amenities & services

🛒 Groceries

Fuel

🍽️ Food & drink

🚻 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 Rarawa Beach Campsite.

Good to know

Quick answers to common questions about Rarawa Beach Campsite.

Is booking required?

Yes, reservations are required and must be made through the Rarawa Camping website.

What payment methods are accepted?

Cashless only: EFTPOS, credit card, or electronic bank transfers. DOC Campsite Pass is not accepted.

Are pets allowed?

No domestic animals are allowed, except certified disability assist dogs.

Are campfires permitted?

No. Open fires, fireworks, and sky lanterns are not permitted at the campsite.

How do I access the campsite?

The campsite is accessed via Rarawa Beach Road, which requires driving 4 km of gravel road from State Highway 1.

How much does it cost to camp at Rarawa Beach Campsite?

The posted price is 15 NZD/night.

Do I need to book ahead for Rarawa Beach Campsite?

Yes, a reservation is required. You can check availability on the official website.

Is there drinking water at Rarawa Beach Campsite?

Yes, drinking water is available.

Are there toilets at Rarawa Beach Campsite?

Yes, toilets are available on site.

Are showers available at Rarawa Beach Campsite?

Yes, showers are available.

Are dogs allowed at Rarawa Beach Campsite?

No, dogs are not allowed.

Is Rarawa Beach Campsite wheelchair accessible?

Partially — wheelchair access is limited.

Who runs Rarawa Beach Campsite?

Rarawa Beach Campsite is operated by Department of Conservation.

When is Rarawa Beach Campsite open?

Rarawa Beach Campsite is open Year-round; camp managers present December 15–February 7 (peak) and Easter.

What languages are spoken at Rarawa Beach Campsite?

Staff at Rarawa Beach Campsite speak English.

Reviews

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