Maitai Bay Campsite
Located in Karikari Peninsula in the Northland region
Introduction
This Kaitaia area campsite is popular with families. Camp in a sheltered bay nestled amongst beautiful pohutukawa trees.Access
- Campervan
- Car
- Caravan
Landscape
- Coastal
Facilities
- Non-powered/tent sites
- Shower - cold
- Toilets - flush
- Water from tap - not treated, boil before use
- Wheelchair accessible with assistance
Activities
- Bird and wildlife watching
- Diving and snorkelling
Seasonal restrictions
Fires are not permitted at any time. See fire rules on conservation land.
Dog access
Image gallery
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Matai Bay Campsite is popular in summer Image: | DOC
![Matai Bay Campsite.]( "Matai Bay Campsite.")
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Maitai Bay on the Karikari Peninsula Image: Natalia Volna | Creative Commons
![Maitai Bay Beach.]( "Maitai Bay Beach.")
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Maitai Bay dunes and beach Image: Pierre Roudier | Creative Commons
![Maitai Bay dunes and beach.]( "Maitai Bay dunes and beach.")
Video
Fees
- Adult (18+ years): $15 per night
- Child (5–17 years): $7.50 per night
- Infant (0–4 years): free
Passes
The DOC Campsite Pass can be used at this campsite.
How to pay
Christmas to Waitangi weekend
You'll need to pay using cash or EFTPOS to camp managers during the peak period.
Outside of Christmas to Waitangi weekend
You'll need to pay using only cash to the iron ranger at site.
Maitai Bay is located on the outer Karikari Peninsula, on Maitai Bay Road, about 44 km northeast of Kaitaia.
From Kaitaia, head north on SH1 until you reach Awanui, then turn right onto SH10. Continue on SH10 for 14.6 km, then turn left onto Inland Road. Continue along Inland Road for 15 km, then turn left onto Maitai Bay Rd and continue for 5 km. The Maitai Bay Campsite entrance is signposted on your right.
Note: You travel 2 km on a gravel road.
Location
NZTM2000 coordinates: E1637275, N6145711
Latitude: -34.82958635, Longitude: 173.40807865
- Mosquitoes prolific – take insect repellent.
- No rubbish bins on site. During peak season December to February, rubbish is collected daily (as per council fees per bag - subject to change). At all other times, remove your rubbish. 'Take in, take out' policy. Food scraps attract vermin.
- Nearest rubbish transfer station located at Whatuwhiwhi (1 km past the Whatuwhiwhi garage).
Northland reserve bylaws apply to Maitai Bay Recreation Reserve.
No boat access
There is no boat access at Merita beach. Pedestrian access is still available. There are boat ramp access points at Tokerau beach, Perehipe Bay or Rangiputa.
No horses allowed at this campsite.
Walk around the coast or relax on the picturesque white sandy beach.
Tracks and walks
The campsite is a handy starting point for some family friendly walks. Get stunning views from the Fig Tree Track or walk along the Maitai Bay Headland Track. Take a longer walk from Karikari beach to Rangiputa along the coastal marginal strip via the Karikari Bay Track.
Other activities
A day use area and boat launching facilities are available.
Enjoy diving, snorkelling and swimming at the beach, a short walk away from the campsite. Note: A rahui is in place so fishing is not permitted.
Explore historic sites.
Keep an eye out for endangered bird species like the New Zealand dotterel and oystercatcher. If you find a nesting area, do not disturb and take special care.
Cultural significance of the area
There are many areas of spiritual and cultural significance within the general vicinity of the camp. Of particular significance is the headland on Maitai Point between the two beaches that are accessible from the camp. Access around the rocks is permitted, but local iwi would prefer people stay away from the elevated parts of this point.
Stop kauri dieback and protect kauri
Kauri dieback spreads through soil.
- Scrub all soil off shoes and gear.
- Use cleaning stations.
- Always stay on the track.
Contacts
| Te Hiku / Kaitaia Office | |
| Phone: | +64 9 408 6014 |
| Fax: | +64 9 408 6019 |
| Email: | kaitaia@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
25 Matthews Ave Kaitaia 0441 |
| Postal Address: |
PO Box 569 Kaitaia 0441 |
| Full office details | |