Tapotupotu Campsite
Located in Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua and Te Paki Recreation Reserve in the Northland region
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Introduction
Camp near a lagoon suitable for swimming and kayaking. Visit Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua only 5 minutes drive away or 3 hours via the walking track.Access
- Campervan
- Car
- Foot
Landscape
- Coastal
Facilities
- Non-powered/tent sites
- Shower - cold
- Toilets - non-flush
- Water from tap - not treated, boil before use
- Wheelchair accessible with assistance
Activities
- Bird and wildlife watching
- Diving and snorkelling
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Walking and tramping
Seasonal restrictions
Fires are not permitted at any time. See fire rules on conservation land.
Dog access
Stay at New Zealand's most northern campsite and experience the scenic wonders of Tapotupotu, from lush forest to breaking surf and breath-taking views.
Camp with the beach at your doorstep, and awaken to the sweet sound of white water breaking on the sand. Tapotupotu is the perfect place to relax, enjoy and explore the great Far North.
Tapotupotu is part of the four-day Te Paki Coastal Track.
Tapotupotu Campsite is a wilderness camping area accessible by road with minimal facilities.
Fees
- Adult (18+ years): $16 per night
- Child (5–17 years): $8 per night
- Infant (0–4 years): free
The DOC Campsite Pass cannot be used at this campsite.
DOC works with local iwi Ngāti Kuri to manage this campground.
How to book
You need to book to stay at this campground.
All sites will be cashless. Eftpos, credit card and electronic transfers only will be accepted.
Enquiries
Ngāti Kuri Facilities Services Helpdesk
Phone: 0800 TE PAKI (0800 837 254)
Email: campgrounds@ngatikuri.iwi.nz
Office hours
- Peak season: 7 am – 7 pm (15 December to 7 February)
- Off season: 8 am – 12 pm
From Kaitaia head north on State Highway 1. Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes travel time from Kaitaia to Tapotupotu campsite.
Location
NZTM2000 coordinates: E1574155, N6189320
Camp managers are on site over the peak season from December to February and Easter.
Rubbish
No rubbish bins on site. During peak season December to February, rubbish is collected daily with fee by camp managers. At all other times, remove your rubbish as per a 'take in, take out' policy.
The nearest rubbish transfer station is at Houhora.
The nearest dump station for motor home waste is on the corner of SH1 and Te Paki Stream Road or in Kaitaia at the Te Ahu Centre car park behind building.
What to bring
Adequate preparation and equipment is needed. Bring all the usual tramping/camping gear, and the following:
- insect repellent (especially in summer)
- consider carrying an antihistamine/EpiPen as there are wasps in the campsites
- water filter/purification tablets or gas cooker for boiling water
- sunscreen/hat/sunglasses.
Clean your gear before and after your stay
Always clean your equipment (shoes/camping gear/cars) before and after trips. This will minimise the risk of spreading invasive pests, weeds, and diseases.
Safety
- weather can be changeable with sudden downpours of rain increasing stream levels this may delay your progress be prepared to stay longer than intended
- tracks may be slippery in wet weather, and larger streams may be uncrossable
- you may not be able to cross some streams at around high tide and you may need to wait for the tide to recede
- there is limited mobile reception in Te Paki – tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back
- there are plenty of mosquitoes and sandflies – make sure your tent is mosquito proof and carry insect repellent
- do not leave your vehicle unattended while walking the track thefts has occurred in this area
- the coastal areas of New Zealand is susceptible to Tsunamis, make yourself familiar with information at site and plan your escape route
- wasp numbers are high from January through to April, carry antihistamine cream or tablets as a precaution. Cover food and keep lids on sweet drinks. Wear light-coloured clothing as wasps are more likely to attack dark-coloured objects if their nest is disturbed
- beware rogue waves or ocean surges when fishing or walking near the coast.
Be fire safe
Fire is a real risk for the reserve and your safety. No fireworks, paper/sky lanterns or open fires are permitted at any time of year. Gas/contained flame cookers are allowed. Maintain a 3-metre distance between groups to reduce the possible spread of fire.
Water safety
Be aware that the beach is a challenging place for swimming and can be dangerous. There are rough seas, strong currents and it gets deep quickly.
The nearest surf lifesaving and coastguard stations are over an hour away, so if you get into trouble it can take a long time to get help.
If you plan to enjoy the water, learn how to stay safe when swimming, boating and fishing.
No domestic animals
No domestic animals are allowed in the Te Paki Recreation Reserve (including tracks and campsites). This includes dogs, cats, birds, goats, sheep or horses. If you have a certified disability assist dog, please carry evidence of the certification with you at all times.
Tapotupotu campsite is a great spot to base yourself while exploring Te Paki Recreation Reserve and is only a 5 min drive from Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua.
Tracks & walks
Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) forms part of the Te Paki Coastal Track. This stunning 4–5-day tramp follows the dramatic coastline of the Te Paki Recreation Reserve, and traverses a variety of beautiful and unique landforms including giant sand dunes. It offers spectacular views and also accesses areas of historic and archaeological interest
Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairau
The famous landmark Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua sits at the tip of the Te Paki Recreation Reserve. This highly significant area to Māori marks the point where wairua (spirit) return to their traditional homeland.
Te Paki sand dunes
Te Paki sand dunes are a series of giant dunes. This is a popular stop for people visiting Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua and 90 Mile Beach. You can walk on the dunes – it is a lovely place to enjoy the scenery.
Contacts
| DOC Customer Service Centre | |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0800 275 362 |
| kaitaia@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | DOC offices |