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We spent one night freedom camping at Mangahuia Campsite in a camper-van and had a fantastic experience. The campsite is peaceful and beautifully located beside a stream on the edge of Tongariro National Park, offering a great natural setting to unwind.
One of the highlights of our stay was taking a walk on the Mangahuia Track. The trail is a lovely mix of native bush, tussock, and open areas, with several stream crossings that added a bit of adventure. The walk is moderately easy but requires care on some slippery sections. We enjoyed stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect hike to complement our camping experience.
The campsite facilities are basic but well maintained, including long-drop toilets, a cooking shelter with running water (boil before drinking), and picnic tables. The location is excellent—close to Whakapapa Village and many iconic walking tracks, including the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. We would have loved more time here to explore the nearby creek and trails.
A few practical notes: there are no powered sites or showers, and water needs boiling before use. Booking ahead online is essential as the site is popular.
Overall, Mangahuia Campsite is a wonderful choice for a quiet, scenic night in nature with family, especially if you enjoy easy access to beautiful walks like the Mangahuia Track. We would...
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Exceeded expectations. Basic camp site central to many activities (42 traverse, Tongariro crossing, Fishers track, etc). Some spots more private than others. Can confirm Kiwi in the area at night, had a male scratching around under the Land Rover and heard calling at 1am. Beautiful sunsets, sunrise and night sky. Not the most remote camp site, but a good base.
No issue with paying the fees for these campsites as they help to maintain other DOC facilities such as tracks that are free. Please consider the bigger picture when exploring our beautiful country. Pay the (minimal) fee, take only photos, leave...
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I'm hoping this review reaches others that were travelling via car and were looking to camp. This Campsite is self sufficient, there is no check in desk or kiosk. We had booked 3 months ago so everything was paid for. It was difficult due to the impression that the website gave, that there might be more information upon arrival. There is a poster for a map of hiking trails at the front but no real instruction after that. Very worried about the circumstances, my friend and I did not spend the night in our Campsite, the bugs were...
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