Waikare River Mouth Campsite — Hotel in North Island

Very WINDY which we didn't find enjoyable and a long drive down a gravel road before you reach the site. Would be perfect spot for those with older kids, we didn't find it relaxing as we had a toddler that kept running towards the water that was down a path that's out of view of where anyone would camp. Long drop toilets but they were well kept, didn't smell and weren't swarmed with bugs. Water tap but not suitable for drinking. Walk to the beach was well worth it, no one else on the beach so had it all...

Not bad. Very pretty. Fifteen minute walk to a lovely beach AND it’s puppy friendly. So bonus points for that.

I woke up around 3am and heard fish swimming in the lake. It was a really nice moment.

Unfortunately there’s a connecting “private” camp ground right next door, the night we were there it was packed with “entitled folk” running a loud petrol generator late into the evening - they obviously missed the memo on camping...

I’d suggest not following Google Maps. It took me down a dangerous gravel road, and after about 10 kilometres I ended up at someone’s farm entrance with signs saying “No entry without appointment.” The worst part was turning back the road was steep with tiny loose stones, my wheels kept spinning, and it was honestly...