Camping at McLaren Falls Park in Tauranga to See Glow Worms

I really want to go camping before the temperature drops! 🍁 Highly recommend visiting McLaren Falls Park in Tauranga during this season—half the park is lush green, and the other half is painted in autumn hues, making it super photogenic! Last time I went on a rainy day, and it was still worth it—the waterfall was absolutely spectacular! 🚗 Getting there: From Auckland: ~2 hours to Matamata, ~2.5 hours to McLaren Falls Park. Winter opening hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM ⚠️ (You must drive in before 5:30 PM). ⛺️ Camping details: Book tickets online ($25 NZD) – there are several campsites, some with showers. We chose one near the water. Glow worm spotting: After a hotpot dinner at the campsite (around 7:30 PM), we parked at McLaren’s Falls Waterfall Loop and walked 300m along the stream. On the left side, there’s a wall covered in glow worms—so bright and up close! 📸 (Photos don’t do it justice—way better than the Waitomo Caves experience!) Tip: May nights are chilly—bring a beanie and warm layers! ☕️ The next morning: Grab coffee at the hillside café in the park before heading back. 🍖 Must-eat in Matamata: Sofra Restaurant—their lamb is unbelievably delicious (never tasted anything like it in Auckland!). After eating, walk a few steps to a cute Hobbit-style hut—a perfect photo spot! 📸 #NewZealand #AucklandWeekend #WeekendGetaway #CampingNZ #Matamata #TaurangaTravel #TaurangaCamping