Uretiti Beach Campsite

Uretiti Beach Campsite sits behind the sand dunes of Bream Bay, a sweeping stretch of Northland coastline between Whangarei and Waipu. Managed by the Department of Conservation, this spacious campground offers around 300 non-powered sites spread across flat, grassy terrain with mature trees providing welcome shade. The beach is just a short walk through the dunes, and the campsite’s relaxed atmosphere has made it one of Northland’s most popular DOC camping spots, drawing families and solo travellers year after year.

Facilities are designed for a back-to-basics experience. Long-drop toilets are clean and well maintained throughout the site, with cold showers available free of charge and hot showers for $2 (coin-operated). There are no powered sites, kitchen facilities, or laundry services, so come prepared to be self-sufficient. The campsite operates a strict pack-in, pack-out waste policy with no rubbish collection on site. Camp hosts are on site year-round and the camp office operates daily from 8:30am to 9:00pm, with gates locked overnight from 9pm to 7am. All bookings must be made online before arrival.

Uretiti Beach itself is a 5km stretch of white sand that’s popular for swimming, surfing, and beachcombing, though there are no lifeguard patrols so take care in the water. Bream Bay is known for strong currents and rips, particularly during larger swells. The campsite is well positioned for exploring Northland, sitting roughly halfway between Auckland (140km south) and the Bay of Islands (130km north). The nearest town is Waipu, about a 10-minute drive south, where you’ll find shops, cafes, and fuel. Fishing, walking along the dunes, and simply watching the sunrise over the Pacific are the main draws here.