Bay of Plenty – Golden Sands & Geothermal Gateways

Stretching from the Coromandel Peninsula down to Ōpōtiki, the Bay of Plenty is one of New Zealand’s most popular holiday destinations for a reason. It combines a relaxed beach lifestyle with adrenaline-pumping activities, all set against a backdrop of volcanic hills and offshore islands.

For campers, the variety is unbeatable. You can park your campervan right on the sand at Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park, enjoy a family-friendly stay at Ōhope Beach (voted NZ’s best beach), or find a quiet Department of Conservation (DOC) site tucked away in the bush near Lake Tarawera.

Why Go Camping Here?

  • The Best Beaches: From the surfing hub of "The Mount" to the calm waters of Pilot Bay and the endless sands of Pāpāmoa, you are never far from the ocean.

  • Geothermal Wonders: You are just a short drive from Rotorua, but the Bay has its own hot spots, including the Mount Hot Pools (saltwater) and Fernland Spa.

  • Fresh Produce: Known as the kiwifruit capital of the world, roadside stalls are packed with fresh avocados, berries, and manuka honey.

  • Marine Life: The waters here are teeming with life. Join a tour to swim with wild dolphins or take a boat out to White Island (Whakaari).

Must-Do Camping Activities

  • Climb "The Mount" (Mauao): The sunrise walk to the summit of Mount Maunganui is a rite of passage. The 360-degree views of the coast are spectacular.

  • Kayak with Glowworms: Head to Waimarino Adventure Park for a twilight kayak tour into a glowworm canyon.

  • Surf at the Main Beach: Rent a board or take a lesson at Mount Maunganui’s Main Beach, one of the safest and most consistent breaks in NZ.

  • Cycle the Dunes Trail: Ride the Motu Trails or the easier Ōmokoroa to Tauranga cycleway for stunning harbour views.

  • Visit a Kiwifruit Orchard: Take a tour of Kiwi360 in Te Puke to see giant kiwifruit slices and learn about the region’s biggest export.

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Campsites in Bay of Plenty

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McLaren Falls Park Campground

Council campground near Tauranga with 50 sites, hot showers, camp kitchen, and famous glow worm walks after dark. Set around a beautiful lake and waterfall in native bush. Pet-friendly. Unpowered from $25, powered from $35. Close to Mount Maunganui and Rotorua.

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Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park

One of New Zealand’s best-located holiday parks, right at the base of Mauao with 206 sites and full facilities including WiFi, camp kitchen, and dump station. Walk to surf beach and village cafes. Pet-friendly. Powered sites from $55 per night. Book well ahead.

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Tasman Holiday Parks – Papamoa Beach

Big family holiday park on Papamoa Beach with 200 sites and a swimming pool. Full facilities including WiFi, camp kitchen, laundry, and dump station. Pet-friendly. Close to Mount Maunganui and Rotorua. Powered sites from $50 per night, pool access included.

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Ōhope Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park

The “Resort” of holiday parks, located on NZ’s most loved beach. Features a pool complex with hydroslides and a hot soak pool. Unique location offers both surf beach and calm harbour access. Warning: High density in summer. Pets allowed off-peak only (Feb–Dec).

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