Camping Grounds

Campsites are available throughout the Whakatane District, including tent sites and powered sites for caravans and campers.

Options range from large camping grounds and motor camps with full facilities, to quiet riverside campsites where you can pitch a tent. 

Council Camping Grounds

The Whakatane District Council operates two camping grounds, one coastal and one inland.

Pikowai Camping Ground

Situated on the coast at Pikowai (35 km east of Whakatane on the highway to Tauranga), this is a popular camping ground with basic amenities. Unpowered sites, tap water, toilets and pay showers are provided. The beach is very popular for surf fishing.

Thirty-two camp sites are provided on a ‘first come first served’ basis. The maximum length of stay is 14 nights. Fees are $15 per night for two adults and two children. There is an extra charge of $5 per night for each extra adult and $1 per night for each extra child. No more than eight people per site please.

For more information please visit the Pikowai Campground webpage.

Lake Aniwhenua camping area

This is a freedom camping area on the Lake Aniwhenua Reserve. Basic toilet and shower facilities and a cooking shelter are provided. The lake is a popular trout fishery and water ski area. When the lake behind the hydro dam was first filled it was famous for huge rainbow trout. Those days have passed but trout are still plentiful. There are some nice sized rainbow trout present and the chance for larger cruising brown trout for the careful fisherman.

DoC campsites

The Department of Conservation (DoC) operates three easily accessible camping grounds in Te Urewera National Park–each one an ideal base for exploring the Park. Facilities are basic so for your own comfort you need to be self-sufficient. 

The three sites operate on a self-registration basis. Deposit the appropriate fee in an envelope and place it in the box at the registration stand. No dogs are permitted in the park. For further information about DoC campsites and nearby walks or tramps go to the Department of Conservation website or visit the Whakatane or Murupara Information Centres.

Find out more

For contact details and maps showing the location of camping sites visit whakatane.com