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16 Camping Grounds and Holiday Parks in Whanganui (2024)

  • Stay

@WhanganuiSeasideHolidayPark

There are several excellent camping grounds in Whanganui. Holiday parks are a great way to relax and unwind without breaking the bank. Kids have plenty of grassy areas, beaches and playgrounds to expand their energy and there is even the option of standard motel style units with your own ensuite.

Pitch a tent in Department of Conservation scheduled campsites, remember to check DOC regulations and book online if the option is available to avoid disappointment.

 

1. WHANGANUI SEASIDE HOLIDAY PARK

@WhanganuiSeasideHolidayPark @WhanganuiSeasideHolidayPark

Explore Castlecliff beach alongside Whanganui Seaside Holiday Park. Grab the opportunity to unwind and unpack in the standard motel units, cabins or a romantic driftwood cottage for couples. There are powered and non-powered sites nestled among 3 acres of landscaped grounds.  Facilities include a large BBQ complex, large outdoor fireplace, swimming pool and sauna.

  • EV charging station
  • Linen hire
  • Private sauna
  • Bire hire
  • Visitor information and booking service

Reviews & More on TripAdvisor

Check & Book Here

What to do nearby:

A mere 8 km from Whanganui

 

 

2. WHANGANUI RIVER TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK

@WhanganuiHolidayPark @WhanganuiHolidayPark

TOP 10 premium holiday park with motels, reasonably priced ensuite accommodation or powered and non-powered sites. Wheelchair accessible units for mobility challenged guests.

The picturesque setting with the Whanganui River and park like grounds including children’s playground. Watch the Paddle Steamer Waimarie go by.

Facilities:

  • Kids jumping pillow
  • Adventure playgrounds
  • Petanque court
  • Aviary
  • Outdoor (summer only) heated pool
  • Launch your own boat, jet-ski or kayak from our boat ramp

Reviews & More on TripAdvisor

Check & Book Here

What to do nearby:

 

3. KAI IWI BEACH HOLIDAY PARK

@kaiiwibeach @kaiiwibeach

A classic campground with the iron sand Kai Iwi beach forming a boundary between the campground and the beach. Children’s playground, jumping pillow. Powered and non-powered sites, cabins, ensuite motel style units and get in quick to secure a powered site with expansive sea views.

Reviews & More on TripAdvisor

What to do nearby:

 

 

4. LAKELANDS HOLIDAY PARK

@Lakelands Holiday Park @Lakelands Holiday Park

Lakelands holiday park is found at the back of Lake Wiritoa off State Highway 3.

A standard traditional camping ground with Lake Wiritoa as part of the landscape. There are powered and non-powered sites, chalet units. There are no ensuite facilities.

What to do nearby:

NOTE: CLOSED FOR WINTER. REOPENS ON 1 OCTOBER 2024

 

Top Adventures & Activities in Manawatū-Whanganui – BOOK NOW, PAY LATER

 

5. THE FLYING FOX

@The Flying Fox Whanganui @The Flying Fox Whanganui

What a way to arrive. Whanganui River Road is a hidden treat for visitors. The Flying Fox, has a private aerial cable car and had the choice of staying in either the Gypsy Cart, the Blackberry Patch or the River Boat Cottage, complete with home cooked meals and a large dollop of Whanganui River magic.

Reviews & More on TripAdvisor

What to do nearby on the Whanganui River:

The River is a person: “I am the river, and the river is me” The Whanganui River has gained its own legal identity with all the corresponding rights, duties and liabilities of a legal person. Te Awa Tupua (Whanganui River Claims Settlement) established the river as an indivisible and living whole from the mountains to the sea.

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TIP

FLYING FOX is part of the Weird, quirky and 16 fascinating places to stay in New Zealand

 

 

6. WHANGANUI RIVER ADVENTURES & PIPIRIKI CAMPINGROUND

@WhanganuiRiverAdventures @WhanganuiRiverAdventures

What to immerse yourself in the remote splendour of Whanganui National Park, the river and chat to the locals then this is the place to be. A classic campground with powered and non-powered sites.

Whanganui River Adventures owns and operates Pipiriki Camping Grounds. Nau Mai, Haere mai (Welcome, welcome).

Your local Tangata Whenua (home people) Hosts – Ken and Josephine Haworth descend from local Hapu (sub-tribe) – Nqati Kurawhatia & Iwi – Te Atihaunui a-papa-rangi (local tribe).

As part of the Whanganui River Adventures this is a perfect opportunity kayak the river, walk to the Bridge to Nowhere and explore the Whanganui River Rd. A bonus is relatively good access to Mt Ruapehu (Turoa ski field) in the winter ski season (approximately 1 hour drive).

Facilities are shared kitchen, lounge. Cooking equipment available for hire. Hot showers included in tariff.

Reviews & More on TripAdvisor

What to do nearby:

Pipiriki Camping Grounds is also only a 5 minute walk to the Whanganui River, great for the summer time swimming. Ask at our Booking Office about our Canoe / Kayaking tours, stunning scenic jetboat tours, Mountain Bike and walking tracks in the area, this is ONLY a few of the many options or just come and relax here at our secluded campground.

 

 

DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION CAMPING GROUNDS

DOC conservation campsites – Manawatu/Whanganui

The information below is from the Department of Conservation online resource. For up to date information, changes or availability check the online resource for the relevant information.

 

Day Trips & Adventures in Whanganui National Park – BOOK HERE

 

1. Tīeke Marae/Kāinga

Tīeke Marae, Kāinga Campsite, Whanganui, New Zealand @Doc / Daniel Deans Tīeke Marae, Kāinga Campsite @Doc / Daniel Deans

DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION – Tīeke Marae/Kāinga offers a unique cultural experience since it’s a functioning marae as well as a hut. Tieke Marae/Kainga is nestled within the Whanganui National Park guide, activities, things to see. Check DOC resource for up to date information.

Great Walk Whanganui River Journey

Bookings required

Facilities

  • Cooking
  • Heating
  • Mattresses
  • Toilets – non-flush
  • Water from tap – not treated, boil before use

20 bunk beds

Seasonal restrictions: In the Great Walks season (1 October 2022 – 30 April 2023)

  • Bookings are required

Outside the Great Walks season (1 May 2022 – 30 September 2022). Bookings are not required – first come, first served. Facilities are reduced.

Reviews & More on TripAdvisor

 

2. Ngaporo Campsite

Ngaporo camp site. Whanganui River. Whanganui National Park. New Zealand Ngaporo camp site

DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION – Ngaporo Campsite located in Whanganui National Park guide, activities, things to see.

  • Boat only access

Great Walk Whanganui River Journey

Bookings required

Facilities

  • Shelter for cooking
  • Toilets – non-flush
  • Water from tap – not treated, boil before use

32 non-powered/tent sites

Seasonal restrictions: In the Great Walks season (1 October 2022 – 30 April 2023)

  • Bookings are required

Outside the Great Walks season (1 May 2022 – 30 September 2022). Bookings are not required, first come, first served. Facilities are reduced.

 

3. Mangapapa Campsite

Mangapapa Campsite @stillwalkingnz Mangapapa Campsite @stillwalkingnz

DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION – Mangapapa Campsite located in Whanganui National Park guide, activities, things to see: Best Bits.

  • Boat only access

Great Walk Whanganui River Journey

Bookings required

Facilities

  • Shelter for cooking
  • Toilets – non-flush
  • Water from tap – not treated, boil before use

17 non-powered/tent sites

Seasonal restrictions: In the Great Walks season (1 October 2022 – 30 April 2023)

  • Bookings are required

Outside the Great Walks season (1 May 2022 – 30 September 2022). Bookings are not required, first come, first served. Facilities are reduced.

 

 

4. John Coull Campsite

John Coull Campsite, Whanganui, New Zealand @DOC / Daniel Deans John Coull Campsite @Doc / Daniel Deans

DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION – John Coull Campsite located in Whanganui National Park guide, activities, things to see: Best Bits. Check DOC resource for up to date information.

  • Boat only access

Great Walk Whanganui River Journey

Bookings required

Facilities

  • Shelter for cooking
  • Toilets – non-flush
  • Water from tap – not treated, boil before use

26 non-powered/tent sites

Seasonal restrictions: In the Great Walks season (1 October 2022 – 30 April 2023)

  • Bookings are required

Outside the Great Walks season (1 May 2022 – 30 September 2022). Bookings are not required, first come, first served. Facilities are reduced.

 

5. Ohinepane Camping Area

Ohinepane Campsite @Rankers NZ Ohinepane Campsite @Rankers NZ

DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION – Ohinepane Camping Area located in Whanganui National Park guide, activities, things to see.

Access

  • Boat
  • Campervan
  • Car
  • Caravan

Great Walk Whanganui River Journey

Bookings required

Facilities

  • Boat launching
  • Shelter for cooking
  • Toilets – non-flush
  • Water from tap – not treated, boil before use
  • Wheelchair accessible with assistance

36 non-powered/tent sites

Activities

  • Bird and wildlife watching
  • Kayaking and canoeing

Seasonal restrictions: In the Great Walks season (1 October 2022 – 30 April 2023)

  • Bookings are required if staying as part of the Whanganui Journey

Outside the Great Walks season (1 May 2022 – 30 September 2022). Bookings are not required, first come, first served. Facilities are reduced.

Fires are not permitted at any time.

 

6. Maharanui Campsite

Maharanui Campsite, Whanganui, New Zealand @Doc / Daniel Deans Maharanui Campsite @DOC / Daniel Deans

DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION – Maharanui Campsite located in Whanganui National Park guide, activities, things to see. Check DOC resource for up to date information.

  • Boat only access

Great Walk Whanganui River Journey

Bookings required

Facilities

  • Shelter for cooking
  • Toilets – non-flush
  • Water from tap – not treated, boil before use

12 non-powered/tent sites

Seasonal restrictions: In the Great Walks season (1 October 2022 – 30 April 2023)

  • Bookings are required

Outside the Great Walks season (1 May 2022 – 30 September 2022). Bookings are not required, first come, first served. Facilities are reduced.

 

 

7. Mangawaiiti Campsite

Mangawaiiti Campsite @Matt's Te Araroa Mangawaiiti Campsite @Matt's Te Araroa

DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION – Mangawaiiti Campsite located in Whanganui National Park guide, activities, things to see: Best Bits.

  • Boat only access

Great Walk Whanganui River Journey

Bookings required

Facilities

  • Shelter for cooking
  • Toilets – non-flush
  • Water from tap – not treated, boil before use

26 non-powered/tent sites

Seasonal restrictions: In the Great Walks season (1 October 2022 – 30 April 2023)

  • Bookings are required

Outside the Great Walks season (1 May 2022 – 30 September 2022). Bookings are not required, first come, first served. Facilities are reduced.

 

8. Whakahoro Camping Ground

Whakahoro Camping Ground, Whanganui, New Zealand @DOC / Daniel Deans Whakahoro Camping Ground, Whanganui, New Zealand @DOC / Daniel Deans

DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION – Whakahoro Camping Ground located in Whanganui National Park guide, activities, things to see: Best Bits. Check DOC resource for up to date information.

Access

  • Boat
  • Campervan
  • Car
  • Caravan

Great Walk Whanganui River Journey

Bookings required

Facilities

  • Shelter for cooking
  • Toilets – non-flush
  • Water from tap – not treated, boil before use

36 non-powered/tent sites

Seasonal restrictions: In the Great Walks season (1 October 2022 – 30 April 2023)

  • Bookings are required

Outside the Great Walks season (1 May 2022 – 30 September 2022). Bookings are not required, first come, first served. Facilities are reduced.

Fires are not permitted at any time.

 

 

9. Mangapurua Campsite

Mangapurua Campsite, Whanganui, New Zealand @adventures_of_cheleigh Mangapurua Campsite @adventures_of_cheleigh

DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION – Mangapurua Campsite located in Whanganui National Park guide, activities, things to see: Best Bits.

  • Boat only access

Great Walk Whanganui River Journey

Bookings required

Facilities

  • Shelter for cooking
  • Toilets – non-flush
  • Water from tap – not treated, boil before use

10 non-powered/tent sites

Seasonal restrictions: In the Great Walks season (1 October 2022 – 30 April 2023)

  • Bookings are required

Outside the Great Walks season (1 May 2022 – 30 September 2022). Bookings are not required, first come, first served. Facilities are reduced.

 

10. Poukaria Campsite

Whanganui Canoe Poukaria site, New Zealand @Freeds in New Zealand Whanganui Canoe Poukaria site, New Zealand @Freeds in New Zealand

DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION – Poukaria Campsite located in Whanganui National Park guide, activities, things to see.

  • Boat only access

Great Walk Whanganui River Journey

Facilities

  • Shelter for cooking
  • Toilets – non-flush
  • Water from tap – not treated, boil before use

12 non-powered/tent sites

Seasonal restrictions: In the Great Walks season (1 October 2022 – 30 April 2023)

  • Bookings are required

Outside the Great Walks season (1 May 2022 – 30 September 2022). Bookings are not required, first come, first served. Facilities are reduced.

Bookings required

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TRAVEL PACK INFORMATION

FREEDOM CAMPING

Getting out and about in our district’s beautiful river and coastal areas is popular with visitors and Whanganui locals alike.

We are privileged to have several fantastic commercial campgrounds and family friendly holiday parks, all in great proximity to our scenic coastal areas and the Whanganui River.

We also welcome freedom campers and we’ve recently put some regulations in place around where people can freedom camp to help protect our public places and ensure access for everyone.

Freedom Camping Regulations in Whanganui

The Freedom Camping Act 2011 allows us to use a bylaw to regulate freedom camping across some of the district, and we have elected to control it in the most used and most prominent areas across the district.

The Freedom Camping Bylaw includes restrictions such as limiting how long people can freedom camp in certain areas, what vehicles they can use, and how many vehicles can be freedom camping at any one time. Most sites are limited to a stay of 4 nights per calendar month, and campers are required to stay in a vehicle that’s certified as self-contained if the site doesn’t have 24-hour access to a public toilet.

Several areas have also been prohibited entirely, and many areas have “buffer zones” – areas around them in which freedom camping is prohibited, to encourage campers to respect the restricted and prohibited areas.

All of the rules are contained in the Freedom Camping Bylaw and the map below shows the restricted (yellow) and prohibited (red) freedom camping areas.

View a larger version of this map

The majority of freedom campers to Whanganui are domestic travellers stopping by to enjoy our district on their way going up or down the North Island, and the Whanganui District Council wants to encourage responsible freedom campers to come and go and to make the most out of their visits to our city and its surrounds.

People who are freedom camping can also be difficult to distinguish from people who are experiencing homelessness. If you are concerned about somebody in the community experiencing homelessness, get in contact with us so we can connect them with services that can help.

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