Raetea North Side Campsite
Located in Raetea Forest and Mangamuka Gorge Scenic Reserve in the Northland region
Introduction
Take a break at the northern foot of Raetea, a lowland coastal forest situated in the Mangamuka Gorge.
Campsite overview
Access
- Campervan
- Car
- Caravan
Landscape
- Coastal
Facilities
- Non-powered/tent sites
- Toilets - non-flush
- Water from stream
Activities
- Bird and wildlife watching
- Swimming
Seasonal restrictions
Vehicle access is restricted from July to Labour Weekend – foot access only is available to the reserve and campsite during this time.
Fires are not permitted at any time.
Dog access
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Stop kauri dieback and protect kauri
- Kauri dieback disease is spread through soil.
- Scrub soil off shoes and gear and check it's all removed before you go.
- Use a hygiene station when you enter and leave.
- Always stay on the track.
About this campsite
Stay over night and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of camping underneath a beautiful forest.
Getting there
The campsite is located on SH1 at the northern foot of Raetea Forest (Mangamuka Gorge).
It is 18 km south-east of Kaitaia along SH1 at Mangataiore. Look for ‘Raetea Reserve’ sign and follow and cross the stream ford to the campsite.
Access: Gravel.
Location
NZTM2000 coordinates: E1639462, N6108053
Latitude: -35.16848283, Longitude: 173.43488949
Fees
Activities
This is an ideal spot for a rest during long distance travel. Have a picnic or take a refreshing swim.
Bird and wildlife watching
This campsite is set in one of the last remaining lowland coastal forests. Look and listen for kūkupa (NZ pigeon), short tailed bats and parakeets. Kauri snails are present here too.
Swimming
Have a picnic on the river bank followed by a refreshing dip in the crystal clear water. At times of heavy rain beware of the increase in strength of river currents.
Tracks and walks
The 9-10 hr Mangamuka Tramping Track is suited to the experienced recreational tramper and takes you through scenic Raetea Forest.
Know before you go
- There is a composting toilet.
- Mosquitoes prolific – take insect repellent.
- Always thoroughly clean your equipment (cars / shoes / camping gear etc.) before and after trips to minimise spreading invasive pests, weeds and diseases.
- Read the camp rules.
- From July to Labour Weekend, rocks are placed across the internal entranceway to the reserve leaving the internal carpark for those people wanting to stay overnight.
No horses allowed at this campsite.
Contacts
| Kaitaia Office | |
| Phone: | +64 9 408 6014 |
| Fax: | +64 9 408 6019 |
| Email: | kaitaia@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
25 Matthews Ave Kaitaia 0441 |
| Postal Address: |
PO Box 569 Kaitaia 0441 |
| Full office details | |