Beach at Kapowairua (Spirits Bay)

Image: Benhi Dixon | Creative Commons

Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite

Located in Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua and Te Paki Recreation Reserve in the Northland region

Introduction

This is a scenic campsite, with lush forests and sandy beaches in close range. Kapowairua is a place to relax, enjoy and explore the great outdoors.

Campsite overview

Access

  • Campervan
  • Car
  • Caravan

Landscape

  • Coastal

Category

  • Category
Scenic

Bookings

  • Bookings

Bookings not required - first come, first served

Facilities

  • Non-powered/tent sites
  • Shower - cold
  • Toilets - flush
  • Water from tap - not treated, boil before use
45 non-powered/tent sites

Activities

  • Fishing
  • Swimming
  • Walking and tramping

Seasonal restrictions

Fires are not permitted at any time.

Dog access

Dogs with a DOC permit for recreational hunting or management purposes only
  • Help stop kauri dieback
    • Stay away from kauri tree roots.
    • Clean your footwear and gear before and after visiting kauri forest.

    How you can help save kauri

About this campsite

Camp in a picturesque setting between the beach (5 min walk) and hills of the Aupōuri Peninsula north of Kaitaia.

Getting there

Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) is located in the northernmost area of New Zealand, north of Kaitaia.

From Kaitaia head north on State Highway 1. Follow signposts from Waitiki Landing, turn onto Te Hapua Road for 16 km and then onto Spirits Bay Rd, follow to end until you reach the Kapowairua campsite.

Access: From Waitiki Landing, you travel 16 km on a gravel road.

Location

NZTM2000 coordinates: E1587447, N6190362
Latitude: -34.42814531, Longitude: 172.86337907

Fees

  • Adult (18+ years): $15 per night
  • Child (5 - 17 years): $7.50 per night
  • Infant (0 - 4 years): free

The campsite pass for rental campervans can be used at this campsite.

The DOC/NZMCA Campsite Pass can be used at this campsite.

Backcountry Hut Passes cannot be used at this campsite.

Bookings

No bookings – first come/first served.

Activities

One of the Far North’s renowned surf breaks, Kapowairua can turn it on when the swell is right.

Indulge yourself with a stroll along the beach, listen to the waves and local wildlife while enjoying the scenery.

A perfect place for fishing, swimming and walking. Take a day trip to historical Te Rerenga Wairua (Cape Reinga).

Tracks & walks

Before setting out, contact the DOC Kaitaia office for an update on the condition of the tracks.  
 
Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) forms part of the Cape Reinga Coastal Walkway. This stunning 3-4 day tramp follows the dramatic coastline of the east and west, and traverses a variety of beautiful and unique landforms including giant sand dunes. It offers spectacular views and also accesses areas of historic and archaeological interest. Self- sufficient camping is available.

Know before you go

  • Mosquitoes prolific – take insect repellent.
  • No rubbish bins on site. During peak season December to February, rubbish is collected daily (as per council fees per bag - subject to change). At all other times remove your rubbish. 'Take in, take out' policy. Food scraps attract vermin. Nearest rubbish transfer station is at Houhora.

Read the camp rules.

Freedom camping

If you're not staying at Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) campsite, freedom camping (self sufficient and free of charge) is welcome within the Te Paki reserves, particularly along the Te Paki Coastal Track.

However, camping is not permitted within 500 metres of formed roads or at Te Rerenga Wairua. Campsites at Pandora and Twilight Beach provide basic amenities; toilets and shelter, along with water when there has been sufficient rain.

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
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