Forget the long-haul drive. This summer, your perfect escape is closer than you think. We’ve got a treasure trove of spectacular regional parks right here in Tāmaki Makaurau. Whether you prefer a more basic, back-to-nature tents-only campsite or a campervan/caravan experience, get ready for a unique and unforgettable escape with friends and whānau.
Don’t let the idea of “basic facilities” put you off, regardless of your choice, rest assured these spots are getaways to rugged coastlines, lush native bush and dazzling night skies – where the real magic of camping comes alive.
Just remember to be a tidy kiwi, leave no trace, and note that dogs are not permitted in the regional park camping areas. Now, let's explore!
SOUTH: Farm charm and coastal views at Ambury Regional Park
For city convenience and rural charm, check out Ambury Campground at Ambury Regional Park, located on the Manukau Harbour. The camping here is flat, with basic amenities (toilets, BBQ, water - boil it first!), but the adventures are anything but basic!
Explore Ambury Regional Park with friendly farm animals, coastal views, and plenty of space to roam.
This sweeping coastal location comes with panoramic views (across the Manukau Harbour and Waitākere Ranges) and stunning shorebirds – a birdwatcher’s dream!
You’ll also find the opportunity to get up close with animals at the working farm – a guaranteed hit with families. The adventure continues with mountain biking, horse riding, lamb feeding (from early august to end of Sept), and scenic walks to choose from like the Farm Walk, Foreshore Walk and Lost Garden’s Walk, which are all accessibility friendly for those on wheels.
Just choose your preferred mode of camping from tents, motorhomes, campervans, caravans or light trailers and enjoy - a perfect choice for those on the hunt for coastal views and rustic country fun.
WEST: Deep bush and dark skies at Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
Venture west and trade coastal plains for the deep, lush embrace of the native bush at Barn Paddock Campground, Huia. Here, your campsite is nestled among rolling pastures, flanked by endless forest-clad hills and a calming bush stream. This is stripped-back tent-only camping, at its best – no power at these sites, just pure nature.
Immerse yourself in the foothills of Te Wao Nui a Tiriwa, meaning "The Great Forest of Tiriwa" and coastline of the Manukau Harbor. If you think this spot is stunning during the day, just wait until the sun dips and the night sky makes itself known with countless stars to gaze at.
Visit Karamatura Track for stunning waterfalls and native bush in the Waitākere Ranges.
While you’re there, follow the paths through the paddocks to the adjacent Karamatura Valley and make the essential trek to the stunning Karamatura Falls.
A perfect choice for those who want to disconnect, hike and explore under the stars.
NORTH: Horseback and harbour views at Ātiu Creek Regional Park
Head north to discover one of Auckland Council’s largest gems. Ātiu Creek is a massive 843 hectare park that comes with panoramic views of the Kaipara Harbour. Expect beautiful ancient native forest, estuarine mangroves and wetlands.
A standout feature, outside of its stunning scenery, is that Ātiu Creek Campground by Solomon’s Bay is the only campground in the regional parks network where you can stay overnight with your horse! Bring a tent, campervans or caravans with self-containment certificates (CSC). Just remember you’ll have to call the Auckland Council contact centre to flag that you’re bringing your horse.
Escape to Atiu Regional Park, where rolling farmland meets rugged coastline. Perfect for hiking, picnics, and discovering Auckland’s hidden natural beauty.
Keep your eyes peeled for native feathered friends like kererū (woodpigeon), ruru (morepork), pīwakawaka (fantail), riroriro (grey warblers) and tui to name a few.
Tracks in this park are shared by walkers, mountain bikers, horse riders, park vehicles and sheep and cattle. Tackle the rewarding Oruawharo River Trail or the scenic Reservoir Walk.
Whether on foot, wheels, or on horseback, exhilaration awaits.
EAST: Paddler’s paradise on the peninsula at Duder Regional Park
The peace of this peninsula makes it a perfect getaway with unbeatable coastal views – it’s also a real treat for paddlers.
There are two options for camping here, CSC campervan parking near the main entrance off North Road, or the secluded and peaceful Te Wharau (Malua Bay) campground accessible by kayak only. Perched on the pōhutukawa-fringed Whakakaiwhara Peninsula, Duder Regional Park offers 360-degree views stretching across the Hunua Ranges and Hauraki Gulf Islands.
Enjoy the rolling open fields and seaside view at Duder Regional Park.
You can also enjoy easy walks like the Duder Farm loop or Kowhai loop while you look out for resident native birds like the tauhou (silvereye), kererū (NZ pigeon), pīwakawaka (fantail) and kōtare (kingfisher).
You’ll find the most inspiring adventures are often found in the simplest settings. These back-to-nature campsites are your ticket to the breathtaking beauty that surrounds us in Tāmaki Makaurau. Just book your spot, pack your gear and make this summer one for the memory books.
Tiakina ā tatou rākau kauri / Protect our kauri trees:
Do your part to protect healthy kauri trees and prevent the spread of kauri dieback.
When visiting areas with healthy kauri trees, please:
- Clean your footwear, tyres and equipment before and after visiting our kauri forests. If you are walking your dog, you should also make sure you clean their paws.
- Use cleaning stations every time you pass one while you are walking in a park.
- Stay on the tracks and keep off kauri roots.
- Stay away from closed tracks.
- Don't remove soil from, or bring soil into, areas with kauri trees.
