The best camping in New Zealand with surfing

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New Zealand’s coast delivers when it comes to surfing, and Hipcamp lists 9 campsites that put you close to the action. You’ll find everything from basic grassy clearings to well-kept beachfront spots, most averaging around $40 a night, with a few going as low as $20. Want to surf all day and sleep near the waves? Check out Manaia Valley Farm (2 reviews), Dominic E.’s Land (2 reviews), or Pats Place - Te Ngaere Bay (1 review). Facilities like toilets and showers make cleanup easy after a session, and you can bring your dog along to most spots. When the surf’s flat, go swimming, fish off the rocks, or watch for seabirds. These sites get you close to the sand, the swell, and the laid-back pace that makes camping in New Zealand unique.

100% (7) 8 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near New Zealand

Pats Place - Te Ngaere Bay

1. Pats Place - Te Ngaere Bay

100%
(2)
1 site · Tent · Kaeo
Available is a sheltered flat grass section near a stunning beach. It is sheltered from the wind yet only a 60m stroll to the beach. Take your morning coffee or evening wine to the beach (like I do). Lot's of fun nature hikes in the area, eg Mahineapua Track, Whangaroa Harbour. Nearby is Matauri Bay reknowned for it's great surf, or Kauri Cliffs Golf Resort.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
NZ$73
 / night
Manaia Valley Farm

2. Manaia Valley Farm

100%
(3)
1 site · Tent, RV · Whangarei
Hi Hipcampers! Manaia Valley Farm is nestled below the stunning Mt Manaia, Whangarei Heads. Our 20 acres is just 600m from Ocean Beach, perfect for surfing and swimming. If you prefer a gentle float in calm waters, Taurikura beach is just a 5 min drive away. There are heaps of fantastic hikes in the vicinity if that's your thing. We have space for campervans/caravans/tenters. And we have a flush toilet, and hot outdoor shower available. Come enjoy some of the most stunning sunsets Northland has to offer!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from 
NZ$31
 / night
Dune Lakes Lodge - Retreat & Horses

3. Dune Lakes Lodge - Retreat & Horses

1 site · Lodging · South Head
Dune Lakes Retreat & Horse Inspired Learning Centre is nestled on the wild South Kaipara Head Peninsula, just 60 minutes from Auckland CBD, yet it feels far removed from everyday life. Set among ancient sand hills, pristine wetlands, native bush, and the calm waters of Lake Kereta — a rare freshwater dune lake — this is a landscape shaped by deep time, quiet balance and wonderful for safe swimming. The South Kaipara Head is an ancient sand barrier separating the vast Kaipara Harbour from the Tasman Sea. Between the dunes, groundwater has gathered over thousands of years to form freshwater lakes and wetlands that filter water, support rich biodiversity, and create a profound sense of calm. Guests may choose from a range of camping sites — some nestled near the wetlands, others more open with wide skies and lake views. Facilities include excellent water quality, toilets, and showers. Accommodation includes the Flying Horse Barn with three studio rooms at $150 per night per room, and a cabin available for $100 per night (bring your own linen/towels etc or $25 extra per stay for supplied linen for all accommodation) To the west lies the dramatic Muriwai / Rangatira coastline with sweeping Tasman Sea sunsets. To the east is the sheltered Kaipara Harbour, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere and a vital feeding ground for marine life and migratory birds such as godwits, knots, plovers, and terns. A quiet lagoon to the north shelters swans, ducks, pūkeko, paradise shelduck, kingfisher, fantail, warbler, and silvereye. At dawn, birdsong fills the air. At dusk, frogs rise in chorus, and from deep within the reedbeds the rare Australasian bittern calls — a nationally threatened bird whose presence signals an intact wetland. The retreat is also home to a free-roaming herd of horses at the Horse Inspired Learning Centre. The horses are free-roaming, barefoot, unridden, and without covers. Mindful, non-riding interactions grounded in Natural Horse Friendship and Equine-Assisted Learning sessions are available by arrangement at $250 per morning session) A place to rest, reflect, and reconnect — where land, water, wildlife, horses, and quiet beauty meet.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
NZ$84
 / night
Slobadogavich Acres

4. Slobadogavich Acres

1 site · RV · Raglan, NZ
Situated only 15 minutes from Raglan and about the same to the blissful and barely known about Aotea Harbour, keep going and in only 35 minutes you find yourself in Kawhia, another gorgeous harbour and also boasts it's own hot water beach, where at low tide you can just dig a hole and create your own spa pool - choose the right day and enjoy a spectacular and unforgettable sunset. Not forgetting of course the renowned Bridal Veil Falls, only 2km further up the road from this property. With the local social club directly across the road, you have the choice of peace and tranquility or a little socialising and getting to know the locals - with the possibility of being let in on further (lesser known and undiscovered) attractions which, believe me exist - but are accessable by permission only. With it's close proximity to Raglan and all that it beholds, it's a great place to park up away from the hustle and bustle (and the free camping Nazis, lol) take a breath and plan your next move. Stay a night or a week, I promise you that the longer you stay the more welcome you will feel - and be...
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
NZ$49
 / night
Beach Front Paradise

5. Beach Front Paradise

100%
(1)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Waiotahe, BOP
Beautiful beach front, with lots to do or a great spot to relax in nature. White Island and Whale island located off shore is definitely a site to sea on the golden hour sunset. Motu trail bike track directly infront of property so if you love to bike this is perfect for you. Surfing and swimming is very popular, or long walks along the beach! Fishing is a must! So bring your gear along. An untouched slice of paradise that you can’t bet, fresh sea breeze and fresh air! Please message before booking and if you have any questions just txt or email. Thanks 0277220509 Price -$25 for two people (1 vehicle) per night -Extra people $10per person, $5 per child
Pets
Potable water
from 
NZ$31
 / night
Dominic E.’s Land

6. Dominic E.’s Land

100%
(3)
1 site · Tent, RV · Waipapa, NZ
Welcome to our paradise Ocean views over the bay of islands from our 10 acre block of farm land and native bush with a spectacular small waterfall and swimming hole andl gardens . Approximately 10 km from the town of Kerikeri and 6 km from Waipapa easy access to the beautiful beaches of Northland
from 
NZ$25
 / night
Pohutukawa Cabin @ Karikari Lodge.

7. Pohutukawa Cabin @ Karikari Lodge.

1 site · Lodging · Karikari Peninsula, NZ
The Pohutukawa Cabin is part of our Guest House space. The Cabin is private and self contained there are no shared facilities. The Pohutukawa Cabin is to the rear of Karikari Lodge and overlooks the beautiful and treasured Karikari Bay. You have free use of the SUP (Stand up paddle boards) and Bodyboards.
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from 
NZ$161
 / night

New Zealand’s coast delivers when it comes to surfing, and Hipcamp lists 9 campsites that put you close to the action. You’ll find everything from basic grassy clearings to well-kept beachfront spots, most averaging around $40 a night, with a few going as low as $20. Want to surf all day and sleep near the waves? Check out Manaia Valley Farm (2 reviews), Dominic E.’s Land (2 reviews), or Pats Place - Te Ngaere Bay (1 review). Facilities like toilets and showers make cleanup easy after a session, and you can bring your dog along to most spots. When the surf’s flat, go swimming, fish off the rocks, or watch for seabirds. These sites get you close to the sand, the swell, and the laid-back pace that makes camping in New Zealand unique.

100% (7) 8 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near New Zealand

Pats Place - Te Ngaere Bay

1. Pats Place - Te Ngaere Bay

100%
(2)
1 site · Tent · Kaeo
Available is a sheltered flat grass section near a stunning beach. It is sheltered from the wind yet only a 60m stroll to the beach. Take your morning coffee or evening wine to the beach (like I do). Lot's of fun nature hikes in the area, eg Mahineapua Track, Whangaroa Harbour. Nearby is Matauri Bay reknowned for it's great surf, or Kauri Cliffs Golf Resort.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
NZ$73
 / night
Manaia Valley Farm

2. Manaia Valley Farm

100%
(3)
1 site · Tent, RV · Whangarei
Hi Hipcampers! Manaia Valley Farm is nestled below the stunning Mt Manaia, Whangarei Heads. Our 20 acres is just 600m from Ocean Beach, perfect for surfing and swimming. If you prefer a gentle float in calm waters, Taurikura beach is just a 5 min drive away. There are heaps of fantastic hikes in the vicinity if that's your thing. We have space for campervans/caravans/tenters. And we have a flush toilet, and hot outdoor shower available. Come enjoy some of the most stunning sunsets Northland has to offer!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from 
NZ$31
 / night
Dune Lakes Lodge - Retreat & Horses

3. Dune Lakes Lodge - Retreat & Horses

1 site · Lodging · South Head
Dune Lakes Retreat & Horse Inspired Learning Centre is nestled on the wild South Kaipara Head Peninsula, just 60 minutes from Auckland CBD, yet it feels far removed from everyday life. Set among ancient sand hills, pristine wetlands, native bush, and the calm waters of Lake Kereta — a rare freshwater dune lake — this is a landscape shaped by deep time, quiet balance and wonderful for safe swimming. The South Kaipara Head is an ancient sand barrier separating the vast Kaipara Harbour from the Tasman Sea. Between the dunes, groundwater has gathered over thousands of years to form freshwater lakes and wetlands that filter water, support rich biodiversity, and create a profound sense of calm. Guests may choose from a range of camping sites — some nestled near the wetlands, others more open with wide skies and lake views. Facilities include excellent water quality, toilets, and showers. Accommodation includes the Flying Horse Barn with three studio rooms at $150 per night per room, and a cabin available for $100 per night (bring your own linen/towels etc or $25 extra per stay for supplied linen for all accommodation) To the west lies the dramatic Muriwai / Rangatira coastline with sweeping Tasman Sea sunsets. To the east is the sheltered Kaipara Harbour, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere and a vital feeding ground for marine life and migratory birds such as godwits, knots, plovers, and terns. A quiet lagoon to the north shelters swans, ducks, pūkeko, paradise shelduck, kingfisher, fantail, warbler, and silvereye. At dawn, birdsong fills the air. At dusk, frogs rise in chorus, and from deep within the reedbeds the rare Australasian bittern calls — a nationally threatened bird whose presence signals an intact wetland. The retreat is also home to a free-roaming herd of horses at the Horse Inspired Learning Centre. The horses are free-roaming, barefoot, unridden, and without covers. Mindful, non-riding interactions grounded in Natural Horse Friendship and Equine-Assisted Learning sessions are available by arrangement at $250 per morning session) A place to rest, reflect, and reconnect — where land, water, wildlife, horses, and quiet beauty meet.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
NZ$84
 / night
Slobadogavich Acres

4. Slobadogavich Acres

1 site · RV · Raglan, NZ
Situated only 15 minutes from Raglan and about the same to the blissful and barely known about Aotea Harbour, keep going and in only 35 minutes you find yourself in Kawhia, another gorgeous harbour and also boasts it's own hot water beach, where at low tide you can just dig a hole and create your own spa pool - choose the right day and enjoy a spectacular and unforgettable sunset. Not forgetting of course the renowned Bridal Veil Falls, only 2km further up the road from this property. With the local social club directly across the road, you have the choice of peace and tranquility or a little socialising and getting to know the locals - with the possibility of being let in on further (lesser known and undiscovered) attractions which, believe me exist - but are accessable by permission only. With it's close proximity to Raglan and all that it beholds, it's a great place to park up away from the hustle and bustle (and the free camping Nazis, lol) take a breath and plan your next move. Stay a night or a week, I promise you that the longer you stay the more welcome you will feel - and be...
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
NZ$49
 / night
Beach Front Paradise

5. Beach Front Paradise

100%
(1)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Waiotahe, BOP
Beautiful beach front, with lots to do or a great spot to relax in nature. White Island and Whale island located off shore is definitely a site to sea on the golden hour sunset. Motu trail bike track directly infront of property so if you love to bike this is perfect for you. Surfing and swimming is very popular, or long walks along the beach! Fishing is a must! So bring your gear along. An untouched slice of paradise that you can’t bet, fresh sea breeze and fresh air! Please message before booking and if you have any questions just txt or email. Thanks 0277220509 Price -$25 for two people (1 vehicle) per night -Extra people $10per person, $5 per child
Pets
Potable water
from 
NZ$31
 / night
Dominic E.’s Land

6. Dominic E.’s Land

100%
(3)
1 site · Tent, RV · Waipapa, NZ
Welcome to our paradise Ocean views over the bay of islands from our 10 acre block of farm land and native bush with a spectacular small waterfall and swimming hole andl gardens . Approximately 10 km from the town of Kerikeri and 6 km from Waipapa easy access to the beautiful beaches of Northland
from 
NZ$25
 / night
Pohutukawa Cabin @ Karikari Lodge.

7. Pohutukawa Cabin @ Karikari Lodge.

1 site · Lodging · Karikari Peninsula, NZ
The Pohutukawa Cabin is part of our Guest House space. The Cabin is private and self contained there are no shared facilities. The Pohutukawa Cabin is to the rear of Karikari Lodge and overlooks the beautiful and treasured Karikari Bay. You have free use of the SUP (Stand up paddle boards) and Bodyboards.
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from 
NZ$161
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field