This large, family-friendly coastal camp is not quite on the beach but adjacent to the world-renowned bird sanctuary at the Manawatu River mouth. There are 100 plus powered sites, 60 tent sites and new sites open with a view of the river and estuary. There is a camp store on-site (with basic stock) tennis courts and a park/playground next door. Plus and adventure playground. The camp terrain mimics the nearby rolling sand dunes and has an outdoor BBQ area and splendid play area at one end of the camp and petanque at the other. There are 2 large laundries two modern and inviting kitchens and a smart ablutions block with free showers plus disabled access facilities. There is a TV room and games room. The camp really comes alive in summer with a huge holiday programme. 4 dump stations are provided. Power sites are $18 per adult and $12 per child. All tent sites are $17 to $18 per adult and $11 perchild. Seasonal rates apply.

 Formerly Scoutlands Likeside Camp Ground.

Off SHwy 3, this hidden gem is just 4 km south of Wanganui beside pretty
Lake Wiritoa. The groomed grounds are huge (5 hectares) and you can camp
either in the bays beside the roadside macracarpa hedge or at the other end
(up past the caretaker’s house) on the tree-shaded lakefront. 28 powered
sites and unlimited tenting space make for a relaxed camping experience.
There are several blocks of well-appointed, spotlessly clean amenities around
the grounds. The water is from an Artisian well. Kayaks and canoes are
available for hire for campers or try the confdence course, fshing or hiking.
There is a dump site. No animals please. Your friendly hosts are Darryl and
Jackie. There is a dump site here  - Bring Marshmallows to Toast!

To reach Waitarere, turn-off SHwy 1 about 8 km north of Levin. Small in size but not in comfort, this spic-and-span terraced camp is adjacent to the wide sweep of Waitarere Beach. It has sites with power, plus a range of tent sites. The kitchen has plenty of facilities (including microwave) and a dining area, with an adjoining TV room. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, with homely touches. All the amenities are of a good standard with two ablutions blocks. An interesting children’s playground is set on the hill above the camp with great views out to sea. Shopping is just around the corner and you can walk through the sand dunes to the beach. A dump station is provided. 

There are 3 cosy cabins, 53 powered sites and 20 tent sites.

There are showers, toilets and a kitchen available. You can use the lounge in
the Lodge. Enjoy a BBQ on a lazy summer evening. Unpowered sites are $12
to $15. Your hosts are Denise and Richard.

Just as you reach the eastern edge of this quiet little beach town, turn left into Forest Road and aim for the camp named after the local shipwreck! Although not a beachfront camp, it offers an attractive setting with 50 powered sites
and around 30 tent sites. The grounds are level, with sites grouped together around their own waste disposal points. A great location for those who want to work off some energy in the nearby Domain skating rink, tennis courts or swimming pool. The camp has its own games hall and smart swimming pool, with a toddler’s pool operating in the busy season. The children’s play equipment is imaginative and challenging. The smart little kitchen has all the necessary equipment including a microwave. An attractive ablution block has hand driers and soap provided and there are automatic machines in the laundry. A dump station is provided.  Pet friendly by arrangement.

Gorgeous, sheltered reserve located next to an historic homestead. Bush
walking, native wildlife, picnic tables and a sheltered indoor summerhouse.
Public toilet facilities. Payment by donation.

Just north of the Manakau township, on your left, is this large rambling campsite. About one hour’s drive from the Interisland Ferry terminal in Wellington, it’s part of a much larger complex. The camping area is in a secluded valley area, sheltered by native bush and mature trees. There is generous space for the 28 powered sites. A swimming pool, volleyball nets, bush walks and confidence course are available for your enjoyment. For the casual camper there is a simple porch-style kitchen with a fridge/freezer, stove and microwave . A solid but well-loved ablution block provides showers and toilets. Laundry facilities are available up at the main complex. There is also a BBQ for camper use. 

At the gateway to the Ruahines sits a charming rural village called Apiti. Here you'll come to find the Apiti Tavern, a stunning building on a location which originates back to 1896. Inside, the tavern is alive with history, showcasing photographs on the walls of Apiti through the years. Locals with a thriving community heart give this place a welcoming atmosphere, unique to the rural country life.

A self-contained cottage next to the owner's house, just south of Atene. You can also park your campervan or pitch a tent in the adjacent paddock. Sleeps five.

This lovely, eco-retreat on the right bank of the Whanganui River accommodates campers arriving by river.(Jetboat or Canoe) Or you can arrive road and Cross the Flying Fox (Aerial Cableway) The Campground has a flush toilet, gas heated shower or an outdoor fire bath in the bush for campers to use. Free Wifi is also available Your hosts are Kelly and Jane. Phone ahead to check availability. Camping charge is $10 per person per night.$5 per person for Cablecar. Great store on site - you can even get a cold beer.