Image: Benhi Dixon | Creative Commons
Beach at Kapowairua (Spirits Bay).
Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Campsite

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

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

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

Fees

  • Adult (18+ years): $16 per night
  • Child (5–17 years): $8 per night
  • Infant (0–4 years): free

The DOC Campsite Pass cannot be used at this campsite. 

DOC works with local iwi Ngāti Kuri to manage this campground.

How to book

You need to book to stay at this campground.

Book online

All sites will be cashless. Eftpos, credit card and electronic transfers only will be accepted.

Enquiries

Ngāti Kuri Facilities Services Helpdesk

Phone: 0800 TE PAKI (0800 837 254)
Email: campgrounds@ngatikuri.iwi.nz

Office hours

  • Peak season: 7 am – 7 pm (15 December to 7 February)
  • Off season: 8 am – 12 pm

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

Camp managers are on site over the peak season from December to February and Easter.

Read the camp rules.

Rubbish

No rubbish bins on site. During peak season December to February, rubbish is collected daily with fee by camp managers. At all other times, remove your rubbish as per a 'take in, take out' policy.

The nearest rubbish transfer station is at Houhora.

The nearest dump station for motor home waste is on the corner of SH1 and Te Paki Stream Road or in Kaitaia at the Te Ahu Centre car park behind building.

What to bring

Adequate preparation and equipment is needed. Bring all the usual tramping/camping gear, and the following:

  • insect repellent (especially in summer)
  • consider carrying an antihistamine/EpiPen as there are wasps in the campsites
  • water filter/purification tablets or gas cooker for boiling water
  • sunscreen/hat/sunglasses.

Clean your gear before and after your stay

Always clean your equipment (shoes/camping gear/cars) before and after trips. This will minimise the risk of spreading invasive pests, weeds, and diseases.

Safety

  • weather can be changeable with sudden downpours of rain increasing stream levels this may delay your progress be prepared to stay longer than intended 
  • tracks may be slippery in wet weather, and larger streams may be uncrossable
  • you may not be able to cross some streams at around high tide and you may need to wait for the tide to recede
  • there is limited mobile reception in Te Paki – tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back
  • there are plenty of mosquitoes and sandflies – make sure your tent is mosquito proof and carry insect repellent
  • do not leave your vehicle unattended while walking the track thefts has occurred in this area
  • the coastal areas of New Zealand is susceptible to Tsunamis, make yourself familiar with information at site and plan your escape route
  • wasp numbers are high from January through to April, carry antihistamine cream or tablets as a precaution. Cover food and keep lids on sweet drinks. Wear light-coloured clothing as wasps are more likely to attack dark-coloured objects if their nest is disturbed
  • beware rogue waves or ocean surges when fishing or walking near the coast.

Be fire safe

Fire is a real risk for the reserve and your safety. No fireworks, paper/sky lanterns or open fires are permitted at any time of year. Gas/contained flame cookers are allowed. Maintain a 3-metre distance between groups to reduce the possible spread of fire.

Water safety

Be aware that the beach is a challenging place for swimming and can be dangerous. There are rough seas, strong currents and it gets deep quickly.

The nearest surf lifesaving and coastguard stations are over an hour away, so if you get into trouble it can take a long time to get help.

If you plan to enjoy the water, learn how to stay safe when swimming, boating and fishing.

No domestic animals

No domestic animals are allowed in the Te Paki Recreation Reserve (including tracks and campsites). This includes dogs, cats, birds, goats, sheep or horses. If you have a certified disability assist dog, please carry evidence of the certification with you at all times.

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

Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) forms part of the Te Paki Coastal Track. This stunning 4–5-day tramp follows the dramatic coastline of the Te Paki Recreation Reserve, 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.

Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairau

The famous landmark Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua sits at the tip of the Te Paki Recreation Reserve. This highly significant area to Māori marks the point where wairua (spirit) return to their traditional homeland.

Te Paki sand dunes

Te Paki sand dunes are a series of giant dunes. This is a popular stop for people visiting Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua and 90 Mile Beach. You can walk on the dunes – it is a lovely place to enjoy the scenery.