Isn’t it time you discovered a place where camping is simple and nature abounds? That place is Upper Mangatawhiri Campground. This campsite offers an authentic outdoor experience. It is located in the Hunua Ranges. These ranges are about an hour from Auckland CBD.
Upper Mangatawhiri Campground is an open grassed area. It invites you to pitch your tent and relax. There are even wooden BBQs available if you bring your own wood.
Access to Upper Mangatawhiri Campground is via Falls Road in Hunua. Drive through Hunua Village. Continue for 8km. Turn left onto Moumoukai Road. Follow Moumoukai Road to its end. It turns into A R A Drive when entering the park at the top of the hill. From here, descend into Mangatawhiri Valley. Continue straight for another 2km. Signage will direct you to the Upper Mangatawhiri Campground.
The Hunua Ranges have closed large sections to prevent the spread of kauri dieback. When visiting, you need to clean your footwear and equipment. This avoids transferring disease.
Upper Mangatawhiri Campground has a tap for water. It is important to boil the water for at least three minutes before using. There is no power supply here. There is a flush toilet on site. Remember fires are prohibited.
Dogs, other animals, and pets are not allowed at any time. Your campsite must be clean and tidy. There are no rubbish disposal facilities. Take all rubbish and recycling with you. Vehicle access depends on ground conditions. If dry, you may park next to your tent.
For a bit of fun, venture to Hunua Falls. It’s a short drive from the Upper Mangatawhiri Campground. There is a gigantic photo frame there. You can take a photo while standing inside of it.
You can walk up the hill to check out the Mangatawhiri Dam. You are able to go fishing in it for trout if you have the correct permit. You can also do some long hikes from here. The Challenge mountain bike loop begins up this way as well. A mountain bike ride on the Moumoukai Farm Loop Track is a fun thing to do.
So, come to Upper Mangatawhiri Campground. Enjoy the simplicity and beauty of the Hunua Ranges.