Area & getting there
Maori Beach Campsite
DOC campsite reference point, not a verified entrance or individual pitch.
Official location information: Department of Conservation (new tab)Location source & precision
- Reference coordinates
- -46.85665, 168.08849 (latitude, longitude)
- Precision
- WGS84 coordinates retained at the official service's returned precision; decimal resolution is not survey accuracy. Source positional accuracy is not specified.
- Source
- DOC Maps campsite reference point (WGS84), exact official-page asset ID (new tab)
Department of Conservation - Location source checked
Read the full guideArrival, planning and local advice
- Walk-in Rakiura Track camping by Maori Beach and historic sawmill remains.
- Foot access, not a drive-on campground. Island transport and walking plans are separate from the campsite booking.
- Campsite bookings do not permit use of Great Walk hut facilities.
- Camping styles
- tent
- Fees
- Rakiura Great Walk rates vary by season and residency; obtain a date-specific DOC quote. Campsite Pass excluded.
- Water
- Untreated tap water; DOC says to boil before use. Carry a reserve.
Walk-in Rakiura Track camping by Maori Beach and historic sawmill remains.
Plan the island and walking stages
Maori Beach lies on the Rakiura Track between Lee Bay and Port William. Arrange the journey to Stewart Island separately from the walking and campsite reservations, with enough slack for a changed arrival. Pack so that one person can comfortably carry their share of essential gear. Before starting, make sure the group agrees on its pace, rests and return plan rather than assuming the campsite's position makes the outing suitable for everyone.
Give the beach history some attention
DOC identifies sawmilling remains near the campsite, including a steam boiler reached on a side track. Set up the overnight essentials before exploring, and leave historic material undisturbed. A shorter day can provide time to look around without adding pressure to reach a farther destination. Keep a weather layer and drinking water in the day bag even when leaving the main pack behind, and tell others in the party where you intend to go.
Carry a complete camping night
Use the Rakiura Great Walk booking system and bring tent, bedding and cooking equipment. The small shelter is shared infrastructure, not a hut bed or a supplied kitchen. Keep dry sleeping clothes protected independently of the walking pack's outer cover. Plan meals that are practical with the equipment you carry, and keep tomorrow's food accessible. Before moving on, confirm the next stage and leave enough time to pack without losing small items in the campsite.
Check the official campsite information for current restrictions, facilities and booking arrangements.
