Area & getting there
Medlands 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
- -36.27039, 175.50288 (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
- Tree-fringed camping near a tidal stream at the southern end of Medlands Beach.
- Beach vehicle access is prohibited except the stated southern boat-launching access; this is not beach camping permission.
- No rubbish collection or fires. Narrow gravel approach off the main road.
- Camping styles
- tent, campervan, caravan
- Fees
- Non-powered camping: NZ$18 per adult 18+ per night; confirm booking total.
- Water
- Untreated tap water; boil before use and confirm supply before travel.
Tree-fringed camping near a tidal stream at the southern end of Medlands Beach.
Choose the south end of Medlands
This campground is set back from the beach near the tidal stream, with trees, dunes, farmland and holiday homes around it. It suits a beach-focused island stay without needing a waterfront vehicle pitch. Check the route from your arrival port or airport before travel, and distinguish the campground entrance from beach access points when navigating the last part of the journey.
Make the campsite your base
Leave the tent or vehicle in the designated campground and carry beach gear to the shore. DOC's southern boat-launching exception is not general permission to drive along the sand. Choose a setup that keeps everyday movements between sleeping space, cooking shelter and toilets straightforward. Booking covers people rather than a marked pitch, so keep an alternative layout in mind if your preferred corner is occupied.
Keep water and waste plans realistic
Cold showers and untreated taps are listed; neither provides a hot-water holiday-park experience. Bring your own cooker, prepare drinking water and retain all rubbish until you can dispose of it appropriately. Nearby shop or cafe references are not verified opening hours. Treat the surf beach and tidal estuary as different environments and assess the day's conditions yourself before planning any activity in the water.
Check the official campsite information for current restrictions, facilities and booking arrangements.


