Area & getting there
Tawanui 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
- -46.45836, 169.49317 (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
- Non-powered camping in a riverside Catlins clearing, with a narrow gravel approach and no mobile coverage.
- DOC states there is no mobile phone coverage; book and save directions before arrival.
- Booking covers people, not an allocated pitch; find space for the party on arrival.
- Camping styles
- tent, campervan, caravan
- Fees
- Non-powered camping: NZ$10 per adult aged 18+ per night. Confirm the booking total for your dates.
- Water
- Untreated tap water; boil before drinking and confirm supply before travel.
Non-powered camping in a riverside Catlins clearing, with a narrow gravel approach and no mobile coverage.
Take the inland Catlins approach deliberately
Tawanui sits in a clearing beside the river, with access using Catlins Valley Road and Morris Saddle Road. DOC describes the final road as narrow and gravel. Treat the approach as part of the camping day, not a hurried afterthought following coastal sightseeing. Check your directions before setting off and leave time to find suitable space and organise camp in daylight.
Finish online tasks before arrival
DOC states there is no mobile phone coverage here. Make the campsite booking and save the confirmation and access instructions beforehand, rather than expecting to complete payment beside the tent. The reservation is for the people in your party, not a particular marked pitch. Keep the group's setup compact and choose an available space that does not obstruct other campers' access.
Use the river setting without assuming services
Flush toilets and untreated taps are listed, but power, showers and an equipped kitchen are not part of the verified offer. Bring your stove and boil drinking water as directed. Dogs must stay leashed. The Catlins River Track is a separate outing to plan from current track information; carry suitable day equipment and agree on return arrangements before leaving camp, especially without mobile contact.
Check the official campsite information for current restrictions, facilities and booking arrangements.
