Area & getting there
Totara Flat Campsite, Kauaeranga Valley
DOC campsite reference point, not a verified entrance or individual pitch.
Official location information: Department of Conservation (new tab)Location source & precision
- Reference coordinates
- -37.07102, 175.66221 (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
- Two-level river-valley camping north of the Kauaeranga Visitor Centre, distinct from Tararua's Totara Flats.
- A Kauaeranga Valley booking does not reserve this exact campground or an individual pitch; choose an open area on arrival.
- No fires or dogs; maximum booking three weeks. Check valley road and campsite notices before travel.
- Camping styles
- tent, campervan, caravan
- Fees
- Non-powered camping: NZ$10 per adult 18+ per night; booked under Kauaeranga Valley camping.
- Water
- Stream water listed; bring drinking water or treatment equipment.
Two-level river-valley camping north of the Kauaeranga Visitor Centre, distinct from Tararua's Totara Flats.
Find the Kauaeranga campground
This Totara Flat is in the Kauaeranga Valley north of Thames, not the similarly named Tararua destination. DOC places it beyond the visitor centre on the valley road. Keep that identity clear when sharing directions with travelling companions. It suits a valley base where camp remains established while you choose separate walks, rather than an assumption that every nearby track starts at the tent.
Choose between the two camping levels
The campground offers lower riverside ground and an upper level. Look at current conditions and signs before deciding where to unload; proximity to the river is a setting choice, not a safety assurance. A smaller footprint can make it easier to adapt if the preferred level is unavailable. Think about the route between your pitch, toilet and cooking setup before committing to several nights.
Understand the shared valley reservation
DOC books Kauaeranga Valley camping, with the particular campground chosen on arrival. Keep another open valley option in mind rather than treating confirmation as ownership of a favourite spot. Bring drinking water or treatment equipment, your own cooking gear and room for waste. Read current road notices before leaving Thames, and check walking routes separately from the campsite booking when deciding what the next day should involve.
Check the official campsite information for current restrictions, facilities and booking arrangements.
