Area & getting there
Whitikau 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
- -38.11725, 177.58986 (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
- Remote basic camping at the Whitikau entrance to Raukumara Conservation Park, suitable only for small campervans.
- Gravel-road access; DOC's small-campervan-only wording takes precedence over its generic caravan icon.
- Camping styles
- tent, campervan
- Fees
- Non-powered camping: free; this is not a powered-site offer or a reservation.
- Water
- Stream water listed; bring treatment equipment or a filled drinking supply.
Remote basic camping at the Whitikau entrance to Raukumara Conservation Park, suitable only for small campervans.
Follow the Whitikau approach
Whitikau is a remote camping option at the Raukumara Conservation Park entrance, reached via Takaputahi Road from Toatoa. DOC describes approaches from both Opotiki and Gisborne, so choose directions that match your starting point. Plan the access as part of the visit rather than treating the campsite as a quick detour from the highway. Obtain current road advice before committing to an unfamiliar route.
Keep vehicle expectations modest
The page's written access advice limits suitability to small campervans. That matters more than the generic caravan symbol in its metadata. This profile includes tents and small campervans, not a promise that a large motorhome or towing combination will fit. Carry a complete camp setup and drinking-water arrangements; the verified amenities are non-powered tent sites, non-flush toilets and a stream-water supply.
Make an unbooked stop workable
Whitikau is free and first come, first served. Arrive with another plan if the site or approach does not suit your group, and avoid making a tight onward schedule depend on finding space. Dogs are not allowed. Choose any walking or other outing from current route information, keep essential equipment together and plan to remove your waste instead of relying on an unverified collection service.
Check the official campsite information for current restrictions, facilities and booking arrangements.
