Tōtara Reserve has two popular campgrounds established about 80 years ago right beside the Pohangina River where about 5,000 people camp each year.

Camping is available from October-April. Facilities include powered and non-powered sites, treated drinking water, hot showers, flushing toilets, outdoor BBQs, a fire pit, playground, and a campground manager living nearby. The river and popular swimming spot are a short walk from the campgrounds.

We currently spend almost half of the Tōtara Reserve's annual operating budget on running the campgrounds.

Long term aspirations

  • Quality, hygienic visitor facilities promote enjoyment, respect and care for Tōtara Reserve.
  • The recreational areas provide opportunities to engage with the public about the wider values of the reserve, particularly its ecological and cultural significance
  • The campgrounds are located in the river flood plain, so have periodically been subjected to inundation from floodwater and required substantial repairs from water and silt damage.
  • Recommendations are to close Kahikatea Campground following the next significant flood that causes significant damage to it. The camping footprint will reduce by 35% when this happens.
  • Additional camper numbers in Kererū Campground are limited by the capacity of current facilities and this area is also vulnerable to future flooding and damage.
  • Should camping be maintained in Tōtara Reserve long term?
  • Most of the accessible visitor areas outside the flood-prone areas are too small for picnics or gatherings.
  • Should alternative areas in Tōtara Reserve be explored for development as visitor areas or even an alternative campground?

Have your say!