Camping Napier New Zealand. Napier is best known for its Art Deco architecture, wine trails and sunny Hawke’s Bay climate, but it is also a brilliant place to camp. Whether you prefer a powered site in a holiday park, a beachfront cabin, or a self-contained freedom camping stop, the region offers plenty of choices for budget‑conscious travellers. Many of the best camping spots are within walking distance of the beach, and the coastal roads make for a scenic self‑drive itinerary. In this guide we look at the main holiday parks, DOC campsites and freedom camping rules so you can plan a comfortable stay in Napier.
Top Holiday Parks in Napier
The greater Napier area has several well‑equipped holiday parks that cater to campervans, caravans, tents and families. Each park has a different atmosphere and set of facilities, so the right choice depends on whether you want a resort‑style stay, a beachfront location, or a smaller, quieter patch of grass.
Kennedy Park Resort Napier
Kennedy Park Resort is set on 5.7 hectares of grounds and offers villas, motels, and powered camp sites. The facilities include a heated pool, an onsite restaurant, a jumping pillow, and pedal cars for children. With so much to do within the park, it is a good option for families who want to keep the kids entertained without leaving the property. The powered camp sites are well spaced and the park has a relaxed, resort‑like feel. It is one of the largest camping grounds in the Napier area by land area.
Napier Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park
Spanning 9 acres (approximately 3.6 hectares) of coastal grounds, Napier Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park is located 8.5 km north of the Napier i‑SITE centre. The park offers beachfront motels, chalets, ensuite cabins, basic cabins, and both powered and unpowered sites. Note that the beachfront sites are designated “No Tents”, so if you are travelling with a tent you will need to check with the park about other areas that may allow tent camping. The direct beach access and proximity to the cape make this a popular choice for those who want to wake up to the sound of the ocean.
Westshore Holiday Park
Westshore Holiday Park is a smaller park occupying 1.5 hectares of park‑like grounds within walking distance of Westshore. While the available accommodation types are not detailed in our research, it operates as a holiday park and may offer cabins, powered sites or unpowered camping. Contact the park directly to confirm the exact options. Its compact size and quiet location appeal to campers who prefer a more intimate setting close to the Westshore beach and café strip.
Beach Camping Near Napier
For a true coastal camping experience, several holiday parks are located directly on the beach or just a short walk from the sand. These are ideal for swimming, fishing and walking the shoreline.
Waipatiki Beach Holiday Park
Waipatiki Beach Holiday Park is a beachfront campground situated 30 km north of Napier. It offers cabins and both powered and unpowered sites, all within 150 metres of the beach. The park is much more secluded than the Napier city parks, so it suits campers who want to get away from the crowds and immerse themselves in a natural beach setting. The drive north from Napier along the coast road is scenic, and the beach itself is a safe swimming spot for families.
Freedom Camping in Napier
If you are travelling in a certified self‑contained vehicle, you have some freedom camping options within the Napier City Council area. The council’s bylaw allows certified self‑contained vehicles to stay for one night only, in any area that is not prohibited. You must display a valid self‑containment certificate and leave the site clean. There is no allowance for non‑self‑contained vehicles – standard cars, campervans without a certificate, and tents are not permitted for freedom camping within Napier city limits.
DOC Campsites in Hawke’s Bay
For a more remote camping experience, the Department of Conservation manages a number of campsites in the wider Hawke’s Bay region. These DOC campsites operate on a pack in, pack out basis, meaning there are no rubbish or recycling facilities provided. You must take all waste with you when you leave. Facilities vary from basic toilets to no water, so check the specific campsite page on the DOC website before heading out. Many DOC sites are located along the coast or in forested areas within an hour’s drive of Napier.
Hawke’s Bay Holiday Parks (HBHP)
Another option for campervans and caravans is Hawke’s Bay Holiday Parks (HBHP), which offers over 50 powered and non‑powered sites. The park provides fresh drinking water and greywater drainage, making it a convenient stop for self‑contained travellers who need to empty tanks and refill. HBHP is a private park, not a council or DOC facility, so services are more comprehensive than basic DOC sites.
Tips for Camping Napier New Zealand
Booking ahead is wise, especially during the summer months and the Art Deco Weekend in February when the city fills up. Most holiday parks allow online bookings and require a deposit. If you plan to freedom camp, make sure your vehicle has a current self‑containment certificate and that you abide by the one‑night limit. Check the Napier City Council website for the latest freedom camping map showing prohibited areas.
For DOC campsites, bring all your own water, cooking equipment, and rubbish bags. There are no shops at most DOC sites, so stock up in Napier before heading out. The weather in Hawke’s Bay can change quickly, so pack warm layers and rain gear even in summer. Many campgrounds have kitchen facilities, but it pays to confirm what is provided when you book.
Finally, respect the local environment and other campers. Keep noise down after dark, use designated fireplaces if fires are allowed, and always follow the park’s rules. Napier’s camping options are varied and affordable, making it a great base for exploring Hawke’s Bay wine country, the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers, or the coastal walks along the Marine Parade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is freedom camping allowed in Napier?
Freedom camping is permitted in Napier only for certified self‑contained vehicles. The Napier City Council bylaw allows a one‑night stay in any area not marked as prohibited. You must display your self‑containment certificate and leave the site clean. Non‑self‑contained vehicles and tents are not allowed to freedom camp within the city boundaries.
Can I pitch a tent at Napier Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park?
The beachfront sites at Napier Beach TOP 10 are designated “No Tents”, but the park does offer unpowered sites that may allow tent camping. It is best to contact the park directly or check their website for the current tent policy. The park also has basic cabins and ensuite cabins if you prefer not to use a tent.
What facilities do DOC campsites near Napier have?
DOC campsites in Hawke’s Bay are basic. They are pack in, pack out sites with no rubbish or recycling bins. Some have long‑drop toilets and water tanks, but facilities vary by site. Always check the specific DOC campsite page before you go. You need to bring your own water, food, cooking gear, and a way to carry out all rubbish.
Which holiday park is best for families with children?
Kennedy Park Resort Napier is a strong choice for families. It has a heated pool, a jumping pillow, and pedal cars on site, plus an onsite restaurant. The 5.7‑hectare grounds give children plenty of space to run around. The park also offers villas and motels if you want extra comfort, as well as powered camp sites for campervans and caravans.
Whether you choose a resort‑style holiday park, a beachfront campground, or a simple DOC site, camping in Napier gives you a comfortable and affordable way to experience Hawke’s Bay. The mix of developed parks and natural coastline means there is something for every type of camper visiting New Zealand’s Art Deco city by the sea.
