Things to do in Kawhia

Q: When can visitors dig hot pools at Te Puia Hot Springs?

The site copy advises visiting around 2 hours either side of low tide and asking the camp office for the best times and directions.

Kawhia is a relaxed harbour town with easy access to Ocean Beach, Te Puia Hot Springs, fishing, kayaking, harbour walks and local history. Kawhia Camping Ground is close to the harbour and boat ramp, making it a practical base for outdoor activities.

The town has a very relaxing "rural" atmosphere which is great to soak up but if you feel like being more active then there is heaps to do. You could soak in a hot springs pool you dug yourself on the edge of the west coast surf beach, or catch the fish of a lifetime either from the shore or "over the bar" in one of the charter boats. Beach and harbour walks, harbour cruises, horse trekking, round of golf or taking a kayak for a paddle – there is something for everybody here.

Kawhia is also a harbour that is steeped in both Maori and European history. A short walk from the camp will lead you past both historical early settler buildings and ancient sites significant to the Tainui tribe.

Te Puia Hot Springs

Just four kilometres up the road from the camping ground natural geothermal water of 45°C bubbles up through the black sands of Ocean Beach. Digging your own hot pool in these sands is a must when visiting Kawhia.

The springs are uncovered by the sea 2 hours either side of low tide. Ask at the camp office for the best times and for directions on how to find them. We will also supply you with free shovels so you can make your own DIY hot pool when there.

Walks and Hikes

Kawhia has plenty of choice for walks whilst based at the camping ground. Some examples are;

Harbour walk: 2hr return. From the camp turn right and walk along the black sands of the harbour to the heads. A surprisingly scenic walk.

Ocean Beach: 3hr return. Wander along the rugged west coast beach where the only footprints in the sand are your own.

Aotea Harbour: 1.5hr return. Kawhia's "Sister" harbour is only a 15 minute drive away. Discover unique orange sandstone reefs with ancient tree trunks and massive black sand dunes.

Fishing

Both the harbours and the sea around Kawhia are renowned for both the quantity and quality of the catches.

Both harbours offer great opportunities for casting a rod for a feed of Snapper, Trevally or Kahawai. The camping ground staff are happy to advise you where the best spots are.

If you have your own boat then crossing the harbour bar (for experienced skippers only) will see you catching your limit within a few hours. Alternatively, if you don't have a boat then there are a couple of fantastic charters based in Kawhia that will ensure your success.

Stay Near Kawhia Harbour And Ocean Beach

Guests staying at Kawhia Camping Ground can use the campground as a simple base for harbour activities, beach visits and fishing trips. Ocean Beach and Te Puia Hot Springs are nearby, and the harbour, town and boat ramp are easy to reach from Moke Street.

What are popular things to do near Kawhia Camping Ground?

Popular nearby activities include visiting Te Puia Hot Springs at Ocean Beach, fishing, beach and harbour walks, kayaking, harbour cruises and local sightseeing.

When can visitors dig hot pools at Te Puia Hot Springs?

The site recommends visiting around 2 hours either side of low tide. Guests can ask at the camp office for the best times, directions and free shovels.

Is Kawhia good for fishing holidays?

Yes. The site highlights Kawhia Harbour and the surrounding sea as fishing areas, with a boat ramp nearby and fish cleaning facilities, a smoker and a bait freezer available at the campground.