Number Thirty

The toilets and showers were the cleanest and shiniest I’ve come across so far, and there was even a hairdryer to use. The site and facilities are clearly well looked after. We had a lovely stay at Oakura Beach Holiday Park. Staff were very accommodating and said checkout wasn’t strict, so we could leave around 11.30am. It’s so close to the beach and dog friendly too :)

The facilities are wonderful and the beach is great. We got a good spot beside some bush, and it turned out better than we expected from the website photos. I’d suggest checking the park map when booking, since those photos don’t show every site location. Personally, I prefer more remote camping, so this wouldn’t have been my first choice, but we still had a good stay. My lower rating is about the dog rule. The website said dogs weren’t allowed at the campground until Waitangi, yet there were dogs everywhere, including on sites. Maybe dogs walking on the road are different, and it didn’t cause us a problem, but if the rule isn’t actually enforced they should take it off the website. They should either allow dogs or not. Saying they’re prohibited and then letting them in feels close to false advertising.

The atmosphere was great, and everyone around us was really nice. Cabins around the tents helped block the wind, so even on windy days it didn’t feel too bad, and we stayed warm the whole time. The place is close to the beach, with the little playground and bike park within walking distance. There are also treats for sale at reception. We got a powered site with a nice view, and it was good value. Next time we’d choose a spot nearer the bathrooms, though taps and bins are spread around, so water and rubbish were easy to deal with. We didn’t use the kitchen. The bathrooms were very clean and well maintained, and the wifi was decent around the campground, less so on the beach. Staff were really lovely and helpful, including when I had trouble with the entry app, which I wasn’t keen on having to use. The camp was mostly quiet after 10. One evening was loud, but there was a short fireworks display that everyone came out to watch. We’ll definitely come back.

The staff made this stay such a good experience. Ryan, James, Maya, and everyone else were welcoming, friendly, and always ready to help. We extended our trip several times, and they accommodated us every time. We’ll be back and will recommend the campground to everyone. Thanks, team! It’s a huge campground with lots of site and accommodation options. Everything was clean and well maintained, and the setting is spot on, right by the beach and close to shops and restaurants.