We really liked Waihao Box freedom camp.

It's a wee drive off SH1 - well worth it to get to the coast for the night. It's sheltered from the wind, rubbish bins, tables and benches overlooking the small inlet. Very clean modern long drop. Fantastic evening and morning walks on the stone beach with views up and down the coast that seemed neverending.

We were here early February.

Reviewed 16 days ago and experienced in February 2024

This is a great reserve that shows if you build it, people will respect it and look after it.

Short drive off SH1, sheltered from the wind, rubbish bins, very clean modern long drop, set out parking bays and turn around loop. The box is an interesting relic but do heed the warnings not to walk on it. Wish the council would put a donation box or publish a bank account as definitely be happy to pay for this being available. Stayed one night in a van, with our dog who was very happy rabbit spotting. Great place to break up the drive from Invercargill to Christchurch.

Reviewed 11 months ago

Just had two lovely nights here, again.

This is definitely a favourite, the chatty local Dave is still here which is, nice, he just wants a chat, and his lovely dog Nuggy is still running around saying hey to everyone, sadly the pig is gone, I’ll let Dave tell you what happened there. There are perhaps three bays, enough for up to about six vans, we’re in a 7-metre Sprinter and reversed in to the space fine, be considerate. Great fishing, full signal, bins, lovely beach and a very clean drop loo if you need it. Got quite busy over the weekend with rowers. Lovely spot! See ya’ll out there! Tasman Travels

Reviewed 12 months ago

Bit out of the way and limited facilities, however if you’re self contained it’s a good little spot.

Outhouse is the nicest outhouse we’ve ever seen. Farm dog kept us company for some of the night, very gentle and will roll over for a belly rub. Really good skipping rocks.

Reviewed almost 2 years ago

We really liked Waihao Box freedom camp.

It's a wee drive off SH1 - well worth it to get to the coast for the night. It's sheltered from the wind, rubbish bins, tables and benches overlooking the small inlet. Very clean modern long drop. Fantastic evening and morning walks on the stone beach with views up and down the coast that seemed neverending.

We were here early February.

Reviewed 16 days ago and experienced in February 2024

Waihao Box is a great freedom camp.

It's quiet and with friendly locals.

Downside - the toilet was beginning to pong 😞

Reviewed 8 months ago

Unfortunately there were two drunk locals fighting and shouting the whole evening and no one else around me.

Tried not to catch their attention. Didn't really feel save first. Got quiet after sunset tho. Nice spot otherwise if you dont mind driving a bit off track.

Reviewed 11 months ago

This is a lovely overnight spot.

Well kept parking spots and clean toilets. A nice detour. Highly recommend.

Reviewed over 1 year ago

Bit out of the way and limited facilities, however if you’re self contained it’s a good little spot.

Outhouse is the nicest outhouse we’ve ever seen. Farm dog kept us company for some of the night, very gentle and will roll over for a belly rub. Really good skipping rocks.

Reviewed almost 2 years ago