Dona Shiell
North Island ▷ Taranaki ▷ Mokau ▷
3.5/5
We spent one night here and were quite comfortable.
The camping area is behind the cafe, on grassy stands, and there are flush toilets and a tepid water shower available. Power and water on each powered site.
We had lunch at the cafe - very tasty burgers for about $8 each, and a huge scoop of chips for $5 which we really didn't need.
The beach is across the road and down a trail, which we only found with a local walker's help. Lovely long and wide black sand beach and apparently the fishing is brilliant.
No wifi available, and a bit of road noise, but we would definitely stay again.
North Island ▷ Taranaki ▷ New Plymouth ▷
4.0/5
We spent a Saturday night at Lake Rotomanu, and were very pleased with the experience.
There were a number of non self-contained vehicles there, more than the limit, but no one checked the site, so not surprising. However, everyone was quiet and polite, and the only noise overnight was that of what I assume were boy races down in the car park near Te Rewa Rewa Bridge. We got a lovely spot near the boat ramp (currently closed due to low lake levels) overlooking the lake, and the majority of the noise came from the ducks and seagulls at dawn. Toilets were cleaned while we were there, but there was some mud splashed around by people using the facilitiles - including up the walls. Such disappointing behaviour when the facilities are being provided for free. We spoke to another motor home owner who camps there regularly and has never had any problems. We will definitely be using the site again, and the coastal walkway is well worth the effort. Thanks to New Plymouth for providing sites like this.
North Island ▷ Manawatu - Wanganui ▷ Whanganui ▷
4.0/5
Lovely campsite, very quiet when we were there.
Easy walk to the beach, and then miles to walk in either direction. Playground with flying fox at beach. Shop is vlosed out of season. Showers operate on $1 coin, temp and water pressure were fine, time was fine for good wash and rinse.