Purakaunui Bay Campsite | Camping in The Catlins
It’s clear why Purakaunui Bay Campsite is a family favorite. Not only is it located in the heart of the Catlins— it’s also popular for camping, photography, surfing, paua diving, wildlife viewing and beach walks. Purakaunui beach is surrounded by rugged cliff faces and vibrant greenery, it truly doesn’t get more coastal than this!
 |
Bookings Required |
 |
Low Cost Campground |
 |
40 Tent Sites - Non Powered |
 |
Campfires Permitted |
 |
Toilets - Long Drop |
 |
Water Tap - Non Treated |
 |
Dogs Allowed on Leash |
 |
45.7401° S, 170.6223° E |
Purakaunui Bay Camspite is one of the most scenic spots to camp in the Catlins. It’s low cost, open to all types of campers and located near a lot of popular outdoor attractions.
In This Camping Guide:
About Purakaunui Bay / Campsite Facilities
What to do in Purakaunui Bay
Camp Fees & How to Book a Campsite
How to Get to Purakaunui Beach
Other Things to do Near Purakaunui Bay
Purakaunui Bay Campsite Facilities
Despite the online booking system stating 40 total tent sites, there aren’t actually any designated camp sites in Purakaunui Bay, just a few large grassy areas. There’s enough room for at least 40 groups to set up camp though. The grass does get muddy after rain, so park on the gravel to avoid getting stuck or bring a tow strap with you just in case. If you’re driving a high clearance or 4 wheel drive vehicle, keep driving to the end of the gravel road to get an even better view from higher up.
Fire rings and metal bowls are randomly scattered around the fields. At the entrance to Purakaunui Bay Road, there was a sign stating “no fires,” but the DOC website says it’s okay to do so in the camping area. Don’t forget to bring your own firewood!
Three long drop toilets, a sink with running water and two water taps are available. The water isn’t treated, so you should boil it before using it for things like cooking, teeth brushing, etc.
Three long drop toilets and one hand washing basin found in the campsite.
What To Do in Purakaunui Bay
Hit the Beach!
When camping right on the beach, you gotta get in the water! Go swimming, surfing, diving or simply dip your toes in. The southernmost end of Purakaunui Bay Beach is a popular surf spot, make sure to check the Surf Forecast and Surf Reports before heading out.
2. Wildlife Watching
Seals are frequent visitors on this beach. We saw several sleeping along the beach and playing in the small river heading out to sea. Remember that sea lions can be dangerous and deadly when provoked, always keep a minimum of 10 meters distance and never disturb them.
A seal waddling through the river, heading back out to the sea.
3. Beach Walks
Purakaunui Beach is very flat and wide, so it’s perfect for strolling any time of day. You can also continue walking up the gravel road for a great view overlooking the bay and cliffs along the coastline. We even found a baby swing on the beach. Nobody touched it all weekend so we decided to give it a go and bubs loved it!
Baby / toddler swing found hanging from a tree. Use at your own risk!
4. Fresh Seafood
Gather your own kaimoana for dinner! Paua diving and fishing are popular activities here.
5. Campfire Cooking / BBQ / picnic
Purakaunui Beach isn’t just for campers, a stop in for lunch is worthwhile too. Cook up some kai over a campfire or simply park up and have a picnic on the beach. You’ll find several fire bowls and toilets in the camping area, providing you with all the essentials for a great BBQ!
One of the metal fire bowls in the campsite. Don’t forget to bring fire wood!
6. Star Gazing
Southland is well known for it’s brilliant star gazing opportunities. On a cloud free night, you’ll have one of the best views of the stars in this world. You also get to listen to the waves crashing on the beach while you look for shooting stars. How romantic!
How to Book a Campsite
Purakaunui Bay Campsite Fees (2022)
According to the DOC (Department of Conservation) and online booking site, there has been a fee increase from what is signposted at the campsite.
Adults (18+ years): $10 per night
Children (5–17 years): $5 per
Infants (0 - 4 years): free
There are two ways to secure a campsite in Purakaunui Bay: booking in person or booking online. The more guaranteed and easier option is to book online.
You might not get a great spot if you wait to do so in person. Since there are no specifically designated camp sites here, any open areas are filled on a first come first serve basis. When we booked online, it said we were the only campers booked for the night, but when we arrived the campground was nearly full.
BOOKING IN PERSON
In person bookings can be made with cash via an honesty box system, or with card if there is a park ranger present ($10 service fee charge for all card payments). At the campsite, there will be a dark green signposted area with detailed instructions to fill out your receipt tags.
Fill out the requested information, rip off the end tag, then pop the other half of the receipt (with your cash payment) inside the bag / envelope provided. Place in the drop box and put the tag in clear view in your windshield.
TIP: Bring exact change with you.
BOOKING ONLINE
Campsite reservations can be made on the Department of Conservation Booking Website. Scroll through the calendar and pick a date with availability, then click Reserve Unit. Sign in / create an account, then follow the steps to fill out your personal details and finalize your booking. Make sure to print, screenshot or download proof of your booking to show the ranger if needed.
How to Get to Purakaunui Beach
From Invercargill (2hr)
From Invercargill, head Southeast and get on the Gorge Road-Invercargill Highway / Southern Scenic Rte. Follow this route for 125km before making a right turn onto Purakaunui Falls Road. In 4km turn left onto Long Point Rd and follow this gravel road to the campsite. Stick to the left!
From Dunedin (1hr 45min)
Head South of Dunedin and begin on State Highway 1, eventually following the Southern Scenic Route past Balclutha. Stay on the highway for about 165km before turning left onto Purakaunui Falls Road. Turn right on Long Point Rd in 4 kilometers and follow this gravel road until you reach Purakaunui Bay Campsite on the right. Stay to the left!
Other Things To Do Near Purakaunui Bay
The Catlins area is filled with walks suitable for all experience levels, especially waterfall walks. The most famous waterfall in the Catlins, which happens to share a name with this campsite, is Purakaunui Falls (pictured below). Here’s a few other trails to check out while in the area:
0.6km | 20m | 15min
Nugget Point Lighthouse Walk:
1.8km | 100m | 45minJack’s Blowhole Walk:
2.7km | 120m | 1hrMcLean Falls Walk:
1.8km | 70m | 30min
Disclaimer: Please adventure at your own risk. The author of this article is not liable for any injuries or damage that may occur. It is up to the individual to determine their own capabilities and limits, and to thoroughly research before venturing into the great outdoors. Read our full Disclaimer.
