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Have you ever stumbled upon a place that feels like a secret, tucked away from the world, waiting to be discovered? That’s exactly how our family feels about Pakiri Beach. Nestled on the Matakana Coast and just a little over an hour’s drive from Auckland, this hidden gem has become our favourite sanctuary for family weekend retreats.
Pakiri Beach Holiday Park is where serenity reigns. Its breathtaking sunsets and nights sprinkled with stars are the perfect city getaway. Coupled with the beautiful estuary, Pakiri offers a balance of peace and adventure we’ve come to love.
In this post, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of Pakiri Beach Holiday Park and walk you through the range of activities available here, from playground fun to water adventures. Based on our own experience, we’ll provide a detailed review of this holiday park, including insights into the types of accommodations, park facilities, and services.
The wonders of Pakiri don’t end within the park’s confines. We’ll also shed light on local gems that elevate Pakiri Beach and its neighbouring regions as a must-visit destination. From the bustling Matakana Market to exhilarating excursions to Goat Island Marine Reserve, there’s an abundance to discover around Pakiri.
So, whether you’re planning a family getaway or simply dreaming of your next adventure, join us as we share the magic of Pakiri Beach and its holiday park.
Let’s dive in!
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Table of Contents
Pakiri Beach Holiday Park: Our Home by the Sea
When it comes to finding a place to stay, Pakiri Beach Holiday Park is our top pick. Nestled on the mouth of the Poutawa Stream and neighbouring Pakiri Beach, the park offers a variety of accommodation options to suit everyone’s needs. Whether you’re a fan of glamping or prefer the cosiness of a cabin, you’re in for a treat.
We visited the park at the end of February for both of our kids’ birthdays and yup, their birthdays are 1 day apart. Although it was outside of the school holidays, Pakiri Beach was still brimming with families.
💡Insider Tip!
If you’re planning to stay at Pakiri Beach Holiday Park during the summer months or public holidays, book well in advance as it tends to fill up quickly during these periods, especially if you’re eyeing the waterfront luxury cabins.
Pakiri Beach Holiday Park Review
Over the past couple of years, our family has had the joy of staying at Pakiri Beach Holiday Park twice. Each time has been a memorable experience, filled with fun, relaxation, and a bit of adventure. Although we weren’t able to secure the luxury waterfront cabins due to our last-minute bookings, we found the budget family cabins to be a comfortable and satisfactory alternative.
Staff & Service: A Seamless Experience
On checking in, we were handed a welcoming letter and a map of the holiday park, ensuring we were well-briefed for our stay.
Throughout our time at Pakiri Beach Holiday Park, we always found the staff ready to assist.
For guests arriving after 5pm, there’s an after-hours box set up by the reception area with self-check-in instructions. It’s a simple yet efficient way to ensure latecomers have a smooth check-in experience.
Unplugging and Recharging
One of the things we cherish about Pakiri Beach Holiday Park is the opportunity it gives us to disconnect from our digital lives. With a weak mobile signal and paid WiFi service, we were forced to switch off and truly immerse ourselves in nature. And honestly, who needs technology when you have the stunning Pakiri Beach right at your doorstep?
The Beachfront Cabins: A Slice of Luxury
Pakiri Beach Holiday Park’s waterfront cabins are the most luxurious type of accommodation they offer. These cabins are always in high demand and for good reasons.
These spacious cabins have a well-thought-out design, with the bedroom bunks and the main bedroom separated by a spacious lounge and a neat kitchenette.
But what truly steals the spotlight is the waterfront location. Landing one of these coveted beachfront cabins allows you to have an unobstructed panorama of Pakiri Beach.
Imagine starting your day on your private deck with a hot drink in hand, watching the horizon light up in golden hues. And as evening approaches and the children are asleep, join your partner and gaze at the stars that shimmer on the ocean’s surface. The soothing sound of the waves is the perfect bedtime lullaby.
As mentioned previously, these cabins go months in advance, so lock in your dates here as soon as possible.
Family Cabins at Pakiri Beach Holiday Park: A Closer Look
Other than the waterfront cabins, Pakiri Beach Holiday Park offers a variety of family cabins to suit different needs and group sizes. We booked a basic family cabin that sleeps 5, featuring a single bunk and a duo bunk (double at the bottom).
Our cabin (#26), was a simple space equipped with a bedside table, fridge, and bench. Fitted sheets and pillows were provided but you need to bring your own blankets. Given that it was summer and we always travel in minimalism, we packed long pyjama pants, which kept us comfortably warm throughout the night.
Considering the price of our cabin, we expected basic amenities and were not expecting any more than what was provided. However, our beds squeaked with even the smallest movements and the mattress was too soft for my liking due to my existing postpartum back pain. So if you’re a light sleeper and have specific preferences, it might be worth mentioning them to the receptionist at check-in.
Our cabin’s sliding door opened out to a small deck that was shared with two other cabins. Inside, there was a window and a fan to help with ventilation, although the room did become quite stuffy at night with 4 people sleeping in a small space.
On the bedside table, we found local newspapers and a well-compiled guidebook filled with useful information, including things to do, emergency contacts, restaurant recommendations, and more. They also provided a current issue of the Junction handbook and a free Visitors Guide, which were handy resources for keen travellers.
Another inconvenience was the limited power points in the room. There were only two: one for the fridge and one for the fan. This meant we had to unplug one or the other to charge our phones. But then again, we weren’t expecting 5-star amenities either.
Note that the basic cabins don’t come with kitchenettes, so you’ll have to find a water source either from the communal kitchen or from the campsite nearby. However, we appreciated the 3L bottle of drinking water that was provided in the fridge.
For convenience, we brought our own kettle, and we’d recommend bringing your own mugs and kitchenware too if you plan on cooking at the holiday park.
The communal bathroom and kitchen were conveniently located, just a short 2-minute stroll away.
Many of these minor inconveniences are often part and parcel of holiday park stays. With realistic expectations, they won’t lessen the enjoyment of your holiday.
Campsites: Embracing the Great Outdoors
Just behind our cabin, there was a large lawn dedicated to campers, offering both powered and unpowered sites. With plenty of room to roam, it was the perfect spot for bike rides, ball games, and other fun outdoor activities.
One of the unique aspects of Pakiri Beach Holiday Park is the sight of caravans that seem to have found a permanent home here. Adorned with their own little quirks and decorations, these caravans add a charming, almost gypsy-like vibe to the park.
The campsite’s spacious layout, combined with the friendly and welcoming vibe, makes it a popular choice for families.
Whether you’re pitching a tent or pulling up in a caravan, Pakiri Beach Holiday Park is the perfect spot to reconnect with nature while having handy facilities close by.
Bathrooms: Clean and Convenient
The bathrooms at Pakiri Beach Holiday Park were clean and well-equipped with basic amenities, providing a comfortable space for guests to freshen up. However, the hot showers come at a small cost, so you’ll need to bring some coins or exchange them at the reception.
One feature we particularly appreciated was the spacious family bathroom. This room included a changing table within a large shower area, making it incredibly convenient for families with young children. During our stay, we found it easy to wash both our kids here, which made our bedtime routine a breeze.
💡Insider Tip!
If you’re staying in one of the bedroom-only cabins, we recommend bringing a torch or using the torch feature on your phone for those late-night bathroom visits. The path can be a bit dark, and a torch will help you navigate your way safely.
Facilities & Amenities: Something for Everyone
The communal kitchen area at Pakiri Beach Holiday Park is a fantastic place to mingle and meet other families. It was well-maintained and fully equipped with BBQs, making it a convenient spot for meal preparation.
For those needing laundry facilities, the park provides a laundry room complete with washing machines and dryers. It’s a handy feature, especially for longer stays.
For families with older kids in need of entertainment, the park offers a Games Room stocked with a variety of books and a Movie Room. These spaces provide a great indoor alternative for those occasional rainy days or for some downtime after a day of outdoor activities.
Playground, Jumping Pillow & Waterslide
The park has some lovely spots for kids to enjoy outside. The playground is a family favourite. It’s a place where children can let loose, burn off some energy, and make new friends. Our kids absolutely loved it, and it was undoubtedly the highlight of their stay at Pakiri Beach Holiday Park.
In addition to the playground, the park also features a Jumping Pillow. This inflatable outdoor trampoline is a hit among the younger guests, offering hours of bouncy fun.
Another unique feature of the park is the waterslide. We were particularly impressed by how the owners had thoughtfully integrated this element of fun into the natural surroundings. It’s these thoughtful touches that make Pakiri Beach Holiday Park a truly family-friendly destination.
Water Sports Hire
If you’re looking to explore the waters of Pakiri Beach, the park offers kayaks, paddleboards, and carts for hire at the reception. We didn’t have enough time to take advantage of these activities during our stay, but they’re definitely on our list for our next visit.
Accommodation Alternatives
If Pakiri Beach Holiday Park is booked out for your dates, Bookabach and Vrbo are good places to find holiday homes in the area.
A Bounty of Things To Do at Pakiri Beach
Pakiri Beach Holiday Park is not just a place to crash your head. There’s a wealth of activities to keep you and your kids entertained, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a week-long school holiday retreat.
The Joy of Shallow Waters
One of our family’s favourite natural wonders surrounding Pakiri Beach Holiday Park is the Pakiri Estuary. The warm, shallow waters of the estuary barely brush your knees making it a perfect swimming spot, providing a safe haven for the little ones to frolic in the water.
You can lay out a beach tent or spread a picnic blanket, all while watching the kids mould sandcastles and dodge the waves. It’s the perfect nook for you to relax, dive into a good read, or just bask in the sunshine. And whenever the mood strikes, you can hop into the action or take a refreshing dip in the inviting waters.
One of the unique attractions of Pakiri Beach is the abundance of pipis that can be found during low tides. These small, edible clams are a delight for seafood lovers. You can have a fun family activity collecting them, and later, cook up a fresh seafood feast back at Pakiri Beach Holiday Park.
Water Sports for the Adventurous
If you’re keen to try out water sports, Pakiri Beach Holiday Park has got you covered. You can bring your own paddleboards and kayaks or hire them from the holiday park. The calm waters at Pakiri are perfect for beginners.
Bird-Watching
Pakiri Beach is a haven for native birds, with many choosing to nest along the shorelines. This makes it a fantastic spot for bird-watching.
Star Gazing
As the day ends at Pakiri Beach, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues. The oranges, pinks, and purples come together, painting a sunset that always makes us stop and stare. It’s one of those simple joys, a quiet moment to just pause and appreciate the beauty of nature.
As night falls, the clear skies at Pakiri offer an unobstructed view of the cosmos. The Milky Way stretches across the sky, a dazzling display of stars that leaves us in awe every time. It’s a perfect spot for stargazing, a chance to explore the universe from the comfort of our holiday park.
One of our fondest memories at Pakiri Beach Holiday Park is stargazing outside our tent.
We’d stretch out on our blankets and let our eyes get used to the silvery light of the moon. Slowly, the stars would dot the sky, flickering like gems in the night’s canopy.
We would point out constellations, spot shooting stars, and share stories about the cosmos. It was a magical experience, a moment of connection not just with each other, but with the universe itself.
💡Insider Tip!
Always remember to pack reef-safe sunscreen, put on insect repellent at night, and bring a bucket hat for everyone.
Our favourite places to shop for kids’ fast fashion are Temu and Patpat.
We buy quality SPF50+ Sunscreen and Deet Free Insect Repellent on Amazon
Fishing for Fun
If you’re looking to get away from the crowd, Pakiri Beach has a fantastic fishing spot, especially around where the river flows into the sea. Even for a first-timer, you’ll appreciate the peace and quiet, and the thrill of catching a fish.
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Exploring Rock Pools
Walking along Pakiri Beach, you can find anemones in the rock pools. This is a simple and fun activity to enjoy with kids who are interested in marine life. They can explore these miniature ecosystems and learn about the various creatures that inhabit them.
Local Attractions: Exploring Beyond the Park
While Pakiri Beach Holiday Park offers plenty of on-site activities, there’s also a wealth of attractions in the surrounding area for those keen to explore further.
Exploring Goat Island
Just a short drive from Pakiri, Goat Island is known for its marine reserve, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to join a snorkelling or diving tour.
Alternatively, if you prefer to stay dry, take a glass-bottom boat tour or if you’re up for an adventure, Clearyak in Leigh is a unique kayaking experience that allows you to explore the Goat Island Marine Reserve through clear kayaks, a perfect way to see the marine life below for the little ones.
For those who appreciate diving at one of the world’s first marine reserves, Goat Island Diving Trip is a must-do.
Matakana Country Park
Just a short drive away, Matakana Country Park is a fantastic destination for a family day out. Here, you can meet and feed farm animals, ride a miniature train, or even take a horse and carriage ride. It’s a place that offers endless family activities, ensuring a fun-filled day for everyone.
Sculptureum
For those who appreciate art and sculptures, Sculptureum is a place where you can immerse yourself in creativity and inspiration. It’s a unique attraction that combines art, food, and wine in a beautiful garden setting.
You can get up to 40% off the Sculptureum Galleries & Gardens Day Pass here.
Aotearoa Surf School
If you’re looking to catch some waves during your stay, Aotearoa Surf School offers lessons and hires for all ages and abilities. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a complete beginner, their experienced instructors will help you make the most of Pakiri Beach’s excellent surf conditions.
Matakana Farmers Market
For a change of scenery, consider a visit to Matakana Village. This is one of our family’s favourite destinations for a day trip from Auckland. The Matakana Farmers Market is open every Saturday and it’s a great place to sample local produce, enjoy delicious food, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
If you’re an oyster lover, make sure to head up the road to Matakana Oysters to indulge in some of the freshest and most succulent oysters around. Just remember to check their opening times, as they may vary in the off-season. And don’t miss out on their oyster soup in the winter – it’s a must-try!
While in Matakana, try Artisan Picnic with DIY Paint Experience, a very unique experience, especially if you have little artists in the family!
Vineyards
If you’re a wine enthusiast, you’re in luck. The area around Matakana Coast is home to several vineyards that offer a delightful wine-tasting experience.
Omaha Bay Vineyard
Ascension Wine Estate
Omaha Beach
For a change of scenery, head to Omaha Beach. Known for its long stretch of smooth white sand and clear waters, it’s a great place to relax, swim, or have a picnic.
Ti Point Reptile Park
A visit to Ti Point Reptile Park is a must for families. Just a short drive from Pakiri, this park houses a variety of reptiles in a natural setting, providing an educational and fun experience for kids. Don’t forget to put on insect repellent!
Matheson Bay Reserve
Another great swimming spot near Pakiri is Matheson Bay Reserve. This is a local’s hidden gem, with its calm waters and beautiful surroundings, it’s a perfect place to set up your tent and have a family day out away from the crowd.
Tawharanui Regional Park
If you want to wander off the beaten track and discover hidden gems away from the tourist hotspots, head to Tawharanui Anchor Bay for a secluded slice of paradise, all to yourself.
Kawau Island
Take a day trip to Kawau Island with Royal Mail Run Kawau Cruises. You can explore the island, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax. The cruise departs early, so make sure to plan ahead! There is a cafe on the island and a few easy hikes that take you up the hill for a panoramic view of the island.
Our Family’s Love Affair with Pakiri Beach
Pakiri Beach has long been a cherished retreat for our family. Over the years, we’ve made countless trips here with our kids, seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives.
Our typical itinerary involves day trips from Auckland to the bustling Matakana Market, followed by a refreshing swim in the warm waters of Pakiri Beach. It’s a routine that never gets old, a blend of vibrant local culture and serene natural beauty.
Every so often, we indulge in a weekend getaway at Pakiri Beach Holiday Park. Although our family has somewhat outgrown the typical holiday park experience in recent years, Pakiri Beach Holiday Park remains an affordable and comfortable option for a short stay. For families who still savour the camping experience and are on the hunt for budget-friendly holidays, we can’t recommend this holiday park enough. It’s a place where kids can freely be kids, and adults can unwind and reconnect with nature.
Wrapping Up: A Weekend to Remember
And so, we conclude our family’s adventure at Pakiri Beach Holiday Park. From the cosy comfort of our cabin to the thrilling rush of the waterslide, from the tranquil beachfront to the lively local attractions, every moment was brimming with joy and discovery.
Pakiri Beach Holiday Park is more than just a place to stay; it’s a place to create lasting memories. It’s a destination that caters to everyone, a haven where families can reconnect with each other and with nature.
So, if you’re in the process of planning your next family getaway, consider Pakiri Beach Holiday Park. We hope that our experiences and insights will help you make the most of your visit.
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