Uretiti Campsite, one of New Zealand’s most frequented Department of Conservation (DoC) campgrounds, is set to undergo drainage improvements aimed at mitigating persistent flooding issues.
According to a report by The Northern Herald, the project, scheduled to begin on April 28, follows a hydrological assessment that identified inadequate drainage as the primary cause of water pooling after severe weather events, including Cyclone Gabrielle in early 2023.
The site, located at Bream Bay south of Whangārei, attracts approximately 50,000 bed-nights per season, largely due to its beachfront setting and accessibility from Auckland.
However, recurring flooding has at times rendered portions of the campsite unusable, impacting both visitors and the local economy.
DoC Whangārei operations manager Joel Lauterbach emphasized that the upgrades are essential for maintaining operations, especially during periods of high rainfall.
“By improving the infrastructure, DoC aims to maintain full site availability, supporting both visitor enjoyment and the local tourism economy,” Lauterbach said.
The planned enhancements include installing two subsoil field drains connected to soak areas outside the camp boundary, as well as upgrading three sections of the access road.
A new gravel turning bay will also be added to facilitate vehicle and caravan movement within the site.
The project, estimated to cost under $100,000, reflects a broader industry concern regarding the resilience of outdoor accommodations against extreme weather events.
As climate-related disruptions become more frequent, campgrounds and holiday parks are increasingly evaluating their infrastructure to ensure long-term operational stability.
The improvements at Uretiti offer a case study for outdoor hospitality operators looking to enhance site durability while balancing cost-effective solutions.
Lauterbach confirmed that campsite fees will remain unchanged despite the infrastructure work, though DoC regularly reviews pricing for its bookable facilities.
With peak-season demand consistently high, he advised early bookings for the 2025-26 period, which will open on May 20 at 9:30 a.m.