WAIKATO: HAURAKI

Huntly Reserve has sealed parking right on the lake front and is available for freedom camping in self-contained motorhomes. 

This is one of our favourite locations, in a quiet part of the town. The lake can vary between looking muddy and sparkling blue, depending on the weather, but there is a walking path around the lake if you need exercise, a children's playground, or you can just chill out an enjoy the lake view.

We've been told that you can fish for carp in the lake, but we haven't seen anyone fishing while we've been there. There is a boat ramp for accessing the lake, but motor boats are not allowed because it is a designated wildlife sanctuary.

There are clean toilets with sheltered parking right beside them.

Our first visit was in a weekend, and the 'Gypsy Travellers' had set up stalls in the adjacent domain.  We quite enjoyed browsing through their stalls and chatting about their lifestyle. They travel around the North Island, so you might well see them in other locations while exploring New Zealand.