NORTHLAND: BAY OF ISLANDS

The beachfront rest area on the main road south of Paihia has large grassed parking areas on both sides of the road.

While the two reserves straddle a busy road, this is still a really nice location with great view out over the bay.

While there is a council sign controlling excercising dogs on the beach, it is not really clear if this is a council managed reserve, or NZ Transport Authority rest area.

The distinction is important for freedom campers because the Far North District Council have placed a blanket ban on parking in reserves that they control, except for a small number of designated freedom camping areas. However, if it is an NZTA rest area, then you should be able to park overnight, especially if feeling tired and needing a break from driving.

It's crazy that we have such ambiguity as to where you can park overnight, especially if fully self-contained. If you decide that you'd like to park overnight, then you should be prepared to move on if required.