On the western shores of the Waikato River within the Lake Arapuni Conservation Area, Arohena is a well-loved riverside campsite in the Waikato. It's a great base for swimming, picnicking, fishing and water sports, with good diving spots and a boat launch for getting out on the water.

There's plenty of room here, with sheltered tent (non-powered) sites backing onto native bush and pleasant river views. Facilities include flushing toilets, a cooking shelter, fire pits for campfires (outside fire bans), an untreated tap water supply, and wheelchair access. It's a handy stopover on your way up or down the North Island, and a cool spot to wake up beside the river.

Bring your own firewood for the fire pit and pack mozzie repellent, as the local wildlife can be lively. Phone reception is patchy, so it's a good place to switch off and enjoy the surroundings. One thing to note: despite the listing, at least one visitor found no BBQ on site.