Pine Beach campground sits on the shores of the Kai Iwi Lakes in Northland, a cluster of stunning freshwater dune lakes known for their clear water and white sandy beaches. It's a deservedly popular lakeside spot, with easy access to swimming and the lake foreshore right on your doorstep.

The campground offers both powered sites and bare tent sites, with toilets on hand. There's plenty to keep you busy, from swimming and playing in the lake to walking the tracks around the area, and the coast beach is also within reach. A bar and cafe opens on Friday and Saturday nights through summer.

Expect it to get busy in the middle of summer, but outside the peak season you should find a space to yourself pretty easily. A favourite stopover whether you're passing through on the way down from the cape or settling in for a longer stay.