Tucked into Pureora Forest Park in the Waikato, Ngaherenga is a peaceful, well-loved campsite set near a stream beside lush native forest. Access is easy on good gravel roads with no 4WD required, and it makes a handy base for shorter and longer walks.

It's a basic spot with non-powered tent sites, picnic tables, several fire pits (except during fire bans), and a single long-drop toilet, plus untreated tap water you'll need to boil. There are smaller, more secluded corners for tucking out of the weather as well as open ground that suits larger groups and rooftop tents, though flat space can be limited.

The setting is the real draw: this is some of the best birdlife in the North Island, so listen and look for kākā, kōkako, kākāriki and short-tailed bats from your tent. Don't miss the nearby forest tower, where you may spot kākā or kākāriki high in the canopy.

Quiet, tidy and calm, with cell reception a bonus. Note that signage on dogs is inconsistent (DOC lists no dogs, while on-site info suggests dogs on lead). Camp fees apply, but there's nowhere to pay them on site.