12 Photos and 6 Reasons to Convince You to Visit Karikari Peninsula, New Zealand

With a heart so full from my recent trip to Karikari Peninsula, I’m convincing you with 12 photos and 6 reasons to visit this stunning corner of Northland, New Zealand. We’ll cover why Karikari Peninsula is worth a visit on your New Zealand itinerary, things to do, and what to pack for a true off-the-grid experience. 

Not many venture out to the Karikari Peninsula. It’s a lesser known part of New Zealand and that’s fair enough… there’s hardly anything there.

Except unbelievable beauty, the clearest waters you’ll ever see, and sprawling verdant nature.

If you’re into any of those things, you’re in the right place.

I’ve been around New Zealand many times over. And this is one of my favorite spots.

I can’t preach enough about this place and why it’s worth a slot on your Northland adventures. So here are 12 photos and 6 reasons why Karikari Peninsula is a crucial destination and a must-visit for your New Zealand itinerary.

12 Photos and 6 Reasons Why Karikari Peninsula is Worth Your Itinerary on Your Visit to Northland, New Zealand

1. Crystal Clear Waters

Crystal clear waters are a staple of any summer itinerary and Karikari Peninsula delivers. There’s simply not enough industrialization or tourism here to muddy the waters. Literally. The south Pacific wades into white sands in crisp clean ripples and unquestionable purity.

The beaches here have such clarity that I could see down to my feet, even in deeper waters. And that powdery sand… oh so warm in the sunlight. Heavenly between the toes, and often stuck to my sunscreened bum in a crystallized sheet.

2. Safe for Swimming

Particularly in the coves around Maitai Bay, Karikari Peninsula is lined with gentle tides safe for swimming… perfect for kids and casual splashers (i.e. me).

There’s no sweeter feeling than floating in an open pool with free-range daydreaming…  without fear of riptides or roiling waves.

The water temperature is divine even in December, when the rest of New Zealand is still warming up with the onset of summer. By February, it’s a tropical paradise and some of the smaller coves simmer into bathing pools.

We spent hours in such a cove, watching birds and bobbing around in turquoise water. 

3. Private Beaches

A personal favorite, Karikari Peninsula offers a private beach experience like no other. Ask a few locals and they’ll tell you where to go.

When I moved to New Zealand, I was on a mission to find the perfect beach for streaking. I’m happy to say I fulfilled my dream many times over across New Zealand, and Karikari Peninsula was such a place to meet my needs.

As I mentioned, not many visit the Karikari Peninsula. It’s sparsely populated. And there are too many beaches to build boardwalks and erect signposts.

Put simply… it is the wild. Unnamed beaches are ready to be streaked across with your naked disposition and if that’s not your thing, you can at least sunbathe in peace.

Pack your essentials and ponder your existence in the universe. Freedom and wild euphoria await you on these empty sands.

You can read all about my naked adventure in Northland here:

Naked and Laughing Hysterically on a Beach in New Zealand

4. Unplug and Reconnect with Nature

Not sure if I mentioned this already, but the Karikari Peninsula is really really remote. No corporations, no industrialization… just you and nature.

Driving around offers views of uninterrupted coastline land (sometimes on both sides). There’s a small-town vibe and most businesses are run by locals.

This also means restaurants are scarce so best bring your own food. Make a stop at the PAK’nSAVE in Kaitaia for your own supplies, or make a day trip down to Mangonui… the closest village with quaint little shops and pubs.

If you get bored by the unearthly beauty, Carrington Estate offers wine tastings and golf with gorgeous views.

But if posh isn’t your thing, go horseback riding on the beach or entertain other maritime activities, such as fishing, kayaking, and boating.

Related: Summer Paradise in the Bay of Islands: Activities & Things to See

5. Camping Community

Call me a hippie but the camping community in Karikari Peninsula warms my soul.

Maitai Bay hosts a particularly large campsite and the vibes there are so good. A collection of nature-lovers perch large tents, hammocks, and make-do kitchens and together make a large nomadic settlement. Strangers gather with guitars, nap under trees, and laugh into the starry night with beers in hand.

The campsite provides public toilets and outdoor showers and borders the stunning waters of Maitai and Waikato Bay.

Many who venture here call it the best campsite in NZ and I can’t disagree. This is paradise on earth, perfect for connecting with strangers and making unlikely friends.

Related: A Guide to Freedom Camping in New Zealand

6. Perfect Weather

As the cherry on top of this paradise cake, let’s talk weather.

Not sure if enchantments have been cast over Karikari but the tropical storms of Northland tend not to linger over the peninsula for long. I don’t understand how weather works but blue sky is another reason Karikari Peninsula is a must-do on your New Zealand itinerary.

And not only because sunlight is crucial for tanning and summertime magic. But no clouds also yield clear open skies perfect for stargazing. And the stars here, without light pollution or industrial smoke, shine in the billions. I haven’t yet perfected my astrophotography so you’ll have to take my word for it. Pinpricks of light dot the dome above in a brilliant cosmic carpet, and the beauty is so enchanting that sleep goes forgotten.

This place is truly paradise on earth. Bring your togs, join the camping crowd, and toast a beer to the stars.

I hope I convinced you with these reasons to visit the Karikari Peninsula in New Zealand.

Until the next adventure.

Today’s Tunes: gold rush by Taylor Swift

Related: The Ultimate Itinerary to Travel the North Island, New Zealand