About | Kai Iwi Lakes
Kai Iwi Lakes are three freshwater dune lakes and a fantastic place to get to during the summer and only 3 hours away from Auckland. Go for a swim in its divine waters and this place will quickly become one of the favourites and a place you’ll want to return to again and again.
The water stays shallow for some time and this is perfect for little ones. Bring a floaty or boogie board for them to play with in the water.
There are two campgrounds at Kai Iwi, on different sides of the lake. I think it’s definitely nice to stay by the lake for at least one night. We were able to get up to lots during our weekend getaway and it was a nice way to relax. So, one side of the lake is definitely much nicer and more popular to swim at – that being the Pine Beach Campground. This one also has showers and the other one doesn’t. But other than toilets/showers, rubbish and recycling bins and maybe some freezers where you can buy some ice, these campgrounds are pretty basic.
If you’re just coming for the day, park up opposite the Pine Beach Campground and snag yourself a spot at the beach. There’s a good playground there that the kids can enjoy and you can also use the toilet and shower facilities at the campground.
You can walk around the lake and get up high to get a good view of the stunning Kai Iwi Lakes. There’s a 30-minute walk across paddocks to the beach close by. Or go for a drive to Omamari Beach.
It is a bit of a drive to any food places so bring some out with you.
Nearby
Kai Iwi Lakes Coastal Track
Omamari Beach
Location
Photos
We packed up the van and came to Kai Iwi Lakes for a little weekend getaway. The weather was clear and sunny and it couldn’t have been a better day for it. The first time we came to Kai Iwi we were transfixed by its beauty. We quickly got into our togs and ran for the water and it was like heaven. A truly beautiful place.
With no restaurants or supermarkets close by, we brought most of our food with us, only grabbing a small quiche (which was nice and fresh – right out of the oven and tasted amazing) from the Tane Cafe while we were out doing some bush walks.
Morning came and it was wonderful to wake up with the sun. It’s a great time for a little walk along the beach.
