BUG review
Down a very winding road on the way to the Goat Island Marine Reserve, you’ll find this interesting place. Goat Island is not a backpackers’ in any traditional sense; it’s primarily a campsite, with a few dorm-style beds in a bunkhouse, as well as caravans and stand-alone cabins. That said, there is character and charm to the place. A big communal bonfire and tables out front are well-used and inviting. A games room/lounge inside a hangar offers a pool table, books, and a big kitchen. Views over Goat Island are awesome, and the site is just 500m away from the beach. Snorkel gear and wetsuits are available for hire, and free-range eggs are offered up by the on-site chickens.
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Price Dorm bed $22-$25 Camping $12-$16 Prices are in New Zealand dollars and are inclusive of all taxes.
Such potential and such a great location 18 May 2009
Pros:
The view is amazing - its very close to goat island - its close to the beach
Cons:
Its very basic - facilities are sparse and not maintained -
rhoda
saw things this way
Maintenance
(2)
Cleanliness
(2)
Facilities
(1)
Atmosphere
(3)
(Review ID: 12731)
What a fabulous position this camp holds - with the most breathtaking views and so close to the amazing goat isalnd marine reserve. I had such high hopes for our stay but I would hazard a guess that the owners had "high" hopes also.If you are happy to be completely independent and expect nothing at all from your host you wont be disappointed. It would suit people without children looking to rough it.I wouldnt stay here again but Im sure some people will find the "rustic" tone of the place charming. Personally I'd rather hold out for a slightly better option of which there are many in the area.
A great place to stay , fun, friendly, the Goat Island marine reserve, 5 mins walk, is a must see. 13 November 2007
Pros:
A lack of signs ordering campers around, genuine people run this lovely camp, fantastic views, walks
Cons:
A seagull ate my lunch!!!
dazza
saw things this way
Maintenance
(4)
Cleanliness
(4)
Facilities
(4)
Atmosphere
(5)
(Review ID: 6139)
Althought slightly off the track, this place is worth the effort. A totally scenic drive from the turnoff on state highway 1 at Warkworth to this camp (35 mins) was rewarding with tons to see.
There is a feel that the tourist is welcome in this part of the country. I would recommend that you take a half day from Warkworh to get to the camp because there are many venues that you may wish to stop at on the way.
We found no problem with parking for our camper van at any of the places we visited. When you leave the Goat Island Camp to return to the main road , it is necessary to back track slightly to Warkworth before heading further north (because of loose metal roads for camper vans) but we found this no drama because it was all so beautiful.
The time we spent at the camp was fantastic and friendly (staff and guests).Great views from our powered site, we had some great times with other campers around the campfire at night after our time snorkelling among huge schools of the worlds friendliest fish at the nearby Goat Island Marine reserve. The reserve is apparently, NZ's longest established, a short walk from the camp. You gotta do the glass bottom boat trip!! for another look at the marine life. The clift top walk from the camp is something to do as well, with views forever out to the offshore islands.
