Arohena Campsite
Dogs with a DOC permit only
Get the dog permit
Dogs are only allowed at Arohena Campsite with a Department of Conservation permit, sorted before you arrive. Apply through DOC: open the campsite page, find the office that manages this area, then send that office your details and your dog's.
You can also call DOC on 0800 275 362.
- Apply before you travel. A permit can take up to five days, and it is not issued at the campsite.
- Add your dog's details. Include the microchip and council registration numbers and your trip dates. The DOC page names the office to send them to.
- Wait for DOC to confirm. They reply with the permit or tell you what else they need, such as proof of aversion training.
About this campsite
This campsite on the western shores of Waikato River is perfect for swimming, picnicking, fishing and water sports.
Department of Conservation
Getting there
From Putāruru to Arohena Campground via Arapuni St and Mangare Rd: Leave Putāruru via Arapuni Rd. After around 18.4 km turn left onto Rotongata Rd. After around 1.8 km turn left onto Mangare Rd. Continue down Mangare Rd for around 10.7 km. Turn left onto Landing Rd and continue for around 2.6 km to Arohena Campsite. The last 1 km is a sharp descent down a metal road to the campsite. Smaller vehicles towing caravans or boats may struggle with traction when attempting to leave the campsite. Large
Department of Conservation
Before you go
The campsite is beside the lake - beware of flooding. No bonfires anywhere within the campground and surrounds. Water sports and activities: If you plan to enjoy the water, be aware of what water you can enter and how to stay safe .
Department of Conservation
Current alerts
A Public Health Warning for Lake Arapuni has been put in place by Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora due to cyanobacteria (Algal Blooms) levels.
Avoid contact with the water and keep children and dogs away from the water until further notice.
For more information see South Waikato District Council News.
Posted 6 January 2026
Alerts are point-in-time. Check DOC for current alerts before you travel.
Nearest dog-friendly tracks
The closest dog-friendly tracks to this campsite, straight-line distance.
Sourced from the Department of Conservation. The campsite facts and the dog rule on this page come from DOC and are used under CC BY 4.0. Details change with the seasons, the DOC page is the source of truth. The terrain drawing above is our own, computed from elevation data.