Piha campground to reopen this summer despite flood risk concerns

The Wāitakere Ranges local board has voted unanimously to reopen the Piha Campground for the 2026/27 summer season. This decision goes against recommendations from Auckland Council staff, who suggested a permanent closure of overnight camping at the Piha domain. The campground will operate under its existing month-to-month arrangement until May next year.

The site has been closed since June while the council assessed flood risks. The campground is located on a flood plain, and a 2018 flood event occurred at the site. A council report from 2018 noted that future flooding could result in loss of life.

Reopening is subject to the implementation of operational controls, including evacuation procedures, monitoring, and flood warning systems. Camp manager Fiona Anderson stated she has already closed off one third of the campsite along the Piha stream. Anderson noted she has had her trigger action response plan reviewed by a health and safety lawyer.

Local board chair Mark Allen acknowledged the risks but stated that the board listened to feedback from the community. Allen suggested that climate change will require more conversations regarding risk and resilience.

Where reports differ

• The reports differ on the specific timing of the local board vote, with one stating it occurred on Tuesday and others stating it occurred on Thursday.

Compiled from reports by 1News, RNZ, The Post and Otago Daily Times.