Restrooms
AvailableYes
Food & Drinks
AvailableYes - shared kitchen, BBQ areas, and picnic tables
Parking
AvailableYes: large parking area and powered/unpowered sites
Nudity Policy
OPTIONALNudity is optional in the northern section
The Good
- Beautiful natural setting: Spencerville (also called Spencer Beach or North Beach) lies just north of Christchurch, bordered by pine forest and the Waimakariri River mouth. The 70-hectare forest reserve and long stretch of sandy beach make it feel remote despite being only 20 minutes from the city centre.
- Excellent campground: Spencer Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park is widely praised as one of the South Island’s best. Guests highlight the huge grassy sites surrounded by trees, powerful hot showers, modern kitchen and laundry facilities, and friendly staff.
- Outdoor activities: The park connects directly to walking and cycling trails through the forest reserve and dunes. The beach itself is ideal for surfing, swimming, fishing, or picnicking.
- Convenient yet secluded: Only 20 minutes from Christchurch and the airport, yet quiet and surrounded by nature - ideal for a peaceful break before or after a road trip.
- Nudity Common: The north section of the beach is accepted by local authorities as the nude beach. However the southern section sees frequent visits by naturists but is technically a textile beach (it is advised to cover up if you see people coming).
The Bad
- Weather-related issues: Heavy rain can cause minor flooding or soft ground in camping areas. A few travellers mentioned temporary power cuts during storms.
- Pricing: Some visitors found the $23 per-person unpowered-site rate slightly steep for what’s offered.
- Basic kitchen setup: Cooking equipment hire costs extra, and kitchenware is minimal unless you bring your own.
- Limited food access: No on-site café; guests should bring snacks or supplies. The nearest shops are in Belfast and Kainga, roughly 10 minutes away.
The Naked Truth
Spencerville is a beautiful family-oriented beach park, however nearby a large section of sand at Waimairi Beach is frequented by naturists. This is a long stretch of beach backed by a forest that extends north about 9 kilometers to the mouth of the Waimakariri River.
People who go to the beach for nude bathing usually enter the beach from Spencer Park. This beach doesn't see many visitors, which makes it a great place to enjoy nature. However it is not clothing optional until you clear the surf club area. Naturists have negotiated with authorities to accept the northern part of the beach as a safe haven for nude swimming and suntanning.
Insider Tip
A less common sight for some visitors is the occasional presence of sea hares near the shore.
Who's Here
Families, road-trippers, surf enthusiasts, and Christchurch locals seeking a weekend escape. The atmosphere is relaxed and social but never rowdy.
Beach Surface
Wide sandy beach with dunes and gentle surf. The shoreline is backed by forest and picnic areas, giving it a natural, unspoiled look.
Access Difficulty
Easy: sealed roads all the way, signposted from Christchurch. Short walk from the carpark or holiday park to the beach.
Photos
Our Visit
Discover the beauty and freedom of Spencer Park Beach, a stunning nude beach destination.
Discover the beauty and freedom of Spencer Park Beach, a stunning nude beach destination.
Map
Getting There
From Christchurch, head north on Fitzgerald Avenue, continue to Hills Road, then Marshland Road. Turn right onto Lower Styx Road (signposted to Spencer Park). At Spencerville, turn right on Heyders Road and follow it to the surf club and beach carpark.
Public transport is limited, but taxis and rideshares can reach the holiday park easily.
Recommended Accommodation
Instagram Feed
Communities
Connect with fellow naturists and get the latest updates from these communities.
No Communities Yet
Know of a naturist community in this area?
Nearby Beaches
Loading nearby beaches...