Freedom camping in New Zealand is camping for free overnight on public land that is not a managed campsite. This can be done in your campervan, motorhome, or tent. However, not all public land is suitable for freedom camping, and it is prohibited in urban areas, including city parks and beaches, unless specific facilities are provided for this purpose. It is important to check local bylaws and regulations, as freedom camping is restricted in many regions due to environmental and public health and safety concerns.
Freedom camping doesn’t mean you are free from responsibility or to camp anywhere.
To freedom camp responsibly, follow the Tiaki care code and these essential rules:
Check for signage, and do not park in these prohibited (no camping) areas. In addition, do not park on private land, driveways, footpaths and nature strips.
The only exception is if you are in a managed campsite or there is a sign saying that freedom camping is permitted in self-contained vehicles. Here is a complete list of prohibited and restricted camping areas in NZ.
That means disposing of rubbish responsibly and using recycling facilities wherever possible.
You cannot simply go in the bush. To freedom camp in areas without a nearby toilet, your vehicle must be certified as self-contained—otherwise, camp only in designated areas that provide amenities.
Self-contained vehicles such as caravans, campervans or motorhomes must meet the Self-containment of motor caravans and caravans Standard.These vehicles must be able to meet the occupants' needs for a minimum of 3 days without needing external services or discharging any waste. At a minimum, they are required to have the following:
A certified self-contained vehicle will display a blue and white sticker.
In these areas, do not park overnight for longer than three nights in a self-contained vehicle. You must use a waste disposal (dump) station every three days to empty your sewerage and wastewater. There are many designated dump stations throughout New Zealand.
Freedom camping responsibly will help protect the environment, respect fellow campers, and make for an enjoyable holiday (failure to do so can incur hefty fines, enough to spoil your holiday).
There are several options when it comes to freedom camping in NZ.
Many councils in NZ provide and maintain freedom camping sites. The sites are free to use, but you must comply with local regulations. The locations of the freedom camping sites vary depending on the council, but most are in rural areas or near the beach. They generally offer decent facilities such as flushable toilets, running water and a dump station. You can find a list of the freedom camping sites in your area by visiting the local council's website or contacting them directly.
The Department of Conservation DOC manages over 250 campsites throughout the North and South Islands. Basic campgrounds provided by DOC are free, most of which are accessible by campervan. Although you will need to be completely self-sufficient, you do not need a certified self-contained camper at most sites because they have minimal facilities, such as toilets and an untreated water supply.
DOC-managed campgrounds have fees payable based on the campsite. These fall into three categories:
Basic Campsites: There are basic toilets and an untreated water supply. You will need to be self-sufficient at these campsites. They are free of charge.
Standard Campsites: These are more limited but still have toilets, a water supply and vehicle/boat access. Other amenities will vary from site to site, such as - wood BBQs and fireplaces, cold showers, picnic tables, a cooking shelter and rubbish bins.
Unpowered/tent sites:
Powered sites where available:
Serviced Campsites: A good option if you want convenient amenities close at hand, such as tap water (treated /untreated), flushable toilets, hot showers, rubbish collection and laundry facilities. There may also be access to barbecues, fireplaces, cookers and picnic tables.
Unpowered/tent sites:
Powered sites:
Bookable campsites require you to pay online and secure your place in advance. Each campsite webpage will explain how to pay and book. Non-bookable campsites run on a first-come, first-served basis, and you will need to pay in cash at these campsites. They require you to register and pay when you arrive. It’s a good idea to arrive early and have an alternate plan if the site is at capacity.
A campsite pass is a way of paying for and gaining access to DOC-managed campsites throughout NZ It can be purchased up to one month prior to the first night of use and can be used at bookable and non-bookable campsites. You can use the campsite pass for a maximum of 7 nights in a 30-day period at a single campsite. Any additional nights can be purchased at the standard rate. However, you need to check the maximum stay period for each campsite.
30-Night Pass:
1 Year (365-night) Pass:
You can buy your campsite pass online or purchase one at the Nelson Visitor Centre or Kauaeranga Visitor Centre.
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