freedom camping in new zealand
Freedom camping in New Zealand is allowed in different parts of the country. Recently there is a growing concern about the impact freedom camping has on New Zealand's environment.
What is Freedom Camping?
Freedom camping occurs when people camp away from sites that are recognised as camping grounds. Freedom camping can include camping in a caravan, bus, car, tent or campervan. The location can be in rest areas or reserves, at beaches, in car parks or at the side of the road.
Although New Zealand has a very large number of clean and friendly campgrounds situated in amazing locations around the country, freedom camping is still a popular way to enjoy New Zealand. We don’t want to prohibit people from travelling that way, but we do want to minimise any negative impacts freedom camping has potential to have on our environment. So if you do decide to Freedom Camp you need to ensure you camp near public toilets and take extra care to clear your site of any rubbish, and other waste before leaving.
Assume Nothing, Always Ask a Local!
The best place to find information about where you can camp and what procedures to follow is from those who know the area. Ask locals for information. Check with i-SITEs, Department of Conservation (DOC) Visitor Centres or holiday parks to find out where you are permitted to freedom camp and other local camping information.
Be EcoWise
New Zealand is a beautiful country. Help us keep our towns, cities, parks, beaches and native bush free from pollution and waste. Please respect our unique flora and fauna. Be active and get involved in caring for the environment. It is everyone’s responsibility. Download this NEW ZEALAND ECO-WISE TRAVEL GUIDE which has some tips on how to be eco-wise and leave gentle footprints when travelling in New Zealand.
Use the Facilities
In the spirit of Kaitiakitanga (guardianship) we ask you become familiar with the information in this section and plan a holiday committed to leaving no trace for the collective benefit of current and future generations. ‘Camping our way’ is not using the side of the road or the bush as a toilet – please use onboard or public facilities.
Follow the Signs
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Please leave no trace of your visit. Put all your rubbish in the bins provided. |
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To help protect our environment, please carefully recycle your rubbish in the bins provided. |
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Public toilets. ‘Camping our way’ is not using the bush as a toilet – please use onboard or public facilities. |
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Dump stations – these are places where you can empty your campervan toilet and wastewater. |
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Yes, you can camp here! Call in to Information centres, Department of Conservation visitor centres and holiday parks and ask about local camping guidelines. Ask a local! |
If in doubt, assume nothing – always ask here:
