Freedom
Camping in New Zealand.
Freedom
camping is permitted in many places in New Zealand but the
rules vary in each community. Signs will usually indicate
where you are not allowed to camp. To be certain about local
camping guidelines, we recommend you ask at an i-SITE information
centre, Department of Conservation visitor centre or holiday
park before you stop for the night. Or download a New Zealand
camping app.
Camping
is a great way to enjoy some of the best parts of our
country. Here's how to do it with care.
Leave no trace.
The Department
of Conservation’s website
contains useful information on how to keep safe and leave
no trace in the outdoors.
Use a public
toilet or the one in your vehicle.
Please respect our home and other travellers
by using the proper facilities. Just look for the signs.
You can find a public toilet near you by searching the
AA map.
Use a dump station
to dispose of campervan waste.
It’s
important you dispose of your water and toilet waste in
a safe and environmentally sound way. Look out for the
blue dump station symbol throughout the country.
Stay at a campsite.
For the
best experience, stay at one of our great campsites.
With many having cooking, toilet and shower facilities
on site, there’s everything you’ll need.
Refill your
water bottle — it's free.
Bring
a reusable bottle and refill on the go anywhere you see
the RefillNZ logo or at your campsite. Tap water in New
Zealand is safe to drink.
