Where To Freedom Camp Nz?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Freedom on

DOC land

is generally allowed, with some exceptions. There are some places on DOC land where you cannot camp because the site has a special value, for example, it's a Māori burial site (urupā) or a protected plant or animal is there. You cannot camp at DOC reserves unless signs allow it.

Can you camp in a tent anywhere in NZ?

In New Zealand under section 10 of the Freedom Camping Act 2011

you are allowed to camp in any local authority area unless camping is actively restricted or prohibited in that area

. This means you can often Wild Camp on Department of Conservation (DOC) and local council land.

Is freedom camping illegal in NZ?

Free Camping Best Practice


Freedom camping is not illegal in New Zealand

, but local by-laws can specifically restrict it in certain areas and free campers not complying with notices can be fined.

Can you freedom camp in a tent in NZ?

Freedom camping in a motorhome, New Zealand


Responsible freedom camping in New Zealand is considered camping in a tent, campervan or motor vehicle on public land, on a site with minimal or no facilities, such as toilets or showers

.

Can you freedom camp in a caravan NZ?

Freedom camping is staying free of charge overnight in a tent, caravan, or motor vehicle, on public land, within 200 metres of vehicle access like a road or carpark, the coast or harbour, or a Great Walks Track. Freedom camping rules do not apply to private land.

Can you freedom camp in Haast?

Further south, in places like Westport, Haast and Karamea,

freedom camping is encouraged

and there are plenty of places that have clear signage signalling to campers they are welcome in the area. It's essential that you don't camp anywhere where freedom camping is prohibited.

Can I camp on a beach?


Beachside camping is actually pretty illegal on most public beaches

, so you've to plan ahead on where you're going to go. You'll find some of the best spots away from popular touristy beaches so don't be afraid to go off the beaten path.

Can you pitch a tent on a beach?


you can just use stuff you find around the beach like pieces of driftwood, rocks, etc. to anchor your tent

. For instance, find a smallish branch, tie your guy line to it, and then bury the branch below the sand so the line is taut. That should hold it well.

Can I camp on my own land NZ?

Can you live in a caravan permanently in NZ?

Yes, you can live in a caravan permanently in NZ, but you cannot park wherever you want for an indefinite time

. There is a general idea that in New Zealand you can park your caravan or pitch your tent anywhere and go wild camping, and this is not the case.

Is freedom camping free?

Free DOC campsites


DOC has basic campsites where you can stay for free

. Usually you do not have to be self-contained to stay at DOC campsites because there are facilities available. Check the individual for more information.

Can you free camp at Lake Tekapo?


Another really great spot for freedom camping in South Island, NZ is Lake Tekapo

. It sits on a hill overlooking the Mackenzie basin of Lake Tekapo and, besides the stunning views of the shimmering lake, the site offers plenty of activities and amenities.

Can I camp in my car NZ?


Camping with a Non-self-contained Vehicle


Vehicles without the self-containment certification can only camp in designated places in New Zealand

in order to preserve the natural environment.

Are you allowed to camp anywhere?

Ask landowners for permission to wild camp

Other national parks are clear in their guidance that, although they may include areas of common-access land,

wild camping is not one of the rights allowed

.

Where is freedom camp in Dunedin?

The Dunedin City Council have recently allowed freedom camping in non self-contained vehicles at 3 locations around Dunedin (details here; www.dunedin.govt.nz/isite/responsible-camping ). These are

Warrington reserve, Ocean View Reserve (near Brighton) and Macandrew Bay

.

Can you freedom camp in Abel Tasman?

You have lots of choices for camping in Tasman – from Council owned campgrounds, to privately-owned campgrounds, Department of Conservation campsites, and even

freedom camping locations

. The Tasman District has some amazing towns, beaches and parks.

Where is freedom camp in Gisborne?

Tolaga Bay Holiday Park, 167 Wharf Road, Tolaga Bay. Anaura Bay Motor Camp, Anaura Bay, Anaura Bay. Tatapouri By The Sea, 516 Whangara, SH35, Tatapouri. Waikanae Beach Holiday Park, Grey Street, Gisborne.

How do you tent camp at the beach?

  1. Be prepared for wet and windy conditions. …
  2. Bring your own firewood and camp stove. …
  3. Use sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes. …
  4. Know the tides. …
  5. Follow leave-no-trace ethics. …
  6. Bring water and hydrate.

Can you camp on common land?

When land is common land, like a lot of the New Forest,

it does not mean there is a right to camp on it

, especially as this could conflict with commoners' rights to graze animals. Some farmers and landowners may allow camping if you ask them but if in doubt try and find an official campsite.

How do you camp on sand?

  1. Sandbagging it. Stake out the area you want your tent. …
  2. Keep it Clean. Now that we have our tent set up, there are a few other things we have to do with sand camping. …
  3. Zip it Up. Zippers are a very big concern when it comes to sand, too.

What's the difference between a beach tent and a camping tent?

Beach tents are designed to be windproof and UV resistant, and they're often made from lightweight fabrics. Whereas proper camping tents are usually made to withstand the elements and are made of more heavy-duty fabrics.

How do you get sand out of a tent?

  1. set up your cook area well out of traffic and impose a strict no-running rule anywhere near the cook area.
  2. keep lids on everything you cook, to keep sand out.
  3. keep a clean plate near the stove to put in-use (wet, sand can stick to) items like wooden spoons. …
  4. no shoes in the tent ever.
Timothy Chehowski
Author
Timothy Chehowski
Timothy Chehowski is a travel writer and photographer with over 10 years of experience exploring the world. He has visited over 50 countries and has a passion for discovering off-the-beaten-path destinations and hidden gems. Juan's writing and photography have been featured in various travel publications.