Is there free camping in new zealand. Discover more. Holiday parks provide powered and non-powered sites for tents, caravans and campervans and motorhomes. My #1 recommendation is SafetyWing! 16 of the Best Campsites in New Nov 20, 2023 · Best 6 Campgrounds in Picton. com Mar 11, 2021 · Are freedom camping sites free? You’ll find that many of the official freedom camping locations throughout New Zealand are free, including on: DOC land — some conservation camping spots are free while others have small fees to help maintain amenities like toilets and a water supply So in holiday parks, you can expect hot showers, toilets, laundry and kitchens. There are now around 420 ‘free’ campsites scattered around New Zealand that are designated by local councils and the Department of Conservation. Understand the different camping options and the rules in NZ. There are two freedom camping areas close to the tourist village and they are ideal for a short stay. Best Campsites in the Catlins, South Island. This public land could be a scenic parking area, a spot by the beach, by the side of the road, near an official Great Walks Track, or somewhere similar. 5 sites · RVs, Tents 800 acres · Te Kuiti. DOC campsites are places to relax, enjoy and explore the outdoors. 2. Let your campervan guide you to spectacular scenery and adventure. Punakaiki Beach Camp is found in the most stunning surroundings in Punakaiki, on the west coast of the island. Find out about our range of unique campsites. Whangarei – Whangarei District Council. Vehicles and Equipment for Freedom Camping. Every region in New Zealand has its own rules and regulations when it comes to freedom camping. There are plenty of places you can camp for free in the South Island. e. Those with a non-self-contained vehicle have multiple Department of Conservation campgrounds and council-run campgrounds to make use of. New Zealand is split into 2 main islands (3 if you count Stewart Island). Location: South Island | West Coast Region | North of Franz Josef Glacier | Off of SH6. ⭐️ RATING: 4. Feb 13, 2024 · Freedom Camping in New Zealand. Lake Ferry Holiday Park, Lake Ferry – NZ$15 per person for a tent site, NZ$25 for two people in a tent site. They also require that the fresh and waste water tanks be large enough for 3 Jul 21, 2023 · 10 Best Campgrounds in Picton. Apr 22, 2024 · We share a list of the best places for freedom camping in New Zealand, some of them may require to pay a fee per night, others remain free for all visitors. Do: Make sure freedom camping is allowed at your intended destination. Map of the Best Camping Spots in the Wellington Region. Free Mobile Apps for finding the best Campsites and Campgrounds in New Zealand. There’s no booking, so it’s first come, first served. Northland Freedom Camping Rules. 🧳 MUST-HAVE: Before you head out on your trip, make sure you have travel insurance. Five Mile Bay Recreation Reserve. Little Waipa Reserve. Whether you prefer to be lakeside, by a beach or within a forest, the opportunities are endless. Aug 6, 2019 · The Spirits Bay Campsite is located in the northernmost tip of New Zealand, north of Kaitaia and on the way to the Cape Reinga lighthouse. Located just a short drive from the heart of Whangarei, this spot has two spaces to park up for a single night. sleeping in a tent or camping vehicle on public land for free, in a vehicle that is not self-contained can incur an instant NZ$200 fine. Jun 29, 2021 · Dos and don’ts of New Zealand freedom camping. The difference between WikiCamps and some others is that is has a lot of other useful features. Check out this FREE guide to travelling by campervan in New Zealand, featuring tips and hints not featured in any other guide or blog! Dec 18, 2023 · Summary of post: A guide to the best camping grounds in and around Glenorchy, New Zealand, whether you’re camping in a tent or campervan. Nov 8, 2023 · Here’s my ultimate New Zealand camping map – with this you’ll be able to find the best camping sites in New Zealand for you! You can find a Google map of campsites in New Zealand here. Here are my 8 best camping spots in New Zealand's South Island! Kia ora, travellers! There's something uniquely liberating about freedom camping in New Zealand. Lumsden is a small town east of Te Anau with free camping options for non-self-contained and self-contained campers at the Jan 2, 2024 · There are also motel style rooms and studios available if you want a break from your campervan. Camping Checklist. See the full definition of freedom camping in the Freedom Camping Act 2011 . Curio Bay Campground, the Catlins. Prices range from NZ$30-$50. Imagine waking up to the song of native birds, stepping out of your campervan to a vista of towering mountains or serene beaches. However, this offer is only suitable for “self contained” (fully equipped) camper vans. Welcome to The New Zealand Camping Guide. Mataiawhea Street and Lakefront Drive Car Park. According to the DOC website – DOC manages more than 200 campsites throughout New Zealand. There are certain areas in New Zealand where you can pull over, park your campervan or motorhome or set up your tent and camp for the Where can you camp on the South Island for free? Find out in this list of free campsites in the South Island of New Zealand. Brackenthwaite. Freedom camping, i. Relatively new to the camping scene, Glamping is just like camping but with the comforts of home. Best Council and DOC Campsites in the Wellington Region. In this guide to motorhome camping, we’ll take you on a journey from camping responsibly to freedom camping to camping apps. Generally, the simplest campervan costs NZ$60 – NZ$100 per day, the middle price range is NZ$120 – NZ$160 per day, and the higher price range costs NZ$200 to Glamping or 'Glamorous Camping'. Jun 30, 2023 · Immersing oneself in the pristine natural beauty of New Zealand is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts, and camping provides the perfect opportunity to do just that. An introduction to New Zealand. Rankers Camping. Easy to use with maps and more. Let CamperMate ride shotgun with you on the road in New Zealand and find epic campsites, nearby petrol, pet-friendly parks, things to do and a whole bunch more. Read through all of the restrictions before you park. 5/5 Stars | 📍 LOCATION: 78 Waikawa Road, Picton | Book it! Tasman Holiday Parks Picton is the perfect camping spot for people wanting to explore the beautiful town of Picton. There are over 500 responsible freedom camping locations in New Zealand and freedom campers must follow some basic rules and regulations when staying Sep 15, 2023 · There are all types of campgrounds in New Zealand — from free and unmaintained gems to holiday parks with hot showers, BBQs and all the frills. Tents, caravans, campervans and motorhomes are pitched and parked in campsites and holiday parks throughout the year. To my knowledge, there is a main local website that offers this service. Going camping in New Zealand? Lucky you! There’s nothing like setting up camp in a quiet campsite with the Southern Hemisphere stars above and dozing to the sound of the native bird calls. If you see there is more than the allocated number of campers at a site, please move on to another available campground. dump any waste or rubbish. with no comment. Available for free in the App Store and Google Play. So read the list below for a smooth camping trip! Plan your trip for the best camping experience in New Zealand. Best Campsites in Dunedin and the South Island’s Lower East Coast. Waiohine Gorge Campsite. $18 (non-powered) or $22 (powered) per adult. Kaitoke Regional Park Camping Ground. Oct 25, 2017 · The app will be your best bud while you're in NZ:) We hope you experience these awesome campsites and others like them on your own road trip! 1. Apr 19, 2020 · Visit the website. Nov 10, 2022 · Kaikoura. Here are five of our favourite freedom Mar 31, 2015 · New Zealand has one huge advantage over many other countries when it comes to camping - there aren’t many critters to watch out for! With no dangerous land-based wild animals, no snakes or and deadly spiders, it is certainly a great place to get out there and explore ( Australia is a little bit different!) Nov 2, 2023 · 2. Find out where to camp in Christchurch with this guide to Christchurch campgrounds, campsites, holiday parks and freedom camping. Nestled in the picturesque Whangarei Falls Scenic Reserve, this freedom camping spot is a true gem. Cost: NZ$6 per person per night. Feb 18, 2020 · However, there are basic regulations you should respect when camping in New Zealand. Located about an hours drive north of New Plymouth, the Three Sisters freedom camping area at Tongaporutu is a must see stopover. Freedom camping is allowed on much of DOC managed public What are the best places for free camping in Queenstown? Find free camping with this up-to-date list with spots not listed anywhere else! 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. Feb 2, 2024 · Because there are so many campervans in New Zealand there are specific laws protecting the natural environment as well as local communities from free camping (humans specifically) abuse. in some cases: don’t camp in places for more than the allowed number of days a month. But remember, where ever you end up parking for the night, please respect the 11 Golden Rules of Camping in New Zealand so these freedom camping spots remain free Explore the most popular camping trails in New Zealand with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Freedom camping means to camp on public land outside of a formal campsite (on the side of a road, at a parking area, by the coast etc) using: or another type of temporary structure. WikiCamps. Walker Creek Campsite, Fiordland. 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. There are certain areas in New Zealand where you can pull over, park your campervan or motorhome or set up your tent and camp for the May 4, 2021 · New Zealand's smallest national park, Abel Tasman, is also one of its most popular. For New Zealand’s northernmost region, spanning from Cape Reinga through the Bay of Islands and down to the Kaipara towns like Dargaville, these are the pages to the freedom camping rules in the Northland region. It is the website Okay2stay. Unfortunately, there is no freedom camping anywhere near Milford Sound. The North Island contains. Apr 25, 2023 · New Zealand is already expensive enough, so it's nice that you can camp there for free. don’t camp in campgrounds that are not fit for your vehicle. However, there is one Wellington district that is a campe. 28. Camping in New Zealand is an extremely popular activity for New Zealanders and overseas visitors, as many camping grounds are located in some of the most beautiful and scenic areas of the country. June 1, 2022. This family-friendly campground provides a range of accommodation options, including powered and non-powered sites for tents Jan 9, 2024 · That system will allow people to verify whether a vehicle is self-contained under the new requirements. With it's safe countryside and stunning landscapes, New Zealand has top glamping Searching for the best cabins? NZ accommodation found here! Book your holiday cabins & NZ glamping getaways with the best cabins in New Zealand. Apr 26, 2022 · Many “DOC” campsites are in wilderness areas located within national parks, both on the North Island, South Island and Stewart Island. The site has toilets available, but these are closed overnight. See full list on lonelyplanet. From the city to deep in the forest, there are many places you can camp for free in Wellington. Waiomu Beach Side Domain. Tasman Holiday Parks Picton. We have compiled a searchable database of all the camps in New Zealand including most of the Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites. Facilities are typically minimal and basic, but fees are very reasonable - sometimes free. Holiday parks. Address: 2 Lakeside Drive, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand. 29. There are some teeth in the new freedom camping rules. can buy a lot of nights in a campground. From campervans to motorhomes and even cars equipped for sleeping, a range of vehicles are considered suitable for freedom camping in New Zealand. Free Camping in New Zealand. Dec 6, 2023 · Camping in South Island New Zealand, offers a unique experience, immersing you in panoramic views that combine with mountains, and submerge you in native forests and water views. refuse to leave an area when told to do so. The challenge around freedom camping (and free camping) is that there is a lot of info out there, some is correct but a lot of it is confusing or even incorrect. The campsite is set amidst dramatic cliffs and along the beautiful beach. Little Bay Recreational Reserve. If you decide to freedom camp, ensure you camp near public toilets and take extra care to clear your site of rubbish and other waste before leaving. Apr 9, 2024 · Camping in New Zealand in a private home. Madelon has listed a number of places for you. Whatipū Lodge and Campground is located on the edge of the Waitakere Ranges, which is one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in Auckland. Generally, you can freedom camp on public conservation land, except where there are visible restrictions, for example, where there is DOC signage advising against camping. Tents, vans, motorhomes and caravans are all welcome on DOC conservation campsites. A suitable overnight parking area for certified self-contained vehicles is the Lakefront Drive freedom camping spot. May 1, 2017 · Arthur’s Pass National Park is one of the most naturally beautiful regions of New Zealand and staying there for a night or two allows you to explore it at a relaxed pace. Its compact size also means you can see a lot of it in a relatively short time. 30. There are many clean and friendly campgrounds in amazing locations around New Zealand. In New Zealand winter, you can hire a basic campervan that can carry 2 people for NZ$60 per night. Jan 12, 2024 · There is a stunning cliff walk you can do at Okarito, and if the tide is low you can loop back along the beach, spotting Hector’s dolphins along the way. Free Camping Sites Karapiro and Arapuni Lakeside Camping. Apr 22, 2022 · Whatever your ideal camping spot in New Zealand, there are plenty of ways to find the perfect spot to spend the night. Nestled on the eastern coast of the North Island, the Whakamahi Beach freedom camping site is just a short drive from Wairoa. River Bends is a private site in the bend of a river flowing through a deep limestone ravine and old Totara and Matai forest, the site is situated in open space allowing access to stunning views of the surrounding rock formations river features and bushland. Holiday park fees tend to be per site used, rather than per person. From the majestic snow-capped peaks to the tranquil lakeshores, rugged coastlines, and lush forests, New Zealand offers a diverse range of breathtaking camping destinations. A great benefit of WikiCamps, you’re able to download the maps for offline and it allows you to navigate and get directions to sites, directly from the app. Trail Chef. 12. While some officers or rangers may politely tell you to move on, you could be given an instant NZ$200 fine for one of the following: camping or preparing to camp where you are not allowed to. 22528. From lakes to mountains, these 7 freedom camping spots near Christchurch are some of our favourite places to stay in New Zealand. The view is priceless, if it were a property, it would be worth millions of dollars. Newhaven Holiday Park, the Catlins. Parking beside the ocean as the surf laps against pure white sands, a cooling breeze brings relief from the Summer sun. Needless to say, this car park with just three spots for campervans and proximity to the lake is seriously popular, so you’ll be lucky to nab this spot. 1. And then there’s everything in between. by Traveling NZ. Even with the favorable exchange rate, $1,500 U. Holiday parks are great for families, as they usually have Feb 26, 2024 · 2 Omana Beach Road, Maraetai 2018. For us in our Campervan, it’s free, providing excellent overnight parking known as Freedom Camping in New Where can you camp on the North Island for free? Find out in this list of free campsites in the North Island of New Zealand. The Purakaunui Bay campsite is a stunning camping area nestled along the rugged coastline of the South Island near Dunedin. Apr 18, 2018 · Like Europe, campgrounds in New Zealand charge per person, which made staying at the high cost, and even the low cost, campgrounds very expensive for a family of 7. Nov 2, 2018 · Free campers are usually restricted in the facilities they have access to, for example, lack of water, toilets, and cooking facilities. Free apps for New Zealand campervan & camping road trips. Most importantly: don’t camp on spots or in areas that are not designated as campsites. JUCY's self-contained campers make freedom camping easier. Punakaiki Beach Camp, Punakaiki. Star Chart. Travelling by campervan or motorhome is the only way to see the very best of New Zealand. Where to Camp for Free on the Kapiti Coast Finding legal freedom camping spots in New Zealand is never as straight-forward as you might think. Plus, you’ll no doubt want to avoid fines. In New Zealand freedom camping (camping in public places instead of official campgrounds) is allowed only in specific areas. The actual effort of camping with younger kids can also be challenging mostly because of the bathrooms being dirty and you not wanting them to touch anything. Violation of freedom camping regulations carries a fine of up to NZ$2400. Where to camp on the North Island including camp grounds, holiday parks and freedom camping sites. Catchpool Valley DOC Campsite. In this section, we’re breaking down the different types of campgrounds you’ll find in New Zealand and what to expect at each. When it comes to accommodation, there are a couple of choices there. It’s perfectly legal to stay at these camping grounds in non self Dec 17, 2023 · Yes, freedom camping can be free but it can also be done paid as there are a lot of great budget freedom camping spots in New Zealand. Waikawa Bay Holiday Park | Waikawa. We’ve put together a list of our top 5 favourite apps from Rankers Camping to Campermate, that will help you find the best camp spots for you across New Zealand. Freedom camping or 'free' camping. The closest freedom camp is 2 hrs 30 minutes from the Milford Sound foreshore at Lumsden or Lake Monowai. See here for more information on the rules around freedom camping in our guide, What it’s Really Like to Freedom Camp in New Zealand . This map shows all the best camping spots in New Zealand. Destinations. Plan a freedom camping road trip around the South Island. The beach itself is a highlight. Feb 28, 2012 · Caravans cram this campground in Akaroa in a scene typical of New Zealand. WikiCamps is a great app for finding campsites in New Zealand. Your personal hotel-on-wheels will let you explore wherever the road takes you — via famous locations and remote hideaways to a Jul 30, 2023 · There Is No Free Camping In Milford Sound. Where Can You Camp For Free In New Zealand? :: Camplify Find out where and how to camp in New Zealand, with trusted guides and maps to plan in advance and get the most out of your trip. To keep New Zealand’s campsites extra special, there are a few rules of camping in New Zealand to be aware of. Follow signposts from Waitiki Landing and turn onto Te Hapua Road (a gravel road) for 16 km and then onto Spirits Bay Road. 6 days ago · Discover the best spots for camping in New Zealand, top activities to enjoy, and tips for planning an epic camping trip. Kowharewa Bay. A drive of just under 70kms according to Google Maps, through Waitara and over Mount Messenger, through Jan 10, 2021 · Freedom camping can be done in a tent, car, or RV. Sep 10, 2019 · 7 Essential Camping New Zealand Apps You Need plus 4 to keep you entertained on the road. 1 day ago · Put simply, freedom camping is when people visiting New Zealand camp on public land (excluding formal campgrounds or holiday parks) in a motor vehicle, tent, or other temporary structure. Contained camping: up to two consecutive nights stay permitted Dec 11, 2023 · It’s a bit larger than the United Kingdom but a bit smaller than the Philippines. May 9, 2020 · The best freedom camping spots on the South Island here! Below are my absolute favorite freedom camping spots on the North Island of New Zealand. May 18, 2020 · Freedom camping on the South Island of New Zealand is glorious, especially in the more remote areas of the country. Know where and where you cannot camp in New 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. It's a great tool for finding every free and paid camping facility in New Zealand, as well as extensive information about each location. Definition of freedom camping. Luckily, there is a spot to camp up for free if you are travelling around in a Self-Contained vehicle. Prices for powered campsites start at $70 NZD so it’s not cheap, but with freedom camping in Tekapo so limited it’s a convenient option. Where you can dump waste: Matos Segedin Dr, Cambridge 3495, New Zealand . Here in New Zealand, there are roughly 340 free campsites to explore. Of course, in today’s high-tech world, there are also apps to help you find ideal camping spots, whether you’re free camping South Island of New Zealand or free camping North Island of New Zealand. Purakaunui Bay (PK Bay) Campsite, the Catlins. With its sandy shores and calm waters, it's an ideal location for those looking to unwind and connect with nature. There are many free camping apps that you can download to find your ideal camping locations. . S. This is a much less famous option in New Zealand, but camping through locals does exist. With outdoor bathtubs and spectacular views, cosy fires and spacious decks, glamping is becoming more and more popular by the day. There are certain areas in New Zealand where you can pull over, park your campervan or motorhome or set up your tent and camp for the Nov 20, 2023 · Note that there are hefty fines of up to $1,000 for a breach of rules, so it’s essential to be a wise and careful freedom camper in New Zealand. Take a look at our Accommodation Guide to Holiday Parks in New Zealand to get an idea of what accommodation types are available. OTTO/MACDONALDS CAMPSITE. 29865, 170. Understand the rules on how and where you can camp to make the most of your trip. Purakaunui Bay campsite, Dunedin. Easy access to a shared kitchen and bathroom facilities is always part of the deal. Kawakawa Camping, Cape Palliser – NZ$30 per self-contained vehicle. Here are the best camping apps for New Zealand: Campermate. There are over 500 responsible freedom camping locations in New Zealand and freedom campers must follow some basic rules and regulations when staying overnight. Whangarei Falls Scenic Reserve. Many also have simple cabins, self-contained motel units and backpackers' lodges. Cyclists and hikers, when camped among such fleets of vehicles, may wish for a patch of privacy somewhere in the nearest 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. Jun 1, 2022 · Freedom Camping at the Three Sisters, Tongaporutu. Kaikoura is the place to go if you love nature, with whales, seals and more to see, it's New Zealand’s wildlife mecca. Offline Survival Manual. Mawley Holiday Park, Masterton – NZ$36-$40 for two people in a tent/powered site. However, some local councils in New Zealand require a “self-contained” vehicle for freedom camping. It's located in the northwest of the South Island and has a great climate, beautiful golden beaches, forest, and numerous DOC campsites within its boundaries. Jones Landing. Jimmy Armers Beach is the best freedom camping spot in Kaikoura and it seems everyone knows it. Pack it in, pack it out — clean up all of your rubbish before you leave. Roadtrips are one of the best ways to experience New Zealand. GPS: - 43. Castlepoint Holiday Park, Castlepoint – NZ$23 per person for a tent/powered site. Brighton Reserve. AllTrails. 8. Photo credit: Auckland Council. Located just a short drive from Picton, Waikawa Bay Holiday Park offers a peaceful and scenic setting overlooking the picturesque Waikawa Bay. Up until 2011 in New Zealand, it was much easier to find a free campsite as many of the councils didn’t see freedom camping as a problem and there weren’t as many rules. Located about 49 km north of Te Anau in Fiordland, the Walker Creek DOC campsite sits beside the Eglinton River. Jul 28, 2023 · Table of Contents. When driving from Kaitaia, head north on State Highway 1. Nov 4, 2022 · Cascade Creek Campsite, Milford Road, Fiordland National Park. MetService. Whatipū Lodge and Campground. New Zealand campsites are also quite different from those in North America. CamperMate app. Mar 20, 2024 · There are all types of campgrounds in New Zealand, from totally free to pretty pricey (like $70 NZD per night), from unmaintained sites to holiday parks with hot showers, BBQs, and all the frills. This means the vehicle must have a toilet, fresh, grey, and black water tanks, and a trash bin with a lid. Why Free Camping? Just like the name implies, free camping is mostly free, coming at the most affordable rate to campers on a very low budget. damage an area you are camping in. In this blog post I’ll talk about my absolute favorite freedom camping locations after seven months of living in my van and traveling in New Zealand. There’s a small fee which varies depending on site and season ($10 - $15 per adult per night). Find out how to park a campervan or how to park a motorhome with this guide to parking camping vehicles in New Zealand. Whakamahia Beach, Hawke’s Bay. Local councils also have freedom camping spots available for South Island road trip travellers. It's about embracing the beauty of Aotearoa in its rawest form, and it's an experience every adventurer should savour at least once. 3. Have your self-contained paperwork handy in case you get asked for it. There are many freedom camping apps available to help you locate sites in New Zealand, so you shouldn’t have much trouble finding them. Far North & Bay of Islands – Far North District Council. Dec 28, 2022 · This guide will explain exactly how to find free campsites in New Zealand and the best apps for your road trip. eq ky zt hv ry ao yk bz qm pd