Freedom Camping

Bay of Islands, Northland

PhotoAlistair Guthrie

AccommodationCamping Grounds

Freedom Camping Locations

Expect no facilities. Generally for self contained vehicles only.

A few unprepared freedom campers have affected Aotearoa, socially and environmentally. New Zealanders are very aware of this, and some now see freedom campers as a threat to the environment and our collective ability to enjoy it.

We don’t want you to be seen in this light. Please be respectful of the environment and the local people. These freedom camping tips will show the way.

5 items with the highest ranking score first

South IslandSouthland

Monkey Island, Orepuki

Overnight Campervan Parking and Walk

Freedom campers are allowed to stay for up to 28 days per calendar year. Monkey Island can be reached by foot at a low tide, and offers good...

South IslandSouthland

Please leave the site as you found it, especially take rubbish away and no toilet paper in the bushes.

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Find your spot

South IslandSouthland

Alex McKenzie Arboretum, Otautau

Overnight Campervan Parking

The intrepid Southland explorer can camp for up to four nights at the Alex McKenzie Arboretum & picnic area just outside Otautau. This place...

Fortrose on a great day!

South IslandSouthland

Moray Terrace

Fortrose township - Overnight Campervan Parking

Freedom camping in Fortrose township, Catlins, Southland

Dunsdale Recreation Reserve

Closed between May - September every year. Freedom campers are permitted to stay for up to three days at Dunsdale Recreation Reserve, inland...