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.

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To get away from the roadside crowds and their literal arsenal of cameras, we walked 1/2 mile and found a lovely little rock for a cheesy yoga pose. (Off in the distance is Mount Cook.)

South IslandMount Cook - MacKenzie

Lake Pukaki Freedom Camping

Just past the bridge

Large camping area underneath pine trees

Wildlife reserve full of birds on the side of the Pukaki canal

South IslandMount Cook - MacKenzie

Lake Poaka Campsite

Lake Poaka Conservation Area - Overnight Campervan Parking

Wildlife reserve full of birds on the side of the Pukaki canal. Camp right alongside the lake. Use this campsite as a base for recreational...

South IslandMount Cook - MacKenzie

Lake Opuha

Bennetts Road

Self-Contained Camping

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South IslandMount Cook - MacKenzie

(Mackenzie Waitaki RV Camping)

Edwards Stream

Overnight Campervan Parking

- Certified Self Contained vehicles only - Toilet - non flush - Picnic table - 3 night maximum stay - No fires

South IslandMount Cook - MacKenzie

Lake Ruataniwha Reserve

Overnight Campervan Parking

The MacKenzie District Council has allowed freedom camping along the shores of Lake Ruataniwha. Camping not permitted between 23 December and...

South IslandMount Cook - MacKenzie

Lake Opuha

Opuha Gorge Road

No camping allowed between 23rd of Dec till second Monday of Jan. Max. 3 nights.

South IslandMount Cook - MacKenzie

Lake Opuha

Hayes Road

No camping allowed between 23rd of Dec till second Monday of Jan. Max. 3 nights.