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.

6 items with the highest ranking score first

North IslandRotorua Region

Orakei Korako Geyserland Resort

Overnight Campervan Parking

Awesome view of the lake.

North IslandRotorua Region

Firmin Lodge

Kawerau, Overnight Campervan Parking

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All the great camping sites on your iPhone™, iPad™ or Android™ phone or tablet. Avoid camping penalties using this council approved app. Featuring offline maps.

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North IslandRotorua Region

Prideaux Park is the most widely used site because of its central location. It is a short stroll to town, the Kawerau i-SITE and also Kawerau...

North IslandRotorua Region

Government Gardens Thermal Area

Overnight Campervan Parking

Limited free parking spaces for large campervans available in the Government Gardens opposite the Polynesian Spa, Hinemoa Street. The aim is to...

North IslandRotorua Region

Lake Ōkaro Reserve

Overnight Campervan Parking

This reserve can be accessed from Waimangu Road. This lake is an important wildlife habitat for water birds such as the grey teal, paradise shelduck...

North IslandRotorua Region

Matahi Spit, Lake Rotomā

Overnight Campervan Parking

Matahi Spit (Scenic Reserve) can be accessed via State Highway 30. It is an approximately 30 minute drive from Rotorua central city. There is...