Freedom Camping and Low Cost DOC Camping

The ability to freedom camp in New Zealand is a real bonus and provides a close-to-nature Kiwi experience. You can freedom camp on public conservation land except in areas where it is expressly prohibited or restricted to self-contained vehicles as indicated by signage. In additional to freedom camping there are other low-cost camping options at locations such as DOC (Department of Conservation) camp sites. There are several apps that will help you find the best places to camp.  To start with take a look at CamperMate and Camping NZ.

You may have heard that freedom camping rules are changing. Due to regulation changes as from 7 June 2025 self-containment certifications on smaller campers with portaloos will no longer be valid. This means none of our campers will have valid self-containment certifications from that date. Instead, we recommend using low-cost DOC camping passes. A Campsite Pass offers excellent value for your camping adventures. Purchase one online or at a DOC visitor centre. You can choose a 30-night ($95) or 365-night ($195) Campsite Pass. Find more details at https://www.doc.govt.nz/campsite-pass

If you do not have a DOC Campsite Pass you can still stay at these DOC sites often for as low as $8 per adult and they do not require self-contained certification. For information on DOC  camping look at http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-stay/stay-at-a-campsite/

There is some helpful information on where you can camp in New Zealand at https://www.newzealand.com/uk/camping/. Also see https://www.camping.org.nz/

When camping in New Zealand you must always:

  • Use public toilets; do not use the bush or waterways as a toilet
  • Leave no trace of your visit
  • Dispose of all rubbish responsibly, or take it with you
  • Respect private property; don’t camp on someone’s land
  • Respect ‘No Camping’ signs; they are there for a reason
  • Keep detergents, soap, toothpaste etc. out of waterways
  • Only use approved dump stations to dispose of motorhome waste

Self-Containment Certified Camping

Some freedom camping locations around New Zealand are restricted to those vehicles which are self-contained certified. For details on certification please look at here. The Standard requires adequate fresh water, sealed grey water collection, a toilet, and sealable a refuse container and to have the capacity to last three days.

Due to regulation changes as from 7 June 2025 self-containment certifications on smaller campers with portaloos will no longer be valid. This means none of our campers will have valid self-containment certifications from that date. Instead, we recommend using low-cost DOC camping passes.