Freedom Camping

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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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Canterbury

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Self-contained motorhomes only

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21 items with the highest ranking score first

South Island ▷ Canterbury ▷

Forks Hotel

Waihao - Overnight Campervan Parking

4.9 6 reviews

The Waimate District Council allows freedom campers in self-contained vehicles to park here for a maximum of two nights, in the carpark of the...

South Island ▷ Canterbury ▷

Lake Camp

Overnight Campervan Parking

4.8 41 reviews

Lake Camp is situated in a wide tussock covered mountain valley surrounded by high, generally snow covered, mountain peaks at the headwaters of...

South Island ▷ Canterbury ▷

Waitohi Scenic Reserve

Overnight Campervan Parking

4.8 15 reviews

Unavailable from mid April to early Spring for Forestry Operations.

South Island ▷ Canterbury ▷

Cust Domain

Overnight Campervan Parking

4.7 46 reviews

Maximum of 3 nights. No camping in carpark area beside play equipment. Freedom campers are asked to assist by: - removing all rubbish...

South Island ▷ Canterbury ▷

Black Hole, Waihao Downs

Overnight Campervan Parking

4.7 8 reviews

This is a Waimate District Council designated freedom camping spot for self-contained vehicles. You can park for up to two nights close to the...

South Island ▷ Canterbury ▷

West Oxford Reserve

Overnight Campervan Parking

4.4 18 reviews

Freedom campers are asked to assist by: - removing all rubbish, solid or liquid waste from the camping site when leaving - disposing of rubbish...

South Island ▷ Canterbury ▷

Waihao Box, Willowbridge

Overnight Campervan Parking

4.4 18 reviews

Park up close to the coast and watch the sun rise. The Waimate District Council has OK-ed this area for the use of self-contained campers for...

South Island ▷ Canterbury ▷

Hanmer Field Base and Picnic Area

Overnight Campervan Parking

4.3 94 reviews

Freedom camping available by the workshop. No camping in the picnic area by the office. The local Community Board lock the gate to this picnic...

South Island ▷ Canterbury ▷

Orari River Mouth

Overnight Campervan parking

4.2 4 reviews

We have some of the most beautiful camping sites in the country and invite all visitors and locals to camp responsibly and to enjoy the best of...

South Island ▷ Canterbury ▷

Te Moana Gorge

Four Peaks

4.1 3 reviews

This is a Timaru District Council designated freedom camping spot for stays up to 30 days. Fires are prohibited as there is a forest nearby. Gas...

Camping NZ App

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.