Nelson Region

A Few Good Spots to Know

Freedom camping in the Nelson Region is pretty decent if you know where to look. Near Motueka, the pick is the W F Moss Scenic Reserve up by the Riuwaka Resurgence Road. More space than the other spots in town, and you're close to the resurgence itself which is worth a look anyway.

Worth Knowing Before You Park Up

The Mcleans Recreation Area near Woodstock is another option on the Motueka River corridor. I'd call it an OK overnight stop but it's better as a swimming spot. On a hot day the river is hard to walk past. If you end up in Golden Bay, you can freedom camp at Hawkes Lookout but it's a bit cramped and sits on a noisy road. The short boardwalk through the stunted forest and the view from the top are genuinely good though, so worth stopping either way.