Freedom Camping in New Zealand
In 2024, our laws on freedom camping in New Zealand are changing.
There are still plenty of places where you can pull over and have a sleep, but have a look out for sign before you do, or you could face a $200+ fine.
If you’re in a Lucky Rambler you won’t have to worry about any of this, because it’s self-certified contained. Take a look at this table to see where you can camp. If you’re still unsure, ask a local, they’re pretty keen to help you out. In general, you can only freedom camp on local authority land if your vehicle is certified self-contained. Lucky Rentals recommends downloading Campermate onto your phone or tablet for full information on where you can camp.
Can I camp at: | Lucky Rambler | Lucky Rover | Lucky Rodeo |
---|---|---|---|
DOC Campsites (unless required) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Holiday Parks | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Local authority land not requiring self containment | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Local authority land requiring self containment | Yes | Yes (until 7 December 2024) | No |
Freedom Camping Guidelines
If you do end up freedom camping, stick to these guidelines to stay out of trouble.