Freedom Camping
Freedom camping is when you camp on public land that isn't a recognised camping ground or holiday park.
Freedom camping is prohibited on Council Reserves and in the South Bay Recreation Reserve. Freedom camping is discouraged throughout the peninsular, town and residential areas. We ask everyone to be considerate of our environment and other users. Only camp where you have access to facilities and follow the guidelines.
On this page:
- Who can freedom camp?
- Where can I freedom camp?
- Freedom camping on DOC land
- Freedom camping etiquette
- Recycling and Rubbish
- Useful links
- Contact us
Who can freedom camp?
If you want to freedom camp in Kaikoura, you must have access to a toilet or have an on-boardtoilet, wastewater collection and rubbish disposal facilities.
Freedom camping is limited to two days, unless you are otherwise informed.
Where can I freedom camp?
Camping is discouraged particularly in the town centre, residential areas and the rest of the Kaikoura peninsula (shown on the map).
Camping is also prohibited on Council reserves and in the South Bay recreation reserve. Camping in prohibited areas may result in an infringement notice.
Freedom campers should use designated public spaces, camping areas or camping grounds. For more information, contact the local i-Site Visitor Centre or District Council.
Freedom camping on DOC land
Freedom camping on DOC land is generally allowed. There are some places on DOC land where you can't camp because the site has a special value, for example it's a Māori burial site (urupa) or a protected plant or animal is there.
Conservation areas where you can't freedom camp
Freedom camping etiquette
- Check where you can and cannot park.
- Do not camp on private land.
- Respect our environment – leave the site clear of all rubbish, waste and damage. Understand that dumping of waste and litter is an offence and will result in instant fines or prosecution.
- Act responsibly, respect the access and enjoyment rights of other public space users and be considerate of your impact on them and the surrounding environment. Respect our urban areas.
- Dispose off all toilet and waste water at Council-approved dump station (see above Map). Do not leave your waste in the environment.
- Freedom camping is limited to two days.
- Do not wash dishes or wash/dry clothes in public facilities not designed for that purpose, e.g. public toilet.
- Following safe fire practices at all times, including adhering to fire bans.
- Keep dogs under control.
There are other Council bylaws that may apply and controls under other legislation, such as for noise, dog control, liquor in public places, and parking control.
Recycling and Rubbish
• Kaikoura is a Zero Waste Community, visit Innovative Waste Kaikoura centre to recycle your empty cans, drink bottles and packaging or glass bottles and/or dump rubbish.
For more information see our Recycling and Rubbish page.
Useful links
Contact Us
If need anymore information or wish to make a complaint about freedom camping, contact us at 03 319 5026 or kaikoura@govt.nz.
