- No products in the cart.
It is hard to find a country more well-suited to freedom camping than New Zealand, especially the South Island camping sites. It is definitely a must-visit and these freedom camping spots should be in your bucket lists!
Finding overnight camping sites can be quite a struggle. However, in Auckland New Zealand, there are many overnight camping sites that are full of life. I would highly recommend my fellow Zealanders or tourists to visit these beautiful overnight camping sites. Whether it is your first time or you are a recurring camper/ hiker, these places are the perfect fit for you to unwind and relax.
If done well, this can be one of the best experiences you’ll come across.
If you’re new to this area, make sure to read on and consult online services to cross-check on what you should and shouldn’t do when it comes to these freedom camping spots! Most of all, these areas have little-to-no restrictions, but you should still be extremely wary of the consequences if you decide to break the rules.
Pelorus Bridge Campground, Marlborough
It is certainly hard to pick just one freedom camping spot as a start, but the Pelorus Bridge Campground in Malborough is a perfect choice to begin with!
With its lush forest views and glorious scenic, this campground is covered with vegetation that still manages to keep its beauty through the shift in time. Despite the fact that majority of the land space is covered with ancient vegetation, this campground is
This campground is located in the Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve - mounted by its special scenic and lush forest views. The majority of the land and forest area is covered with ancient vegetation.
When visiting this campsite, one important thing to keep in mind is that there might be some restrictions that can affect your planned date. Depending on the seasonal changes and weather, the campsite might be closed during bad weather.
Mavora Lakes Campsite, Te Anau, Fiordland
This beautiful campsite is located about an hour and a half away from Te Anau. It stands as one of the best freedom camping sites with exceptional views. This campsite is divided into two sites - one along the south of Mavora Lake and one alongside the North Mavora Lake. Both sites offer exceptionally affordable rates - allowing campers to enjoy their wide range of facilities including hiking, walking, swimming, and many more.
Freedom Camping at Punakaiki Beach Camp, Punakaiki
Freedom Camping at Punakaiki Beach Camp is another option you should highly consider! There are plenty of beachfront accommodations that are perfect for a getaway and an adventure with loved ones. This freedom camping site typically houses many guests and travellers - so if you love a packed camping site with good vibes, this is certainly a plus!
Punakaiki Beach Camp is also known to set up base camp and to explore Paparoa National Park. Just a walk away to the beach, this location is simply unreal.
Twenty Five Mile Stream, Queenstown
If you are looking for a flexible camping site with affordable rates, this is a great place to get started! There are many trails in this area and with the price you’re paying, there are many cost-effective opportunities that you can enjoy!
Once here, you can remain at the camping site for a total of four nights in your campervan hire. The site itself is situated right beside the serene and placid Lake Wakatipu and is likely to be quite empty when you arrive.
Verdict
Overall, there are endless freedom campsites located on the South Island in New Zealand. If you are ready to begin your adventure, go for it! Make sure you plan well and enjoy yourself!
FAQ
1. Is camping in New Zealand safe?
Camping in non-designated campsites in New Zealand is generally not allowed. While safety is a factor, there are also many other aspects that could leave your life at stake. You may be fined up to $200 if caught wild camping - especially if you do not have access to public toilets and other camping facilities. It is better to be safe and protected than having to deal with consequences in the future.
2. Do you need to book campsites in New Zealand?
Generally no, but it is always best to book campsites upon deciding a camping date and location. You do not want to go to the campsites and suddenly, have to cancel your whole plan because it is fully booked.
Depending on the seasons, campsites are usually more popular during summer, or in New Zealand’s school holidays. In this case, some of the best campsites are typically booked up. While it is okay if you do not book your campsites, it is generally much more advisable to book it beforehand!
3. Do you need to book campsites in New Zealand?
Generally no, but it is always best to book campsites upon deciding a camping date and location. You do not want to go to the campsites and suddenly, have to cancel your whole plan because it is fully booked.
Depending on the seasons, campsites are usually more popular during summer, or in New Zealand’s school holidays. In this case, some of the best campsites are typically booked up. While it is okay if you do not book your campsites, it is generally much more advisable to book it beforehand!
4. What do you need for camping?
It ultimately depends on where you are going, for how long, whether you are hiking with anyone else(and if so, how experienced they are), how I’m getting there, what the weather forecast is, and other essential factors to keep in mind.
Despite the factors that come into play, there are critical materials that you have to bring. The general rule is to pack as light as you can, while bringing all the necessary requirements (some of which we’ve mentioned above).
6. Can you camp for free in Auckland, New Zealand?
Responsible freedom camping can be a popular choice for some New Zealand visitors; but while it is free of charge, it is not free of responsibility. Responsible freedom camping is camping in a tent, campervan or motor vehicle on public land, on a site with minimal or no facilities, such as toilets or showers.
