You can freedom camp on private property.
You cannot freedom camp on public land anywhere in Kaipara, unless displaying a current certified self-contained sticker.
Freedom camping in vehicles that do not display current certified self-contained stickers is prohibited. Sleeping in a public area in a tent or motor vehicle can be assessed as freedom camping which a fine can be issued. If you have converted a van or own a caravan and it has not been inspected and certified self-contained you must stay in a camping ground, please contact one of the listed campgrounds to book your spot and use their facilities.
- Certified Self-Containment (CSC) - New Zealand Motor Caravan Association
- Learn about vehicle self-containment certification in New Zealand
General rules and information for freedom campers in Kaipara
Freedom camping is when someone stays overnight on council-controlled public land in a vehicle or caravan, as part of leisure travel or for lifestyle reasons.
General rules for all freedom camping
You can freedom camp in a certified self-contained vehicle on most council-controlled public land in Kaipara.
To freedom camp in Kaipara, you must:
- use a certified self-contained vehicle displaying a current certificate example below.
- stay a maximum of two nights in the same road or off-road parking area, like a council carpark
- vacate your parking space by 9am on the day you leave
- not return to stay in the same location within a two-week period, which starts from 9am on the day of departure
- not stay in any area where freedom camping is prohibited
- comply with any special rules for freedom camping in restricted areas
- comply with other rules and bylaws including disposal of waste and responsible freedom camping.
- take your rubbish away with you when you leave.
- you cannot freedom camp in tents in public places. This is not allowed in Kaipara. You must stay in a registered campground or on private property.
If you break the rules or camp in prohibited areas, you can be fined.
