Things you need to know
In a self-contained vehicle?
If you are in a self-contained vehicle you can camp anywhere in our district except in the prohibited areas. You can stay up to 3 nights in each area.
Note: Some areas have restrictions. Self-contained camping at The Point in Ngaruawahia is restricted to a designated area and it can’t be used if the area is required for events. At St Stephens Car Park in Tuakau you can only camp in a self-contained vehicle between the hours of 6pm and 10am and you can’t stay for more than two nights.
Not in a self-contained vehicle?
You can camp at Onewhero Domain and Te Kauwhata Domain but you can’t camp in these areas for more than 2 nights if you aren’t self-contained. It is free to camp in these areas.
Otherwise you’ll need to stay in a holiday park, campground or a Department of Conservation camping area.
Freedom camping dump stations
If you are driving a certified self-contained vehicle,
please dispose of your grey water (sink and shower) and toilet waste in a safe
and environmentally sound way at an approved dump station. It is recommended
that you dispose of your waste every 2-3 days.
You’ll find dump stations in
the following areas:
Freedom Camping Act 2011 and our Freedom Camping Bylaw 2016
Under the Waikato District Council Freedom Camping Bylaw (2016), you can receive a $200 fine if you do not comply with the rules. You can also be fined for littering or making too much noise.