Self Contained

All our vans hold a valid Self-Containment Certificate (Green Warrant) — issued under NZ Government regulations. This means you can legally freedom camp in thousands of locations across New Zealand, not just in paid campgrounds.

What does Self-Contained mean?
Your van is certified to carry fresh water, store waste water, and operate a toilet — so you leave no trace wherever you stop. Our certification is valid until 22 April 2028 and allows up to 4 occupants.

What is Freedom Camping?
Camping on public land with minimal or no facilities — beaches, river flats, forest edges. With a self-containment certificate you can stay overnight in most public places unless a sign says otherwise.

Golden Rule: Always Check the Signs

Local signs always override national rules. Before you park for the night, look for:

Blue sign with a campervan icon — camping is allowed (check for night limits)
White or yellow sign with a red line through a campervan — No Camping. Move on.

Critical Hotspots

Queenstown Lakes District: Freedom camping is banned on all town streets and lakeside roads. You can only camp in 15 designated council car parks. Arrive after 6:00 PM, leave before 8:00 AM. Maximum 2 nights per spot.

Kaikōura District: Camping allowed only in 5 specific beach or town car parks (e.g. West End, Jimmy Armers Beach). Maximum 1 night. Note: sleepervans are not permitted in Kaikōura.

Avoid Fines — Use These Apps

Download these free apps to find legal camping spots in real time:

CamperMate — shows official green, blue, and red zones
Rankers NZ — community reviews and local rules

Fines for illegal freedom camping run from $200 to $800. Don’t guess — check the apps.

General Rules

Always follow the signs — local bylaws override national law
Carry in, carry out. Leave no trace.
Be responsible with waste at all times

We leave a printed guide inside every van with all these rules, local hotspot maps, and app recommendations — so you have everything you need on hand while travelling.

For national parks, great walks, and conservation areas, visit DOC — Department of Conservation.