Fire in Titahi Bay destroys house and caravans

In New Plymouth, New Zealand, 80-year-old Bill McMurray, who has lived in his motorhome with two dogs for nearly 11 years, received a $400 fine for overstaying at the free Lake Rotomanu freedom camping site. He stayed an extra night due to high winds reaching 100 km/h, deeming it unsafe to drive his 7-metre-long vehicle. The New Plymouth District Council acknowledged the weather but upheld the fine, suggesting he could have parked elsewhere or used a campground within a half-hour drive. Since June last year, 359 infringement notices have been issued at the site, with 95 successfully challenged.

An overseas buyer paid $45m for Hahei Beach Resort on the Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand, with approval from the Overseas Investment Office. Tasman Tourism New Zealand, a joint venture between an Australian private equity firm and a UAE-based investment company, also bought Raglan Sunset Motel for $5m. Both properties were sold by New Zealand investment group Hahei Beach Limited, which purchased them in 2015 for $13.25m and $3.88m respectively.

A consortium bidding for Tourism Holdings, a campervan rental and sales company operating in New Zealand, Australia, and North America, sees higher value than the market. After a peak in 2023, the company faces a downturn.

From June 7, blue self-containment warrants for freedom camping will no longer be valid. Vehicle owners must switch to the new green warrant system by June 6. Camping on public land without a green warrant may result in a $400 infringement notice. The transition period, which began in December 2023, ends with over 68,000 vehicles already certified under the new system.

Starting June 7, 2026, new regulations for motorhomes used for freedom camping take effect in New Zealand. Traditional blue self-containment certificates are being replaced by 'green stickers,' which require a fixed toilet. A fine of NZ$400 applies for not having the green sticker.

From Sunday 7 June 2026, blue self-containment warrants for motorhomes and campervans will no longer be valid for freedom camping in New Zealand. Vehicle owners found freedom camping on public land without a green warrant may face a NZD 400 infringement notice. The transition period, which began in December 2023, ends this weekend. Over 68,000 vehicles have already been certified under the new system. Requirements include fixed toilets, water supply, wastewater management, ventilation, and rubbish storage.