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South Island Freedom Camping Rules Tighten

16.01.2026 08:00 1 min 1 source РУС
scoop.co.nz ENG

District councils are tightening freedom camping rules for motorhomes and campervans due to increasing numbers and environmental concerns. As of December 2025, the Queenstown Lakes District restricts camping to certified self-contained vehicles at 141 marked car parks, with a maximum two-night stay. The Mackenzie District has fully enforced restrictions, and fines for illegal camping range from NZD 400 to 800.

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South Island Freedom Camping Rules Tighten

16.01.2026 scoop.co.nz ENG Original source
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More than 1600 fines issued to freedom campers in Queenstown under new rules Law & Regulations © RNZ
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More than 1600 fines issued to freedom campers in Queenstown under new rules

The Queenstown Lakes District Council introduced new freedom camping rules in December, restricting vehicles to 141 designated sites. Over three months, 1514 Freedom Camping Act infringements at $400 and 108 Reserves Act infringements at $800 were issued, primarily for illegal parking or overstaying. The council reported the highest number of fines since around 2019, while campers argue that demand for spaces far exceeds supply.

Source: RNZ ENG

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