Freedom Camping in the Grey District
Responsible Freedom Camping Bylaw
Council is updating its Responsible Freedom Camping Bylaw, and the bylaw now incorporates legislative changes introduced by the Self-contained Motor Vehicles Legislation Act 2023. This is currently open for public consultation from 29 June to 1 August 2026. If you want to learn more, view documents, and make a submission, we recommend going to Have your Say Grey
The updated policy will be available here once the consultation process is completed.
Please also read our frequently asked questions for further information.
Freedom Camping Act
New freedom camping laws came into effect on Wednesday, 7 June 2023.
The Self-Contained Motor Vehicle Legislation Bill includes the following key changes:
- Changes to where you can freedom camp. In general, you can only freedom camp on local authority land if your vehicle is certified self-contained. Check in with your local authority to find out more.
- Changes around certifying self-contained vehicles. Vehicles with a portable toilet are no longer able to be certified self-contained.
- Changes to infringement fees and fines. The original infringement fee of $200 has been increased to $400. Many of the fees will further increase when regulations come into force.
These rules have not changed:
- Camping in tents.
- Camping in vehicles at commercial campsites.
- Camping in vehicles on private land.
Freedom Camping Changes flyer [PDF, 344KB]
More information about the Freedom Camping changes (mbie.govt.nz)
