Catlins Curio   Porpoise Bay 2

Where Will
You Camp?

Camping Our Way

Kaitiakitanga - The guardianship and sustainable management of natural, built and cultural resources for the collective benefit of current and future generations.

Please embrace this important value and respect The Catlins.

Campervan Facilities in The Catlins
In the spirit of manaakitanga, the local community not only takes a hosting role but also has one of guardianship over our beautiful environment.

As The Catlins works towards being a sustainable visitor destination, we ask that visitors play their part in contributing to the district’s well-being while enjoying our magnificent natural resources.

Specifically, we ask all visitors to please:

  • Refrain from toileting on the ground and/or in the bush/forest
  • Ensure they discharge motorhome or campervan black water (sewage) and grey water (sink and hand basin water) at designated wastewater dump stations only
  • Place litter in rubbish receptacles or take litter away with you
  • Refrain from using our waterways for bathing, laundering clothes or washing dishes

Find out more about Care for the Catlins

It is not permitted to freedom camp or ‘park up’ in an occupied vehicle overnight in a public place. Persons found freedom camping or occupying a ‘parked up’ vehicle overnight on any Catlins street, reserve, carpark, rest area or road lay-by, will be required to relocate to a designated camping area.

For Information on where to stay in The Catlins go to the Where to stay page.

The www.camping.org.nz website is a useful tool for planning motorhome travel in New Zealand. There are helpful tips on how you as a visitor can engage in responsible camping and also links to regional information on camping regulations and motorhome facilities.

Where Can I Camp?
Please stay in Holiday Parks, Department of Conservation camping grounds or other designated areas.  


If in doubt, assume nothing – always ask 

The Catlins is situated in the Clutha District and Southland District and there are two different Freedom Camping Policies.

You can take a look at Freedom Camping Policies for both Southland District Council and Clutha District Council for more information.

Head to checkitsalright.nz/reduce-your-risk/campfires for tips to keep yourself safe when using fire while camping

More about Visitor Information...