Adventure Headquarters | The Tongariro Crossing Specialists | Tongariro National Park

freedom camping

Free camping!!!

freedom camping For self-contained campers.

If you are on a tight budget and wanting to make your dollar go further, or just not wanting a campground experience, then we have the locations for you.

We know the places that you will love. We can discuss your needs when you are booking your transport for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike.

If your van is not self-contained, check out the Tokaanu Marina, a gorgeous spot and only 20 minutes drive from our base.

See Ruapehu District Council Freedom Camping Policy (79kb)

What is freedom camping?

“Freedom camping” means to camp (other than at a camping ground) within 200m of a formed road, or of a motor vehicle accessible area, or of the sea or harbour, or of a Great Walks Track, using one or more of the following:

Tent or other temporary structure
Caravan
Car, campervan, house-truck, or other motor vehicle

Prohibited areas

While freedom camping has been a time honoured way of experiencing New Zealand’s outdoors, and is an accepted activity for trampers and mountaineers in the backcountry, it is prohibited in some areas.

See Department of Conservation website for more information.