The Best Freedom Camping Spots in the North Island, New Zealand
Freedom camping has seriously boomed in popularity over recent years, and if you ask us, we’re not quite sure why it took so long for people to cotton on. New Zealand is a freedom camper’s paradise; we’re a safe and friendly country with some of the most beautiful scenery in the world—and at New Zealand’s best freedom camping spots, you can park up and enjoy front-row seats.
Here at Epic Campers, we make a point of asking our customers about their favourite campsites. We’ve also done a fair bit of exploring in our campervans ourselves, so we thought we’d compile a list for those wondering where best to park up.
Here are our recommendations for the best freedom camping sites the north island.
Kaiaua Beach, Gisborne – Best beachfront freedom camping spot
Kaiaua Beach is located 60km from Gisborne on the North Island’s east coast. If you like falling asleep and waking to the sound of the ocean, Kaiaua Beach is a must visit.
The beach has a rugged and isolated feel, and is great for swimming and fishing if the weather permits.
Freedom campers are welcome here between Easter and Labour Day and can stay for up to three nights.
Reid’s Farm, Taupo – Most popular freedom camping spot
Reid’s farm is popular with freedom campers in NZ for a few reasons: it’s beautiful, easily accessible and free.
The recreation reserve is on the Waikato River near Huka Falls. It’s a peaceful spot and you can park just a short distance to the water—which is great for swimming in the summer months.
There are no facilities other than a couple of long-drop toilets, but sine you’ll be in a self-contained campervan (which you need to be to freedom camp anyway) you will have everything you need. Just make sure you stock up on food and supplies.
Little Waipa Reserve, Waikato River – Best facilities for freedom campers
Little Waipa Reserve is on the banks of Lake Karapiro, situated on the Waikato River just south west of Tirau.
The large leafy clearing has elevated lake views and a peaceful feel, even when you’re sharing the space with others.
Freedom campers can make use of the on-site toilets showers and BBQs and the first two nights are free.
Waiomu Domain Beachfront Reserve, Coromandel – Most convenient
This little spot on the western side of the Coromandel peninsula is popular with freedom campers embarking on a Coromandel adventure.
The beach is just steps away and there’s a great café just across the road with pizzas, scones, pies and more.
Space is fairly limited with room for about 6-8 campers, so we recommend arriving early to claim your spot.
Brighton Reserve, Waihi Beach, Coromandel - Great for kids
You can’t get much closer to the beach than this, but that’s not the only reason why freedom campers love Brighton Reserve.
The nearby playground makes it a great choice for those who have kids in tow. But you’ll need to get in early; there’s only enough space for five campers and spaces are in demand over the summer months.
Dawson Falls Carparks, Taranaki – Most epic scenery
A carpark may not sound like the nicest spot for freedom campers in NZ, but this is no ordinary carpark.
Situated near the base of Mt Taranaki, the Dawson Falls carpark gives freedom campers magnificent views of the mountain and access to some amazing walks.
In winter, just make sure you’re prepared for snow!
Hatfields Beach, Orewa, Auckland – Best in Auckland
Freedom campers in Auckland love being able to travel just half an hour from the CBD to reach this little gem.
You get ocean views, you can fish, swim, relax and feel as though you’re hundreds of miles away from big city life… Absolute bliss!
Remember, if you’re freedom camping in NZ you must be in a certified self-contained campervan, which meets all the standards, otherwise you can get stung with a $250 fine.
All of our campervans are self-contained and built with freedom camping in mind.
You can check out our campervans here
And when you have some trip dates in mind, get a quote instantly here.