Dunedin City Council freedom camping rules can be found here.

The Dunedin City Council has a Camping Control Bylaw, which recognises the popularity of freedom camping for both domestic and international visitors. Some restrictions apply to help protect our communities, cemeteries, scenic bush and wildlife environments.

In the first instance, campers in tents and non-self-contained vehicles are encouraged to stay at licenced camping grounds. Campers staying in tents can only freedom camp at the Warrington Domain, within the designated area.

Freedom campers in non-self-contained vehicles can only camp at two designated sites – Warrington Domain and Ocean View Recreation Reserve.

It is the camper’s responsibility to arrive at the site early enough to familiarise themselves with the sign-posted designated camping areas, and, if necessary find another site if the current one is full.

Certified self-contained vehicles can stay overnight on most gravelled or sealed Dunedin City Council land set aside for parking, with some exceptions outlined below.

The following freedom camping rules apply at all sites:

• The maximum stay for freedom campers at any one location is two consecutive nights (departure by 8.30am, except for Warrington which is 12 noon).

• Please respect the sites. They are public spaces so please consider other users.

• Dispose of all waste in facilities provided, or take it with you.

• No fires.

• Park in a legal manner in formed parking areas without obstructing footpaths or access.

• Self-contained vehicles must clearly display NZS5465:2001 certification.

• Campers not complying with the rules may be issued with a $200 fine

• Gated reserves are locked at night and are not available for freedom camping

• Thomas Burns Street site is only available seasonally for uncertified vehicles, during the period November to April. 

Freedom camping rules on public conservation land can be found here.

• Free DOC Campsites where you can camp can be found here. Usually you do not have to be self-contained to stay at DOC Campsites because there are facilities available.

• Conservation areas where freedom camping is prohibited or restricted, click here. You can not camp in DOC administered scenic reserves or recreation reserves, unless you are within a managed campsite. However, some reserves allow freedom camping in self-contained vehicles only. Not all reserves will have a sign stating camping is prohibited. Outram Glen is a scenic reserve and freedom camping is prohibited.

• Freedom camping with dogs is not permitted in national parks. For other public conservation land where freedom camping is permitted there may be different rules and bylaws for dogs. This may be posted on a sign. You can also check with the local DOC office.