Freedom Camping

The freedom camping season is open until Monday 5 April 2010.

The only exception is Turihaua Beach - this opens on 26 December and closes 1 February. 

Information you need to know

You must have a permit before you set up camp.  We do not take reservations for any camping spots. 

You can fill in our online form to apply for a permit

One permit is issued for up to 6 people, your permit will cost:   

• $10 for 2 nights (up to 2 nights - 2 rubbish bags)
• $25 for 10 nights (over 2 up to 10 nights - 10 rubbish bags)
• $60 for 28 nights (over 10 up to 28 nights - 28 rubbish bags)

Download the freedom camping brochure 

Paying for your permit

Please let us know if you are posting a cheque or paying by electronic banking.
See our direct credit payment information

Your permit and rubbish bags will be posted once payment is received.

You can also get your permit at our customer service counters at Fitzherbert Street or Te Puia Springs.  Other outlets are :

Visitor Information Centre in Grey Street
Uawa Foodmarket at Tolaga Bay
Waerenga-o-Kuri Store (for Donneraille Park)
Opotiki i-site
Whakatane i-site
Freedom camping rubbish collection contractor 

Freedom camping areas in our district

The freedom camping areas are along our coastline and one is on the inland road to Wairoa.  The links will give you a map and more details about the location.

The areas are:

• Turihaua Beach
  Note: a restricted season from 26 December to 1 February
• Turihaua Point
• Pouawa Beach
• Waihau Bay - Loisels Beach
• Tolaga Bay at Blue Waters
• Kaiaua Beach
• Tokomaru Bay
• Waipiro Bay
• Donneraille Park

We regularly have inspectors at all our sites. 

What you need for freedom camping

All you need apart from your camping gear is:

• A permit 
  • You must have this before you camp. 
  • The permit must be displayed on the camp site vehicle. 
  • Camp sites not displaying a permit will have their equipment removed at the owner's expense.
• Your own chemical toilet
• Gas cooker - no open fires are allowed
• Your own water supply  

Campsite requirements

• Tents - no semi-permanent structures
• Caravans, house bus and campervans must be roadworthy 
• A distance of 2.5 metres between each campsite for fire safety
• No structures attached to any tree or shrub 

Motorbikes on the beach

Beaches are public places - all road rules apply

• No riding on the dunes, do not damage vegetation or cause erosion
• Be courteous to other beach users
• Do not create new tracks - use the established tracks
• Do not ride in a manner that is dangerous to others
• Be aware of wildlife