Tips for summer camping in Ōtautahi
Christchruch City Council Newsline: 4th December 2024
There are some magnificent camping spots in Christchurch and Banks Peninsula for locals and visitors to enjoy this summer.
The Christchurch City Council operates four camping grounds ranging from small, relaxed seaside sites to larger, fully serviced holiday parks.
“Our campgrounds offer a variety of experiences. Some provide a back-to-basics getaway while others have access to a wide range of amenities. What they all have in common are their picturesque natural settings,” says Nigel Cox, Council Head of Recreation, Sports and Events.
Beautiful Banks Peninsula is home to the Duvauchelle Holiday Park, situated on the waterfront just before you get to Akaroa. It’s a perfect base for exploring the bays or taking in some local attractions. With parking for boats, tennis courts and a children’s play area, this is marvellous spot to spend a day or a week.
Idyllic Okains Bay Camping Ground is about one and a quarter hour’s drive from Christchurch and 22km from Akaroa. It offers family-friendly camping in a beachfront setting with a range of activities on hand, including the Okains Bay Maori and Colonial Museum just a stone’s throw away. This is a perfect place to get away from it all and just chill out.
For classic kiwi camping, look no further than the Pigeon Bay Camping Ground. No showers or power here, just an amazing setting. There’s a sheltered beach, jetty for water sports and modern toilet block. Facilities for children include a tennis court, playground and a safe swimming beach.
Check the availability to get back to basics at Pigeon Bay this summer!
Closer to the city, relax and unwind in the green surrounds of Spencer Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park.
Located amidst a 70-hectare reserve with many walking and biking tracks, the park is a short walk to the beach and 20 minutes’ drive from the central city. With 300 powered sites and 60 tent sites, there’s a sunny or sheltered spot to suit almost everyone. Cabins and units are also available.
Check availability and find out more about the Spencer Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park..
Outside the key holiday period of Christmas Eve to early New Year there are still a few spaces available at all these campgrounds, however it is best to book soon to avoid disappointment. Full live availability is available on each campground website.
Freedom camping in Ōtautahi Christchurch
It’s best to check our online camping map first for those planning on freedom camping this summer. This has information on locations and rules so campers can do the right thing and avoid a fine.
“For those planning on freedom camping near our eastern beaches, the City Coastal Restricted Zone, which covers most of South Brighton, New Brighton and North New Brighton is a popular choice over summer," Mr Cox says.
Find out more about freedom camping in the City Coastal Restricted Zone.
“To protect our environment, we ask that people follow the rules and stay only in certified self-contained vehicles, use their on-board facilities, look after the sand dunes and beaches and avoid blocking access to entrances, car parks, the beach and any buildings.
“Check your self-contained vehicle fits within one parking space and if not, please stay in a campground.”
The City Coastal Restricted Zone allows freedom camping for up to four nights in any 30-day period, excluding the following prohibited areas:
- North Beach car park on weekends;
- New Brighton North Ramp and South Ramp;
- Southshore (south of Caspian Street); and
- Council parks and reserves.
Within the restricted zone, self-contained vehicles can stay up to two nights in one place and must move at least 500m away for the final two nights.
Check the Christchurch and Banks Pensinsula online camping map for information on locations and rules or pick up a brochure from any library.
Freedom camping areas are monitored and fines of $200 to $800 may apply for non-compliance. Any concerns can be reported via the Council’s Snap Send Solve app or by phoning 03 941 8999 or 0800 800 169.