Camping is not allowed in public spaces in some urban areas and in special areas that are environmentally or culturally sensitive. This includes all our beaches, parks and reserves in the urban centres and Banks Peninsula, unless there are areas set aside specifically for camping. We have a number of designated camping or caravan facilities that cater for a variety of needs throughout the city and Banks Peninsula and encourage campers to utilise those.
Christchurch City Council Camping Areas in Christchurch and Banks Peninsula Reserves:
South Brighton Domain Camping Ground
Spencer Park
Okains Bay Domain
Okains Bay Sefton Road Reserve
Pigeon Bay Camping Ground
Duvauchelle Camping Ground
When camping in our city, these guidelines must be followed:
- Use designated camping areas (which will be signposted that camping is allowed) or commercial premises. Information is available at local i-SITEs or DOC Visitor Centres and there are also many printed and online camping guides available.
- Respect the New Zealand environment – leave the site clear of all rubbish, waste and damage.
- Dumping of waste and litter is an offence and will result in fines or prosecution
- Have access to, or have on-board, a toilet and suitable methods of wastewater collection and rubbish disposal.
- Act responsibly, and respect the access and enjoyment rights of local residents and other visitors.
By respecting these guidelines, we can all protect Christchurch’s natural and urban environment.
Areas where camping or residing in vehicles is prohibited and subject to fines and/or prosecution:
All parks and reserves that do not have designated camping areas
Cranmer Square, including the immediately adjacent streets
- Hagley Park and the adjacent carparks, including the Horticultural Centre
Botanic Gardens carparks
- Mona Vale carparks
Beach reserves (including the dunes along Marine Parade Drive) and road reserves including the Sumner Surf Lifesaving Club carpark at the end of Clifton Terrace and Bellamy Avenue carpark on Marine Parade Drive
Akaroa streets - no campervan parking on Beach Road from Rue Benoit to Smith Street, and Beach Road from Rue Jolie to Bruce Terrace
For further information, contact the Christchurch City Council phone (03) 941 8999 or email info@ccc.govt.nz.
