Freedom Campers Reminded to Follow Rules Across WBOP This Summer

With Labour Weekend marking the unofficial start of summer, Western Bay of Plenty District Council has seen the first wave of freedom campers arrive across the district. Council compliance and monitoring manager Dougal Elvin said there are 46 designated freedom camping sites stretching from Waihī Beach to Ōtamarākau, most of which are open year-round.

However, Labour Weekend was the last opportunity to camp at three popular spots — Pohutukawa Park at Waihī Beach, Maketū Surf Life Saving Club and Car Park Reserve, and Park Road Reserve in Maketū — until after Easter 2026. Brighton Reserve at Waihī Beach also has seasonal restrictions, closing to campers from 20 December through to 10 February.

Campers are allowed to stay up to three nights in any four-week period from their first overnight stay. From June 2026, vehicles will need to be certified self-contained with a fixed toilet. Elvin noted that limiting stay lengths helps spread visitor pressure and keeps scenic spots enjoyable for everyone.

Those who break the rules — including camping outside designated areas or leaving rubbish behind — face fines of $400. Council is urging all holiday makers to dispose of waste properly and be considerate of local communities. More information and an interactive freedom camping map are available at the Western Bay of Plenty District Council website.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).