Summer 101 - Camping

We welcome responsible campers to the Queenstown Lakes District.  Find out where you can camp this summer season and what is permitted under the Freedom Camping Bylaw 2025.  

Quick links

Camp Responsibly

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Local campgrounds

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How to report an issue

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Summer Ambassadors

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Camp responsibly

Responsible campers share the responsibility of being guardians of this stunning landscape. We hope that you will make the most of our wild playground this summer, and care for it as we do by leaving no trace and help keep our communities and natural environment free from pollution and waste.

Queenstown Lakes District Council’s Freedom Camping Bylaw 2025 / Ture ā-Rohe mō te Noho Puni Korehere 2025 came into effect on 1 December 2025. 

For more information on the new bylaw rules and to view an interactive map showing designated freedom camping spaces to support responsible camping in our district, check out our Responsible Camping webpage.

Local campgrounds

There are many places you can camp across the district, ranging from fully serviced holiday parks to DOC (Department of Conservation) campsites. Check out our Responsible Camping webpage for a list of locations or download the CamperMate App for further information.

How to report an issue

Non-urgent issues: 

Help keep us informed and report any poor behaviour, such as rubbish dumping or illegal parking.  Email us at:

services@qldc.govt.nz
Or if you’re on the go, the Snap Send Solve app can also be used to report these issues.

Need to report something more urgent? 

If you have a more urgent issue to report, such as excessive noise or illegal camping, please phone 03 441 0499 (Queenstown) or 03 443 0024 (Wānaka) 24/7 and Enforcement Officers will respond.

When reporting issues please provide as much information as possible. Vehicle registration, colour and make, and details of specific locations are all helpful.

Summer Ambassadors

You may spot our team of Summer Ambassadors travelling around the district over the warmer months. They’ll be visiting freedom camping spots to share information on new bylaw rules and how to check-in to designated freedom camping spaces. They'll also be promoting local serviced holiday parks and Department of Conservation campsites and will be encouraging campers to make the Tiaki promise.

Related Content

Responsible Camping

Information on how to camp responsibly in the Queenstown Lakes District.

Parks & Walkways

Discover plenty of trails to explore over your summer break.

CamperMate

Plan your next road trip or camping adventure in our district.