Caring for the environment  |  4 Dec 2024

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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. 

Okains Bay Camping ground boasts an idyllic setting surrounded by beaches.

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 Māori and Colonial Museum just a stone’s throw away.  This is a perfect place to get away from it all and just chill out.

Pigeon Bay is a perfect campground for the whole family to relax and get away from it all.

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, a jetty for water sports and a modern toilet block. Facilities for children include a tennis court, playground and a safe swimming beach.  Get back to basics at Pigeon Bay this summer! Check availability.

Closer to the city, relax and unwind in the green surrounds of Spencer Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park.

Spencer Beach Holiday Park has a bouncy pillow and playground for children.

Located amidst a 70-hectare reserve with many walking and biking tracks, the park is a short walk to the beach and a 20-minute 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.

For those planning on freedom camping this summer, it’s best to check our online map first. 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.

The City Coastal Restricted Zone is popular with freedom campers but there are rules governing how long people can stay.

“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 prohibited areas, which are:

  • North Beach car park on weekends
  • New Brighton North Ramp and South Ramp
  • Southshore (south of Caspian Street)
  •  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 our online map for information on locations and rules or pick up a brochure from any library.  Freedom camping areas are monitored and fines of $200 - $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.