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New changes to New Zealand’s freedom camping regulations took effect August 29, 2024, bringing key updates aimed at easing compliance for self-contained vehicle owners.
The updated rules require that only permanently fixed wastewater storage tanks need to be directly ventilated to the exterior of motor vehicles, simplifying requirements for vehicle certification.
Additionally, self-containment certification authorities are now obligated to refund levy payments to owners whose vehicles fail inspection. This change is designed to support vehicle owners and reduce unnecessary costs.
The Government is also seeking public feedback on whether to extend the transition period for privately owned self-contained vehicles beyond the current deadline of June 7, 2025, to alleviate pressure on certification authorities and inspectors.
Other regulations remain unchanged, including rules around camping in tents, commercial campsites, and on private land. Feedback submissions on the proposed extension are currently open.
The discussion documents and submissions can be found here.
