Camping

Travelling by motorhome (or RV as some of us know them as) around New Zealand has become very popular, as it's a great way to discover the real New Zealand. The is no better place than Mid Canterbury to discover paradise in an RV.

Camping is a popular choice for locals and tourists alike, and we welcome you to experience being close to nature in a responsible manner. Please respect our district to ensure our camping areas remain for everyone to enjoy.

There are many scenic locations for camping with the Ashburton District from the heart of rural farmland to rugged coastal stretches. Although many are only suited for self-contained units, information on camp facilities including toilets can be found of the Ashburton District Council campgrounds page.

The Ashburton District welcomes freedom campers to explore and enjoy our vast landscape as long as The Freedom Camping Act 2011 is adhered to.

There are campervan dump sites provided in our district for you to dispose of your rubbish. Some of these are commercial ventures and may incur a charge to use. These sites can be found at:

• Rakaia River Holiday Park, 16 Main South Road, Rakaia

• Coronation Holiday Park, 780 East Street, Ashburton

• Ashburton, East Street, opposite the Mobil Service Station​

• Methven recycling drop–off facility, corner of Methven Chertsey Road and Line Road, Methven

• Mt Somers Domain, Hoods Road, Mt Somers

• Mayfield Domain

Some washing detergents and soaps can be toxic to aquatic wildlife so please do not discharge waste water from washing activities in or near streams, rivers or the ocean.

We want to ensure access to the landscape and sights Ashburton District offers, and with your help, we can ensure these areas are protected and able to be enjoyed by future campers.

For more information, please visit:

• Ashburton District Council

• The Department of Conservation - Freedom Camping Information

• The Department of Conservation - Campsites, Huts and Cabins