“DOC maintains more than 300 campsites throughout New Zealand which offer affordable holidays in beautiful natural settings,” says the Department of Conservation’s (DOC) Heritage and Visitors Director Steve Taylor.
“DOC’s campsites are a mainstay of summer holidays for many Kiwis and we are working hard to keep these open and safe for people over the coming months.
“To protect yourself and others against COVID-19, it is even more vital to plan and prepare well for your trip – including assessing any risks for you and your group.”
From 15 December, eligible people aged 12 years and above staying in DOC accommodation – including all huts and campsites – must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
“The majority of our places and facilities remain open to everyone. However after assessing the risks we’ve made the decision that a vaccination requirement is the safest option for places where people are staying longer, sharing communal spaces or sleeping and eating under the same roof,” says Steve Taylor.
“This policy prevents closures, offers greater protection to all those who visit and work in these places, and allows people to plan their visit with more certainty.”
DOC also has a role in regulating freedom camping on conservation land and welcomes the changes to freedom camping rules announced by the Minister for Tourism last week says Steve Taylor.
“The proposed changes will protect our environment, communities and ensure people who choose to freedom camp in vehicles will do so in the right vehicle and in the right place.
“DOC will be checking that those camping on public conservation land over summer are following the rules. This means camping where it is permitted and having proof of double vaccination when staying at DOC campsites.
“Aotearoa is precious and we want people to take responsibility for leaving areas as they find it.”
Make sure you’re doing your bit by protecting nature, being prepared, keeping New Zealand clean and showing respect. Follow these simple rules when camping:
- Only camp in designated areas and comply with any restrictions or prohibitions on sites.
- Sanitise or wash hands regularly.
- Where practical, wear a mask and physically distance around others not in your group.
- Always use toilets provided. There are toilets at all DOC campsites.
- Take your rubbish with you if bins are not provided.
- Use a cooker, fireplace or BBQ. Light fires only where permitted.
- Use biodegradable products and wash in a container well away from the sea, lakes or waterways.
- Always dispose of waste at official dump stations.
- Pay your fees to help keep campsites available in the future.
- Book in advance where possible to secure a campsite.
- Stay at home if unwell.
