Camping

There is plenty to do in the Waimakariri District, from strolling along the beaches of beautiful Pegasus Bay, hiking in the hills or exploring the river parks and walkways of the Waimakariri and Ashley/Rakahuri Rivers. The coastal communities and beaches are only a short drive north of Christchurch, and make a great camping destination for locals and visitors alike.

Camping in the Waimakariri District
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Roadside dump stations are provided at three locations:

You can generally freedom camp throughout the Waimakariri District on gravelled or sealed Council land set aside for parking. Look out for the prohibited zones at Waikuku Beach. Take a look  at the Camping in the Waimakariri District Brochure.

Freedom Camper Responsibilities

Waimakariri is committed to sustainability and asks all visitors to help protect our beautiful natural environment. Freedom campers are asked to assist by:

  • removing all rubbish, solid or liquid waste from the camping site when leaving
  • disposing of rubbish, recycling and waste at approved sites
  • using appropriate toileting facilities
  • ensuring that all pets are appropriately controlled
  • abiding by all Council bylaws including barbecue use, camp fires, noise and animal control.

Holiday Parks & Motor Camps

There are four holiday parks/motor camps sited on council land within the District. They are leased and run as private businesses.

Ashley Gorge Holiday Park
697 Ashley Gorge Road, Oxford 7495
Phone: 03 312 4099

Kairaki Beach Motor Camp
125 Featherstone Avenue, Kaiapoi 7630
Phone: 03 327 7335

Waikuku Beach Holiday Park
1 Domain Terrace, Waikuku Beach 7448
Phone: 03 312 7600
Email: waikukubeachholidaypark@gmail.com

Woodend Beach Holiday Park
14 Woodend Beach Road, RD 1, Kaiapoi 7691
Phone: 03 312 7643 

Other Holidays Parks & Motor Camps
Rangiora Leigh Holiday Park
433 Dixons Road, Loburn
Phone: 03 312 8872
Pineacres Holiday Park
740 Main North Road, Kaiapoi
Phone: 03 327 5022, freephone: 0800 896 543
Email: pineacresholiday@yahoo.co.nz
Rangiora Holiday Park
337 Lehmans Road, Rangiora
Phone: 03 313 5759
Riverlands Holiday Park
45 Doubledays Road, Clarkville
Phone: 03 327 5511
Email: riverlandspark@xtra.co.nz
DOC Wooded Gully Camping Ground
Mt Thomas Forest, Hayland Road, Okuku
Phone: 03 313 0820
Email: waimakariri@doc.govt.nz
Last reviewed date: 09 Aug 2023