Travelling around a country and finding a beautiful free campervan parking spot to park up for the night is what travelling in a campervan is all about.  However, the traveller(s) must recognise that his/her presence will have effects on the surrounding area.

Wherever you may park for the night, there are a number of important things to consider:

                                 Never leave any rubbish or waste behind

                               Keep noise to a minimum, especially during the night

                               Refrain from lighting any fires

                                Never use a generator – if you do need electricity then stay in a camp-site

                                 Respect the local people and environment

We at parkyourcamper.com are trying our best to promote a fresh and positive image of ‘freedom camping’ and ‘freedom campers’.  In some areas of New Zealand, freedom camping is the focus of much negative media.  We realise that this site has a responsibility towards the image of freedom campers and will do everything we can to promote a positive image.  This requires that everyone involved takes responsibility. 

There is a saying in NZ that this site respects and fully backs:

“Take only photographs. Leave only footprints”

Taking only photographs means that we do not advocate taking any souvenirs of any kind from anywhere.  The most common area for this is the National Parks.  If you think the water is safe to drink, drink it.  Nevertheless, if you see a stone that would look great on a chain you have, leave it where it is.  However small, it should not be taken and will often be breaking a strict law with harsh fines.

'Leaving only footprints' is directed at people leaving behind litter of any kind or anything else that defaces, changes or ruins a spot for others future use and enjoyment.  Things like bottle tops, corks and cigarette butts should never be left behind.  Put them in a pocket or bag; otherwise use a bin or other appropriate receptacle.

Where no free sites are available, we advise staying in an official caravan park for the night.

We are not trying to put anyone off freedom camping, it really is amazing.  We want everyone to be aware of what this site is striving towards and our aim for all users of the site.  We want you to enjoy the places listed on this site but want these locations to be available for future generations to enjoy.

Happy Camping!