What do I need to know about renting my van for freedom camping?
What certification does my van need?
What are the technical requirements for green certification?
How should I prepare my van for hirers who want to freedom camp?
What should I cover in the handover for freedom camping?
What happens if my hirers break freedom camping rules?
What do I need to know about renting my van for freedom camping?
As a Camplify owner, you need to ensure your van meets the current self-containment standards if you want to advertise it as suitable for freedom camping. From 7 December 2024, only vans with green certification can be used for freedom camping in New Zealand. For detailed information, check the New Zealand Government Freedom Camping Guidelines.
What certification does my van need?
-
Before 7 December 2024: Blue certification is acceptable
-
After 7 December 2024: Green certification required
-
Your van must be inspected by an authorised Certification Officer
-
Certification needs renewal every 4 years
What are the technical requirements for green certification?
Your van must have:
-
A permanently fixed toilet (portable toilets won't qualify after 7 December 2024)
-
Fresh water storage (4L per person per day for 3 days)
-
Grey water storage with similar capacity
-
Black water storage for 3 days
-
Proper ventilation
-
Sink with drainage
-
Rubbish bin with lid
-
Sealed waste holding tank
How should I prepare my van for hirers who want to freedom camp?
-
Documentation:
-
Mark dump stations using the NZMCD Dump Station Directory
-
Provide clear instructions for waste management
-
Include emergency contacts
-
List nearby i-SITE visitor centres
-
-
Systems education:
-
Demonstrate toilet emptying procedures
-
Show how to monitor battery levels
-
Explain power system limitations
-
Demonstrate water tank monitoring
-
What should I cover in the handover for freedom camping?
-
Power systems:
-
Battery monitoring
-
Solar panel operation
-
Which appliances work off-grid
-
Charging limitations
-
Power conservation tips
-
-
Waste management:
-
Toilet cassette emptying
-
Dump station locations and fees
-
Tank level monitoring
-
Grey water disposal
-
What happens if my hirers break freedom camping rules?
-
Fines start at $400 (see the Freedom Camping Infringement Guide)
-
These can be deducted from the bond
-
Ensure your hirers understand local restrictions
-
Provide resources for finding legal camping spots