Don’t hit the road without knowing the rules! If you’re planning to freedom camp or travel around New Zealand in your caravan or motorhome, you’ll need to understand the country’s updated self-containment regulations. These rules ensure you can travel responsibly while protecting the environment — and as of December 7, 2024, the new Green Warrant system officially replaces the old Blue Warrant.
At RV Mega, we’re New Zealand’s largest retailer of caravan, motorhome, and RV supplies and accessories, helping Kiwis stay compliant and comfortable wherever the road takes them.
Why Self-Containment Matters
New Zealand’s self-containment standards are designed to keep freedom camping sustainable by ensuring vehicles can store and manage waste independently for at least three days.
A self-contained vehicle must be able to handle toilet waste, greywater, and rubbish without discharging anything into the environment.
To be legally recognised for freedom camping, your vehicle must now be certified under the new Green Warrant system.
Key Requirements for Self-Containment Certification
To receive a Green Warrant, your motorhome or camper must meet strict technical requirements:
• Fixed Toilet – A permanent, built-in toilet is now mandatory. Portable toilets no longer qualify for certification.
• Water Supply – You must carry a minimum of 4 litres of fresh water per person, per day, with a total minimum of 12 litres per person.
• Sink – A properly fitted sink with a trap and drain that leads to a sealed wastewater tank is required.
• Wastewater Tank – Your sealed greywater holding tank must hold at least 12 litres per person.
• Evacuation Hose – An approved hose must be available to connect your tank to a dump station or sealed portable tank.
• Rubbish Bin – A sealable bin with a lid is required for all waste.
• Ventilation – Adequate ventilation or odour control must be installed to manage smells safely.
These standards ensure that campers leave no trace — helping to preserve New Zealand’s pristine camping spots for future generations.
Certification and Compliance
Current Status (Late 2024)
All new self-containment certifications must now comply with the Green Warrant system.
This certification confirms your vehicle meets the new fixed-toilet and waste management standards.
Blue Warrant Phase-Out
Vehicles with existing Blue Warrant certification can still freedom camp until June 7, 2026, or until their Blue Warrant expires — whichever comes first. After that, only Green Warrant-certified vehicles will be legally allowed to freedom camp in restricted areas.
Displaying Your Warrant
From June 7, 2026, you must display a Green Warrant card inside your vehicle to prove compliance when freedom camping. This will be checked by local authorities or compliance officers.
Certification Process
Certification must be carried out by an approved inspection authority. They’ll check that all installations and tanks meet the required capacities, fittings, and standards.
Fines and Enforcement
Failing to comply with self-containment regulations or freedom camping in a non-certified vehicle can result in fines of up to $1,000 under new legislation. Local councils and DOC (Department of Conservation) officers will be enforcing these rules more rigorously going forward.
Stay Prepared with RV Mega
Whether you’re upgrading your motorhome for Green Warrant compliance or setting up your first camper, RV Mega has everything you need — from wastewater tanks, plumbing fittings, and fixed toilets to hoses, seals, and certified accessories that meet the latest self-containment requirements.
Our expert team can help you find the right parts to make your vehicle compliant and road-ready, ensuring you meet every requirement before booking your certification inspection.
Travel Responsibly, Camp Legally
Freedom camping is one of New Zealand’s greatest privileges — but it comes with responsibility. By keeping your vehicle up to standard under the new self-containment rules, you’re helping to protect our lakes, coastlines, and rural communities for everyone to enjoy.
So before you head off on your next adventure, make sure your motorhome is certified and fully equipped.
Visit RV Mega — your one-stop shop for caravan, motorhome, and RV supplies — and travel New Zealand the right way.
RV Mega – New Zealand’s home for caravan and motorhome parts, accessories, and self-containment essentials.