Camping in Palmerston North

We pride ourselves on being a camper-friendly city with several Council-owned locations offering a range of amenities for your stay. 

Whether you're travelling in a self-contained campervan or looking for a full-service campground, we have options for you to relax, explore, and enjoy the best of our city and its surroundings.

Campground set among trees at the Domain. There's a cute retro caravan in the foreground parked up next to matching car.

Where you can stay

Ahimate Reserve

This picturesque riverside location is perfect for those seeking a natural setting close to the city, and is right next to pathways and a dog park.

Fully self-contained campervans may camp for up to 3 consecutive nights. Stays longer than 3 nights require Council approval before you park up.

For more information, see our Ahimate Reserve page.

Ashhurst Domain

This Department of Conservation style campground (pictured above) includes showers, toilets, a small kitchen, and a dump station. Ideal for those wanting a cost-effective option with basic amenities while enjoying the natural charm of Ashhurst. Like Ahimate Reserve, it's pet friendly.

With picnic and barbecue areas, playgrounds and walking tracks for your furry friend, this is a great destination for the whole whānau.

For more information, see our Ashhurst Domain page.

Palmerston North Holiday Park

A more traditional camping experience with comprehensive facilities for both campers and caravans. No dogs are allowed here.

The holiday park is perfectly positioned between Victoria Esplanade – our premier botanic gardens with extensive facilities and playgrounds – and the Manawatū River walkway. He Ara Kotahi and an outdoor gym are only a stone's throw away. The Lido Aquatic Centre is also right on the doorstep, complete with pools, spas, slides and zero depth water play.

For more information, visit the Holiday Park website 

Campbell Street carpark

This is an inner city car park with designated parking spaces for campervans making it an excellent choice for a quick stopover. Easy walking distance ( about 700 metres) to bars and restaurants in the city centre.

See the location on a map

Dump station locations

Facility for campervans and caravans to empty their wastewater.

Keep our environment clean by using one of our designated wastewater dump stations across the city. Click on the links for information about the individual dump stations on the NZMCA website, including maps and directions.

Totara Road (pictured above)

Ashhurst Campground

Custom Street, Ashhurst (currently closed)

Camper etiquette

To ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience, please follow these guidelines:

  • Be considerate: Keep noise to a minimum, particularly at night, and respect the space of fellow campers.
  • No littering: Dispose of all rubbish responsibly to preserve our beautiful spaces.
  • Control your dogs: Dogs must be kept under control at all times to ensure the safety and comfort of other visitors.

Safe travels, and we hope you have a wonderful stay!

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