Best Camp Spots in Wellington

For a capital city, Wellington offers very limited camping options. You won’t find endless parks like in other regions, but there are still a few reliable places to stay. The two main holiday parks are Camp Elsdon and Wellington TOP 10 Holiday Park, both offering powered sites and solid facilities.

If you’re travelling in a self-contained campervan, you also have two official freedom camping areas: Evans Bay Marina and our personal favourite, Ōwhiro Bay. Both spots give you a chance to stay right by the water while still being close to the city.

Travellers looking for more variety often head a little further north. The Kāpiti Coast has plenty of freedom camping sites and it’s an easy drive into Wellington when you want to explore the capital. Parking in Wellington itself is always tight — weekdays are easier but free parking is rare.

This guide to the best camp spots in Wellington will help you know what’s available and how to make the most of your stay.

🏕️ Wellington TOP 10 Holiday Park – Lower Hutt

The most established holiday park in the region, Wellington TOP 10 in Lower Hutt has all the modern facilities you’d expect. It’s about 15 minutes from central Wellington, with public transport nearby if you don’t want to drive into the city.

Facilities:

• Large powered and non-powered sites
• Cabins and motel units for non-campers
• Modern communal kitchen and BBQ areas
• TV room, Wi-Fi and games for kids
• Laundry and bathroom blocks kept to TOP 10 standards

💡 Why it’s a good choice: This is the most comfortable option for those who want a full-service holiday park close to the capital. It’s perfect if you’re looking for convenience, family-friendly extras and reliable quality.

🏕️ Camp Elsdon – Porirua

Located about 20 minutes north of Wellington city, Camp Elsdon offers a budget-friendly base with plenty of space. It sits in Porirua, close to beaches, bush walks and only a short drive into the capital. The camp caters to both tents and campervans, making it one of the few options for travellers without full self-containment.

Facilities:

• Powered and non-powered sites
• Kitchen and dining area
• Laundry facilities
• Hot showers and toilets
• Playground and open space for kids

💡 Why it’s a good choice: It’s affordable, family-friendly, and set in a peaceful area that still gives you easy access to Wellington city.

🏖️ Evans Bay Marina – Freedom Camping

Just a few minutes from the airport and a short drive from the city centre, Evans Bay Marina is one of Wellington’s designated freedom camping areas. The spot sits right on the waterfront with views across the harbour. It’s strictly for self-contained vehicles and offers basic facilities.

Facilities:

• Designated spaces for campervans (limited spots, first-come, first-served)
• Toilets available nearby
• No showers, power or water hook-ups

💡 Why it’s a good choice: If you want to stay close to Wellington without paying holiday park prices, Evans Bay gives you a central location and harbour views. It’s handy for overnight stays before catching the ferry south.

🌊 Ōwhiro Bay – Freedom Camping

Ōwhiro Bay is our personal favourite camping spot in Wellington. Located on the south coast, it feels wild and rugged yet is still only about 15 minutes from the city centre. The bay looks out across Cook Strait and on a clear day you can even see the Kaikōura Ranges on the South Island. But on a windy day, tie everything down.

Facilities:

• Spaces for certified self-contained campervans
• Public toilets available nearby
• No showers, power or water hook-ups

💡 Why it’s a good choice: The views are incredible, the atmosphere is peaceful and it’s one of the few places where you can freedom camp right by the sea in the capital. For us, Ōwhiro Bay is the best camp spot in Wellington.

✨ Closing Thought

The best camp spots in Wellington may be few, but they each offer something unique — from seaside sunsets to easy access into the city. Camping here isn’t about endless choice; it’s about enjoying the simple experiences that make the capital memorable. Pack a good dose of patience for parking, embrace the wind and let Wellington surprise you with its charm.