Gisborne summer camping permits now available for Labour weekend kick-off

Holidaymakers enjoy one of the region's most popular summer camping sites at Turihaua, along State Highway 35. Summer camping starts at Labour weekend. Photo / Ben Cowper

Gisborne’s traditional summer camping starts at Labour weekend and permits can be applied for at the district council.

Council liveable communities acting director Kerry Hudson says after a couple of years of disrupted access to some camping sites, most sites are open once again for camping from Saturday, October 26.

“Unfortunately, Doneraille Park remains closed because of cyclone damage.

“Pouawa Beach (southern section only) and Turihaua Point are both closed until December 1. This is because NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is carrying out works in these areas, so sites won’t be available until December.”

Campers at Waihau Beach – Loisels are reminded to be aware of the road conditions on Waihau Beach Rd and all campers are encouraged to stay up to date with MetService weather warnings for the area.

Hudson says the most important thing for everyone to remember is to apply for a permit before you go camping.

“You can get your permit on the council’s website. We do encourage campers to make a contribution to the costs of keeping these camping areas open and they can do this when applying for a permit.”

He reminds campers they need to take all rubbish and recycling with them when they leave their campsite. There is no rubbish collection from any of the seasonal camping areas.

“Remember open fires are also not allowed, gas is required for cooking.

“People also need to remember they can’t mark out spaces with tarpaulins and any infringements will be issued for non-compliance. We recommend that people don’t leave their campsites or caravans unattended.”

Seasonal camping closes on April 30, 2025.