We are changing which camping areas are available for overnight camping over the lower-use months, with our two commercial campgrounds and Chamberlains Ford Reserve remaining opening from May to October.

Whitecliffs Domain, Coes Ford and Lakeside Domain will remain open to the public and be available for use during the day, but camping over night is not allowed during this period.

The Council has four reserves where free short-term camping is allowed, alongside managing two commercial campgrounds at Glentunnel and Rakaia Huts.

Over the colder months when the reserves are used less for camping, we give three of these reserves a rest to allow maintenance and reduce wear and tear. The fourth reserve and our commercial campgrounds remain open for those who do wish to camp overnight.

From 29 April to 21 October, overnight camping will be available at Chamberlains Ford Reserve, Glentunnel Campground and Rakaia Huts Campground.

In a change from previous winters, Chamberlains Ford Reserve will remain open for camping while Lakeside Domain will be closed for camping, but remain open to the public for other use. Vehicle access will continue to be provided for those who need it.

This change is being made due to ongoing challenges with keeping overnight camping available at Lakeside Domain, including higher fuel costs and higher operating costs to service Lakeside Domain along with continuing issues with illegal rubbish dumping at the domain.

With fewer people camping over this period, concentrating camping activity at fewer sites significantly reduces costs to ratepayers and supports the reserves for longer-term use, while still providing overnight camping options across the district.

You can find out more at selwyn.govt.nz/camping

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Last modified: 29 Apr 2026 11:37am