Last updated July 2026
Evans Bay Marina Car Park is a designated freedom camping site on Evans Bay Parade in Kilbirnie, Wellington. It offers 52 spaces for certified self-contained vehicles only and sits beside the marina with harbour views. The site is managed by Wellington City Council under the Freedom Camping Act 2011 and the Public Places Bylaw 2022. It provides convenient access to central Wellington while requiring strict adherence to self-containment and stay limits.
Practical Information
| Location | Evans Bay Parade, Kilbirnie, Wellington |
| Spaces | 52 designated freedom camping spaces |
| Cost | Free |
| Maximum stay | 4 consecutive nights per calendar month (plus 500m separation rule) |
| Vehicle requirement | Certified self-contained vehicles only — current NZS 5465 certification must be displayed |
| Tents | Not permitted |
| Toilets | Public toilets available on-site |
| Drinking water | Available on-site |
| Dump station | Available at Evans Bay Marina |
| Enforcement | Wellington City Council rangers patrol — $400 fine for bylaw breaches |
About Evans Bay Marina Freedom Camping
Evans Bay Marina car park is one of two free designated freedom camping sites in Wellington City. It is restricted to certified self-contained motor vehicles that meet the NZS 5465 standard, with a current compliance certificate displayed. Tents and non-self-contained vehicles are prohibited.
The site operates under the Public Places Bylaw 2022. Vehicles must not stay more than four consecutive nights in any calendar month at the same location, and must not freedom camp within 500 metres of a previous site after reaching that limit. Rangers enforce the rules regularly, and breaches attract a $400 infringement fee.
The car park is popular and can reach capacity, especially during summer and on weekends. Arriving earlier in the day improves the chance of securing a space. Once full, campers must seek alternative accommodation or other permitted sites.
Public toilets, drinking water, and a dump station are available at the marina location. The setting provides harbour views and proximity to the waterfront walkway.
What’s Nearby
Evans Bay Marina is a short drive from Wellington Airport and the suburbs of Rongotai, Kilbirnie, and Miramar. The CBD and Courtenay Place are reachable in around ten minutes by road. Supermarkets, fuel, and other services are available nearby in Kilbirnie and surrounding areas. The marina itself supports boating activity year-round, and the adjacent waterfront offers walking opportunities along the harbour edge.
What Visitors Often Say
Campers appreciate the convenient central location with easy access to the city and airport, plus on-site facilities including clean toilets, fresh water, and a dump station. Many note that spaces fill quickly in peak periods and stress the importance of arriving early with proper self-containment certification.
Reviewers describe the site as well-maintained and scenic, with good lighting at night and proximity to bus routes. Some mention occasional wind exposure typical of the harbour area and advise checking current rules directly with the council.
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Council — Freedom Camping in Wellington: official rules, designated sites, bylaws, and contact details for all freedom camping in the city.
Wellington City Council — Evans Bay Marina: information on the marina facilities and location context.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Evans Bay Marina freedom camping free?
Yes, there is no fee for the designated spaces at Evans Bay Marina car park.
How many nights can I stay at Evans Bay Marina?
A maximum of four consecutive nights per calendar month, with an additional requirement not to camp within 500 metres of a previous site after that limit.
Do I need a self-contained certificate to stay at Evans Bay Marina?
Yes, only certified self-contained vehicles meeting the NZS 5465 standard with a current certificate displayed are permitted. Non-compliant vehicles face a $400 fine.
Are there toilets at Evans Bay Marina freedom camping?
Yes, public toilets are available on-site at the marina.
Is there a dump station at Evans Bay Marina?
Yes, a public dump station is located at Evans Bay Marina.
What if Evans Bay Marina is full?
If the 52 designated spaces are occupied, campers must find alternative accommodation. The council website lists all designated sites and paid options.
Can I stay in a tent at Evans Bay Marina?
No, tents and non-self-contained setups are not permitted in the designated freedom camping spaces.
How far is Evans Bay Marina from Wellington CBD?
The site is approximately 4–5 kilometres from the CBD, with a drive time of around ten minutes depending on traffic.
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