Scorching Bay is one of Wellington’s most sheltered harbour beaches, tucked into the eastern bays between Point Jerningham and Moa Point. Campervans and motorhomes occasionally park here overnight, drawn by the calm water, easy beach access, and public toilets at the bay’s pavilion. It’s worth knowing upfront that Scorching Bay is not one of Wellington City Council’s two formally designated freedom camping sites — those are Evans Bay Marina and Te Kopahou Reserve in Owhiro Bay. Before planning an overnight stop here, check WCC’s current rules for on-street campervan parking.
Practical Information
| Location | Scorching Bay, Miramar, Wellington |
|---|---|
| Type | On-street parking area near public toilets — not a WCC-designated freedom camping site |
| Toilets | Scorching Bay Pavilion — open September to May; closed June to August |
| Vehicle type | Self-contained motorhomes only (valid self-containment certificate required) |
| Cost | Free |
| Enforcement | WCC park rangers patrol daily including public holidays |
| Fines | $400–$2,400 under the Public Places Bylaw 2022 |
| From Wellington CBD | Approximately 15 minutes by car via Evans Bay Parade |
About Scorching Bay
Scorching Bay faces west across Wellington Harbour, giving it a sheltered aspect that keeps the water calmer than Wellington’s ocean-facing beaches. The bay has a small sandy beach, a grassed foreshore reserve, and the brick Scorching Bay Pavilion which houses public toilets and changing facilities with an outdoor shower area. The Moa Point walkway links the bay to the wider Miramar Peninsula coastal path, connecting to Lyall Bay on one side and the eastern bays on the other.
The surrounding neighbourhood is quiet and residential. Campervans typically park along the reserve frontage closest to the pavilion. The bay looks north across the harbour towards the CBD — on clear evenings the city lights reflect off the water.
Freedom Camping Rules: What Applies Here
Wellington City Council formally designates only two freedom camping sites in the city: Evans Bay Marina car park (51 spaces, maximum 4 nights) and Te Kopahou Reserve in Owhiro Bay (16 spaces, maximum 4 nights). These are the sites where overnight stays in self-contained vehicles are explicitly authorised.
Scorching Bay is referenced in WCC documentation as an on-street area near public toilets, but it sits outside the formally designated freedom camping category. The Public Places Bylaw 2022 applies across the entire city, with infringement fines of $400 to $2,400 for non-compliant camping. The WCC parks team patrols all known overnight spots daily. Check the WCC freedom camping page directly to confirm current permitted status before staying here.
The pavilion toilets close from June to August, which limits the bay’s usefulness as an overnight stop during winter months.
What Visitors Say
“Really beautiful spot — calm water, great views and very quiet at night. The beach is right there if you want a morning swim before heading off.” — visitor review, CamperMate
“Check the rules carefully before staying — the two main designated sites in Wellington have clearer rules and more spaces. Scorching Bay is a bit more of a grey area.” — visitor review, Rankers NZ
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Council — Freedom Camping in Wellington: Official rules for overnight vehicle stays in Wellington, including designated sites, the Public Places Bylaw 2022, and the green warrant self-containment requirement.
CamperMate: App and website listing freedom camping and campervan parking spots across New Zealand, with current user reviews, photos, and up-to-date rule information.
FAQ
Is Scorching Bay a designated WCC freedom camping site?
No. WCC’s two formally designated freedom camping sites are Evans Bay Marina car park and Te Kopahou Reserve in Owhiro Bay. Scorching Bay is referenced as an on-street parking area near public toilets, but is not a designated freedom camping site in the same category.
Are the toilets open year-round?
No. The Scorching Bay Pavilion toilets are open from approximately September to May and closed from June to August.
Do I need a self-containment certificate to park overnight?
Yes. WCC’s Public Places Bylaw 2022 requires any vehicle staying overnight to be certified self-contained with a valid green warrant. Tent camping is not permitted anywhere in the city outside designated campgrounds.
What are the fines for freedom camping in the wrong place?
Under WCC’s Public Places Bylaw 2022, infringement fines range from $400 to $2,400 for camping in restricted or prohibited areas.
Where are the nearest designated freedom camping spots in Wellington?
Evans Bay Marina car park is about 5 minutes from Scorching Bay and is WCC’s largest designated site with 51 spaces. Te Kopahou Reserve in Owhiro Bay has 16 spaces on the south coast, about 20 minutes away.
Is parking at Scorching Bay suitable year-round?
The bay is sheltered from northerlies but exposed when southerly winds drive in from Cook Strait. The toilet facilities are closed June to August, making winter stays less practical.
Browse all options on the Freedom Camping in Wellington page, or read about Wellington’s two officially designated sites: Evans Bay Marina and Te Kopahou Reserve Owhiro Bay.
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