Last updated June 2026
Discover the appeal of Makorori Car Park, a designated freedom camping site on New Zealand’s East Coast near Gisborne. Located roughly 12 km east of central Gisborne, the car park provides sea views and direct access to Makorori Beach for certified self-contained vehicles. Freedom camping is permitted only in the signposted area for a maximum of three nights, with vehicles required to park within the painted blue lines. Basic public toilets are available at the site, though visitors must plan for waste disposal at official dump stations and bring their own supplies.
Practical Information
| Location | Makorori Car Park, Makorori Beach Rd, Gisborne |
| Distance from Gisborne city centre | Approximately 12 km |
| Vehicle requirements | Certified self-contained only (blue or green warrant) |
| Maximum stay | 3 nights |
| Seasonal access | 1 May to Labour weekend |
| Toilets | Public toilets at northern and southern car parks |
| Dogs | Allowed on beach with restrictions; not on headland track |
| Cost | Free |
About Makorori Car Park
Makorori Car Park sits beside Makorori Beach on State Highway 35, offering a convenient coastal stop for self-contained campervans. The site forms part of Gisborne District Council’s network of restricted freedom camping areas, where only certified vehicles displaying the required warrant may stay. The car park is signposted and limited to three nights to manage use and protect the environment.
The location provides easy beach access for swimming, surfing and walking. Makorori Beach features a long stretch of coastline popular with surfers, though no lifeguards patrol the area. Public toilets are located at both the northern and southern ends of the car park area.
Freedom camping is prohibited directly on Makorori Beach itself and in nearby urban zones. Visitors must use designated dump stations for wastewater and remove all rubbish. The site operates seasonally from 1 May to Labour weekend each year.
Freedom Camping Regulations
Only certified self-contained vehicles are permitted at Makorori Car Park. Vehicles must display a current NZS5465:2001 blue warrant or the new green warrant. From 7 June 2026, vehicles with a blue warrant require the updated green warrant for compliance.
The maximum stay is three nights, and campers must not return to a site within 1 km of a previous freedom camping location within the last four weeks. No tents are allowed. Open fires, washing lines and semi-permanent structures are prohibited. Wastewater must be emptied at official dump stations such as the one at 49 Wainui Road.
Enforcement officers patrol regularly. Breaches of the Freedom Camping Act or Gisborne District Council bylaws can result in instant fines of up to $800.
Access and Location
Reach Makorori Car Park by driving east from Gisborne along Gladstone Road, which becomes State Highway 35. The site lies roughly halfway along Makorori Beach near Makorori Point. Street parking is available, and the designated camping area is clearly signposted.
The car park sits adjacent to the Makorori Headland Reserve. A short walking track crosses Te Kūrae o Makorori, offering coastal views, though dogs are not permitted on this track. Public toilets are provided at the car park.
Beach Activities
Makorori Beach attracts surfers with its consistent waves and reef formations. Visitors enjoy beach walks, relaxation and coastal scenery. Water quality is generally suitable for swimming, though conditions can be rough and no lifeguards are present.
The nearby headland provides opportunities for short walks with panoramic views. Respect all signage regarding dogs and protected areas to preserve the environment.
What Visitors Often Say
Campers appreciate the convenient location close to Gisborne and the direct beach access for self-contained vehicles. Many note the peaceful setting and good surf conditions, while emphasising the need to arrive early as the site can fill up.
Reviewers highlight the scenic views and clean facilities but stress following the three-night limit and proper waste disposal. Some mention variable cell reception and recommend planning supplies in advance.
Where to Learn More
Gisborne District Council Freedom Camping page: Official rules, site list and bylaws for Makorori Car Park.
Tairāwhiti Freedom Camping Bylaw 2021: Full legal details on permitted and prohibited areas.
Gisborne District Council Public Toilets: Locations and accessibility information for Makorori Beach facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vehicles are allowed at Makorori Car Park?
Only certified self-contained vehicles displaying a valid blue or green warrant are permitted.
How long can I stay?
The maximum stay is three nights, with a restriction against returning to a nearby site within four weeks.
Are there toilets at the site?
Yes, public toilets are available at the northern and southern Makorori Beach car parks.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are generally permitted on Makorori Beach but must follow local leash rules. They are not allowed on the Makorori Headland track.
Where do I empty wastewater?
Use designated public dump stations such as the one at 49 Wainui Road in Gisborne.
Is swimming safe at Makorori Beach?
Water quality is often suitable, but conditions can be rough and there are no lifeguards. Swim with caution.
Is cell phone reception reliable?
Reception can be variable or weak in the area.
When is freedom camping allowed?
Freedom camping at Makorori Car Park operates from 1 May to Labour weekend each year.
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