Last updated November 2026
Ōmokoroa, the harbour peninsula about 12 km northwest of Tauranga in a straight line, has three council freedom camping sites and two of the district’s five council dump stations. Western Bay of Plenty District Council allows certified self-contained vehicles at Ōmokoroa Domain beside the harbour, at the Ōmokoroa Sports Ground and at Cooney Reserve.
The limit is three nights in any four weeks at each site, and there is no seasonal closure in the council’s rules. Dump station C is in the Domain itself and dump station D is near the sports ground, so you can empty your tanks without leaving the peninsula.
Practical Information
- Sites
- Ōmokoroa Domain, Ōmokoroa Sports Ground, Cooney Reserve
- Location
- Ōmokoroa peninsula, Tauranga Harbour
- Distance from the city
- About 12 to 13 km from Tauranga (straight line)
- Vehicles
- Certified self-contained vehicles only (green warrant, fixed toilet)
- Maximum stay
- 3 nights in any 4 weeks at one site
- Dump stations
- C in Ōmokoroa Domain; D near the sports ground
- Seasonal closure
- None listed by the council
- Cost
- Free
- Managed by
- Western Bay of Plenty District Council
About Ōmokoroa Freedom Camping
Ōmokoroa sits on a peninsula that reaches into the western side of Tauranga Harbour, off State Highway 2 between Tauranga and Katikati. Its three freedom camping sites are council reserves: the Domain at the harbour end of the peninsula, the sports ground further back along the peninsula, and Cooney Reserve near the shore.
Ōmokoroa Domain is the main one. It is a harbourside reserve off Harbour View Road with a car park, and the council’s reserve records list about ten picnic tables, three water taps, bins and plenty of seating nearby, along with dump station C. The sports ground site has picnic tables, an electric barbecue and water taps around it. Cooney Reserve is smaller, with a couple of picnic tables and a bin.
All three are designated areas, so park inside the marked camping area at each reserve and stay within the parking lines. Spaces are first in, first served, and only certified self-contained vehicles may stay overnight. Tents are not allowed.
Dump Stations on the Peninsula
Western Bay of Plenty District Council runs five dump stations across the district, and two of them are at Ōmokoroa. Dump station C is inside Ōmokoroa Domain, next to the camping area.
Dump station D is near the Ōmokoroa Sports Ground. The other council dump stations are at Katikati (Uretara Domain), Te Puke (Jubilee Park) and Island View at Waihī Beach.
Rules and Fines
Your vehicle needs a current self-contained certificate with the green warrant, which replaced the blue sticker after 7 June 2026, and a fixed toilet. Display the warrant and show proof of self-containment if a council officer asks. Take all rubbish with you, liquid waste included, and leave the reserve as you found it.
The council’s infringement fee is $400 for offences such as camping outside the designated area, camping in a vehicle that isn’t certified or staying more than three nights. Dogs are allowed at some sites only: Ōmokoroa’s Domain and Esplanade have their own dog walking area map on the council’s website, so check it before you bring a dog.
Other Sites Nearby
If the Ōmokoroa sites are full, the council has more freedom camping sites a short drive away on the same side of the harbour, including Huharua Park on Plummers Point Road, Pahoia Domain and Waitui Reserve at Te Puna. Check the council’s map for the exact areas and any current closures.
Like Tauranga’s outdoors?
Explore Tauranga Weekly has a walk or park idea every week, plus local news and weekend picks. Free every Thursday.
Free. One email a week. Unsubscribe any time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I freedom camp at Ōmokoroa?
At three council sites: Ōmokoroa Domain, the Ōmokoroa Sports Ground and Cooney Reserve. Park in the marked camping area.
Is there a dump station at Ōmokoroa?
Yes, two: dump station C in Ōmokoroa Domain and dump station D near the sports ground.
How far is Ōmokoroa from Tauranga?
About 12 km in a straight line, on the western side of Tauranga Harbour off State Highway 2.
Do I need a self-contained vehicle?
Yes. Only certified self-contained vehicles with a fixed toilet and a green warrant can stay. Tents aren’t allowed.
How long can I stay?
Three nights in any four-week period at each site, counted from your first night.
Can I camp at Ōmokoroa in summer?
Yes. The council lists no seasonal closure for these three sites, but check its map for any temporary notices.
Are dogs allowed?
At some sites only. Check the council’s dog walking area map for Ōmokoroa Domain and Esplanade first.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Related links 2
- Western Bay of Plenty District Council: Freedom camping: the rules, fines, current site notices and dog rules.
- Western Bay of Plenty freedom camping map: the camping area at each Ōmokoroa reserve and both dump stations.