Last updated June 2026
Montgomery Carpark in Nelson provides a central base for responsible freedom camping in certified self-contained vehicles. Located at 35 Montgomery Square, it offers convenient access to the city centre’s shops, cafes and cultural attractions while operating under the Nelson City Council Responsible Camping Bylaw 2025. The site accommodates a maximum of 31 self-contained vehicles with a two-night stay limit and is unavailable on Friday and Saturday nights due to the weekend market. Campers must arrive early as spaces are first-come, first-served, and all rules are actively enforced to protect the environment and local community.
Practical Information
| Address | 35 Montgomery Square, Nelson |
| Vehicle Type | Certified self-contained vehicles only |
| Capacity | Maximum 31 vehicles |
| Max Stay | 2 consecutive nights (no more than two occasions per calendar month) |
| Restrictions | No camping Friday and Saturday nights |
| Amenities | Paid toilets ($0.20), showers ($2), laundry facilities at Superloo |
| Access | First-come, first-served; central city location |
About Montgomery Carpark
Montgomery Carpark sits in the heart of Nelson, providing urban freedom camping options for travellers with certified self-contained vehicles. The site is one of several central carparks managed under the Responsible Camping Bylaw 2025, which balances visitor needs with community and environmental protection.
Only vehicles holding a valid certificate of self-containment may use the designated spaces. Campers must stay within marked areas and observe the two-night maximum stay. Normal weekday and Saturday morning parking charges apply during business hours.
The location places visitors within easy walking distance of Nelson’s cafes, galleries and the Maitai River Walkway. Nearby attractions include the Suter Art Gallery and the Centre of New Zealand lookout, while Abel Tasman National Park lies a short drive away for day trips.
Freedom Camping Regulations
Freedom camping at Montgomery Carpark is restricted to certified self-contained vehicles under the Nelson City Council Responsible Camping Bylaw 2025. The maximum stay is two consecutive nights, with no more than two separate occasions permitted in any calendar month. Camping is prohibited on Friday and Saturday nights because the carpark hosts the Nelson weekend market.
Vehicles and possessions must remain within a single marked parking space. Breaches of the bylaw can result in a $400 fine under the Freedom Camping Act. Council actively enforces the rules across all permitted sites.
Amenities and Facilities
The adjacent Montgomery Square Superloo provides paid facilities including toilets for $0.20, hot showers for $2.00, and laundry services. Free drinking water and city Wi-Fi are available in the area. Additional public toilets and services can be found throughout the central city.
Normal parking fees apply from 8am to 5pm on weekdays and 9am to 1pm on Saturdays. Campers should check current charges on the Nelson City Council website.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
From Montgomery Carpark, visitors can easily reach the Maitai River Walkway, an approximately 8 km route along the river suitable for walking and cycling. The Suter Art Gallery offers free entry to exhibitions of local and New Zealand art. The Centre of New Zealand Walk provides panoramic views over the city and harbour.
Abel Tasman National Park, with its beaches, kayaking and hiking trails, is accessible by a short drive. Nelson’s cafe culture and weekend market add to the urban experience for campers staying mid-week.
What Visitors Often Say
Campers appreciate the central location for walking to cafes, shops and galleries without needing to drive. Many note the convenience of the Superloo facilities and the need to arrive early or avoid weekends due to the market closure.
Reviewers highlight the site’s suitability for short urban stops and easy access to public transport and attractions, while emphasising the importance of following self-containment rules and liquor ban regulations.
Where to Learn More
Nelson City Council Responsible Freedom Camping page: Current bylaw details, site maps and rules for all permitted locations.
Nelson City Council Public Toilets page: Superloo hours, fees and facility details at Montgomery Square.
Department of Conservation Abel Tasman National Park: Official information on tracks, activities and access from Nelson.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reserve a spot at Montgomery Carpark?
No, spaces are first-come, first-served with a maximum of 31 self-contained vehicles permitted.
Is camping allowed on weekends?
No, freedom camping is not permitted on Friday and Saturday nights due to the weekend market.
What type of vehicle is required?
Only certified self-contained vehicles meeting current New Zealand standards are allowed.
How long can I stay?
The maximum stay is two consecutive nights, with no more than two separate occasions in any calendar month.
Are there laundry facilities?
Yes, paid laundry services are available at the Montgomery Square Superloo along with toilets and showers.
Is there an alcohol ban?
Yes, the central city including Montgomery Carpark is subject to a 24/7 liquor ban with associated fines for breaches.
Where can I find more information on rules?
Check the Nelson City Council Responsible Freedom Camping page for the latest bylaw and site details.
What happens if I breach the rules?
Breaches can result in a $400 fine under the Freedom Camping Act or related legislation.
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