Question 1

Where can I get my vehicle certified for self containment?

Accepted Answer

NZ Lifestyle Camping is a New Zealand wide network of self-containment vehicle inspectors.  Contact details for arranging an inspection can be found at www.nzlc.com/northisland and www.nzlc.com/southisland

Alternatively you can search the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board register at www.scv.co.nz or contact the Nz Motor Caravan Association if you are a member of that organisation. 
 
Please only call during daylight hours. Most testing officers will charge for their time.

Question 2

Do I have to have a certified self contained vehicle to camp in NZ?

Accepted Answer

No, you do not need to have a self-contained vehicle to travel and camp in NZ  but it makes it easier and you can stay in more places. 
Many councils require that your vehicle is certified  self-contained to free camp  on council managed land.

Self-containment regulations do not apply where a payment is made.

Question 3

The details on my self-containment certificate are wrong. How do I get these changed?

Accepted Answer

If there is an error on your self-containment certificate, for example the number of persons it is certified for or the vehicle registration number has changed contact the certifying authority. In most case the certificate and warrant card can be changed.

If you have modified the fittings in the vehicle contact the certifying authority while some minor changes or additions will not affect your certification significant changes will require a reinspection or recertification.

Question 4

I have a small vehicle. Can I use a bracket to mount my portable camping toilet as permanently fitted?

Accepted Answer

NZLC has worked alongside local industry and designers to develop solution for smaller camping vehicles. These include the Fix-A-Potty and Slide n Rail brackets

In each of these of these case the designed for purpose bracket fixes the toilet in place and allows for the waste cassette, chamber or holding tank to be safely removed. The Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board, Self-contained Vehicle Regulations separately identify the requirements for the toilet and waste holding tank for all vehicles.  When the waste tank is removed the toilet must have a a base that is rigidly mounted. The vehicle inspector will check to ensure the the toilet is permanently fitted, rigidly mounted and usable inside the vehicle.

Where any vehicle toilet is installed NZLC vehicle inspectors are required to ensure that the surrounding area is lined or sealed (non porous) to reduce the risk of contamination or disease.

Question 5

How much will my self-containment test cost and how do I pay?

Accepted Answer

The cost to get your vehicle certified for self-containment varies depending on where you get the testing done.  There are generally 3 fee components to the total cost of the four year certification.
PGDB (Govt regulator) $120.00 per application
Administration cost recovery of the approved certifying authority (NZLC fee $75.00 from 1/04/2026)
The testing officer fee to cover their time and overheads.

NZLC only collects the PGDB Levy and our administration fee.
Payment of the inspection fee and for work completed is paid directly to the vehicle inspector or their business.

To pay the $195.00 in fees directly to NZ Lifestyle Camping payment can be made to our BNZ bank account 02-0628-0084975-00. Please use the vehicle registration number as a reference.

It is a good idea to ask for an estimate of the cost for additional work before having any service performed.

The NZLC fee of $75.00 per vehicle includes the checking and issue of documentation, nationwide support for vehicle inspectors and meeting PGDB performance requirements, office overheads, plus ongoing support to vehicle owners and the wider industry as required.

Note:

1) Additional costs will apply where amended certificates and replacement cards are required as with the change of number plates. 
2) NZMCA administration costs are recovered though annual membership fees over the 4 year certification period (testing of NZMCA members only)

Question 6

Any tips for small vehicle buyers and builders?

Accepted Answer

Please read our advice sheet regarding small vehicles.  
https://www.nzlifestylecamping.com/smallvehicles

Self Containment
Certifying Authority

Advice on Small Self-contained Campers - for Freedom Camping in New Zealand

Frequently asked questions