NZMCA members will receive a 10% discount on the DOC campsite pass only, from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025. This discount will be reviewed again prior to 30 June 2025.

Please visit the Department of Conservation’s website for detailed information on the campsite pass, including prices, terms and conditions, instructions on how to use the pass, and who to contact within the Department for further assistance.

Visit the NZMCA app and online Travel Directory for a list of vehicle-accessible campsites and find out more about them on DOC’s website. If you're travelling with your pet, with a little bit of research and preparation, you can still enjoy 62 dog-friendly campsites.

The revised discount
Up until 30 June 2024, NZMCA members save 30% on the annual DOC campsite and backcountry hut passes; and 25% on casual visits to most DOC campsites and backcountry huts, the Great Walks, and sole occupancy lodges, cabins and cottages. 

However, due to financial constraints, the Department of Conservation recently undertook a full review of its policy that enables organisations like the NZMCA to receive discounts on DOC accommodation products. Historically, these discounts have been offered as a reward to organisations in recognition of their significant contribution towards conservation and recreation.  

DOC’s operating expenses have skyrocketed following the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle. The ongoing cost of this major event, alongside the Department’s latest funding cuts, have had a direct impact on DOC’s ability to sustain existing discounts. As a result, the criteria for further discounts have changed and the bar has been raised. This new policy affects all organisations interested in receiving discounts on DOC products.

The NZMCA sympathises with DOC’s predicament. In addition to reviewing its discount policy, from 1 July 2024, the Department will also increase its campsite fees by 18% to help offset operational costs. And to ensure those New Zealanders doing it the hardest can still stay at DOC sites, the Department is offering a 25% discount to people with a community services card.

Last year, less than 5% of members purchased a DOC campsite pass using the NZMCA discount. Our organisation isn’t immune to current economic pressures. We also need to weigh up the NZMCA’s total contribution vs. the overall benefit members receive from the discount. Part of this consideration will focus on growing the value of NZMCA members volunteering their time to support recreation and conservation events around the country. Further information to come!

Links to additional information:

• DOC’s discount policy review 
• DOC’s media release on 19 March 2024 
• Campsite pass terms and conditions