Area & getting there
French Pass Campsite
DOC campsite reference point, not a verified entrance or individual pitch.
Official location information: Department of Conservation (new tab)Location source & precision
- Reference coordinates
- -40.92602, 173.84248 (latitude, longitude)
- Precision
- WGS84 coordinates retained at the official service's returned precision; decimal resolution is not survey accuracy. Source positional accuracy is not specified.
- Source
- DOC Maps campsite reference point (WGS84), exact official-page asset ID (new tab)
Department of Conservation - Location source checked
Read the full guideArrival, planning and local advice
- Coastal camping at the end of the mainland French Pass road.
- Narrow, partly unsealed approach. Heavy rain can trigger landslide-related camp closures.
- No generators or fires. Check weather and road status before committing to the drive.
- Camping styles
- tent, campervan, caravan
- Fees
- Non-powered adult (18+) nightly: NZ$18 from 9 February-25 December; NZ$20 from 26 December-8 February. Confirm total.
- Water
- Untreated tap water; DOC says to boil before use. Carry a reserve.
Coastal camping at the end of the mainland French Pass road.
Commit time to the final road
DOC's approach follows the road from Rai Valley through the Sounds to its end at French Pass. Plan this as a destination rather than a quick detour between distant overnight stops. Check the latest road and rainfall information before setting out, and retain another plan if conditions deteriorate. For a long vehicle or trailer, discuss dimensions and manoeuvring needs before booking instead of relying on a generic vehicle-access category.
Keep the mainland and island distinct
The campsite is a mainland base for the French Pass area, with boat facilities nearby. A visit to D'Urville Island needs its own transport arrangements; a camping reservation does not include that journey. Decide whether your overnight is about relaxing at camp or connecting to a separate excursion. Keep enough spare time for packing and agreed pickup arrangements so the island visit does not become a reason to rush the road journey.
Reserve and organise essentials
Book and pay before arriving. Although cold showers are listed, pack a night that does not depend on hotel-style amenities or powered equipment. Put toiletries, dry clothing and lighting together for an easy evening routine. Carry a drinking-water reserve and check the total charge for your dates rather than assuming the lowest listed figure always applies. Before leaving, inspect the pitch and collect small items that can be missed when packing a vehicle or tent.
Check the official campsite information for current restrictions, facilities and booking arrangements.
