The tourism sector is renewing efforts to discourage freedom camping, with the launch of an educational campaign urging people to stay in holiday parks, campgrounds or other designated areas.
In past years councils and private land-owners have had to clean up litter and human waste left by tourists who park their camper vans for the night at rest stops and other areas on the side of the road.
The Tourism Industry Association says posters and vehicle stickers outlining the message not to freedom-camp have been sent to hundreds of holiday parks, information sites and elsewhere.
The Cook Strait ferry operators Interislander and Bluebridge will also distribute leaflets to passengers with camper vans or similar vehicles.
The Hawea Community Association says no one has any power to stop freedom campers and more needs to be done to deter them from littering.
