The Government is to give local councils the power to issue fines against so-called freedom campers.
There has been growing opposition to campervans because of tourists fouling beachside stops and reserves in many districts.
Environment Minister Nick Smith has announced a new Freedom Camping Bill will be introduced to Parliament this month so councils can decide where camping is not allowed, and where vans must have self-contained toilets.
The councils will then be able to issue fines of up to $200 for illegal camping and prosecute campers for up to $10,000 for illegally dumping van sewage.
The same rules will apply to Department of Conservation-controlled reserves.
Dr Smith says the new rules are needed to cope with an estimated 12,000 vans expected to be hired during the Rugby World Cup.