Blue vs Green Self-Containment in New Zealand: What’s the Difference?

Green self-containment (shown by a green warrant card) is the only valid NZ standard. Blue was the older standard; all blue warrants expired on 7 June 2026 and are no longer accepted anywhere, regardless of the date printed on the card. Under the current system, green stickers have no legal status — only the warrant card and national register count. For freedom camping, councils and DOC require a current green warrant card. If you’re buying a van that only has an old blue warrant, treat it as not certified and see how to get green certification.

The blue self-containment warrant (warrant card) was the previous certification under NZS 5465. It could be issued for vehicles with a fixed or (in some cases) portable toilet and met the older rules. All blue certifications expired on 7 June 2026, regardless of the date printed on the warrant. A van with only a blue warrant is no longer certified self-contained and cannot freedom camp where certification is required until it passes a green inspection.

The green self-containment certification is the current standard; you receive a warrant card (not a sticker — green stickers have no legal status). It requires a fixed toilet (not portable), proper grey and fresh water capacity, and an inspection by a Certification Authority. Green warrant cards are typically valid for 4 years. Since 7 June 2026 this is the only certification councils and land managers accept for freedom camping.

If you buy a van with only a blue warrant, it is not certified — you must have it certified to the green standard (fixed toilet, etc.) before freedom camping where self-containment is required. Factor the inspection cost (and possibly a fixed-toilet install) into your offer. See how to get green certification for steps and costs. If you’re selling, a current green warrant card is now a major selling point that supports a noticeably higher price — mention it prominently in the listing. See Self-Containment in New Zealand for the full rules and Freedom Camping for where certification is required.