Impact of seasonal work on accommodation surveyed
THE Central Otago District Council is putting a call out to one of the region’s key sectors to help shed light on seasonal employment and accommodation matters.
Data gathered from a council survey is to be shared with Land Information New Zealand (Linz) as a decision on a possible camping fee being imposed at Lake Dunstan this summer remains outstanding.
The online survey was aimed at the horticulture and viticulture industries.
About 26 responses to the survey, which was sent out a fortnight ago, had been received by the council yesterday.
Council policy adviser Matthew Adamson said the focus was on seasonal employment and the impact it had on the demand for shortterm accommodation, including paid accommodation and free public camp sites.
The survey would assist a ‘‘broader discussion’’ around responsible camping.
Linz previously confirmed any decision concerning the fee would be made in agreement with the council and other stakeholders.
Mr Adamson acknowledged a charge for the use of sites around Lake Dunstan could increase demand placed on shortterm accommodation providers, including horticulture and viticulture sector employers.
The data from this survey would aid other key council projects, including assessing the level of housing need and affordability in the district.
The council could not commit to saying when the results would be publicly available, as it was dependent on discussions with new elected members.
‘‘These discussions will occur postelection,’’ Mr Adamson said.
The survey closes tomorrow.