Moves to restrict campers
Freedom campers may find they’ve outstayed their welcome in the South Waikato if a new bylaw comes into force.
In light of recent controversy surrounding freedom campers throughout the country the South Waikato District Council is preparing to adopt a Freedom Camping Bylaw to replace its current Camping Control Bylaw.
The bylaw will see tougher restrictions put on freedom campers who will only be able to stay a maximum 12 nights at designated sites in the district.
Under schedule three of the bylaw, four South Waikato sites will see the restriction enforced
That includes Dunham Point Reserve in Whakamaru, Lake Whakamaru Reserve, Jones Landing in Arapuni, and Little Waipa Reserve also in Arapuni.
Users will also be required to leave the site clean and tidy and not light any fires.
Those who fail to comply could be charged up to $1000 as well as up to $5000 for impeding an officer and $10,000 for environmental damage.
Councillors had the chance to discuss the proposed bylaw during the council’s official monthly meeting on Thursday.
Chief executive Craig Hobbs said he wanted to make sure councillors were fully aware of how the restriction may impact users.
‘‘As a district we have a number of locals who stay there for longer periods and at some point this bylaw may be enforced because that is what a bylaw is for,’’ he said.
Tokoroa ward councillor Bill Machen said freedom campers would have to like it or lump it.
‘‘With signage up it is no different from dog, parking or any other laws like that. I think 12 days is enough,’’ he said.
‘‘This is the law and I’m sorry that’s what the council decided back in 2017.’’
But that doesn’t mean freedom campers can’t use a loophole in the bylaw.
Machen said they could easily come back the next day and set up camp again. Deputy mayor Jeff Gash agreed. ‘‘There is probably enough room at those major reserves to literally pick up your tent and move 50 metres down and set up again,’’ he said.
Public consultation will likely take place from mid to late September until mid to late October.