Petone freedom camping sure to fire up election

A proposal to dump up to 150 freedom campers on Petone’s McEwan Park, is likely to cause a kerfuffle with an election looming.

Last week it was reported there were plans to use the park for camping for large events in Wellington City. Harbour Ward councillor Tui Lewis said the idea had come from a ‘‘brainstorming’’ session.

Wellington City councillor David Lee said the proposal was a proactive solution after Wellington City voted against a new freedom camping site in Happy Valley.

The idea has received a mixed response on Facebook. Azelia Mackereth was strongly against. ’’I don’t support this, if tourists can’t afford to hire a proper camper van, use holiday parks or back packers accommodation then don’t bloody come here!’’

Rob Jowitt expressed a view that had surfaced nation-wide on freedom camping.

‘‘Make them use a motor camp like most people. If they can not afford to pay do not come to our country. Do not expect the already over burdened ratepayer to subsidise your holiday.’’

Sandy McConnell disagreed.’’I think that thousands of Kiwis like myself and my wife who free camped all around Europe might not agree with you. We didn’t have fancy camper vans and toilets. However, we made sure we left where we camped in the same state when we left. We should tidy up our own back yard and not blame the tourists.’’

Donna Ferrari had an open mind. ’’Great as long as there are toilet facilities etc either pay as you go or a small fee charged and security cameras to catch those that litter. The problem with camp grounds is that they charge too much.’’

Local resident Cam Fenton uses the park to play cricket with his children. He liked the idea and strongly supported freedom camping.