Tougher camping rules proposed

Freedom campers could face stricter rules, including tougher requirements for vehicles and new fines for breaches.

Tourism Minister Stuart Nash said new rules were needed to protect the environment, remove the burden on locals and lift the quality of tourism, as he launched a public consultation in Northland yesterday.

There is a problem with campers toileting in inappropriate places – including on the side of the road, in the bush and in rivers, he said.

Proposed changes include tighter rules – either for camping vehicles to be certified self-contained, or tougher rules around where freedom camping can take place. Fines of up to $1000 or vehicle confiscation have been mooted for those who don’t play by the rules – up from a $200 fine – with rental firms required to collect fines.

Nash said some visitors were abusing freedom camping rules, and spoiling the experience for responsible campers, while leaving locals to clean up the mess.

He would like to see non-selfcontained vans and vehicles banned from camping use, but said the other option was for them to be allowed only in campgrounds and DOC camps.

Nash thought councils – who will be required to police the new rules – would be largely supportive of them.

He said backpackers, budget travellers and responsible campers were welcome in New Zealand, but freedom camping must be in the right vehicle and in the right place.

The consultation comes as New Zealand prepares to open its border with Australia in a trans-Tasman bubble.

‘‘Changes will also support small business owners who run campgrounds or backpackers’ hostels, who have lost business,’’ Nash said.

‘‘Private campgrounds offer sites from around $20 a night. DOC has hundreds of campsites, many of which are free or as low as $6 a night.’’

If people cannot afford those costs, Nash questioned if they were the sort of people wanted in New Zealand.