Proposed camping control changes will address toilet issues
‘‘DUNEDIN could soon have a bylaw banning freedom campers in vehicles without toilets’’. Excuse me. Please can the DCC clarify: does this include the backpacker vehicles that display the ‘‘self contained’’ icon but where the toilet is under a bed that doesn’t fold up, meaning that it is never used?
We can’t stop backpackers trying to live on the cheap when it comes to their accommodation. But keep in mind backpackers bring a lot of money into our economy by spending money here. And they are an important source of workers for the likes of vineyards and orchards.
The DCC has got it the wrong way
around. Instead, how about being proactive by providing a decent number of wellserviced Portaloos at freedom camping hot spots? And if necessary, charge tourists more when they enter New Zealand to help to fund this infrastructure?
Kate Jensen
Alexandra [Jendi Paterson, operations manager, parks and recreation, Dunedin City Council, replies: ‘‘The Dunedin City Council’s proposed changes to the camping control bylaw recommend no changes to vehicles that are certified selfcontained (have a sticker). The New Zealand standards have been reviewed and are changing as of January 31, 2018. The changes regarding what is considered certified selfcontained include the toilet being accessible when the bed is down. The DCC’s proposed changes are to align with the new standards and neighbouring councils to make it clearer for visitors to our city. Charging tourists that enter New Zealand is a central government decision.’’]
Caring people
WHAT lovely caring people we have in Dunedin.
Recently, I was walking towards Pak’n Save supermarket and the wind blew me against the gutter. A very nice lady took my arm and offered to escort me to the supermarket.
When I came out, with a trolley full of groceries, the darn wind targeted me again and blew me and the trolley towards the gutter.
A lady driver from the Green Taxis rescued me.
She drove me home and offered to make me a cup of tea. May I thank Penelope, the driver, through your columns please.
Betty Ferguson
South Dunedin