CDC asked to rethink draft bylaw

CLUTHA

THE Clutha District Council has been asked to go “back to the drawing board” regarding its proposed Freedom Camping Bylaw.

New Zealand Motor Caravan Association (NZMCA) national property and policy manager James Imlach made the request during the council’s regulatory and policy committee meeting in Balclutha yesterday.

Mr Imlach was among 10 people speaking to their submissions made to the council’s Freedom Camping Bylaw review, following the closure of public consultation on Tuesday.

Speaking on behalf of the association and its 93,000 members, Mr Imlach said the council’s proposals had “gone too far towards prohibition”.

The proposals as they stood would prevent NZMCA members and other freedom campers staying overnight in any of the Clutha district’s towns.

This went beyond the Government’s expectations as enshrined in the 2011 Freedom Camping Act, he said.

“The current legislation is essentially permissive. We recommend council goes back to the drawing board and reexamines the spirit of the 2011 Act.”

He encouraged Clutha to look at opening up specific locations within the district’s towns, rather than imposing a blanket ban, or allowing unregulated camping.

Since Clutha’s previous bylaw had lapsed in August last year, it was critical to put something in place as soon as possible, Mr Imlach said.

“Other councils may have pressed pause on addressing the issue, but Clutha doesn’t have that luxury, I believe.”

Other submitters presented a range of suggestions to improve the bylaw, although the majority present were supportive of its essence and goals.

Several speakers requested additional areas of the Catlins be included in any freedom camping ban. A majority also favoured further central Government legislation, to regulate selfcontained camper van accreditation.

Balclutha Motor Camp operator Denis Wise was among those who praised the council for its efforts to improve policy.

However, he urged caution in applying any new regulations.

“Clutha prides itself as the place where everyone likes to say hello.

“We want to keep the rules simple and welcoming for visitors.”