Camping changes this season

Summer camping at any of the Council’s nine summer campgrounds between Doneraille and Waipiro Bay will be the same as it always has been for this upcoming season.

“Permits are still required,” says community and recreation team leader Garrett Blair.

“Tarpaulin pegging is not allowed, we’ll remove any tarpaulins even if they have permits attached. People need to be onsite and using an approved structure to be a permitted campsite.”

Campers are also required to have a chemical toilet for every 8 people on site.

“Buckets with a lid are not acceptable as a toilet,” says Mr Blair, “You need to have a chemical toilet.”

Permits for summer campgrounds can be purchased from Council offices at Fitzherbert Street and Te Puia Springs, all I-sites between Wairoa and Whakatane, the Okitu Store, Uawa Foodmarket or Easts Outdoor work and Leisure.

Inspectors will be patrolling all campgrounds in the district to make sure people are complying with the rules.

“If you don’t comply you’ll be asked to move on.”

“We’ll be reviewing how we manage summer camping in the future however there are no changes for this year. “

Earlier this year Council’s freedom camping bylaw was adopted. It outlines where people can camp for free and where camping is prohibited including parts of Kaiaua, the Marina car park and Tolaga Bay.

“Freedom camping is also prohibited on reserves, so the coastal areas from the Waipaoa river mouth to Makorori are also off limits.”

“The summer campgrounds are set aside for permit holders so if using these areas you will need to buy a permit – they are not free because Council provides rubbish and septage services.”

Infringement notices will be issued to anyone breaking the freedom camping rules, with fines starting at $200.

Maps and camping information for summer camping and the freedom camping bylaw can be found on our websitewww.gdc.govt.nz .

Mayor Meng Foon asks our camping community to enjoy this fantastic opportunity. “Please take your rubbish home or take to recycling centre. Enjoy our paradise by looking after it for future generations.”

ENDS

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