Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) is set to receive $530k from Central Government’s Responsible Camping Working Group. The funding from the Tourism Facilities Development Grants Fund will provide new facilities and services in the district this summer.

QLDC General Manager Community Services, Thunes Cloete confirmed the Council had sought funding for a range of projects including establishing camping hubs, signage, and monitoring and enforcement campaigns.

“As a significant tourist destination, our district has experienced substantial growth of visitor numbers in recent years, many choosing to freedom camp. The proposed projects will align with other Council strategies to address the effect of freedom camping, particularly on our reserve areas,” Dr Cloete said.

With a requirement to be in place by 1 December 2018, the funding has been approved for:

• Two new camping hubs (locations to be confirmed).

• Increased signage in 30 popular sites redirecting campers to the new hubs or other camp sites.

• Investment in Enforcement Officer personnel.

• Funding a new position to coordinate freedom camping activities on behalf of QLDC.

• Education programmes and advertising.

All projects will have a particular focus on educating campers which sites are appropriate for freedom camping and redirecting them to camping hubs or sites.

QLDC Mayor Jim Boult was delighted with the outcome of the application and acknowledged the work Council had undertaken in response to community feedback.

“Nationally, freedom camping has been losing some of its social licence due to the behaviour of a minority of irresponsible campers. And last summer we heard a clear message from our local community that something had to change to protect our environment and their ability to enjoy it.”

“We believe these are significant steps that align with our emerging Responsible Camping Strategy due for completion later this year. This shifts to a constructive conversation about how we can all enjoy our parks and reserves in a responsible and respectful way that ensures they remain for generations to come,” said Mayor Boult.

ENDS

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