Last summer, QLDC responded to community concern by restricting overnight camping at Lake Hayes and the Shotover Delta. This summer they are putting a strong focus on educating freedom campers.
In Arrowtown, camping is prohibited throughout the built-up area, in all reserves and beside the road as far as Hogans Gully Road. If you come across anyone camping in the "red zone" on the map, please report it to the council on 03 441 0499 (24 hours).
Responsible Camping Ambassadors
QLDC plan to employ (at peak) eight Responsible Camping Ambassadors to roam the Wakatipu as the friendly face of camping. They will:
- Build and maintain links with the local community and visitors
- Engage and educate campers about the do’s and don’ts around camping in our district
- Promote local businesses that provide commercial camping grounds or holiday parks
- Conduct visitor surveys at key sites
- Check campers compliance around the district
- Monitor levels and report any unauthorised activity, including non self-contained vehicles
- Problem solve issues with campers in incorrect sites/locations
- Maintain the facilities of the hub
Improved communication
- Increased signage and new information boards to further educate non self-contained campers.
- Real time maps and updates through a collaboration with Campermate, New Zealand’s most widely used free app for information to campers.
- New education brochure widely distributed within and outside the district.
- Support and collaboration from the Motorhome industry
What about enforcement?
The Responsible Camping Ambassadors will travel the district every day educating visitors. The number of Enforcement Officers out across the district from November 2019 through to April 2020 has been doubled. Enforcement will be increased over the summer period if required.
What can you do about poor behaviour?
If you see campers behaving badly or not following the responsible camping rules, report them to the Council immediately, phone 03 441 0499.
However, keep in mind that fully certified self-contained campers are allowed to camp on the side of the road outside of the signposted 'no camping zones'.
