Camping in Central Otago

A draft strategy on camping options in Central Otago has been developed and will be
presented to Council meeting this Friday for comment.

This strategy has been developed in response to the growing concerns about the
impacts of camping in several parts of the country.

Recently the New Zealand Freedom Camping Forum was formed, and has
representatives from rental vehicle operators, the New Zealand Motor Caravan
Association, local government and tourism organisations with the aim to improve
campers’ behaviour.

It recognises the public feeling towards freedom camping and has developed a
number of actions that will help protect the environment, and our international
reputation as a friendly and welcoming destination.

Central Otago has been popular camping destination with families in certain locations
for generations.

Mathew Begg, Council’s Community Development Manager said “The challenge at a
local level is to develop a policy that reflects the varying demands for camping and
where it occurs in a manner that meets the needs of our local community.”

The draft strategy identifies three types of demand for camping in Central Otago,
including campervans and motorhomes (self contained), to campervans and
motorhomes (not self contained) and tent and open air camping. Camping locations
also vary, from serviced (commercial camping grounds), to camps with just water and
toilets to camping with no services.

The draft also states that Central Otago needs to cater for all types of camping.
Services need to be available to meet the differing demands for camping. This may
see the need for areas where camping can occur or not, being able to clearly inform
people wanting to camp where these spots are located.

The strategy calls for a co-ordinated approach to camping in Central Otago. Mr Begg
said that developing this strategy is only the start of this process, but will help
determine the future actions to ensure camping occurs in a manner the community
are comfortable with.

Feedback on the draft is welcome. Submissions close on 23 July 2010. Submissions
will be heard by a group made up of members of the outdoor recreation working
group and Council.

Copies are available from the Service Centres and libraries and Council website –
www.codc.govt.nz or you can call one of the service centres and get a copy sent to
you.