Auckland’s (New Zealand) beautiful beaches and reserves have proven to be as popular as ever during the summer, and the trend is likely to continue throughout the upcoming long weekends.
According to a report, amid reports of illegal freedom camping over the holidays, the Auckland Council reminded potential campers of the rules so everyone can enjoy the many amenities Auckland can offer without fear and with respect.
Auckland Council General Manager Licensing and Regulatory Compliance James Hassall said that while tents and other shelters are allowed on reserves and beaches during the day, freedom camping, or staying overnight in a tent, is not.
“Over the holidays, our Compliance and Community Facilities teams investigated reports of prohibited freedom camping/camping at some of our most popular beaches and reserves,” Hassall added.
“While in the majority of cases it was found that visitors were on day trips and were simply using the tents for shelter from the sun, there were some instances where people indicated they were intending to stay overnight.”
Camping isn’t permitted under the council’s Public Safety and Nuisance Bylaw 2013except in areas specifically set aside for that purpose.
Ahead of the upcoming long weekends, we are encouraging those who would like to camp to explore alternative options, including booking into a campground or a holiday park.
“The council operates a number of holiday parks and campgrounds, where you can stay in some of the region’s most popular beauty spots from as little as NZ$16 a night, or even NZ$9 a night at some of our more remote locations,” Hassall said.
One benefit when pitching your tent in a holiday park or campground is that guests can use all facilities, such as bathrooms, playgrounds cooking and BBQ facilities, as well as coin-operated laundry services.
With the help of a team of external security officers, the department’s Compliance and Community Facilities teams visited several of the hot spots in the region to help visitors understand the rules of camping in the open and freedom camping.
He also said that Compliance teams will be visiting some popular spaces over the upcoming long weekends and will work with the security team to identify any offenders and take appropriate action if required.
“Ultimately, we may also consider action under the Reserves Act, which can result in penalties of up to infringements NZ$800 or prosecution.”
“If you suspect someone is camping illegally, we ask that you contact us to report it on 09 301 0101 and that you include as much detail as possible, i.e., vehicle registration, descriptions of those camping, etc. This will aid our investigation and enforcement action if required,” Hassall ended.