After multiple consultations, the Queenstown Lakes District
Council passed its Freedom Camping Bylaw yesterday.
Queenstown holiday park owner Erna Spijkerbosch spoke in
support of the bylaw but also about how ''confusing it is and
difficult it is to understand''.
Lakes Environmental regulatory and corporate manager Lee
Webster said part five of the bylaw was broken into four
clauses to clarify: what areas could not be camped in, areas
that could be camped in using a self-contained vehicle, areas
where camping was unrestricted and a tent could be used, and
to advise that campers could not stay in the same area for
more than two consecutive nights.
Councillor Russell Mawhinney said he was ''happy with the
bylaw itself'' but uncomfortable with the approach since not
all campers caused issues, and contributed large amounts to
the district's economy.
Mr Webster said the bylaw permitted freedom camping in
certified self-contained vehicles.
Any person who commits an offence under the bylaw is liable
to a $200 fine.
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