A youth camping ground for 18 to 25-year-olds, over the Christmas period, at Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park will not go ahead this year.
The Queenstown Lakes District council initiative set aside part of the facility to cater for young people holidaying in the resort during the festive period.
The chief executive's monthly report said councillors had been made aware of the merits of short-term accommodation facility, but also concerns.
"Recently, the age of many customers has reduced, i.e. there are more minors present, which raises concerns about the council permitting intoxication to occur in a local facility.''
The document recognised there was pressure in Queenstown during that time.
"The closure of this short-term facility will mean customers will need to find alternative accommodation before coming to Queenstown during the peak time, but ... [it was] agreed that this activity should not be allowed to continue.''
The initiative has run for two years with management of the site using security guards and CCTV to monitor behaviour.
Anyone under 18 had to be accompanied by an adult and vehicles were checked on arrival to limit the amount of alcohol individuals could bring in.
The matter was raised in yesterday's meeting.
Cr Mel Gazzard was the only councillor to oppose the closure, suggesting the council perhaps had an obligation to provide accommodation for youth.
- Louise Scott
