A bylaw prohibiting freedom camping in large swaths of the Queenstown Lakes district was passed unanimously by the Queenstown Lakes District Council in Wanaka yesterday.
Human and other waste left behind by freedom campers and travellers has enraged tourist-town communities, who are often left to clean up the mess.
The bylaw includes a provision for fines of up to $20,000, although community services general manager Paul Wilson said fines would more likely be in the order of $150 to $200.
The bylaw is based on a draft prepared by the Department of Internal Affairs, which is being used by several local authorities wanting to opt into a national instant fine regime to be settled before tourists arrive for the Rugby World Cup.
Responding to questions from councillors, Mr Wilson agreed the bylaw had to be flexible enough to allow school camps, scout jamborees and rugby tourism. Enforcement patrols also needed some discretion to encourage responsible camping.
However, the ability to wheel clamp vehicles needed other regulations, Mr Wilson said.
New signs advising motorists of no-freedom-camping zones were with the New Zealand Land Transport Agency for approval. About 30 double-sided signs would be required.
The bylaw will be advertised this week and submissions will be heard on April 27. The bylaw should be in effect by May 31.
