Freedom Camping is enabled through the Freedom Camping Act 2011, which allows for any freedom camping in public areas where not restricted under a Bylaw or Reserve Management Plan. Council is proposing a Responsible Freedom Camping Bylaw to help us manage how and where freedom camping can occur.
The Proposed Responsible Freedom Camping Bylaw allows us to identify areas where freedom camping is appropriate and areas that may need protection. Reasons include, environmental and cultural significance, risks to health and safety and other practical considerations. The Council wants to ensure that we find the right balance between the needs of our communities and visitors and all those who choose to freedom camp.
The Self-contained Motor Vehicle Legislation Act 2023 has been incorporated into the Freedom Camping Act 2011. As a result, there are some nation-wide changes to where freedom camping is allowed, the meaning of self-contained vehicles and changes to the infringement fees and charges.
Submissions are now open:
We want to know your thoughts on the draft Responsible Freedom Camping Bylaw 2024. Any person or organisation is welcome to make a submission.
The Council will take all submissions into account when it decides on the final content of the bylaw.
View the full Statement of Proposal, Draft Responsible Freedom Camping Bylaw 2024, Information Sheet and FAQs and online submission form on our website here.
Key Dates:
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Submissions Open |
Friday 25th October |
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Submissions Close |
Monday 25th November |
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Hearings for Submitters to Council |
Monday 9th December |
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Council Deliberations and Adoption |
Tuesday 17th December |
Please note we must receive your written submission by 5pm on Monday 25th November 2024.
Submissions can also be made via email, post or over the phone.
Email: infrastructure@westlanddc.govt.nz
Post: Westland District Council, 36 Weld Street, Hokitika 7811
Phone: 03 756 9010 or 0800 474 834
If you have any questions about the Proposed Bylaw, or the submission process, please let us know. Call us on 03 756 9010 or 0800 474 834 and let our friendly Customer Services staff know you have a question about the Proposed Responsible Freedom Camping Bylaw or contact us via email at infrastructure@westlanddc.govt.nz.