Local Government New Zealand welcomes this morning’s announcement from the Government that $8.5 million in responsible camping infrastructure and initiatives will be implemented ahead of the 2018/19 peak season, as recommended by the Responsible Camping Working Group.

“The Working Group has identified areas such as the West Coast, Central Otago and Taupō where responsible camping issues urgently need addressing, and have prioritised $8.5 million in funding for infrastructure investment, including the installation of appropriate temporary facilities, monitoring and enforcement initiatives and education and information provision,” says LGNZ President Dave Cull.

“This funding will provide mixed-use tourism infrastructure such as toilets, recycling and rubbish facilities, signage and car parking at a number of high demand locations across the country.”

“As well as providing funding support to camping hotspots that need this vital infrastructure, it’s pleasing to see the approval of initiatives to develop greater awareness of kiwi camping culture among freedom campers.”

“A pilot that will explore a mobile app as discussed at the LGNZ Freedom Camping Symposium is an exciting step forward, and will further inform council planning, as well as guide campers towards areas with capacity.”

The Responsible Camping Working Group was formed by the Minister of Tourism Kelvin Davis in April following a meeting with Mayors, and features strong local government representation including the Mayor of Queenstown Lakes Jim Boult, Mayor of Central Otago Tim Cadogan, Mayor of Rotorua Lakes Steve Chadwick and Deputy Mayor of Christchurch Andrew Turner.

“Although the recommendations are still to be implemented, the results of the Working Group so far show what collaboration between central government, local government and the private sector can achieve.”

“Today’s announcement provides some relief to ratepayers who pay for tourism infrastructure, but illustrates why New Zealand needs a local tourism levy as part of a long term, sustainable package of funding options for mixed-use tourism infrastructure.”

Click here to view the Responsible Camping Working Group report.

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