Tasman Freedom Camping Bylaw Passed

The Tasman District Council passed its Freedom Camping Bylaw at today’s Council meeting.

Coming into effect on 31 May 2011, the bylaw has been established as a response to public demand for controls and enforcement surrounding the well publicised problems caused by a small minority of freedom campers throughout the District. Of note, it reflects very closely the Central Government’s response to the issue currently in the proposal stage.

“In establishing this bylaw we recognised that this issue was not limited to Tasman with many of the other popular tourist spots throughout the country experiencing the negative effects created by a very small number of individuals”, said Tasman Mayor Richard Kempthorne.

“It was also very prominent in our minds that tourism is a major revenue earner for Tasman and is only going to grow and we should be at pains to protect the opportunities it provides. Coupled with the Kiwi tradition of camping we needed to tread carefully, however, the few were spoiling this distinctly New Zealand opportunity for the many.

“We are not anti camping, on the contrary. We are against irresponsible camping and this is where this bylaw is focused. Previously the Council did not have any ability to enforce what most would believe is inappropriate behaviour – now we do.

The Council will be working with Community Boards, Resident Associations and local communities to ensure the bylaw is appropriately implemented for our community,” concluded Mayor Kempthorne.

The Council will review the bylaw in 12 months after its inception.

View the Freedom Camping Bylaw