Whakatāne District Council’s Living Together Committee has today agreed for public consultation to proceed on proposed changes to its Public Places Bylaw, which includes sections on the rules surrounding freedom camping.
The review comes following central government changes to the legislation relating to freedom camping. The bylaw review was due to start in 2025, but has been brought forward to ensure any new bylaws respond to the legislative change and align with the Council’s strategic direction.
The proposed changes will separate the freedom camping rules from the current Public Places Bylaw and establish a separate Freedom Camping Bylaw. This change aims to make it easier for visitors to the district to find and understand the rules regarding freedom camping.
Whakatāne District Council’s Manager Strategy and Performance, Dr Leny Woolsey, said the review presents a valuable opportunity to provide greater clarity on freedom camping through a dedicated bylaw, and address community concerns that have arisen since the introduction of the Freedom Camping Act in 2011, ahead of the Rugby World Cup.
“A dedicated bylaw for freedom camping aims to enhance community understanding for residents and streamline information for visitors to the district,” Dr Woolsey said.
Proposed changes to the Public Places Bylaw include the removal of a rule about how buildings and properties need to be numbered, a new provision prohibiting the lighting of fires in public (with exceptions) and minor wording changes to ensure the bylaw follows the Bill of Rights Act 1990.
The review of the Freedom Camping Bylaw will clearly define the areas where freedom camping is either prohibited or restricted, ensuring the protection of the environment, public health and safety, and access to these areas. Proposed changes include an extension to stay provisions from two to three nights, restrictions to the high-risk Awatarariki debris flow area, extensions to some prohibited areas and updates to reflect legislative changes.
The Council will now prepare information for public consultation and invites all residents and stakeholders to participate in the consultation process and share their views on the proposed changes.
“Your feedback will help ensure that our regulations are effective and fair for everyone,” Dr Woolsey emphasised.
Consultation will open on Monday, 12 August and remain open until Friday, 13 September.