Panel to mull freedom camping submissions

Public submissions on proposed changes to the 2015 Freedom Camping Bylaw to tighten restrictions in Akaroa will be heard by a Christchurch City Council Hearings Panel.

The panel, which comprises Deputy Mayor Andrew Turner, Councillor David East and Community Board Member Tim Lindley, will consider 79 written submissions.

Eleven submitters will address the panel in Akaroa.

At present, freedom camping is banned in the town’s commercial area and along the main waterfront area. Freedom campers can stay in other areas around Akaroa for up to two nights, as long as their vehicle is self-contained.

A Hearings Panel will consider freedom camping bylaw submissions relating to Akaroa.

The proposed bylaw changes would prohibit freedom camping in the whole township, but continue to allow limited freedom camping for self-contained vehicles in a designated area in Rue Brittan.

The submissions are generally supportive of the proposed changes.

In all, 54 submitters generally supported the proposal, with some wanting additional prohibited areas, some wanting more opportunities for freedom campers, and some supporting the proposal with conditions or suggestions.

Additional suggestions included better enforcement, clear signage, and improved facilities (such as dump stations, rubbish and recycling bins, and toilets).

Some submitters are concerned about the limited number of freedom campers that can be accommodated at the Rue Brittan site, and have recommended approving additional areas for freedom camping.

About 18 submitters thought the restrictions had gone too far, and wanted Akaroa to be more welcoming to this sector of the tourism market. In contrast, five submitters wanted freedom camping prohibited across the whole of Banks Peninsula.

Concerns have also been raised about non-self-contained vehicles, “fake” self-contained vehicles, or campers not using the vehicle’s on-board facilities.

“We have had excellent input from the local community regarding this issue, with the submitters raising many points for us to consider,” Cr Turner, says.

“Alongside these proposed changes, complementary non-regulatory measures to manage the impact of freedom camping on Akaroa are being explored.”

In July, the Council agreed to consult with the community about amending the 2015 Freedom Camping Bylaw. Consultation was open from 1 August until 3 September 2018.

The Hearings Panel is scheduled to meet at the Akaroa Recreation Complex at 28 Rue Jolie, Akaroa on Monday, 17 September from 10am.

It will also meet at the Council’s Civic Office, 53 Hereford Street, Christchurch on Thursday, 20 September from 12.30pm.

The full report summarising the submissions on amending the 2015 Freedom Camping Bylaw can be viewed here.

The Panel will also hear submissions on the proposed replacement Alcohol Restrictions in Public Places Bylaw 2018, with 41 written submissions and 10 submitters requesting to be heard.

The Panel's recommendations on both matters will go to the Council for a final decision.