South Wairarapa District Council would like your feedback on our Proposed Freedom Camping Bylaw. 

New Zealand’s freedom camping laws allow camping on all Council land unless it is prohibited through other methods (like a bylaw). We’re proposing to put a new bylaw in place that strikes a balance between attracting and supporting tourism in our area and protecting special places in our district. This proposed Freedom Camping Bylaw updates the approach to freedom camping taken in the Coastal Camping Bylaw and gives Council a tool to respond to issues related to freedom camping.  

The proposed Freedom Camping Bylaw  identifies those areas where freedom camping is appropriate and those areas which may need protection for reasons including environmental and cultural significance, risks to health and safety and other practical considerations. We want to ensure we meet the needs of our communities, our visitors, and all those who choose to freedom camp.   

This is your opportunity to have your say about the Freedom Camping Bylaw which proposes to:  

• Identify areas where people CAN’T freedom camp (prohibited areas)   
• Identify areas where people MAY freedom camp (restricted areas)  
• Restrict freedom camping to people in self-contained motor vehicles in and around our townships  
• Make an amendment to the Clifford Square Reserve Management Plan, to formalise the existing freedom camping area behind the Fell Museum in Featherston.  

How can I have my say? 

We need your feedback to ensure the Bylaw reflects the views of the community. Consultation is now open until 13 November 2023. 

Find out more along with how to provide feedback on the consultation page on our website.