My Account
Making sure locals and visitors are up to speed with changes to freedom camping rules has been the dominant issue for Rodney Local Board’s recently appointed compliance wardens in recent weeks.
The wardens, Michael Murray and Sam Phoenixia, spent much of their time in the run-up to Christmas identifying and visiting likely summer camping hot spots, not least because the rules have changed since a new bylaw came in last September.
This requires freedom campers to use a certified self-contained vehicle, stay for no more than two nights, leave by 9am on the third day and not return to stay in the same spot for at least two weeks.
However, in addition to freedom camping, the compliance team is dealing with a wide range of other issues. In a report to the last Rodney Local Board meeting of year, Council said they had carried out more than 1100 visits or patrols in one three-month period, including dotterel patrols, rubbish dumping, kauri dieback, sediment control, dogs on beaches and obstructed signs.
Other matters within their remit include cars on beaches, biosecurity and environmental management, set netting, water quality, boat ramp access and parking, parking on reserves and stormwater issues.
The wardens were appointed by the Local Board on a 12-month $140,000 fulltime contract at the end of June last year after a successful six-month trial.
Council said their role was to provide education and direction to the public to encourage compliance with Council policy and statutory requirements, to protect public safety, increase public awareness and accountability, and promote enhanced environmental outcomes.
Reports of any of the above issues should be phoned in to the Council call centre on 09 301 0101.
