freedom camping in vehicles bylaw …...your local board: mangere‐otahuhu have your say on the...

FREEDOM CAMPING IN VEHICLES BYLAW

MANGERE-OTAHUHU LOCAL BOARD

SUBMISSIONS

VOLUME 1

176 TO 2536

Submission# First Name Surname Local Board Volume Page

176 Benny Millares Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 1

245 Sarah Aska Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 6

361 Campbell Roberts Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 17

379 Nicholas Rayner Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 20

668 barry Down Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 26

672 Chris Dixon Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 31

693 Helen Clark Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 34

710 Petivia Dolan Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 39

752 Iain Storrie Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 42

753 A Bodman Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 45

773 Jason Rowe Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 52

783 S H Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 59

798 Suzanne Waddell Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 64

806 Melanie Day Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 68

886 Fiona Mackenzie Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 72

1229 Dawn Lavery Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 76

1239 Catherine KING Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 79

1243 Andrea Halley Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 82

1253 Peter Fataaikitama Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 88

1326 Bruce Lovejoy Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 91

1405 Elizabeth Bush Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 94

1425 Hannah Not supplied Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 100

1435 Carol Bates Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 108

1554 Jim Eaton Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 111

1568 SHARON LOCKHART Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 114

1627 Suzanne Lockett Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 120

1647 Michelle McKenzie Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 124

1679 Katie Mccutcheon Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 127

1682 Patrick Rossiter Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 131

1688 Jody Bennett Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 134

1737 Viv McLaren Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 138

1743 Bradley Grand Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 141

1744 Kathy Robinson Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 145

1750 Avelien Strickland Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 150

2410 Anna Hawkins Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 153

2458 Carla To Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 154

2507 Fiona Vette Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 155

2536 Carol‐Anne Armitage Mangere‐Otahuhu 1 156

#176

All personal information that you provide in this submission will be held and protected by Auckland Council in accordance with our privacy policy (available at aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/privacy and at our libraries and service centres) and with the Privacy Act 1993. Our privacy policy explains how we may use and share your personal information in relation to any interaction you have with the council, and how you can access and correct that information. We recommend you familiarise yourself with this policy.

2

Have your say on the proposed Freedom Camping in Vehicles Bylaw

Feedback opens 3 December 2018 and closes 18 February 2019

Your contact details

Your name and feedback will be publicly available in Auckland Council reports and online. All other personal details will remain private.

Name: Benny Millares

Is your feedback on behalf of an organisation? No

Name of organisation:

Your local board: Mangere‐Otahuhu


Proposal 1

Replace legacy bylaw provisions about camping in public places with a new bylaw under the Freedom Camping Act 2011 Reason Current bylaw provisions generally ban freedom camping except in designated areas but do not give us the power to issue fines if someone breaks the rules. Developing a new bylaw under the Freedom Camping Act 2011 will allow us to manage freedom camping in Auckland more proactively and give our enforcement officer the power to issue $200 fines.

What is your opinion on this proposal? Agree

Please tell us why: There needs to be some control on freedom camping. right now i notice too much things people can do that are damaging public property etc.

Proposal 2 Increase the number of areas where people can freedom camp in Auckland (with restrictions) to help manage demand and minimise the negative impacts of freedom camping.

Reason The Freedom Camping Act generally allows freedom camping and limits our ability to prohibit it. Our research found a shortage of places where freedom campers can go in Auckland, causing over‐crowding in places where it is allowed, or illegal camping at popular places.

The draft bylaw aims to minimise the negative impacts from campers on the community and environment by providing more places for freedom campers to go, with restrictions on the:

number of camping vehicles that can stay at a designated site

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#176


type of vehicle and how long they can stay


Please tell us why: to control and accommodate for campers which would hopefully restrict the over crowding we currently have in popular places.

Proposal 3

Restrict freedom camping to certified self‐contained vehicles only in areas that are not near 24‐hour public toilets.

Reason We want to ensure that all freedom campers have access to a toilet, either onboard their vehicles or at a public toilet that is open 24‐hours. This will minimise the negative impacts from campers on the community and environment.

Note: For a vehicle to camp in a restricted certified self‐contained only area it must meet the NZ Self Containment Standard and display the correct certification.

The standard sets minimum requirements for vehicles including a toilet, fresh water storage, wastewater storage and a rubbish bin.


Please tell us why:

Proposal 4

Campers cannot stay in restricted freedom camping areas for more than two nights.

Reason A maximum night stay will:

ensure turnover at restricted freedom camping areas minimise conflict with other users encourage responsible camping.

Our research also found campers typically do not stay at one location for more than two nights.

What is your opinion on this proposal? Agree, max 2 nights

Please tell us why:

Proposal 5

Freedom camping vehicles staying in areas that have high daytime use must leave by 9am.

Reason Some parking areas have overnight parking capacity but have high use during the day. Allowing freedom camping vehicles to remain throughout the day will create conflict with other regular users.

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#176


The proposal suggests leaving by 9am to give campers the opportunity to visit local cafes or shops and prepare to leave.

What is your opinion on this proposal? Agree, with 9am

Please tell us why:

Do you have any other feedback on the draft Freedom Camping in Vehicles Bylaw? For example:

general feedback on the proposal

any council managed areas that are not included in the maps provided, which you think should be included in the bylaw (provide the name and address of the area and why you think it should be included).

Other Feedback:

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# 176

Freedom Camping in Vehicles Bylaw Site Specific Feedback

Submitter Name:

Benny Millares

Site Name: Mangere Centre Park Restriction Type:

Restricted area (certified self‐contained only)

Site ID: 118 Ward: Manukau Local Board:

Māngere‐Ōtāhuhu

Do you agree that freedom camping should be restricted to only certified self‐contained vehicles in this area?

Yes, allow certified self‐contained vehicles only

Do you agree that freedom camping in all types of vehicles should be allowed in this area?

Not applicable

Do you agree that all freedom camping should be prohibited in this area?

Not applicable

How many campers do you think would be appropriate in this area at any one time?

7 ‐ 8

How long do you think campers should be allowed to stay in this area?

Max 1 night per 4 weeks

How often is the location currently being used for freedom camping?

Not being used

How often is the parking area currently used?

It's occasionally full

Are there any special features in this area which need protecting?

I don't know of any special features

Are there any health and safety risks for users of this area if freedom camping were to occur?

I don't know of any possible risks

Do you have any other comments about this area?

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# 176


Submitter Name:

Benny Millares

Site Name: David Lange Park Restriction Type:





No, allow all vehicles to camp in the area


Not applicable


Not applicable


7 ‐ 8


Max 2 nights per 4 weeks


Not being used


It's rarely full






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#245


2





Name: Sarah Aska





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: Camping needs to be managed better.






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#245



Please tell us why: Makes it more enjoyable for campers and residents.

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: Either you have a self‐contained vehicle or stay on a camp ground if you don't ‐ or near a 24 hour toilet. In Auckland city you've got nowhere to bury your doings.

Proposal 4






Please tell us why: If your research shows they don't say for more than 2 nights all good.

Proposal 5




7

#245


What is your opinion on this proposal? Disagree, it should be 10am

Please tell us why: 10am is fair. If they want to hang around then they can park elsewhere to shop etc. Use public transport to move about.




Other Feedback:

I've read through the Manukau ward restrictions and I think it's fair.

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#245

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#245

10

#245

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#245

12

#245

13

#245

14

#245

15

#245

16

#361


2





Name: Campbell Roberts

Is your feedback on behalf of an organisation?




Proposal 1



Please tell us why:






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#361



Please tell us why:

Proposal 3






Please tell us why:

Proposal 4






Please tell us why:

Proposal 5




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#361



Please tell us why: This would reduce to some extent traffic congestion during peak hours




Other Feedback:

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#379

20

#379

21

#379

22

#379

23

#379

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#379

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#668


2





Name: barry Down





Proposal 1


What is your opinion on this proposal? Disagree

Please tell us why: we need to provide a welcome face to visitors to our country , & our own traditional way of kiwi life which has allowed freedom of bush and countryside camping,

there seems to be a culture of Regulation making developed in New Zealand Bureaucratic circles, Rather than Solution & resolution to the demands of the electorate the Bureaucracy Serves,



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#668






Please tell us why: there are a number of sites that could be extensively expanded with improved facility such as Ambury Park camp ground, the perfect introduction site to New Zealand

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: yes as long as there is an increase in public toilet facilitys at sites that at the moment do not have them, also more 24hr toilet facilitys at sites

Proposal 4





What is your opinion on this proposal? Disagree, allow more than 2 nights

Please tell us why: 3 nights would be better as it will allow campers more time to spend money at local cafes & shops,

Proposal 5

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#668





What is your opinion on this proposal? Disagree, other

Please tell us why: proposal is flawed, rather if camper Has stayed overnight it should be required to move on By 9am




Other Feedback:

Ambury Park Doc campsite would provide a wonderful large area for visitors, I propose that negotiations be made to upgrade this campsie

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# 668


Submitter Name:

barry Down

Site Name: Waikowhai Park Restriction Type:

Prohibited area

Site ID: 163 Ward: Albert ‐ Eden ‐ Roskill Local Board:

Puketāpapa


Not applicable


Not applicable


No, allow certified self‐contained vehicles


Not applicable


Not applicable


I don't know


No response


No response


No response


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# 668


Submitter Name:

barry Down

Site Name: Mangere Domain Restriction Type:

Prohibited area




Not applicable


Not applicable


No, allow certified self‐contained vehicles


Not applicable


Not applicable


Not being used


It's rarely full


No response




the toilet facility,s should be 24 hr

30

#672


2





Name: Chris Dixon





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: There needs to be a NZ‐wide law governing freedom camping. Having different laws in different parts of the country is like Auckland driving on the right side of the road, and everywhere else driving on the left. A better solution is to have a www.freedomcamping.govt.nz website that clearly and simply maps where people can go and how they can do it. An example of this approach working well us the airshare website for drone (U.A.V.) flights that has a country‐wide airspace map.



31

#672





What is your opinion on this proposal? Other

Please tell us why: Yes, increasing the number of sites is a great idea, but we need more, and there is no investment in new facilities. My suggestion is to further increase the number of sites by including locked‐at‐night toilet areas. If there are a dozen campers using a toilet during the night, do you think they will put up with someone misbehaving in the toilets? I don't think so. Rather, encouraging camping in an area should make it safer.

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: Yes, a toilet is essential. But how hard is it to do what DoC do with their campgrounds and have campers purchase a ticket which is attached to their tent? Here's my suggestion: invest in freedom camping facilities that include toilet, cold shower, rubbish and recycling bins, and a covered area with stainless benches/sinks to do food prep on. To stay at this place, you use the AT Park app, which bills your credit card $5‐10. There is no I.T. cost, because the app is already running. Cool eh?

Proposal 4





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#672



Please tell us why: There are plenty of wonderful sites around Auckland. Don't settle, but explore!

Proposal 5





Please tell us why: If I'm camping, I'm on holiday. By delaying departure to 10am, I will miss rush‐hour, and therefore not contrubute to the jam. Didn't Auckland Transport want us to "spread the jam" by avoiding rush hour?




Other Feedback:

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#693


2





Name: Helen Clark





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: Needs to be some control over where freedom camping is allowed






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#693



Please tell us why: Many areas such as carparks in Auckland that have public toilets available and are locked at night (so secure), make better use of these areas.

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: Too many non‐self contained vehicles leaving mess behind.

Need to police the self containment as well ‐ not just the sticker (fakes readily available online) ‐ need to have plastic certification card as well and be checked by officers.

Proposal 4






Please tell us why: Two CONSECUTIVE nights. Usually enough time ‐ need to have continuous movement of vehicles to be fair.

Also depends on location ‐ if a large space then no restriction if plenty of room for all.

Proposal 5


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#693





Please tell us why: Fair time for departure.




Other Feedback:

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# 693


Submitter Name:

Helen Clark

Site Name: Swanson Park Restriction Type:







Not applicable


Not applicable


3 ‐ 4




I don't know


It's usually full






Public toilets close by next to butcher shop

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# 693


Submitter Name:

Helen Clark

Site Name: 84 Kiwi Esplanade Restriction Type:







Not applicable


Not applicable


5 ‐ 6




Occasionally


It's rarely full






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#710


2





Name: Petivia Dolan





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: If adequate notifications of rules are visibly displayed, any evidence of an offence braking a rule should allow an officer to issue tickets accordingly.





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#710




Please tell us why: Don't agree with type of vehicle though because it means only the wealthy or those with the money to hire a certain vehicle will be allowed this privilege.

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: Preserve the environment and hygiene so everyone is accountable and mindful of the privilege to freedom camp

Proposal 4






Please tell us why: 3 tops

Proposal 5



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#710




Please tell us why: Seems a reasonable time




Other Feedback:

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#752


2





Name: Iain Storrie





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: Don't agree with freedom camping but more camping facilities should be available in Auckland city and suburbs.





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#752




Please tell us why: Agree more camping facilities should be available in Auckland and suburbs but not for freedom camping.

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: If there has to be freedom camping then these facilities must be available

Proposal 4






Please tell us why: More than two nights and they will think they own the place.

Proposal 5



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#752




Please tell us why: Only if strictly supervised




Other Feedback:

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#753


2





Name: A Bodman





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: Need to have the power to enforce camping regulations and fine those breaking the rules.






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#753



Please tell us why: If camp grounds are consistently full (including council & commercial campgrounds), then I can see the need for this, but if there is space in campgrounds people should be staying there. Auckland has an enormous range of accommodation options, we should not be a freedom camping destination.

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: But who will be enforcing this and how regularly? Who will be paying for installation and maintenance of the 24‐hour public toilets? Those using the sites should be contributing to the cost of this.

Proposal 4





What is your opinion on this proposal? Disagree, allow less than 2 nights

Please tell us why: One night would allow people to transit the area. If they want to stay longer in a city, freedom camping is not a suitable option.

Proposal 5



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#753




Please tell us why: Some of these areas (i.e. sports grounds, parks) are used in the evenings for sport & training, especially by children & young people. Having freedom campers staying raises safety concerns for the children and creates pressure on the facilities. No freedom camping should be allowed in these areas.




Other Feedback:

I question the need for any freedom camping areas in Mangere Bridge when there is an awesome council campground in the area that doesn't cost much to stay at.

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# 753


Submitter Name:

A Bodman






No, prohibit freedom camping in this area


Not applicable


Not applicable


0


No camping should be allowed


I don't know


I don't know


Yes, other important features


Yes, possible risks


This area is used heavily in evenings for sports training, often by teams of children & young people. I am extremely concerned about the safety of the young people using this area if camping is allowed. Ambury Farm provides a low‐cost campground so there is a suitable alternative nearby.

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# 753


Submitter Name:

A Bodman

Site Name: 32 Kiwi Esplanade and Stone Wall Foreshore

Restriction Type:

Prohibited area




Not applicable


Not applicable


Yes, prohibit freedom camping in this area


Not applicable


Not applicable


I don't know


I don't know




Yes, possible risks


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# 753


Submitter Name:

A Bodman








Not applicable


Not applicable


0




I don't know


I don't know


Yes, sensitive environmental features


Yes, possible risks


I am concerned about the birds in this area if camping is allowed. It is also an area used by many young people and children for sailing and other water activities. I am worried about the access and safety of young people using this area if camping is allowed. It is next to Ambury Farm which provides low‐cost camping so there should be no need for freedom camping in this area.

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# 753


Submitter Name:

A Bodman


Prohibited area




Not applicable


Not applicable




Not applicable


Not applicable


I don't know


It's usually full


Yes, significant cultural or historic features


Yes, possible risks


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#773


2





Name: Jason Rowe





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: will this actuall be used though. there are many situations where fines should be used, to provide a deterrent, so the word gets around that community that some behaviours are unacceptable. fines should be made to be paid before being allowed to leave the country.




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#773





Please tell us why: i dont believe we should be encouraging freedom camping in urban areas not designed for it. we have enough trouble with locals making a mess in public spaces, and unless the council is going to step up efforts to keep these areas tidy its a no thanks from me.

Proposal 3






Please tell us why:

Proposal 4






Please tell us why: encourage the campers to move round

Proposal 5


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#773





Please tell us why: day use requires parking areas to be clear earlier than 9am to allow parking.




Other Feedback:

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# 773


Submitter Name:

Jason Rowe


Restriction Type:

Prohibited area




Not applicable


Not applicable




Not applicable


Not applicable


Occasionally






Yes, possible risks


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# 773


Submitter Name:

Jason Rowe








Not applicable


Not applicable


0




I don't know






Yes, possible risks


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# 773


Submitter Name:

Jason Rowe

Site Name: Taumanu Reserve (Onehunga Foreshore)

Restriction Type:


Site ID: 566 Ward: Maungakiekie‐Tāmaki Local Board:

Maungakiekie‐Tāmaki




Not applicable


Not applicable


0




I don't know






Yes, possible risks


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# 773


Submitter Name:

Jason Rowe

Site Name: Onehunga Bay Reserve Restriction Type:

Prohibited area




Not applicable


Not applicable




Not applicable


Not applicable


I don't know






Yes, possible risks


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#783


2





Name: S H





Proposal 1



Please tell us why:






59

#783



Please tell us why:

Proposal 3






Please tell us why:

Proposal 4






Please tell us why:

Proposal 5




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#783



Please tell us why:




Other Feedback:

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# 783


Submitter Name:

S H


Prohibited area




Not applicable


Not applicable




Not applicable


Not applicable


Occasionally


It's usually full




Yes, possible risks


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# 783


Submitter Name:

S H


Restriction Type:

Prohibited area




Not applicable


Not applicable




Not applicable


Not applicable


Occasionally


It's usually full




Yes, already happening


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#798


2





Name: Suzanne Waddell





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: Better management needed. No penalty current for littering, toileting, disrespecting residents or environment




64

#798





Please tell us why: Whoâ€™s monitoring this? And how often will enforcement officers be visiting each freedom site? Freedom camping implies free to stay so who pays for extra staffing?

Whatâ€™s councils propsed method of monitoring or metering the campers? Will they have apply online etc for a camping pass with intended areas?

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: Yes agree to having self contained vehicles only. Who and how is this to be monitored?

Campers to apply and display a permit?

Proposal 4






Please tell us why: Who and how and how often is this to be monitored?

65

#798


Proposal 5





Please tell us why: What happens if they stay because the camper also wants to be a day visitor? Is parking any camp vehicle during the day therefore not allowed?




Other Feedback:

No one likes visitors who donâ€™t respect the area and the people living there. How is freedom camping laws to be made known to visitors of the area?

Will camper van companies, rental car companies be given strict instructions to pass laws to their customers? What responsibility do these companies have in the process?

I realise campers can be local or out of towners as well. How will these people be informed so they donâ€™t plead ignorance?

How often will campers be monitored? Do campers apply online etc, or text a number with name and rego? Display a pass?

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# 798


Submitter Name:

Suzanne Waddell








Not applicable


Not applicable


0




I don't know


It's usually full






Swanson Park is used intensively during week evenings for football training by Omuafc.

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#806


2





Name: Melanie Day





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: There needs to be a way of stopping illegal camping, especially for vehicles/tents which are not self contained. Otherwise we risk these places becoming a health hazard.





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#806




Please tell us why: People misunderstand what freedom camping is, and don't realise you must provide a solution to your own toileting. Prohibiting it in inappropriate sites would be beneficial.

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: If campervans without these specifications are allowed to freedom camp anywhere, most of them will follow hygiene rules, and places will quickly become health hazards.

But also, where there is a public campsite within 6 km, the rule should force the campers to camp there.

Proposal 4






Please tell us why: These sites should be for "passing through" only. 2 or more nights implies they're staying in the area longer and should make use of local campsites, such as the regional park campsites which are cheap.

Proposal 5


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#806





Please tell us why: That's a reasonable time of morning for them to leave by. We are implying that a freedom camper is a tourist with p look aces to go and things to see, so no need to lounge in a car pop park all day. If they want to do that, they need to go to a certified campsite such as the regional park campsites, which are cheap enough for a traveler to afford (1 night = 1 beer)




Other Feedback:

Mangere Bridge: No freedom camping allowed in the whole area because the council provides cheap camping at Ambury Park Farm.

Freedom camping shouldn't be about parking free in car parks every night.

Camping in NZ has become prohibitively expensive. However encouraging these people to support the local DoC or Regional Park campsites is putting money back into the community and a cheap way to camp. If they can't afford these, then they're not budgeting correctly for their holidays!

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# 806


Submitter Name:

Melanie Day


Prohibited area




Not applicable


Not applicable




Not applicable


Not applicable


I don't know


I don't know




Yes, possible risks


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#886


2





Name: Fiona Mackenzie



Your local board: I don't know my local board


Proposal 1



Please tell us why:






72

#886



Please tell us why:

Proposal 3






Please tell us why:

Proposal 4






Please tell us why:

Proposal 5




73

#886



Please tell us why:




Other Feedback:

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# 886


Submitter Name:

Fiona Mackenzie


Restriction Type:

Prohibited area




Not applicable


Not applicable




Not applicable


Not applicable


I don't know


I don't know




No response


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#1229


2





Name: Dawn Lavery





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: Auckland Council are struggling to keep up with the amount of rubbish that is left behind by members of the community let alone any visitors touring the country. Unless Auckland Council can increase their funding for services to keep our area clean and tidy, then this proposal should not be accepted.




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#1229




What is your opinion on this proposal? No response


Proposal 3







Proposal 4







Proposal 5

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#1229










Other Feedback:

Auckland Council are struggling to keep up with the amount of rubbish that is left behind by members of the community let alone any visitors touring the country. Unless Auckland Council can increase their funding for services to keep our area clean and tidy, then this proposal should not be accepted.

78

#1239


2





Name: Catherine KING





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: They should have to pay to use our public pools such as Moana nui pool. Theres alot of freedom campers using the showers there when it should be for residents.





79

#1239




Please tell us why: Makes sense to spread out the campers over Auckland.

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: This will ensure adequate toilets are used and will stop unhygienic pooing in the bush or road sides.

Proposal 4






Please tell us why: Anymore than two nights shows its not a temporary stay. A two night restriction will help police this.

Proposal 5



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#1239




Please tell us why: If they are staying overnight they should be gone by 8am. Other wise they should find suitable accomadation.




Other Feedback:

81

#1243


2





Name: Andrea Halley





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: I agree with the concept of freedom camping, especially for self contained vehicles. But I wonder how this will be monitored and enforced.

I live in Mangere Bridge and we have a huge problem with constant partying on the old bridge, until there is a commitment by Council and Police to take action.

Sensitive, problematic areas like this need special treatment ‐ perhaps parking meters, and increased security. I would fear for the safety of campers in this area as it is,


Reason The Freedom Camping Act generally allows freedom camping and limits our ability to prohibit it. Our research

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#1243


found a shortage of places where freedom campers can go in Auckland, causing over‐crowding in places where it is allowed, or illegal camping at popular places.





Please tell us why:

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: Public toilets in Auckland are often dirty and disgusting. They aren't cleaned very well and are not checked often enough. I would hate them to become even more filthy because of overuse. Plus, if vehicles aren't bona fide campers there will be homeless people sleeping in cars, with all the problems to the community that that would bring

Proposal 4






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#1243


Please tell us why: Because you actually don't want people living there, but 2 nights is not enough to experience a city like Auckland. Maybe 3 or 4

Proposal 5





Please tell us why: I'm thinking of an area like Mangere Bridge where lots of people use the bridge during the day for recreation and boating




Other Feedback:

Monitoring and enforcement are hugely important. And regular cleaning of public toilets

84

# 1243


Submitter Name:

Andrea Halley

Site Name: Waterfront Road Reserve Restriction Type:







Not applicable


Not applicable


7 ‐ 8




Occasionally








Very problematic area, huge noise problem and antisocial behaviour, people playing loud music in cars all night, most weekends. No police presence.

I think there would be safety in numbers for campers, in fact the more the better because I think that would have the effect of displacing the noise makers. Self contained camper vans are no problem in terms of noise or litter. I would suggest parking metre to monitor who is staying there and for how long.

85

# 1243


Submitter Name:

Andrea Halley








Not applicable


Not applicable


5 ‐ 6




No response






Yes, possible risks


This a protected area for birds, no dogs allowed except on a leash. VERY IMPORTANT.

Also I think that in the case of campervans there is safety in numbers, which is why up to 6 or more would be better than 3 maximum

86

# 1243


Submitter Name:

Andrea Halley


Restriction Type:

Prohibited area




Not applicable


Not applicable


No response


Not applicable


Not applicable


No response


No response




Yes, possible risks


Very close to houses, parts hidden by trees, potential safety concerns and good chance of the usual idiots drinking in cars etc

87

#1253


2





Name: Peter Fataaikitama





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: If it allows widespread freedom camping then no. There are cheap local campgrounds at ambury farm. There is absolutely no need to do freedom camp in the area. Use the existing facilities





88

#1253




Please tell us why: People should use camp grounds. If they can afford to travel here then they should be able to afford camp ground fees. Freedom camping is just a cop out for dirty folk who don't contribute to the community

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: If there is a toilet and their vehicle is self contained and not just a fake sticker then ok perhaps .

Proposal 4






Please tell us why:

Proposal 5



89

#1253




Please tell us why:




Other Feedback:

If there are no public toilets then freedom camping should not be allowed

90

#1326


2





Name: Bruce Lovejoy





Proposal 1



Please tell us why:






91

#1326



Please tell us why: Generally agree however, new sites should not be opened within 3 kilometers of existing freedom camping sites. For example, there is an existing freedom camping area in Ambury Farm Mangere Bridge so I do not want more areas opened up in the vicinity and the proposed area at 84 Kiwi Esplanade is very close by. Apart from the proximity to Ambury farm, the proposed site at 84 Kiwi Esplanade is a high public use area and use of it should remain unaltered.

Proposal 3






Please tell us why:

Proposal 4






Please tell us why:

Proposal 5



92

#1326




Please tell us why:




Other Feedback:

93

#1405


2





Name: Elizabeth Bush





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: Central Government back in 2011 rushed through legislation to accommodate freedom campers for the 2011 rugby world cup. This should have not happened as it has now created a problem for Councils to manage at rate payers expense and has caused great damage and harm to our environment. Council needs to be lobbying central government to remove this legislation.

Freedom camping policing is a good idea but we should not be providing more spots for freedom campers to locate. Council are under resourced and do not have budget to support the basic needs of the City and this is not a priority for the city to be resourcing.


Reason The Freedom Camping Act generally allows freedom camping and limits our ability to prohibit it. Our research

94

#1405


found a shortage of places where freedom campers can go in Auckland, causing over‐crowding in places where it is allowed, or illegal camping at popular places.





Please tell us why: This proposal is not going to be enforced. There are too many campers being either made or rented that do not have the appropriate containment. Council are not proposing to provide toilets in all these locations are there are safety concerns if 24 hour toilets are being provided. Public toilets are locked during certain hours for safety reasons.

NZ is full of campgrounds both privately owned or run by Government agencies. Freedom camping should be offered in these locations where Government bodies run the camp grounds and with private camp grounds Councils should be supporting local businesses running campgrounds by providing funds so they can offer Freedom camping spots

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: There are safety concerns with offering 24 hour public toilets this is why most public toilets are not open 24 hours.

It will also promote locals to gather in these areas to party/drink as there are toilet facilities.

Proposal 4



95

#1405





Please tell us why: Camping creates so many issues, rubbish, damage to the environment, noise, light pollution. Camping should not be allowed in freedom camping areas.

Proposal 5





Please tell us why: If areas proposed for freedom campers are going to conflict with other public uses they should not be implemented as freedom camping locations.

Council are not going to have officers at every freedom camp spot every morning to ensure freedom campers are gone by the specified times. Freedom campers are not paying and are restricting use of public space for rate payers who are entitled to enjoy the public space of this city.




Other Feedback:

Auckland Council should not be offering lots of Freedom camping spots around the city. If they do want to increase freedom camping locations Auckland Council need to select one or two larger areas to accomodate this use so the area can be appropriately resourced. Auckland Council does not have the funds to police all these areas everyday to ensure people are leaving at the appropriate time, removing their bodily waste and rubbish. Freedom campers will pick up that they are not being policed by Council officers and will continue to exploit our environment and causing harm to our beautiful country.

Please do not increase areas, utilise Government run camp grounds and regional parks that have appropriate facilities for freedom campers.

96

# 1405


Submitter Name:

Elizabeth Bush








Not applicable


Not applicable


0




I don't know


It's usually full






This area is sensitive due to it being next to existing waterways and freedom campers are going to go toilet where ever they want causing health risk to the public who use this space recreationally. There is also a long standing issue with the area being a party spot for people and noise issues the residents are always encountering, we should not be encouraging this area as a place of assembly for anyone. There is safety due to people always drinking in this area and people may be subject to shootings or violence, it is not a safe peaceful place and should not be promoted as a place to camp

97

# 1405


Submitter Name:

Elizabeth Bush








Not applicable


Not applicable


0




I don't know


It's usually full






This area is proposed in the middle of a residential area. Ambury Farm has a great camping spot run by Government agency. This area should be offered as a freedom camping spot if we have to accommodate any. That way there are staff monitoring the area and appropriate toilet facilities provided. There is safety concerns in this area, partying, shootings. It is not safe for people coming to our country to be camping in this area

98

# 1405


Submitter Name:

Elizabeth Bush


Restriction Type:

Prohibited area




Not applicable


Not applicable




Not applicable


Not applicable


No response


No response






This are should be prohibited. It borders existing waterways and with freedom campers using any public space for toilet it is highly likely to further pollute our waterways. Healthy waters department should be concerned at any proposed freedom camping spot bordering waterways.

99

#1425


2





Name: Hannah Not supplied





Proposal 1



Please tell us why:






100

#1425



Please tell us why:

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: We all know many 'campers' aren't even able to access their toilet in their vehicle and therefore the self‐containment certification is a joke. Stricter policing and very harsh fines need to be put in place for freedom 'campers' caught or witnessed toiletting in the environment. There is no excuse!

Proposal 4






Please tell us why:

Proposal 5



101

#1425




Please tell us why:




Other Feedback:

102

# 1425


Submitter Name:

H A


Prohibited area




Not applicable


Not applicable




Not applicable


Not applicable


Occasionally


I don't know




Yes, possible risks


103

# 1425


Submitter Name:

H A

Site Name: Taumanu Reserve (Onehunga Foreshore)

Restriction Type:







Not applicable


Not applicable


1 ‐ 2


Max 1 night per 4 weeks


Occasionally


It's usually full




Yes, possible risks


104

# 1425


Submitter Name:

H A








Not applicable


Not applicable


0




Occasionally


It's rarely full






See media coverage regarding the ongoing issues with extreme antisocial behaviour in this location, with alcohol fuelled noise pollution, violence, littering, vandalism etc every weekend. It would be dangerous and irresponsible to promote this spot as a good place to camp overnight, and unfair to surrounding sleep‐deprived residents who do not need more trouble on their doorsteps!

105

# 1425


Submitter Name:

H A








Not applicable


Not applicable


0




Often


It's usually full




Yes, possible risks


Makes it more difficult to access the library with infants in tow when the few carpark spaces available are taken up by people asleep in their people carrier campers. Tricky situation though, as I presume they are living in their cars, not 'camping' as such.

106

# 1425


Submitter Name:

Hannah Not supplied








Not applicable


Not applicable


0




Occasionally






Yes, possible risks


107

#1435


2





Name: Carol Bates





Proposal 1



Please tell us why:






108

#1435



Please tell us why: How will you enforce maximum stays over a 4 week period? I donâ€™t agree with freedom camping in urban areas where there are plenty of accomodation options. For example Ambury farm has a camping ground so why are we encouraging stays at Kiwi esplanade?

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: Not sure what the answer is to people having careless toileting behaviours

Proposal 4






Please tell us why: How will it be enforced without being a further burden on local resources

Proposal 5



109

#1435




Please tell us why: Too much conflict with other regular users




Other Feedback:

110

#1554


2





Name: Jim Eaton





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: 1) Many areas proposed for freedom camping are subject to existing by‐laws restricting overnight access and alcohol consumption. These restrictions were put in place in these areas to protect nearby residents from the affects of late night, uncontrolled, noisy parties. Removing these restrictions will once again open up these areas for abuse by inconsiderate people.



111

#1554






Please tell us why: Agree more areas are required, but this should be provided by having fewer but larger camping areas. This would

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: How will this be enforced. This will require frequent surveillance by someone qualified to make the certification call, otherwise we will be left with a mess and the camper just moves on.

Proposal 4






Please tell us why:

Proposal 5


112

#1554





Please tell us why: Most of the areas proposed for freedom camping are provided primarily for other uses and are not provided as dedicated camping areas (ie boat ramps, beach and park access, overflow parking for other areas, etc). Many of these areas are subject to high demand and congestion during peak periods (ie summer weekends, holidays, sporting and special events). These periods may be difficult to predict and quantify. To keep rules clear and simple all Campers should be required to leave all these areas during the day so they can be used for their primary purpose.




Other Feedback:

As evidenced by recent incidents in Mangere Bridge, the existing council enforcement of noise controls and alcohol bans in public areas is often slow or ineffectual (As reported by Ryan Dunlop in the NZ Herald, 17/02/2019), often leaving local residents to either, give up, or deal with the situation themselves. If we are going to allow more overnight camping in more public areas, then council will need to implement simple, effective and robust enforcement processes and procedures for both the new rules and existing by‐laws.

113

#1568


2





Name: SHARON LOCKHART





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: enforcement officers should be able to issue fines






114

#1568



Please tell us why: the proposed areas in Mangere and Mangere Bridge should not be permitted ‐ we have a camp ground at Ambury Park that should be used

Proposal 3






Please tell us why:

Proposal 4






Please tell us why:

Proposal 5




115

#1568



Please tell us why:




Other Feedback:

116

# 1568


Submitter Name:

SHARON LOCKHART








Not applicable


Not applicable


0




I don't know








117

# 1568


Submitter Name:

SHARON LOCKHART








Not applicable


Not applicable


0




I don't know


It's usually full




Yes, possible risks


118

# 1568


Submitter Name:

SHARON LOCKHART


Restriction Type:

Prohibited area




Not applicable


Not applicable




Not applicable


Not applicable


I don't know


It's usually full




Yes, possible risks


119

#1627


2





Name: Suzanne Lockett

Is your feedback on behalf of an organisation?




Proposal 1



Please tell us why:






120

#1627



Please tell us why: At Mangere Bridge we already have the Ambury Park Free Camping Ground so no need to have these extra places identified

Proposal 3






Please tell us why:

Proposal 4






Please tell us why:

Proposal 5




121

#1627



Please tell us why:




Other Feedback:

122

# 1627


Submitter Name:

Suzanne Lockett






No response


Not applicable


Not applicable


No response


No response


No response


No response




No response


At Mangere Bridge we already have the Ambury Park Free Camping Ground so no need to have these extra places identified

123

#1647


2





Name: Michelle McKenzie





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: There must be a deterrent for camping in undesignated areas. If there are no penalties for breaking the rules then campers will flout the rules.





124

#1647




Please tell us why: The impact on communities and pressure on resources mean this realistically can't be managed and policed effectively.

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: If this is policed properly it makes sense. Freedom campers must relieve themselves. If they are not near a toilet block then you know they will be releiving themselves nearby causing a negative impact on the environment.

Proposal 4






Please tell us why:

Proposal 5


125

#1647





Please tell us why:




Other Feedback:

126

#1679


2





Name: Katie Mccutcheon





Proposal 1



Please tell us why:






127

#1679



Please tell us why: I think people should have to pay for accommodation in all areas not freedom camp in places where I pay rates

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: But I still don't want freedom campers in Mangere bridge

Proposal 4






Please tell us why:

Proposal 5




128

#1679



Please tell us why:




Other Feedback:

Kiwi esplanade has many unique bird species and I don't believe the natural habitat needs more humans camping in the area. Also given recent shooting and out of control parties in area, the police and council are not maintaining drinking bans or noise control limits without legalising freedom camping. I cannot think of any positive outcomes achieved by encouraging freedom campers in our fragile environment

129

# 1679


Submitter Name:

Katie Mccutcheon






No response


Not applicable


Not applicable


No response


No response


No response


No response


No response


No response


Kiwi esplanade has many unique bird species and I don't believe the natural habitat needs more humans camping in the area. Also given recent shooting and out of control parties in area, the police and council are not maintaining drinking bans or noise control limits without legalising freedom camping. I cannot think of any positive outcomes achieved by encouraging freedom campers in our fragile environment

130

#1682


2





Name: Patrick Rossiter





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: Reasonable control, but perhaps the maximum fine could be higher.






131

#1682



Please tell us why: Reasonable control

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: Seems obvious

Proposal 4






Please tell us why: I think three nights would be more reasonable. Arrive late one afternoon, two days to tour the area, leave on the morning of the fourth day.

Proposal 5




132

#1682



Please tell us why: Campers are on vacation. Unreasonable to get them up so early.




Other Feedback:

I think that there should be some restriction on the parking area on Swanson Road and Coronation Road in Mangere Bridge Village, and on the laneway connecting Rimu Road to Miro Road.

133

#1688


2





Name: Jody Bennett





Proposal 1



Please tell us why:






134

#1688



Please tell us why: Please don't increase the number of spots. Swanson Park in Mangere Bridge is used for sport year round and the waterfront would be ruined if lined with campers.

Proposal 3






Please tell us why:

Proposal 4






Please tell us why:

Proposal 5




135

#1688



Please tell us why:




Other Feedback:

I'm Mangere Bridge there is already very cheap camping available at Ambury Farm. If you allow freedom camping in our parks and waterfront, we'll be inundated due to our proximity to the airport. If tourists can afford to fly here and hire campervan, they can afford the very reasonable camping fees.

136

# 1688


Submitter Name:

Jody Bennett


Restriction Type:

Prohibited area




Not applicable


Not applicable




Not applicable


Not applicable


I don't know








137

#1737


2





Name: Viv McLaren





Proposal 1



Please tell us why:






138

#1737



Please tell us why:

Proposal 3






Please tell us why:

Proposal 4






Please tell us why:

Proposal 5




139

#1737



Please tell us why:




Other Feedback:

140

#1743


2





Name: Bradley Grand





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: There should be some form of control, they should not be allowed to do what they want.






141

#1743



Please tell us why: Who are we catering for??? Local people, tourist?? Why do we have to change our regulations for tourists. They should have to use campgrounds.

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: How often are these toilets going to be cleaned, does the public suffer at the expense of freedom camper.

Proposal 4






Please tell us why: Howâ€™s it going to be policed.

Proposal 5



142

#1743




Please tell us why:




Other Feedback:

Freedom camping should not be allowed in parks.

143

# 1743


Submitter Name:

Bradley Grand








Not applicable


Not applicable


0




Often


I don't know


No response


No response


Too much trouble in this area. It should be security gated after hours.

144

#1744


2





Name: Kathy Robinson





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: It makes sense in principle but only if there are enough enforcement officers to meaningfully enforce the rules and limit the number of freedom campers at each site and fine those not on a designated site





145

#1744




Please tell us why: Only makes sense if number of vehicles, type and length of stay is actually enforced.

Proposal 3






Please tell us why:

Proposal 4






Please tell us why: How will this be enforced in reality????

Proposal 5



146

#1744




Please tell us why:




Other Feedback:

147

# 1744


Submitter Name:

Kathy Robinson








Not applicable


Not applicable


0


No response


Occasionally


It's rarely full






The area is next to protected bird reserves. The birds would be disturbed and are in danger of swallowing the litter that the freedom campers leave behind.

Such a beautiful area near the airport that it is likely to be inundated with freedom campers and I have little faith that the council has the resources to enforce the 3 vehicle limit.

148

# 1744

Ambury Farm camping is 1 km up the road and very affordable ‐ no need for a Freedom camping site so close

149

#1750


2





Name: Avelien Strickland





Proposal 1



Please tell us why: Agree that more resources are required to effectively monitor






150

#1750



Please tell us why: I dont want additional freedom camping locations in auckland

Proposal 3






Please tell us why: No point if its not properly monitored

Proposal 4






Please tell us why:

Proposal 5




151

#1750



Please tell us why:




Other Feedback:

I do not support the freedom camping loctions in mangere bridge. We have the doc camping ground at ambury farm and i feel that is sufficient

Our community already suffers from current regulations not enforced and i dont want to further expose our community

152

Subject: Freedom camping bylawDate: Monday, 18 February 2019 10:04:26 PM

I am seriously concerned about the potential impact of freedom camping sling the Mangerebridge waterfront including kiwi esplanade and yacht club.This is a significant ecological sanctuary for seabirds which would risk disruption withcampers contributing to both noise and rubbish in the area. Secondly there have beenmajor issues of community safety with alcohol use, noise and violence by the water,including a recent shooting that is currently not well managed by council and police- I donot believe freedom campers will be adequately regulated or monitored and am concernedit will exacerbate current community difficulties.

#2410

153

Subject: Freedom Camping - Mangere BridgeDate: Monday, 18 February 2019 9:13:09 PM

Good evening,

I tried to submit online but my internet browser was having issues.

I am against the idea of freedom camping in the Mangere Bridge community. We have a wonderfulesplanade and farm with environmental and cultural history which I think we should preserve. Weknow that freedom campers do tend to leave a lot of rubbish. Additionally, if you have followed thenews recently you would see that Mangere Bridge has had a big problem with noise along thewaterfront area (one which recently involved a shooting). Including freedom campers in ourcommunity will only add to the problem and frustrate many locals who, have in the past, complainedto the council and received no action.

I sincerely hope freedom camping is not permitted in the wonderful suburb of Mangere Bridge.

Thank you

Carla To

This email (including any attachments) is confidential and contains information which may be subject to legal privilege. If you havereceived this email in error, you may not read, use, copy, or distribute any part of it or disclose its content or existence. Pleasenotify the sender immediately and delete all copies of this email, including any attachments, from your system.

#2458

154

Subject: Feedback regarding proposalDate: Tuesday, 19 February 2019 8:15:55 AM

Good morning,

I live in Mangere Bridge and would like to register that my family, neighbours and community DO NOTWANT freedom campers in our neighbourhood.

The sites you are proposing are near schools, play centres or the foreshore of our community. We already haveenough trouble with people from outside our community causing issues for us and I cannot see how lettingfreedom campers in will do anything but destroy our environment. They do not take care, they destroy as theygo.

We need to protect our environments for The people who live in our city, they are the people who pay rates etcand their rights should be considered above freedom campers.

I look forward to seeing confirmation that NO sites in Mangere Bridge are approved for freedom campers.

Kind regardsFiona Vette

Sent from my iPhone

#2507

155

Carol‐Anne Armitage 18 February 2019

SUBMISSION TO

AUCKLAND COUNCIL

FREEDOM CAMPING BYLAW REVISION

#2536

156


It is my heartfelt desire to see the waterfront at Kiwi Esplanade and surrounding

areas in Mangere Bridge protected from freedom camping. It is of grave concern

to me that Auckland Council is proposing the following areas be opened up to

freedom campers:

84 Kiwi Esplanade (Yacht Club, Bird Roosting area for migrating birds)

7 Church Street (Swanson Park - children’s playground, Sports Park and community events)

Waterfront Road Reserve (Recreational use and events)

All of the above are sensitive areas. It is well known that not all freedom campers

are well‐behaved or respective of rules and regulations in areas where there is

no oversight as is shown below.

Doubtless you will be aware of the recent shooting that took place in the early

morning of 17 February at the end of Coronation Road, the causeway to the 24/7

hour boat ramp and Waterfront Road Reserve Park. The local community has

fought an ongoing battle with council and police to deal with large groups that

congregate there and have been doing so for a very long time with no resolution.

The aftermath of these gatherings results in empty bottles, condoms, food waste

and packaging strewn across the road, often ending up in the Manukau Harbour.

This behaviour is repeated in other areas along Kiwi Esplanade.

#2536

157


It is my belief that allowing freedom camping in the area will only exacerbate the

current situation. In addition the Kiwi Esplanade waterfront has some of the best

preserved lava flows in Auckland which must be protected. There are also a

number of Wahi Tapu sites in the wider Mangere area.

Ambury Regional Park is at the far end of Kiwi Esplanade and adjacent to the

yacht club and bird roosting area at 84 Kiwi Esplanade. It has all the facilities

that freedom campers need; hard stand area for campervans, camping areas for

tents, ablution block, clean water, bbq areas and rubbish bins plus rangers who

keep an eye on things. This is the perfect place for freedom campers to go in

Mangere Bridge. It offers beautiful views of the Manukau Harbour and out

towards the Manukau Heads. It’s an idyllic spot and a good central place for

sightseeing in the wider Mangere Bridge area. It’s also close to shops including a

supermarket, cafes, restaurants and a petrol station.

To encourage freedom campers into this Auckland Council Park it needs to be

offered free of charge, as with other Council‐owned parks. Currently there is a

small cost for Ambury Regional Park. In addition it needs to be well promoted

and signposted.

RECOMMENDATION

(1) That the bylaw forbidding freedom parking in the Mangere‐Otahuhu Ward

and, specifically in Mangere Bridge, be continued Legacy Manukau City – Chapter 9, Consolidated Bylaw 4. Residential Occupation of

any Public Place by Vehicles, Tents and Caravans

4.1 No person may occupy or permit to be occupied for the purpose of human

habitation, any vehicle, tent, caravan or structure of any kind that is situated in or on

a public place, except– (a) in a place set aside by the Council for the purpose of

camping or overnight parking for a self‐contained motor caravan.

(2) That if Auckland Council should be determined to allow freedom parking

in the Mangere Bridge area of this Ward that it be allowed only at Ambury

Regional Park where it can be monitored and at no charge in line with

other Auckland Council Parks.

Carol-Anne Armitage

#2536

158


APPENDIX 1

4.1 Freedom camping bylaws Summary of bylaw

Residual clauses of the the Manukau City Consolidated Bylaw 2008 Chapter 9 General Nuisance, Safety and Behaviour in Parks and Public Places

The specific clauses are contained in Appendix A. Freedom camping refers to the practice of camping in a public place outside a designated camping ground. Auckland Council has identified a number of issues over the past few years relating to freedom camping. Issues that are typically associated with freedom camping include, but are not limited to:

littering

remains of human waste / toilet paper

damage / destruction to property / vegetation / animals

environmental degradation such as pollution of waterways

safety of freedom campers – camping in areas that may be unsafe (e.g. the area is prone to flooding)

loss of visual amenity due to the presence of campers (e.g. washing laundry in waterways)

annoyance to other users / local residents as a result of anti-social behaviour such as noise, alcohol and disorderly behaviour

fire risk

traffic safety problems as a result of freedom campers parking vehicles in a way that impedes access

lack of information about where freedom camping is permitted or prohibited

limited enforcement due to insufficient staff resources

loss of revenue to campground operators and other accommodation providers.

Legacy Manukau City Chapter 9, Consolidated Bylaw 4. Residential Occupation of any Public Place by Vehicles, Tents and Caravans 4.1 No person may occupy or permit to be occupied for the purpose of human habitation, any vehicle, tent, caravan or structure of any kind that is situated in or on a public place, except– (a) in a place set aside by the Council for the purpose of camping or overnight parking for a self-contained motor caravan.

#2536

159


APPENDIX 2

Auckland Council frees up 29 new overnight spots for freedom camping NICOLE LAWTON16:56, Feb 20 2017

Freedom campers across Auckland are now freer than ever, as dozens of new overnight sites become available to them.

In a two-month pilot starting this week, 29 locations from Wellsford in the north to Pukekohe in the south have been highlighted as safe havens for tourists in campervans and tents to stay overnight.

Auckland Council said the scheme was an effort to combat increasing tensions between freedom campers and locals in Auckland, after a bumper tourism season.

The "dispersal programme" hopes to see freedom camping visitors spread out over the multitude of new locations across the city, rather than crowd into the few well-known hot spots.

"If we can encourage campers into new areas, we hope to reduce overcrowding and spread the tourism dollar to other local board economies, while also introducing visitors to some of the lesser-known but lovely corners of our city," Councillor Linda Cooper, chairwoman of the council's regulatory committee, said.

"Overcrowding, parking and access difficulties, and increasing rubbish at popular destinations is frustrating local communities and other park users."

She said the sites included parking lots, pre-existing freedom camping spots, parks, and reserves and were selected following extensive consultation with local boards.

Throughout the trial, council officers will ensure the sites are kept well-maintained and tidy, with clear accessways for the public to traverse and park, Cooper said.

The issue lies in travellers overloading amenities at the few well-known spots, causing strife for the local residents, Auckland Council's manager of social policy and bylaws, Michael Sinclair, said.

"They have been known to overload the rubbish bins, which are only designed for day-to-day use, not camping use.

"And they may go into a public toilet, that's got one or two basins designed for casual use and end up doing their whole ablutions there, which is not so nice for the people who use it all the time."

He said the new spots have been considered based on availability of rubbish and bathroom facilities, and where inadequate, extra port-a-loos will be brought in and rubbish collected more frequently.

Auckland Council operates 44 campgrounds in regional parks throughout Auckland and there are also three holiday parks.

Stuff.co.nz

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freedom camping in vehicles bylaw …...your local board: mangere‐otahuhu have your say on the...

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