Porirua City Council is reviewing freedom camping regulations and is inviting public feedback during a consultation period open until 10 February 2025. This initiative aims to better manage freedom camping in the city by introducing a bylaw under the Freedom Camping Act, empowering officers to enforce rules and issue on-the-spot fines for violations on public land not covered by the Reserves Act.
The proposed bylaw outlines specific locations for freedom camping, including six identified sites: Ngāti Toa Domain, Bradeys Bay, Bedford Court car park in Cannons Creek, Camborne Walkway northern carpark, Ocean Parade car park in Pukerua Bay, and Terrace Rd car park in Titahi Bay. Freedom camping at these sites would be restricted to three nights within a 30-day period, with additional restrictions on vehicle size at Ocean Parade and Camborne Walkway.
The council also plans to prohibit freedom camping at two existing sites: Motukaraka Point and Onepoto Esplanade Reserve. Motukaraka Point, a culturally significant site for Ngāti Toa Rangatira, has seen archaeological damage caused by campers, prompting its exclusion.
Under the proposed changes, freedom camping would be banned in many other areas across Porirua, including the central city and all reserve land.
Porirua City Council is encouraging all interested parties to participate in the consultation process by visiting their website at: https://haveyoursay.poriruacity.govt.nz/