Free camping trial at Orere Point proves effective

Over the Christmas and New Year period, Orere Point was one of a number of beachside communities involved in a trial by Auckland Council aimed at curbing free camping on beach and council reserves.

Campers were visited by Armourguard Security when complaints were made to the council complaint line (09-3010101), and if they chose not to move, police were called to intervene and potentially issue trespass notices.

The trial proved effective with a marked decrease in random camping around the area.

Unfortunately at least one member of the community took exception to this council trial, displaying their intelligence by vandalising the council-approved sign the night it was installed.

Auckland Council rules are firm on free camping in the region. There is no camping allowed on beaches or beach reserves unless these are designated as spots for self-contained campervans. It is against Council bylaws to pitch a tent overnight on beaches or Council reserves.

The trial is the first step in the Council attempting to change the mindset that says someone can camp wherever they wish. Like the shampoo tagline, it won’t happen overnight but it will (hopefully) happen.