While about 127,000 freedom campers enjoy the district’s golden bays each year, Edwards never wants to stay long, saying it is the only place he gets “hassled”.
The 65-year-old is not alone either, with many campers joining him in calling out the district’s allegedly unwelcoming behaviour at a public meeting on the Government’s proposal to improve freedom camping.
Tourism Minister Stuart Nash, with Northland MP Willow-Jean Prime, explains the changes to freedom camping he would like to see.
Under proposal 4, the Government is in the process of seeking feedback on whether the voluntary standard for self-containment of motorhomes and caravans is fit for purpose, including the types of toilets it allows.