Freedom campers are welcome on the stunning West Coast of the South Island, but unfortunately, some are leaving a messy problem behind. The local mayor is now calling for government assistance to address the issue.
As summer brings an influx of visitors to the area, not everyone is following the rules. Westland District mayor Helen Lash has raised concerns about people using fake stickers to claim their campers are self-contained when they are not.
Lash shared with RNZ that there has been a noticeable increase in human waste being left at camping sites along the coast. The lack of funding to monitor and address this problem has made it challenging for the local council to keep up.
She expressed frustration at the prevalence of fake self-contained stickers on campers, stating that it is a widespread issue that needs to be addressed. With government funding for policing the problem running out last year, the burden falls on the ratepayers, which is a heavy load for a community with a low rate base.
The unsightly presence of human faeces around camping areas and walkways is a concerning issue that needs to be tackled. Lash emphasized that while there are plenty of public toilets funded by the government in the area, people tend to park in more scenic spots without toilet facilities nearby.
While more toilets may not be the ultimate solution, Lash stressed the importance of responsible camping practices. She expressed disappointment in the lack of respect shown by some campers towards the pristine environment of the world heritage area.
The mayor called on the government to take action and support local authorities in managing the issue. As tourism continues to grow in the region, it is essential for the government to collaborate with communities to find sustainable solutions.
