By RNZ As tourist numbers increase, the lack of a freedom camping ambassador is being felt by locals in the Catlins, with an urgent call made to replace a vacant role. The ambassador is tasked with educating freedom campers on the rules, but funding for the role in the popular tourist spot dried up last year. Southland District Council is being asked to fill the position by Waihopai Toetoe Community Board, which says a lack of oversight in popular areas is frustrating local communities.
“Previously we had our freedom camping ambassador in the past, through arrangements with different organisations,” community board chairwoman Pam Yorke told Local Democracy Reporting..