Newhaven Holiday Park owner Grant Gabolinscy says a Catlins freedom camping trial this summer has failed to boost guest numbers at commercial campgrounds such as his. Photo: Richard DavisonOpinions are divided on the benefits of a freedom camping trial in the Catlins this summer. The council formulated the trial to address previously uncontrolled freedom camping in the area by limiting free options, while generating additional ‘‘overflow’’ business for the area’s commercial campgrounds. And those who are coming as a result of the freedom camping ban do so grudgingly, which ends up in bad reviews online. ‘‘I’ve noticed many of the previous freedom camping hot spots are nearly empty and much tidier this summer.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 12, 2020 15:41 UTC