Minister of Tourism Kelvin Davis announces a package of technology and tools in hope it will help councils better manage problem freedom camping this summer. A national camping group is seeking a judicial review of a Queenstown Lakes bylaw it claims effectively bans freedom camping in the district. ​READ MORE:* Queenstown freedom camping changes labelled 'moronic' by disgruntled residents* Permanent Queenstown freedom camping ban proposed at popular reserves* Holiday park owner with six guests a night says freedom camping spots to blameCouncil spokesman Jack Barlow has denied it is a prohibitive ban, saying it has only been extended to cover new residential areas and "one or two problem spots". Lochre also called on the council to return government money granted to provide infrastructure and resources to support freedom camping. Barlow said the money had been used on initiatives like the day hubs, as well as signage, additional enforcement and responsible camping ambassadors.

Source: Stuff December 17, 2019 04:52 UTC