15 Mar 2009

DoC to freeze hut fees

12:30 pm on 15 March 2009

The Department of Conservation says it will not raise charges for huts and camp grounds because of the recession.

DoC says people should still be able to enjoy the outdoors in challenging economic times.

It says there was a small increase in its fees last year, the first price hike in about four years.

But it says that won't be repeated this season because of the recession.

DoC says there has been a decline in international visitors, but an increase in New Zealanders staying at home for their holidays.

However, DoC is concerned that some people are not paying their fees, putting further pressure on the department's ability to maintain huts and tracks.