A law allowing free-campers in Coromandel to be fined on the spot has been called extremely short-sighted and detrimental to New Zealand's tourism.
The Thames Coromandel District Council bylaw, which comes into effect on Monday, allows fines of $40 to be issued to anyone not camping in a campground or holiday park.
Motor Caravan Association president Dick Waters says the decision does not make sense - especially because the number of camping grounds in Coromandel is dwindling.
Many other councils encourage motor homes to their areas because they want their tourism dollars, Mr Waters says, adding that the council should do more to promote clean, green camping.
Mayor fears local economy will be hurt
District mayor Philippa Barriball is personally opposed to the move: she says that more areas need to be opened up for camping, particularly with an influx of tourists expected for the 2011 Rugby World Cup.
The council already has the power to prosecute illegal campers or seize their vehicles but the new regulation aims to make it easier to penalise them.
But Ms Barriball - who says she was not there when the bylaw was passed - says she's worried it will deter campers from coming to Coromandel and hurt the local economy.
The move brings the council into line with others like Queenstown Lakes District. Some, however - such as Gisborne - have opted to issue freedom camping permits instead.
