We all know how popular camping is – particularly along the beaches and lakes throughout New Zealand. Freedom camping is a privilege many Kiwis (and visitors) treasure; Rays Rest is one of the many freedom camping hot spots we all enjoy. And why not! Once you step outside you’re only a few steps from the beach, it’s peaceful and it’s free.

Unfortunately, some campers have been caught abusing their privilege by disregarding NZMCA policies and Franklin District Council bylaws. Remember, these policies and bylaws are necessary to allow fair usage for all visitors as well as minimising disturbance to the natural environment.

Background

Ray's Rest neighbours the Taramaire Wildlife Refuge Reserve. The Department of Conservation administers the reserve and a great deal of work goes into educating the public on its conservation importance.

The surrounding shell banks and wetland environment is a ‘stop-over’ for many of Miranda's migratory birds (some endemic to New Zealand), as well as many other coastal dwelling species. Miranda is listed as an Internationally Important Wetland under the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Nature Resources Ramsar Convention. It is an important ecosystem for the community of Kaiaua and Counties Manukau.
 
For more information visit www.doc.govt.nz or the Shorebird Centre (a few hundred meters south of Rays Rest).

Conditions for overnight camping at Rays Rest

* Refer to your Travel Directory (page 298) for further information

There is a sign advising of the above rules, as well as signs positioned at both the north and south end indicating the designated parking zone (as below).             

Recent Publicity

The NZMCA and Franklin District Council have received complaints of campers exceeding the maximum two nights, camping outside the designated zone, bringing dogs, and emptying waste water tanks into the bushes! Complaints have also been noted through articles in local newspapers. As some of these complaints were against NZMCA members Dave Lockie and James Imlach decided to visit Rays Rest. After talking to some of our members there it is clear the site is very popular for both self contained and non-self contained vehicles (NZMCA members and non-members).

It was extremely disappointing to hear, and then see first hand, members unashamedly ignoring the rules. These actions go against the NZMCA Constitution & Bylaws, and Environmental Code by which ALL members agree to abide by. Every visitor to the site must also adhere to Franklin District Council rules and regulations. The above rules for camping at Rays Rest are also specifically set out in Franklin District Councils Public Places Bylaw 2007.

As members and New Zealanders we must maintain our conservation-conscious behaviour. Common sense and appropriate behaviour is essential. The welfare of wildlife and habitat must come first!

Where to from here?

The NZMCA and Counties Area have built a good relationship with the Franklin District Council. Because of our reputation we were able to negotiate the right to stay overnight at Rays Rest and as part of that negotiation agreed to ensure our members followed policy.

Following the visit to Rays Rest, Dave Lockie has issued warning letters to all members observed to be breaking either policy. We encourage these members to exercise their right of reply as it will help the NZMCA gain a better understanding as to the reasons behind contravention. Thank you to those members who have replied.

The NZMCA has donated $300 to the establishment of two ‘No Camping’ signs to the north of Rays Rest. We are also working with the Council to establish extra signs at each of the three entrances. A meeting with the Mayor of Franklin and Council Enforcement Officers to discuss proactive management is also on the cards. Thank you to Brian Hill for his work here.

The Franklin District Council has indicated that should problems continue we can expect a change in bylaw - changes that will affect everyone. There are also complaints against non-members and anecdotal evidence suggests majority are in non-self contained vehicles. Remember the NZMCA has no authority over these vehicles – this is a Council issue. It is therefore imperative that all members exercise common sense and understand the conditions of camping prior to arrival. Claiming ignorance is unacceptable, particularly as the policies and bylaws are adequately noted.

Ray's Rest is for us all to enjoy. Please continue to uphold the good name of our association by observing the necessary policies, and respecting the community and environment. Your actions directly reflect that of our other 35,000 members.
 
Feel free to contact James with any questions or suggestions regarding Rays Rest.


Take care,

James Imlach | Resource Management Coordinator

james@nzmca.org.nz