The Mt Somers Reserve Board and Ashburton District Council are proposing to change the Mt Somers Domain Campground to a self-contained only campsite from March, which would permanently close powered sites, shower facilities and the campground kitchen from 2 March.

The Mt Somers Domain Campground has been operated by the Reserve Board since the 1970s and has long provided an affordable, welcoming place for families, older campers, cyclists, trampers, and non-self-contained visitors to stay and enjoy the area.

Removing essential facilities will:

Exclude many campers who do not own self-contained vehicles

Reduce accessibility for older people and families

Undermine the community-focused nature of the Domain

Risk long-term decline in use and volunteer support

While Mt Somers Holiday Park is nearby, it is not a substitute for the Domain campground, which serves a different purpose and audience and has been part of the town’s identity for decades.

We ask the Mt Somers Reserve Board and Ashburton District Council to:

Retain powered sites and essential facilities, or

Pause the proposal and consult more widely with the community, campers, and local businesses

Mt Somers Domain is a valued community asset. Decisions about its future should reflect inclusion, accessibility, and community voice — not just operational convenience.

Help our community by signing this petition AND emailing your submission to: submissions@adc.govt.nz before 5pm, 18 February

https://www.ashburtondc.govt.nz/news/2026-news/self-contained-camping-proposed-for-mt-somers-domain