Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has approved freedom camping sites at Beacon Point Road, right beside Lake Wānaka, one of New Zealand’s most treasured natural spaces.

We’re calling on QLDC to amend the newly appointed Freedom Camping Bylaw and withdraw this unsuitable site to protect the environment and all who enjoy this area, both residents and visitors.

This is not about opposing freedom camping, it’s about getting it right.

Why This Matters

Environmental Harm: Beacon Point borders ecologically sensitive wetlands and lakefront habitats that play a vital role in maintaining the area’s biodiversity and water quality. Introducing camping here risks irreversible environmental degradation through vegetation damage and pollution.

Water Risks: Lake Wānaka is one of New Zealand’s most treasured and clean freshwater lakes. Freedom camping in close proximity poses a serious threat of contamination from human waste, greywater, and litter. Pollutants can easily enter the lake and connected waterways (The Clutha River), impacting wildlife, recreation, and drinking water.

Safety and Access Issues: Beacon Point Road is narrow and already heavily used by pedestrians, cyclists, and families. The addition of campervans and overnight parking will create congestion and hazardous conditions. Daily access for residents, recreational users, and emergency services could be compromised. Protecting safe and equitable access to this area is essential for the wellbeing of both locals and visitors.

Weak Enforcement: Previous freedom camping trials and comparable sites across New Zealand have demonstrated that rules are difficult to enforce. Littering, toileting in bushes, washing in waterways, and non-compliance with self-containment standards are common. Without a robust, well-resourced enforcement strategy, similar issues are inevitable here.

A QLDC Freedom Camping Site Assessment document from July 2021 classified Beacon Point as “Not Acceptable” for freedom camping. It states "very significant concerns around the protection of the area".  The recommendation was "unsuitable for camping given need to protect water quality of Lake Wanaka from contamination from human waste" and to "protect access to recreational facilities including cycleway and access to lake".

So what's changed?

What We’re Asking For

Withdraw the Beacon Point Road site from the bylaw.

Freedom camping must be limited to appropriate, well-managed sites with proper toilets, rubbish disposal, signage, and strict enforcement, not beside our lakes and wetlands. There are already many affordable, well-equipped camping facilities in the region for visitors and travelling Kiwis to enjoy responsibly, without compromising the environment or community safety.

Let’s protect Lake Wānaka, our community, our visitors and the environment for future generations.

Sign and share this petition. Together, we can make sure QLDC gets this right.