Kiwi camping under threat of privatisation

Allowing private companies to operate Department of Conservation campgrounds could spell an end to low-cost summer holidays for Northland families, an MP says.
It has been revealed that DoC is holding talks with the New Zealand Holiday Parks Association about coping with the growing demand for camping.
One option is leasing or contracting out management of DoC campgrounds to private operators.
However, some campers are concerned that could lead to a hike in fees, or DoC campgrounds losing their rough-and-ready appeal.
Those worries are shared by Northland-based list MP Kelvin Davis, Labour's tourism spokesman.
Mr Davis said handing over DoC campgrounds to private companies to be run at a profit could signal the end of the genuine Kiwi camping experience, for two reasons.
"Firstly the Kiwi camping holiday can't be priced out of the range of everyday Kiwis who just want to get away for an inexpensive holiday over the summer break. If camping grounds become too expensive, we'll either see more freedom camping, and more incidents of rubbish and human waste being dumped in the bush and next to rivers, or Kiwis just won't go camping.
"Secondly, camping needs to retain an element of rough-and-readiness. If camping grounds become too flash, we may as well just pitch our tents and caravans in our driveways at home and enjoy the facilities without the hassle of going anywhere. Part of the joy of camping is the escape factor and getting away from civilisation for a break. It would defeat the purpose if we escaped the suburbs, just to camp in a canvas subdivision." Holiday Parks Association chief executive Fergus Brown confirmed the organisation was working with DoC to boost the capacity of existing campgrounds. Options included leasing them to developers who could then improve facilities.
A DoC spokesman said no price increases, leases or outsourcing were planned, but were an option in future.
Northland campground operators have reported a sharp increase in the number of people holidaying under canvas as the recession forces families to rediscover traditional, low-cost holidays at home.
DoC operates basic campgrounds at some of Northland's most scenic spots, including Tapotupotu and Spirits Bay (Cape Reinga), Rarawa Beach (Aupouri Peninsula), Maitai Bay (Karikari Peninsula), Raetea (Mangamukas), Puketi and Forest Pools (Puketi Forest), Urupukapuka Island (Bay of Islands), Puriri Bay (Whangaruru), Waikahoa Bay (Mimiwhangata), Otamure (Whananaki), Uretiti (Bream Bay) and Trounson Kauri Park.
Fees for serviced DoC campgrounds start from $7 per person per night, and $5 for basic campgrounds with water and composting toilets only.