Council has made an amendment to its Freedom Camping Bylaw 2023 to prohibit freedom camping on James Street, after ongoing issues.
Freedom camping will not be allowed anywhere along James Street, Raglan, from 22 December 2025.
A special consultative procedure was undertaken between 13 October and 14 November 2025 to advise the public of the proposed change to the Bylaw and seek feedback. Council received 165 submissions with 74 submitters supporting the ban and 26 supporting it ‘in part’.
Issues that led to the consultation included alcohol consumption, loud music and noise disturbances, public urination and defecation near residential properties and community facilities, overcrowding and campers setting up washing lines and cooking on grass berms for days at a time. There were also concerns about the impact on the local environment as well as local facilities and infrastructure, such as the Raglan Bowling Club, parking and footpaths.
Acting Customer Services Manager, Imelda Bolton says it’s about finding the right spots.
Of those who spoke at the hearing on 3 December, most supported freedom camping in Raglan but felt James Street was not an appropriate area and they would prefer to see campers away from residential areas.
“You can freedom camp in most areas in the Waikato district but a few places are prohibited in order protect the environment, or to protect the area or the health and safety of people in the area. There are still plenty of spots where you can camp and we encourage freedom campers to visit – we’ve got some amazing towns and beaches!”
You’ll find details about where you can (and can’t) camp on Council’s website: www.waikatodistrict.govt.nz/camping
