The Hāwea Community Association (HCA) has again raised concerns about access to a popular lakefront reserve, saying freedom camping continues to take a toll on the area many years after it first raised the issue.

Sixteen years ago, in 2010, the access route to Craig Burn reserve was blocked with boulders by the HCA, a move which put freedom camping into the national spotlight. 

Locals were sick of the impact of freedom camping in the area, and the HCA said the move was made out of desperation.

In 2018 locals again blocked access to the reserve with rocks; some saying there were 15 to 25 campers parked at the lakeside reserve each night, with many leaving human waste and litter behind - despite there being toilet facilities available.

Then in 2024, Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), which manages the reserve, installed boulders and fencing at vehicle access points beyond the main car parking area at Craig Burn. 

“These measures were put in place following concerns from local community members about the environmental impact caused by freedom campers and other vehicles entering this fragile ecosystem,” LINZ land and waterways leader Lee Farnhill told the Wānaka App.

This summer has led to more issues with freedom camping, HCA chair Jennie Harding told the Wānaka App this week.

This includes the vandalism of the one toilet at the reserve, which has been temporarily replaced with a portaloo.

Jennie said the HCA has been liaising with Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC), and has had discussions with LINZ prior to Christmas about access to the reserve.

Jennie said the HCA is concerned that LINZ will “close off access completely, which will impact sportspeople”.

“[The] Freedom Camping Act has a lot to answer for,” she said.

A QLDC spokesperson said repairs are underway on the toilet, with completion expected by mid-March. 

PHOTO: Supplied