Three council freedom camping areas now closed

Darren Petry from Taupō District Council

Three council-owned/managed freedom camping areas have been closed until further notice, with freedom campers encouraged to head to a local camping ground instead.

This includes the freedom camping areas at Hipapatua / Reid’s Farm Recreation Reserve, Whakamaru Domain and Mangakino Recreation Reserve. Signs are now being erected at the entrances to these sites.

Council has made this decision to minimise the risks of COVID-19 and help support local camping grounds, said Mayor David Trewavas.

“Visitors are a key part of our economy here in Taupo and we’re wanting to encourage any freedom campers visiting our district to support one of our local camping grounds.

“Not only will it help lessen any economic impacts, but they are also better equipped to support the health and safety of our visitors, with hot water and washing facilities on hand.

The local camping grounds you can head to are:

Great Lake Holiday Park – 406 Acacia Bay Road, Taupō

Taupo TOP 10 Holiday Park - 16 Rangatira Street, Taupō

Lake Taupo Holiday Resort - 41 Centennial Drive, Taupō

Taupo Holiday Park - State Highway 5, Hilltop, Taupō

Wairakei Thermal Valley Campground - Wairakei Thermal Valley, Wairakei

New Windsor Lodge & Campground - 147 State Highway 1, Waitahanui

Motutere Bay Top 10 Holiday Park - 2819 State Highway 1, Motutere

Motuoapa Bay Holiday Park - 2 Motuoapa Esplanade, Motuoapa

Turangi Holiday Park - 13 Te Reiti Tamara Grove, Turangi

Tongariro Junction - 25 Ohuanga Road, Turangi

Oasis Motel & Caravan Park Tokaanu - 426 Tokaanu Road, Tokaanu.