An influx of "freedom campers" is causing problems in New Zealand as the country may not be prepared for the popularity of this type of travel says a report in Stuff.co.nz.
"Just over three million tourists visit New Zealand every year and about 60,000 of them are freedom campers - tourists roughly defined as those dodging paying for accommodation by camping in their vehicles at scenic spots - who have a reputation of being cheapskates," writes Jeremy Wilkinson.
A recent report debunks the myth that they are cheap, however, saying they actually spend $4,800 during their stay versus $2,500 for the average visitor.
Still, there are growing tensions between these travelers, who often seek out off-the-beaten-path destinations, and the locals.
"Freedom camping is a very visible thing, especially to the locals, and when it comes to voicing their concerns [the locals] do so very visibly as well," Adam Hutchinson, the founder of CamperMate, tells Stuff. "It's very easy to develop a prejudice against these people based on what you read, or what you see on the surface, especially with it being such a contentious issue."
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There's a delicate balance between attracting tourists to regions such as Taranaki, which is growing in popularity and upsetting locals. Upgrading infrastructure may be one way to keep both sides happy.
Hutchinson tells Stuff that "a change in culture, upgraded infrastructure and embracing technological solutions - like in Wellington where parking sensors at campsites have been linked to CamperMate - were the answer to happy locals and happy campers."
For more on what it's like to go freedom camping in New Zealand, read on here.
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