“There will definitely be restrictions on every camper for the period of 28th Dec to 2nd Jan when we are at our peak,” Campsite Manager Steve Farrow tells express.
In Steve Farrow and his partner Adrien’s years managing Uretiti (New Zealand’s busiest campsite), they have never seen anything like this.
“To-date we have pumped over 8 million litres of water over the dunes, but that has not even scratched the surface,” he tells express.
“As soon as we lower the water level over night, it’s all back again. We believe that after so many months of rain the water table is so high that the rain has no where to go.”
Will Steve and Adrien are working with Doc to find solutions, he is adamant that this will affect Uretiti’s up and coming busy season.
“It’s fair to say that this issue is not going to be gone any time soon, so Adrien and I are in full plan B mode. What that is we are not sure at present and are still waiting on Doc to make decisions,” he explains.
The campsite is frequently booked out for New Year’s Eve, four months in advance, so it’s concerning that currently one fifth of the campsite’s most popular spots are sitting underwater.
“We have lost around 20% of our camping areas and these are normally in high demand to where they are situated… We cannot imagine how Doc could entertain the idea of starting to cancel bookings to bring down to a manageable number or who these people would be. As I say, no decisions has been made however, there will definitely be restrictions on every camper for the period of 28th Dec to 2nd Jan, when we are at our peak.”
While the decision making process is underway, Steve has some recommendations for those with bookings, over Christmas, New Year’s and the festive season in general.
“I am invisiging most vehicles will not be permitted to park on the site other than motor homes and caravans. If there are any groups booked in, we ask you minimize your cars and try to travel in one or two vehicles. We are looking for a secure carparks for cars.”
He also advices, “Campers will have to accept that they will have other campers close by… I’m hoping that all campers will be understanding and respect what ever restrictions are in place.”
“Once we have more definite plans in place all bookings will be advised via email,” he concludes.
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