Ōtorohanga Caravan Park and Holiday Camp

   Added 6 months ago

Ōtorohanga Caravan Park and Holiday Camp – Conclusion of operations effective 30 June 2024

Situated within the Ōtorohanga Domain, a significant piece of reserve land under the care of Ōtorohanga District Council, Ōtorohanga Caravan Park and Holiday Camp has served as a key destination for travellers and locals alike.

Since the expiration of the formal lease on 30 June 2023, the Ōtorohanga Caravan Park and Holiday Camp has continued to operate on a temporary basis. However, in alignment with the Town Concept Plan for Ōtorohanga, the Council is now embarking on the development of a Reserves Management Strategy for the Ōtorohanga Domain and has confirmed that no new operating lease will be established for the camp in the immediate future. The operation of the Ōtorohanga Caravan Park and Holiday Camp as a business, providing temporary visitor accommodation, will end on 30 June 2024.

This decision marks a transitional phase as the Council focuses on the holistic development and management of the Ōtorohanga Domain.

Background and reasons for notice:

The Ōtorohanga Caravan Park and Holiday Camp facility, operated by a Lessee, saw its lease term end on 30 June 2023. Since then, the camp has been operating on a “hold over” basis. A notice of termination was issued on 1 February 2024, providing a five-month notice period that concludes on 30 June 2024. This extended period was intended to give the Lessee ample time to address business arrangements/alternate accommodation arrangements with campers.

Details on camp residents:

Ōtorohanga District Council does not directly operate the camp facility and does not maintain records of the campers' identities or their length of stay. The camp has been operated as a business by the Lessee, who holds such information.

Lease and operational concerns:

The Ōtorohanga Domain, where the camp is located, is designated as a Recreation Reserve. According to regulations, this land cannot be used for long-term accommodation. Consequently, the decision to terminate the lease was made, with a five-month notice period provided to allow for a smooth transition, including alternate accommodation arrangements.

"We understand this decision affects the long stay campers of the Ōtorohanga Caravan Park, and we're sympathetic to their situation. However, it's important for us to follow lease agreements and land use regulations" states Mayor Max Baxter.

For further enquiries, please contact Tanya Winter, Chief Executive on 0800 734 000.