The Christchurch City Council has closed the North Beach Car Park to freedom campers at the weekends.

The car park is a popular spot for freedom campers but there have been issues in the past with camping activities taking over the carpark and preventing the public from accessing the beach and the surf lifesaving club.

In response to complaints from the community, the Council’s Chief Executive Dawn Baxendale decided earlier this year to close the car park to freedom campers from 7pm Friday to 7pm Sunday during the surf lifesaving season.

The surf lifesaving season traditionally starts at Labour Weekend.

“Freedom campers in certified, self-contained vehicles can still use the North Beach car park for up to two night during the week, but over the weekends the car park will be off-limits to them,’’ says Council Head of Strategic Policy Emma Davis.

“This summer we are expecting to see more Kiwis exploring our beautiful district. If you are planning a camping holiday, or have friends or family planning one, please remember there are restrictions on where you can freedom camp in Christchurch, Akaroa and Banks Peninsula.