Whangaruru Beachfront Camp owner Robynne Cooper told RNZ that it has been tough for business, with almost no customers within the past six months.
“We’ve pretty much been empty since the 21st of January,” she said. “It was our peak season, so we lost a third of our peak season.”
Cooper said the campground had lost $97,000 in cancellations alone.
Whangaruru Beachfront Camp owner Robynne Cooper. Photo / RNZ, Nick Monro
“I’m still paying a lease, I’m still paying power, I’m still paying internet.”
Cooper said that amount did not include the loss of stock, which had been brought in preparation for the peak season.
“It’s more than frustrating, but there’s not a lot I can do about it. I understand the campers that aren’t coming … I would be the same.”
Meanwhile, the owner of a food truck inside Whangaruru Beachfront Camp estimated that he had lost $60,000 in revenue since January.
Tony’s Diner owner Tony Hoskins told RNZ he felt it was unfair that he was still expected to pay the $800 to register the food truck with the Whangārei District Council when he had zero customers.
“I think it’s quite strange that they’re not supporting people out here.”