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\nKairaki Beach in 2022.
\nPhoto: RNZ \/ Cosmo Kentish-Barnes\n<\/p>\n
A Christchurch resident says he had ”a culture shock” during a recent visit to Kairaki Beach, witnessing what he described as ”a ramshackle slum-like camp”.<\/p>\n
The resident, who LDR agreed not to name, said the behaviour of some campers and whitebaiters at the beach, near Kaiapoi, was concerning.<\/p>\n
A Waimakariri District Council spokesperson said staff were aware of the concerns and were monitoring the site alongside Environment Canterbury (ECan).<\/p>\n
”Council and ECan staff have visited Kairaki Beach several times over the last week and have spoken to about a dozen campers and several whitebaiters, who were not camping.<\/p>\n
”These numbers are in line with what we see most years.<\/p>\n
”There have been instances of antisocial and threatening behaviour, which we have shared with police. They are keen to see this diffused.”<\/p>\n
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Monitoring whitebaiting is a joint agency approach, with the Department of Conservation (DOC) responsible for the enforcement of fishing gear and catch limits.<\/p>\n
The Waimakariri District Council’s role is to monitor the Pegasus Bay area in line with the council’s Northern Pegasus Bay Bylaw.<\/p>\n
Under the bylaw, freedom and overnight camping on the beach and sand dunes is not permitted.<\/p>\n
The council prefers to educate beach users, rather than taking enforcement action, the spokesperson said.<\/p>\n
”This is to minimise any negative effects on Pegasus Bay, such as toileting, dogs, fires, litter and anti-social behaviour.”<\/p>\n
The three agencies will continue to monitor the area and involve police when needed, the spokesperson said.<\/p>\n
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Photo: Supplied\/Allied Media\/LDR\n<\/p>\n