International News:
New Zealand Town Pushes For Campground
Times-Age Reports On Campers Possibly Having A New International Camping Location In One Of Wairarapa’s Favorite Beachside Areas When They Visit New Zealand.
Editor's Note: This news item was retrieved through Wairarapa Times-Age's website via Google.
Campers could be traveling to New Zealand and once again be able to stay at one of Wairarapa’s favorite beachside destinations. Riversdale Beach hasn’t had a public campground since the land was bought and subdivided in the early 2000s, meaning those wanting a cheap and cheery alternative to renting out a house or bach have been out of luck. While there is a private caravan park, tourists hoping to stay in the town are often told to carry on to Castlepoint during their New Zealand travels. Now, a new push for a campground is gaining momentum, although those wanting to pitch for tent camping there will – at this stage – be disappointed. Riversdale Ratepayers’ Association president Bill Roberts said the idea for a new camping ground at the beach had been floated for years. The idea only involved campervans and caravans at this stage, as “tents become a whole other argument, but that’s not to say it won’t be looked at but it just depends on the land”.
Times-Age writer Beckie Wilson relays in his article: "Since the two previous camping grounds closed down, only permanent, privately-owned sites remained, and there had been nowhere for campers to park up and stay the night." The association had a piece of land in mind, however it was owned by an overseas owner, he said. The initial idea was to find a smaller piece of land where a toilet block with coin-operated showers could be established, with enough space for some campervans. Mr Roberts said the association had submitted a proposal as part of the Masterton District Council’s annual plan over a number of years, but had been declined each time. When Riversdale Beach was established by Basil Bodle in the early 1950s, two camping grounds were opened for visitors to stay and enjoy the seaside town. Mark Donaldson, a former All Black, bought the beachfront Riversdale Beach Camping Ground off its founder Gary Bodle in 2002, with plans to subdivide. The other camping ground at the beach was Riversdale Beach Holiday Park. Both camping grounds housed permanent site holders and regular camping. Now the Holiday Park only has privately owned sites. Paul Bodle, grandson of the beach’s founder, said his grandfather’s purpose for establishing the beach was for everyone to enjoy it. This new proposed campground would be great for tourists to enjoy beach camping on a New Zealand vacation trip. Remember when you participate in international travel, always do some research on the culture and road systems of that country. Fort example, driving in New Zealand is quite 'opposite' than the states once you get in the situation.
For the full article click here for Wairarapa Times-Age.
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