Outgoing mayor John Tregidga has long-advocated for the MHF Town status and was able to accept the title for Waihī as one of his last acts as Hauraki District Council mayor last month.
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John Tregidga receives the Motorhome Friendly title for Waihi from Rod Berry |
The award was presented by New Zealand Motor Caravan Association chief Reserve, Paeroa; and at the Waihī dump station. Goldfields Railway also offers motorhome parking. Tregidga said one of the great aspects of living in New Zealand was being able to travel around the country, park in beautiful locations, and enjoy the scenery.
“The general public doesn’t appreciate the huge economic benefit that motorhomes make to our communities. “Yes, they don’t stay in motels, but they certainly spend their money in the community,” he said. “I would encourage councils to get on board with the Motorhome Association because they are great to work with, and it’s pretty logical when you think about it. “I’ve been a great supporter of people having the right to buy a motorhome, have an experience and enjoy the lifestyle without council putting in unnecessary roadblocks.”
For towns to become MHF towns, they must meet a checklist of criteria including:
- A legally compliant freedomcamping bylaw.
- A public dump station, council-owned.
- Access to potable water at a dump-station site.
- Refuse and recycling facilities.
- Access to medical facilities.
- A general shopping area for groceries.
- A vehicle-service centre.
