In early December, FMC wrote a submission on DOC’s changes to bivvy and basic hut charges, changes to camping prices and adding huts to the booking system.
In their consultation documents, DOC has proposed several different charging models/options for basic huts and bivvies. They also proposed moving certain huts to the booking system and new charges for the front country camping.
FMC has reviewed all proposed models for introducing charges for basic and bivvy huts. We would only support a modest charge if the revenue generated is used directly for the maintenance of these huts. Additionally, we expect that volunteers who contribute to hut upkeep should be able to stay free of charge and that these huts should remain off DOC’s booking system. We believe that users are more likely to comply with payment if they know their fees are going directly towards hut maintenance. However, should charges be introduced, a long lead-in time would be necessary for compliance to become noticeable.
We are concerned by the lack of data supporting DOC’s options. The numbers presented in the proposal are framed as facts, but in most cases they are estimates. Before a charging system for these huts is introduced, accurate financial information is required, including actual expenditure per hut and the costs of implementing and maintaining various models. It also appears that DOC’s modelling has not adequately accounted for the significant volunteer contributions that help maintain many of these huts, leading to potentially misleading estimates in the proposal.
For safety reasons and to maintain the backcountry culture of looking after each other, these huts and bivvies should not be included in the booking system. In our view, a First Come, First Served approach is the most appropriate for basic and bivvy huts.
We have also provided detailed feedback on the lack of recognition of volunteer contributions to maintaining the backcountry network and on each proposed charging option, including the introduction of an individual fee, a new Basic Bivvy and Hut Pass, and modifications to the existing Backcountry Hut Pass.
Access to discounts for volunteers working in the backcountry should be straightforward and user-friendly. Any changes introduced may require another review of the current discount scheme.
Regarding new camping prices, it is important for DOC to structure pricing according to users’ needs and financial situations. The campsites under review are frequently used by families, students, and Community Services Card holders—many of whom have limited means. These campsites may be their only option for affordable holidays.
FMC acknowledges both the positive and negative aspects of booking facilities in the backcountry. Any changes introduced must consider the unpredictability of multi-day backcountry travel for hikers, including Te Araroa users. Safety is a critical consideration, and flexibility must be maintained. Remote huts, in particular, should remain outside the booking system as they provide essential “shelter from the storm.”
A decent lead-in time is essential for any changes to allow hut users to familiarize themselves and incorporate the changes into their trip plans. DOC must consider this and ensure clear communication with the community well in advance.
Our submission is best read in relation to consultation papers from DOC: Campsite Pricing Review , Charging Options for Basic and Bivvy Huts , Moving Facilities onto the Booking System.
Photo: Mid King Bivvy, Tararua Ranges by Neville Palmer
