Whangārei campgrounds losing thousands after storm damage scares off travellers
RNZ Checkpoint
A campground north of Whangārei has lost almost $100,000 in cancellations after storm damage scared off potential customers.
There has been limited access to Helena Bay, Ōakura and Whangaruru since January, when a landslide struck Russell Rd.
The narrow, steep, and unsealed rural route of Kaiikanui Rd is open, but is not suitable for campervans.
The only other option is the Bay of Islands ferry, which can cost up to $81.70 for one-way travel, and add a further hour of driving time.
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.
“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.”