Ambassadors wanted to promote responsible freedom camping

If you love the Western Bay and its outdoors, have a great sense of humour and love chatting with people – Western Bay of Plenty District Council has the perfect summer job for you.

Council is looking for two energetic ambassadors to visit Western Bay’s freedom camping spots over summer to make sure everyone is enjoying their stay and to educate campers on the District’s freedom camping opportunities.

Part of a new ‘Enjoy your stay in the Western Bay’ campaign the ambassadors’ role will be stopping in at freedom camping spots in Waihi Beach, Katikati, Omokoroa, Maketu, Te Puke and Pukehina from Wednesday, 23 December 2020 to Waitangi weekend, 6-8 February 2021.

They will chat with campers, share ideas of places in the Western Bay they may wish to explore, provide freedom camping advice and answer any questions or concerns campers may have. The ambassadors will also have some small gifts for the campers to thank them taking the time to chat.

Council’s Compliance Manager Alison Curtis, says the opportunity to employ two ambassadors has been made possible through funding from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s dedicated Responsible Camping Fund.

She says Council will be looking for people who have a good knowledge of the District and who are fit and motivated to get out and about to meet with people.

“This is a great chance for us to ensure freedom campers are made to feel welcome, are camping responsibly and are informed about the Western Bay so that their stay is made as enjoyable as possible.

“I’m sure these summer ambassadors will prove popular in raising the profile of not only our 46 freedom camping locations but the District as a whole. They will share information about caring for the environment and how to make the most of the benefits of freedom camping.”

The ambassador role is being run by several councils in New Zealand to align with the national promotion behind Freedom Camping in New Zealand called the Tiaki Promise – which is to care for people and place.

The Tiaki Promise is to protect nature, keep New Zealand clean, drive carefully, be prepared and show respect.

If anyone is interested, more information can be found on Council’s Careers website https://careers.westernbay.govt.nz/jobdetails?ajid=PZxg7