New Plymouth Mayor Max Brough will use the David Lean Memorial Mayoral Relief Fund to pay a $400 freedom camping fine issued to 80-year-old Bill McMurray. The New Plymouth District Council originally upheld the infringement after McMurray overstayed the three-night limit at Lake Rotomanu in February, citing safety concerns during high winds.
Why the council upheld the fine
The New Plymouth District Council (NPDC) maintained that the infringement was valid despite McMurray’s claims that 100km/h wind gusts made it unsafe to relocate his 7m-long motorhome. According to an NPDC spokesperson, the council reviewed the case and found no reason to cancel the notice. The council argued that McMurray could have moved to another location within the district or utilized a commercial campground. The NPDC stated that it consistently informs campers of rules and remains willing to cancel notices if a reasonable explanation is provided, though it deemed the explanation in this specific instance insufficient.
The Mayor’s intervention
Mayor Max Brough stated he does not agree with the council’s decision on a personal level. While Brough noted he cannot personally review the tens of thousands of tickets issued by the council, he reached the decision to cover the cost after reviewing McMurray’s case. The David Lean Memorial Mayoral Relief Fund is intended for individuals experiencing hardship, and Brough opted to use this mechanism to resolve the debt rather than formally overturning the council’s infringement notice. McMurray, who described himself as an “emotional wreck” during the appeals process, called the outcome “awesome news” and noted that it restored his faith in people.
How the policy may change
The case has prompted a potential shift in how local authorities handle freedom camping regulations. Mayor Brough stated that the situation highlighted the difficulties of applying blanket rules to individual circumstances and confirmed that the council intends to review its freedom camping policy later this year. This review may assess whether current bylaws provide enough flexibility for campers during extreme weather events. According to Brough, the council has already initiated discussions with senior staff regarding the application of discretion in urgent situations. McMurray expressed hope that this policy review would prevent similar situations for future travelers.
