Auckland campground reopens after local board overrides Council flood risk closure

After Auckland Council assessed flood risk and ordered a camp closure in June, the Waitakere Ranges local board voted unanimously to allow overnight camping to return to Piha domain. This decision went against the recommendations of Auckland Council staff, who had suggested a permanent closure. The campground manager, Fiona Anderson, confirmed the reopening is subject to specific flood warning systems, monitoring, and operational controls.

The local board's decision allows the campground to resume operations, which Fiona Anderson stated would enable her to earn a living again. This change reverses a previous closure order that was based on flood risk assessments conducted by Auckland Council.