Date:  19 August 2026

The iconic and picturesque campsite is used by Coast to Coast racegoers and support staff in February every year and is incredibly popular, drawing thousands annually.

Aerial photos show extensive damage to the area from four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles, believed to have occurred on 1 August just before 4 pm.

DOC Operations Manager Leeann Ellis says it’s incredibly disappointing.

“The vehicles have left deep tyre tracks over a large area, compacting the soil, creating wide ruts and making the site much more susceptible to erosion in heavy rain,” she says.

“They have also destroyed plants and opened the area up for weeds to grow and take over. It’s ruined what was a fantastic place and created the potential for a muddy mess in heavy rain.”

Leeann says DOC staff are working with police to try and identify the vehicles and welcomes any information from the public.

It is illegal to damage the natural or historic features of any national park, and to drive vehicles off formed roads. Offenders can face heavy penalties, including infringement fines and prosecution.

“We appreciate four-wheel driving is an increasingly popular recreational activity. There are some fantastic tracks where drivers can challenge their skills and access some beautiful locations like the Edwards Valley and Maling Pass 4WD tracks in the St James Conservation Area. Our plea is don’t go off road and cause damage to areas which are protected for a reason.”

If you were one of the drivers or have any information in relation to the 1 August incident, please phone DOC on 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468) or email investigations@doc.govt.nz - referencing CLE-12313.

Contact