Published: 2:07PM Tuesday April 29, 2014 Source: Fairfax

Mackenzie District Mayor Claire Barlow wants public help to deal with the issue of freedom camping and the "untenable mess" at the Church of the Good Shepherd.

Her comments come in response to Lake Tekapo resident George Empson's volunteer cleanup work.

Under the Mackenzie District Council's bylaws, it is illegal to freedom camp by the Church of the Good Shepherd in Tekapo, but Mr Empson said overnight camping seemed to be common.

"Most of these campervans are very small, and do not seem to have proper toilet facilities," he said.

"Rubbish and waste has been a problem for a while, but it appears to be getting worse."

People caught freedom camping near the Church of the Good Shepherd can face fines up to $500.

However, Mr Empson queried whether the rules were being properly enforced.

"It's a big issue for the community. It saddens me to see all the rubbish around the church," he said. "This is a place for worship and prayer and has a history for the high country people."

Mr Empson said his recent cleanup missions had uncovered some disgusting discoveries.

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Freedom campers leave 'untenable mess' at church