The Coromandel: Easy-going. Not anything goes

Published on 23 October 2026

Warmer days, beach trips, boating, visitors and summer projects are just around the corner, and Thames-Coromandel District Council is preparing for its busiest time of year.

The Coromandel is known for its easy-going lifestyle, but easy-going doesn't mean anything goes. As thousands of extra people share our towns, beaches, roads, boat ramps and public spaces over summer, the rules help keep the district safe, enjoyable and welcoming for everyone.

Council teams will be out and about over summer, helping people understand what rules apply and stepping in where needed to ensure those rules are followed.

Group Manager Regulatory and Planning Brian Taylor says summer is about enjoying everything that makes the Coromandel special, while doing your part to help keep it that way.

"One of the things people love most about the Coromandel is the freedom to get out and enjoy our beautiful district. That freedom comes with a shared responsibility to respect the people around you and the places you're visiting.

"We're asking everyone to know the rules, think about the people around them and look after the places we all enjoy. Most people do exactly that and have a great summer.

"But easy-going doesn't mean anything goes. The rules are there to help everyone enjoy the Coromandel. If people choose to ignore the rules, particularly after they've been made aware of them, they should expect Council to take action."

Dogs need to be under control at all times

There are great dog exercise areas across the district for you and your dog to enjoy together. For much of the year, our beaches are popular places to exercise dogs. However, over summer, our rules change to help balance the needs of dog owners with the many other people enjoying our beaches and public spaces.

Before heading out, check the rules for the area you're visiting. Look for Council's traffic light signs to see where and when dogs are allowed and when they must be on a lead.

Always remember, dogs must be under control at all times and, in most public places, that also means being on a lead. While owners may know their dog is friendly, other people do not, and everyone should be able to enjoy beaches, reserves and public spaces without unwanted interactions from dogs. Keeping your dog close and under effective control helps ensure everyone can enjoy these spaces safely.

Discover our dog control rules

Park with others in mind and camp in the right place

Help everyone get to local businesses, beaches and other popular destinations by checking signs before you park and following parking time limits. Please keep footpaths and driveways clear.

If you're freedom camping, check where you can stay and follow the site rules. If you're using a Council boat ramp to head out on the water, check whether fees apply and make sure you have a valid day pass or annual permit if one is required.

Follow our Freedom Camping rules

Check before starting a summer project

Warmer weather often marks the start of summer property projects, particularly for people returning to holiday homes.

Depending on the work involved, building or resource consent may be required. This can include projects such as extensions, renovations, sleepouts or plumbing work, so property owners should check what is needed before work begins.

Unconsented work can be costly and difficult to put right. In some cases, parts of a project may need to be opened up or removed so work can be inspected. Checking first can save time, money and unnecessary hassle.

For more information on dog rules, parking, freedom camping or property projects, visit the TCDC website.

Keep an eye out for practical tips and reminders on Council's social media channels and in its newsletters to help you plan ahead and understand what rules apply.

Planning and Building - find out more