New era for South Brighton Motor Camp

Jacquie Hawkins has fond childhood memories of Christmas holidays spent with her family at the South Brighton Motor Camp.

Now she and her husband Sam, who have continued the family tradition of spending Christmases at the camp, want to help other families create their own happy memories of laid-back holidays spent by the sea.

“Jacquie has had over 20 years of coming to the camp with her family every Christmas. She remembers it being a fun time with most of the families there over the Christmas period being returning families year after year.The young couple have signed an 11-year land lease agreement with the Christchurch City Council that will see them take over the running of the earthquake-damaged motor camp.

“When we got married we have continued to go every year with our children. We are looking forward to making it a place where families will want to return year after year, making lots of happy memories,’’ says Sam Hawkins.

“We want to bring the camp back to the way it was at its peak,’’ adds Jacquie. “We are looking forward to seeing the camp grow and thrive.’’

The couple plan to repair and improve all the camp’s existing buildings, add extra accommodation, and modernise and expand the playground areas.

Sam and Jacquie Hawkins are excited to be taking over the running of the South Brighton Motor Camp.

Council Head of Recreation, Sports and Events John Filsell said the Hawkins had been chosen to take over the running of the camp because they had a clear vision for its future.

“The quakes took quite a toll on the motor camp and there is a considerable amount of work that needs to be done on it but Sam and Jacquie are well aware of what has to be done. They’ve got great family support and a very clear plan on how they are going to tackle it,’’ Mr Filsell said.

Coastal-Burwood Community Board Chair Kim Money said it was exciting to hear the Hawkins’ plans for the camp as only a few years ago its future was in jeopardy.

“The community rallied to retain this special place and the Council responded to that. A huge thank you to everyone who championed the cause and worked hard to produce this result - celebrations are in order,’’ Ms Money said.

“The Hawkins’ vision, love of the area and a key focus orientated towards families and groups will bring real life back to this beautiful spot. We welcome the Hawkins family to our community and look forward to forming closer relationships with them so that this ‘home away from home’ develops into a ‘must visit’ destination on our coastline.’’

Coastal Councillor David East said he was delighted the Council had been able to find tenants for the South Brighton Motor Camp with the vision and drive to develop it.

"The South Brighton Motor Camp holds fond memories for many people. It’s a special place and a highly valued part of the South Brighton community. I’m thrilled that it is in the hands of people who understand that and are committed to ensuring it has a bright future,’’ Cr East said.