The problem and politics of temporary housing.

Author

Severinsen, C. A., & Howden-Chapman, P.

This article explores the dynamics of camping grounds in New Zealand as sites of political conflict and social exclusion, focusing on how they have become contested spaces where inequalities and identities are constructed and reproduced.

The study delves into the experiences of camping ground residents, particularly examining how their social exclusion is influenced by conflicting views of place and tenants’ rights. The paper argues that camping grounds, traditionally seen as holiday destinations, have evolved into arenas of socio-political contestation, where the rights of long-term residents clash with cultural perceptions and regulatory frameworks. It discusses the politicisation of camping ground residence through national and local regulatory processes, which often frame this type of housing as illegal and marginalise its residents. Furthermore, it addresses the problematisation of camping ground residence, considering the role of media, institutions, and politics in shaping public perception and policy. The article concludes by discussing the implications of this politicisation and problematisation for camping ground residents, particularly in terms of their social exclusion and housing insecurity. This article offers a critical examination of how spaces traditionally viewed for leisure, such as camping grounds, can become sites of significant socio-political conflict. It highlights the complex interplay between societal perceptions, regulatory policies, and the lived experiences of individuals residing in these spaces. By framing camping grounds as contested spaces, the paper sheds light on broader themes of social exclusion, housing insecurity, and the impact of legislative frameworks on marginalised communities. It emphasises the importance of reevaluating policy approaches to address the needs and rights of long-term camping ground residents, advocating for a more inclusive and rights-based perspective in housing policy. This research contributes to the understanding of how specific localities can be central to broader social and political issues, particularly in the context of housing and social exclusion in New Zealand.