Christchurch City Council is taking a new approach to hearing residents' views on a proposed freedom camping bylaw.
The council proposed the bylaw in July, after confrontations between residents and freedom campers last summer.
It wants to designate areas where such camping is allowed, including on a restricted basis, and where it is banned.
Usually people have five minutes to make a verbal submission to council hearing panels but now group discussions will be held so residents can properly air their views.
Public hearings will be held in Akaroa and New Brighton next week. If the bylaw is adopted, it will be in place in time for summer.