This page last modified
22 November 2001
Po 132
Dunstan Mountains
Otago Land District
Tenure review approved by Commissioner of Crown Lands <June
1997
DRAFT PROPOSAL
Application for Exchange of Property Rights
PROPOSAL:
1 To surrender Pastoral Lease Pol32 (Waikerikeri Run).
2 To allocate approximately 90 ha (part of RAP Dunstan A7) to the Department of Conservation with no provision for grazing.
3 To register an easement along Lilico Spur for public foot access to the RAP via an existing private track.
4 To allocate approximately 50 ha of lowland silver tussock to the Department of Conservation with no provision for grazing.
5 To register an easement for public foot access to the silver tussock reserve.
6 To issue a Special lease over approximately 240 ha.
7 To preferentially dispose of approximately 1279 ha to the current lessee of Waikerikeri Run on freehold title.
LEASE:
Legal Description: Run 221 I, Part Run 221J Leaning Rock Survey District; Sections 157, 182, 185, 187, 189, 191 and 201 Block II and Section 4 Block V Leaning Rock Survey District.
Run Name: Waikerikeri
Area: 1659.3740 ha
Lease Details:
Tenure: Pastoral Lease
Term: 33 years from 1 July 1988
Expiry: 30 June 2021
Rental Values: $115,000
Annual Rent: $1,725
OTHER LAND HELD:
34.6 ha freehold adjoining where the steading is located.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
(a) Aspect: Variable, but east and west mainly.
(b) Altitude: 350 m to 1450 m
(c) Contour: Steep hill country; easy Lilico Spur; gently sloping terraces/fans.
(d) Area Cultivable: 250 ha (230 ha have been developed over time).
(e) Rainfall: 350 mm to 620 mm
(f) Water Reticulation: Natural streams, water race and piped supply to water troughs.
(g) Subdivision: 7 hill blocks also paddock fencing
(h) Snow Risk: Low
(i) Summer/Winter Balance: 40/60
(j) Shelter: Mainly natural also young windbreak tree plantings on flats.
(k) Reversion: Strong briar infestation in lower blocks/gullies.
(l) Erosion: Mainly natural geologic from mid to upper altitudes; flats prone to windblow during times of cultivation.
(m) Weeds/Pests: Rabbits, possums and small bands wild goats; some hawkweeds briar and elderberry.
(n) Cover:
230 ha Cultivated pasture (dryland - mainly lucerne)
689 ha Oversown tussock (not maintained with fertiliser)
330 ha Mid/high altitude snow tussock
220 ha Native flats
190 ha Briar and shrubs
1659 ha Total
(o) Soils & Land Use Capability:
| LUC CLASS | % Ha | SUB CLASS | LOCATION | SOIL TYPE |
| 1V | 8%; 135 ha | e,s | Lowland fans/terraces | Pigburn, Waikerikeri, Tiroiti Lindis, Devonshire, Linnburn. |
| VI | 31%; 520 ha | e,s | Steep hill country generally below 900m | Tiroiti, Blackstone, Arrow |
| VII | 57%; 945 ha | e,s | Steep hill country generally above 900m; (also lowland scarps) | Arrow, Dunstan (Kilmarnock-scarps) |
| VIII | 4%; 58 ha | e,s | Very steep, rocky eroded | Dunstan |
PRODUCTION:
Stock numbers have remained fairly static over recent times at around 3000 sheep and 20 cattle while run with the 35 ha freehold land. A fine combing Merino flock is run.
PREVIOUS HISTORY:
A Small Grazing Run licence was first issued over the original Runs 221 I and 221J totalling 2105 ha for 21 years from 1/3/1913, to Archibald James Sullivan. A number of transfers occurred prior to present lessee:
to Edwin W Attfield in 1918
to David Bennett Lyons in 1924
to Waldron Family Partnership in 1929
to youngest son George Edward Waldron.
to Leonard Aitken Barrett in 1962.
to Richard Douglas Rooney in 1964
to Rooney Estate in 1980.
to R J G Parsons (present lessee) in 1984.
Run 221 J was subdivided in 1918 retaining 300 ha of the original 915 ha. The SGR was renewed for a further 21 years from 1/1/1934 and on expiry, became a pastoral lease from 1/7/1955 incorporating the SGR, Miscellaneous Licences and Renewable Leases into one title totalling the present area of 1659 ha.
Improvements recorded in 1918 and 1932 comprised only new fencing, partly rabbit-, also 10 ha pasture. Development of cultivable areas into dryland pasture progressed gradually over the years generally with good results, and around 600 ha of lower hill country were oversown and topdressed about 1980. There is a history of rabbit problems and briar infestation.
The present lessee has successfully converted a basic Halfbred flock into a high producing elite Merino breeding flock.
The property is considered to be a very desirable unit and well suited to a quality Merino enterprise.
CONSERVATION VALUES (Supplied by DOC):
Part RAP Dunstan A7
Consists of a short length (approximately 1 km) of the Waikerikeri Creek and associated valley. Covers approximately 90 ha and ranges from 550 m to 1250 m altitude.
Contains slim snow tussock, narrow leaved snow tussock and fescue tussock, together with patches of Hall's totara and coprosma.matagouri shrubland.
The predominant cover is patches of narrow leaved snow tussock in fescue tussock with a significant proportion of exotic grasses.
Despite the degree of modification, the area was included in A priority Dunstan A7 RAP because it still has a significant degree of naturalness and in addition is particularly important for the representative areas of Hall's totara and because the area ontains the lowest altitude narrow leaved snow tussock in the southern Dunstan mountains.
The Proposed Terrace Conservation Area
Although modified by grazing and in particular, heavy winter grazing in 1992, has noticeably affected the tussock component, this area has not been cultivated, oversown or topdressed and is still in a comparatively natural state.
Ralph Allen, DSIR, in his 1988 study described four main vegetation communities. All are represented in the area it is proposed to transfer to DOC though the majority of the thyme shrubland is not in this area.
In addition it is proposed that the terrace scarp/shoulder also be included. This will represent a different habitat which in nearby localities includes two rare Lepidium species.
The four main vegetation types are:
1 Tussock Grassland
Silver tussock provides 10 - 30% cover over areas varying from less than 100 square metres to entire interfluves of several hundred square metres. Hard tussock and blue tussock are usually associated, with a cover mostly less than a third that of silver tussock, but are rare where silver tussock is sparse. Sweet vernal is the main intertussock species, particularly prominent when in flower and seeding in summer, and haresfoot trefoil is also important in summer. Small Pimelea aridila shrubs occur at low density, and are mainly confined to this vegetation type, and sweet briar is commonest here, with plants 0.5 - 1 m tall at densities of 1 - 3 per 100 square metres. Matagouri is present as an insignificant component of the grassland.
2 Haresfoot Trefoil Herbfield
In summer, haresfoot trefoil provides about 30% cover over areas of up to a few hundred square metres of silty soil that lack large perennial grasses or shrubs. Patches of scabweed are prominent, but do not provide much ground cover. About 20% of the soil surface is bare, and a mixture of the lichen Chondropsis, small annual grasses, and herbs, provides the balance of cover. In winter Chondropsis covers up to 80% of the ground otherwise left bare by the departed annuals.
3 Danthonia- Sweet Vernal Grassland
An almost continuous turf, in winter dominated by danthonia, and in summer by danthonia and sweet vernal, covers the floors of most of the drainage channels. Clumps of several other grasses are also prominent, and the common herbs of the terrace reach their greatest stature here.
4 Thyme Shrubland
Thyme shrubs, mostly less than 0.5 m tall, form a few dense stands up to 100 square metres in extent, mainly on the eastern rims of drainage channels. In winter the ground between the shrubs is largely bare, whereas in summer haresfoot trefoil and a few other herbs provide a sparse cover.
Many species occur throughout all these vegetation types, varying in importance with the season: perennials are most prominent in winter, and annuals in spring and summer. Grasses include the native danthonia and blue wheat grass, and the introduced annual silvery hair grass, downy brome, and soft brome. The great majority of herbs are exotic: most prominent in winter are catsear, sheep's sorrel, hawksbeard, suckling clover, and white fuzzweed, joined in spring and summer by St Johns wort, sheep's bur, and viper's bugloss. Geranium sessiliflorum and the sedge Carex breviculmis are the most common native herbs. Small clumps of two moss species are scattered throughout.
Williams (1980) described communities dominated by the introduced purple fuzzweed (Vittadinia triloba) on the sandy or stony soils of hill slopes in the Manuherikia and upper Clutha valleys. Watt (1979) included a description of vegetation on the sandy soils of the Cromwell flats in the Clutha valley.
Several species are shared by these and the Waikerikeri site, notably scabweed, silver tussock, and the common introduced annual grasses and perennial herbs. Nevertheless, marked dissimilarities in species density and community composition reflect the considerabIe differences in topography, substrate, and animal influence, at the different sites.
Vegetation on undeveloped outwash terraces of the last glaciation near Luggate, in the upper Clutha valley, has a similar exotic flora to that at Waikerikeri (Ward et al. unpublished). However, the dominant tussock there is hard tussock, scabweed is more prominent, and there is a larger native flora, including several shrubs and herbs not recorded at Waikerikeri. The terraces at Luggate experience nearIy twice the rainfall (about 1000mm/ann.) of Waikerikeri, and their shallow, stony, yellow-brown earth soils are consequently less fertile. These factors are aufficient to account for the differences in flora and vegetation.
Higher densities of silver, hard, and blue tussock survive on parts of the Waikerikeri terrace than occur on any of the other sites described. This probably results from the light intensities of sheep grazing over many years, relatively light use by rabbits, and the relatively fertile and erosion-free soil. Elsewhere on the terraces of the lower Manuherikia Valley, tussock densities are negligible, and the vegetation is dominated either by haresfoot trefoil, thyme, and annual grasses, or, on developed farmland, by fodder crops and pasture species.
Conclusion
The vegetation of the part of the Waikeriken terraces described in this report is closer to a natural state than that described recently on any other part of the glacial outwash terraces of the upper Clutha and its tributaries. It is the best example of native grassland seen during this survey of the terraces of the lower Manuherikia Valley.
No similar vegetation is protected in the Maniototo Ecological District, and the Cromwell chafer beetle reserve, with extremely depleted vegetation, contains the only example protected in Central Otago.
A reserve on the Waikerikeri terrace, encompassing representative vegetation within the area shown on the accompanying map, would be an important addition to the sparse network of protected natural areas in Central Otago, from both biological and landscape perspectives.
Little, if any, change in management would be required to maintain the present vegetation,, and this could be confirmed by a simple monitoring programme. The establishment of a few 10 x 10 m exclosures would provide information of considerable interest and importance on the dynamics of the vegetation in the absence of mammalian herbivores.
Fauna
Again there are some significant differences between the terrace area and the hill country.
The terraces support a good representation of the insect fauna of the Maniototo Ecological District. Conspicuous groups are three species of grasshopper, a flightless localised chafer beetle, several ground beetles, two weta species, a cicada and over 30 day-flying moth species.
For short tussock grassland this is one of the best insect fauna sites in the ecological district which is an indication of the diversification and comparatively healthy condition of the vegetation.
The balance of the property is typical of low to mid altitude dry Central Otago block mountains. The insect fauna is rather depleted, particularly on sunny aspect slopes. On the higher or more shady areas with better vegetation the insects are better represented with diurnal beetles, cicadas, flies, moths and grasshoppers. There is also an increased population of common lizards and skinlcs. While the majority of these are relatively widespread over these and other block mountains in Otago, they are still worthy of protection.
Feral Animals
Goats are resident in the locality and an occasional pig has been known, however, the only feral animal of any consequence is the rabbit.
The property has a significant rabbit population and while not in the rabbit and land management programme, the lower altitude band with moderately steep contour and significant sweet briar cover, dense in patches, represents an ongoing problem for the lessees and a reinfestation source for other areas.
Rabbits have in the past been a significant factor in a moderately severe erosion problem, fortunately now stabilising.
The two main areas of conservation interest are not particularly vulnerable to rabbits -one, because of altitude and the other (the terraces) because of lack of cover.
Landscape
Lying on the southern end of the Dunstan Range, handy to Alexandra, and highly visible from a considerable distance including two main tourist routes, the property has significant landscape importance.
The southern Dunstan Range was assessed by Philip Blakely for DOC and while this property does not extend into the priority landscape area, the upper third is within the recommended eastern slopes' landscape management zone.
The major concerns and management recommendations are that
1 The existing tussock and indigenous shrubland cover be maintained and preferably enhanced.
2 Tracks and buildings be confined to lower slopes and sited and designed to minimise impact.
3 Tree planting at the base of the range is supported provided appropriate non-spreading species are chosen.
Recreation
Bruce Mason's Outdoor Recreation in Otago Volume One puts approximately the top one-third of Waikerikeri in an '.open space" zone, but notes limited recreation opportunities for much of this heavily modified landscape.
The property does not extend to the crest which contains the spectacular tors, including "Leaning Rock".
There is no vehicular access up through the property.
There would be some limited interest in short walks up the Waikerikeri Valley and along the water race.
Also, some quail, chukar, rabbit and goat shooting potential exists, but of poor quality and does not warrant formalising beyond the present word of mouth owners permission system.
The most significant feature of Waikerikeri from a recreation aspect is that one of the best foot access routes to the crest (from Waikerikeri Valley road via Lilico Spur) passes through the property. The legalization of this route would give access to the RAP area on Waikerikeri.
No useful paper roads exist on the property.
History
Although reasonably close to the Clutha River which was a major access route for Ngai Tahu, no wahi tapu or other sites are recorded on Waikerikeri. This does not necessarily mean none exist however and the property has been visited by Trevor Howse of the Ngai Tahu Maori Trust Board who will report direct to the Commissioner of Crown Lands.
The only major remains from early European activities are two races, one being the Clyde township water supply including the intake in Waikerikeri Creek established in 1903; the other is a mining race which passes through Waikerikeri Creek and includes some major stone work in the gorge.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
An "early warning" meeting was held with the principal interest groups on 21 July 1993. The principal interests noted were:
DETAILED PROPOSAL:
The Department of Conservation's interest on Waikerikeri involves two areas:
1 Part RAP Dunstan A7 at the southern end of the Dunstan Range, consisting of around 90 ha steep, broken mid to high altitude lands ranging from 550 m to 1250 m. Vegetation is a natural blend of both slim and narrow leaved snowtussocks, some fescue tussock, together with patches of Hall's totara and Coprosma-matagouri shrubland.
An existing fence separates the lower portion of the 90 ha area into a small spearate block. It is undecided yet as to what level of fencing (if any) will be required, as part of the 90 ha presently lies within the Top Block of 240 ha and which is being recommended for a Special Lease tenure. Depending on the level of grazing agreed upon, it may not be necessary to fence out the 90 ha from the Special Lease. DOC's preference is for grazing to be discontinued.
Provision for public foot access to the total RAP A7 will be along the Lilico Spur and would be by way of a registered easement.
2 Proposed silver tussock reserve of approximately 50 ha. The dominant vegetation is mainly silver tussock in a comparatively natural state on sloping dryland terraces. An associated strip of terrace scarp at the western edge may also be included.
Fencing would be required to separate the proposed reserve when the area is finalised. It is proposed to exlude grazing.
Provision for public foot access from the public road to the proposed reserve would be by way of a registered easement.
Special Lease:
As most of the Top Block is LUC Class Vlle lands with smaller areas of Class VIIe and s lands totalling 58 ha and ranges in elevation from 550 m to 1400 m, it is proposed to issue a Special Lease over the 240 ha and possibly also over the 90 ha Part RAP A7, depending on fencing decisions and level of stock grazing yet to be determined. Any level of regular grazing (at a commercial rental) would be predetermined by a vegetation monitoring programme.
It is anticipated that DOC would administer the lease.
Freeholding:
It is proposed to freehold approximately 1279 ha on preferential allocation to the present lessee R J G Parsons.
DISCUSSION
The proposals while relatively modest, establish a significant and positive role in achieving conservation objectives; provisions for public enjoyment and preferential freeholding opportunities for the lessee, summarised as:
DESCRIPTION OF AREA TO BE FREEHOLDED:
(a) Area: Approximately 1279 ha
(b) Aspect: Terraces - south; hill - east and west, partly south
(c) Altitude: 350 m to 1070 m
(d) Contour: Flat/easy sloping - 40%, easy hill -15%; steep-45%.
(e) Area Cultivable: 250 ha
(f) Rainfall: 350 mm to 620 mm
(g) Water Reticulation: Natural streams, water race and piped supply to water troughs.
(h) Shelter: Natural shrubland, briar, and young windbreak tree plantings.
(i) Reversion: Strong briar infestations on lower blocks/gullies.
(j) Erosion: Minor gully and slip on steep faces; flats prone to windblow during times of cultivation.
(k) Weeds/Pests: Rabbits, possums and small bands wild goats; some hawkweeds, briar and elderberry.
(l) Land Use Capability:
| LUC CLASS | AREA | % PROPERTY |
| IV | 135 ha | 10.6 |
| VI | 520 ha | 40.7 |
| VII | 624 ha | 48.7 |
| TOTAL: | 1279 ha |
RECOMMENDATION:
1 The surrender of pastoral lease Pol32 Waikerikeri under Section 145 of the Land Act 1948.
2 The allocation of approximately 140 ha to the Department of Conservation as Conservation Estate, and provision for associated public foot access by way of registered easements.
3 The issue of a Special Lease over the balance of the Top Block, approximately 240 ha, with the level of any continued grazing to be predetermined by a regular vegetation monitoring programme.
4 The classification of approximately 1279 ha as "farm land'. under Section 51 of the Land Act 1948 and their preferential allocation to the current lessee of Waikerikeri Run as freehold title under Section 54 of the Land Act 1948.
DOC CONSERVATION RESOURCES REPORT
WAIKERIKERI STATION
CONSERVATION CONSIDERATIONS RELATING TO
POSSIBLE TENURE CHANGE
General Description
A small run property (1694 ha, 2600 stock units) in the Waikerikeri Valley, 12 km north of Alexandra.
Consists of 380 ha of flat outwash terraces, 250 ha of easy rolling hill country and the balance of steep to very steep contour in the SSE-NNW running gully.
Altitude rises from 300 m at the homestead up to 1430 m at the NW corner, which although reaching to near the crest of the southern Dunstans, is below the actual local summit (Leaning Rock, 1647 m).
The property contains two areas which while relatively small at 90 ha and 95 ha have high conservation values and also has one of the more important foot access routes (Lilico Spur) to the southern Dunstans crest.
Geology
Two distinct areas:
The Hill Area
In the Dunstan Ecological District basically one deeply entrenched gully carved in the eastern scarp face of the Dunstan schist block mountain range.
Predominantly yellow brown earth, Dunstan soils at higher altitude changing to dry-subhydrous yellow grey earth Arrow soils at lower altitude.
Some schist bluffs and tors occur at the upper reaches though the most spectacular of these are on adjoining properties.
The Terrace Flats
In the Maniototo Ecological District. At approximately 330 m in altitude.
Waikerikeri stony sand (brown grey earth of drybread group). An outwash gravel of the penultimate glaciation period.
Predominantly flat with gentle shallow gullies except for a significant steep terrace along the western boundary.
Climate
Rainfall varies from approximately 400 rnrn at the homestead to over 1000 mm on the highest country, with ground frost days increasing from 150 annually on the lower country to over 300 at the top.
Botanical
Originally the whole property would have been tussock grassland - silver tussock on the terraces, fescue/silver on the lower slopes, graduating through fescue tussock to narrow leaved snow tussock then to slim snow tussock on the highest country. Included in these areas would have been extensive shrubland communities, matagouri and manuka dominated at the lower levels, Hall's totara at the higher altitudes. Amongst these, Dracophyllums, Coprosmas and kowhai were also represented.
Much of the property has been heavily modified by farming.
The hill country in particular was heavily overgrazed by sheep and rabbits, removing much of the tussock cover and leading to extensive surface erosion.
With better management plus removal of the rabbits, the erosion is now largely stabilised but the tussock has only partly regenerated with large areas of the sunny faces being covered with low growing herbs, grasses, scabweeds and exotics.
Notably while appearing to be a degraded grassland vulnerable to Hieracium invasion, this has not occurred, probably due to inadequate rainfall.
Extensive areas of sweet briar have established at the lower levels.
Approximately two-thirds of the terraces have been cultivated to grass or lucerne, but the remaining third, although modified by grazing, is still largely natural and contains some of the best remaining examples of this type of grassland community.
Two areas are of particular interest and it is recommended that they transfer to DOC as part of any tenure change proposition.
Part RAP Dunstan A7
Consists of a short length (approximately 1 km) of the Waikerikeri Creek and associated valley. Covers approximately 90 ha and ranges from 550 m to 1250 m altitude.
Contains slim snow tussock, narrow leaved snow tussock and fescue tussock, together with patches of Hall's totara and Coprosma.matagouri shrubland.
The predominant cover is patches of narrow leaved snow tussock in fescue tussock with a significant proportion of exotic grasses.
Despite the degree of modification, the area was included in A priority Dunstan A7 RAP because it still has a significant degree of naturalness and in addition is particularly important for the representative areas of Hall's totara and because the area contains the lowest altitude narrow leaved snow tussock in the southern Dunstan mountains.
The Proposed Terrace Conservation Area
Although modified by grazing and in particular recent heavy winter grazing has noticeably affected the tussock component, this area has not been cultivated, oversown or topdressed and is still in a comparatively natural state.
Ralph Allen, DSIR, in his 1988 study described four main vegetation communities. All are represented in the area it is proposed to transfer to DOC though the majority of the thyme shrubland is not in this area.
In addition it is proposed that the terrace scrap/shoulder also be included. This will represent a different habitat which in nearby localities includes two rare Lepidium species.
The four main vegetation types are:
1. Tussock grassland.
Silver tussock provides 10 - 30% cover over areas varying from less than 100 m2 to entire interfluves of several hundred square metres. Hard tussock and blue tussock are usually associated, with a cover mostly less than a third that of silver tussock, but are rare where silver tussock is sparse. Sweet vernal is the main intertussock species, particularly prominent when in flower and seeding in summer, and haresfoot trefoil is also important in summer Small Pi me lea ar idula shrubs occur at low density, and are mainly confined to this vegetation type, and sweet brier is commonest here, with plants 0.5 - 1 m tall at densities of 1 - 3 per 100 m2. Matagouri is present as an insignificant component of the grassland.
2. Haresfoot trefoil herbfield.
In summer, haresfoot trefoil provides about 30% cover over areas of up to a few hundred square metres of silty soil that lack large perennial grasses or shrubs. Patches of scadweed are prominent, but do not provide much ground cover. About 20% of the soil surface is bare, and a mixture of the lichen chondro ps is , small annual grasses, and herbs, provides the balance of cover. In winter chondrops is covers up to 80% of the ground otherwise left bare by the departed annuals.
3. Danthonia - sweet vernal grassland.
An almost continuous turf, in winter dominated by danthonia, and in summer by danthonia and sweet vernal' covers the floors of most of the drainage channels. Clumps of several other grasses are also prominent, and the common herbs of the terrace reach their greatest stature here.
4. Thyme Shrubland
Thyme shrubs, mostly less than 0.4 m tall, form a few dense stands up to 100 m2 in extent, mainly on the eastern rims of drainage channels. In winter the ground between the shrubs is largely bare, whereas in summer haresfoot trefoil and a few other herbs provide a sparse cover.
Many species occur throughout all these vegetation types, varying in importance with the season: perennials are most prominent in winter, and annuals in spring and summer. Grasses include the native danthonia and blue wheat grass, and the introduced annual silvery hair grass, downy brome, and soft brome. The great majority of herbs are exotic: most prominent in winter are catsear, sheep's sorrel, hawksbeard, suckling clover, and white fuzzweed, joined in spring and summer by St Johns wort, sheep's bur, and viper's bugloss. Geranium sessiliflorum and the sedge Carex breviculmis are the most common native herbs. Small clumps of two moss species are scattered throughout.
Fauna
Again there are some significant difference between the terrace area and the hill country.
The terraces support a good representation of the insect fauna of the Maniototo Ecological District. Conspicuous groups are three species of grasshopper, a flightless localised chafer beetle, several ground beetles, two weta species, a cicada and over 30 day-flying moth species.
For short tussock grassland this is one of the best insect fauna sites in the ecological district which is an indication of the diversification and comparatively healthy condition of the vegetation.
The balance of the property is typical of low to mid altitude dry Central Otago block mountains. The insect fauna is rather depleted, particularly on sunny aspect slopes. On the higher or more shady areas with better vegetation the insects are better represented with diurnal beetles, cicadas, flies, moths and grasshoppers. There is also an increased population of common lizards and skinks. While the majority of these are relatively widespread over these and other block mountains in Otago, they are still worthy of protection.
Feral Animals
Goats are resident in the locality and an occasional pig has been known, however, the only feral animal of any consequence is the rabbit.
The property has a significant rabbit population and while not in the rabbit and land management programme, the lower altitude band with moderately steep contour and significant sweet briar cover, dense in patches, represents an ongoing problem for the lessees and a reinfestation source for other areas.
Rabbits have in the past been a significant factor in a moderately severe erosion problem, fortunately now stabilising.
The two main areas of conservation interest are not particularly vulnerable to rabbits - one, because of altitude and the other (the terraces) because of lack of cover.
Landscape
Lying on the southern end of the Dunstan Range, handy to Alexandra, and highly visible from a considerable distance including two main tourist routes, the property has significant landscape importance.
The southern Dunstan Range was assessed by Philip Blakely for DOC and while this property does not extend into the priority landscape area, the upper third is within the recommended eastern slopes' landscape management zone.
The major concerns and management recommendations are that:
1. The existing tussock and indigenous shrubland cover be maintained and preferably enhanced.
2. Tracks and buildings be confined to lower slopes and sited and designed to minimise impact.
3. Planting at the base of the range is supported provided appropriate non-spreading species are chosen.
Recreation
Bruce Mason's Outdoor Recreation in Otago Volume One puts approximately the top one-third of Waikerikeri in an "open space" zone, but notes limited recreation opportunities for much of this heavily modified landscape.
The property does not extend to the crest which contains the spectacular tors, including "Leaning Rock"
There is no vehicular access up through the property.
There would be some limited interest in short walks up the Waikerikeri Valley and along the water race.
Also, some quail, chukar, rabbit and goat shooting potential exists, but of poor quality and does not warrant formalising beyond the present word of mouth owners permission system.
The most significant feature of Waikerikeri from a recreation aspect is that one of the best foot access routes to the crest (from Waikerikeri Valley road via Lilico Spur) passes through the property and formal access to the best level negotiable (easement?) should be pursued. This would also give access to the RAP area on Waikerikeri.
No useful paper roads exist on the property.
History
Although reasonably close to the Clutha River which was a major access route for Ngai Tahu, no wahi tapu or other sites are recorded on Waikerikeri. This does not necessarily mean none exist however and the property has been visited by Trevor Howse of the Ngai Tahu Maori Trust Board who will report direct to the Commissioner of Crown Lands.
The only major remains from early European activities are two races, one being the Clyde township water supply including the intake in Waikerikeri Creek established in 1903; the other is a mining race which passes through Waikerikeri Creek and includes some major stone work in the gorge.
Management Requirements
Top area, part RAP Dunstan A7. Acquisition of this area will necessitate fencing. Either renewal of the existing boundary fence between Waikerikeri and Moutere or preferably if we are successful with obtaining the adjoining land from Moutere (which still seems likely) a new fence around the RAP boundary fencing the Waikerikeri part in with the balance on Moutere.
Estimated cost of the fencing would vary between $8000 (half share of existing fence renewal with Moutere) to $25 000 full cost of new fence on RAP boundary.
The fencing would be required in the short term.
No weed or pest problem is present and other than normal fence maintenance in the longer term very little management or expense would be required.
Survey cost of this area is estimated at $4500.
Access track up Lilico Spur.
Two signs, six to seven stiles and a number of marker posts would be required. No track formation would be necessary and maintenance would be minimal once established.
Estimated cost - $500 plus signs.
Survey cost in addition to above estimated at $4000.
Silver Tussock Area
If the whole of an existing paddock is obtained (as proposed) no fencing would be necessary. If, however, only part is able to be negotiated, approximately 1200 m of fencing costing $8000 would be required.
In addition to this, spraying and grubbing of briar and possibly Hieracium pilosella would be required with an initial clean up costing an estimated $500, then periodic spot eradication from time to time thereafter.
Regular rabbit control will be required on this area also (most likely as part of a more general operation through the area) but the normal rabbit rates (or contribution in lieu of) should cover this aspect.
The area will be retired from grazing. It is intended to negotiate public foot access - survey for both estimated at $2900.
Historic
No interpretation is proposed and there should be no significant expenditure involved with the historic features remaining on this property.
The races and associated stone work are protected under the Historic Places Act and other than pointing this out (and the requirements thereunder regarding any disturbance) to relevant parties, no fur1her protection is recommended.
APPENDICES
Vegetation of an outwash terrace, Waikerikeri Valley,
Maniototo Ecological District, Central Otago.
R.B.Allen, Botany Division, DSIR, Private Bag,
Dunedin.
12 January 1988
Summary.
Agriculturally undeveloped grassland was surveyed on a glacial outwash terrace in the Waikerikeri Valley, near Alexandra, in the Maniototo Ecological District. A mosaic of four vegetation types was recorded: tussock grassland dominated by silver tussock; herbfield dominated by haresfoot trefoil; grassland of danthonia and sweet vernal; and thyme shrubland. The flora is listed Flora and vegetation are compared with those described for other lowland sites in Central Otago. It is concluded that the vegetation of the Waikerikeri terrace is in a comparatively natural state, and would make a valuable addition to the protected natural area system of Central Otago.
Introduction.
Extensively grazed but otherwise agriculturally undeveloped grassland occurs over much of the extensive system of outwash terraces in the lower Manuherikia Valley, near Alexandra, Central Otago. Mr P. Marsh, Department of Conservation, obtained permission from Mr R.Parsons for a visit to his pastoral run in the Waikerikeri Valley, a tributary of the Manuherikia River near the foothills of the Dunstan Mountains' for the purpose of recording the flora and vegetation of the grassland. The area was surveyed on 20 September 1987 and 11 January 1988.
The study area
Detailed survey was centred on the terrace nearest the Waikerikeri Creek, at NZMS 1 S133 165575. Adjacent terrace lands were inspected briefly from the roads traversing them. Altitude is about 330 m a s.1. Outwash gravels of the penultimate glaciation (Wood 1962) form broad r very gently south-sloping terraces with regular wide, shallow, southwards-draining channels. The soil is mapped as Waikerikeri stony sand, a moderately developed, shallow profile, Drybread group brown-gray earth (Orbell 1971). Annual rainfall at Clyde, about 5 km to the south west, is about 580 mm. Daily mean temperature varies from 17·C in January to 2·C in June, with about 150 ground frost days annually (N.Z. Meteorological Service 1980).
Vegetation.
There are marked seasonal changes in the vegetation, and spatial variation that results in a mosaic of large patches dominated by different groups of three or four species. These patches may be distinguished as vegetation types as follows.
1. Tussock grassland.
Silver tussock provides 10 - 30% cover over areas varying from less than 100 m2 to entire interfluves of several hundred square metres. Hard tussock and blue tussock are usually associated, with a cover mostly less than a third that of silver tussock, but are rare where silver tussock is sparse. Sweet vernal is the main intertussock species, particularly prominent when in flower and seeding in summer' and haresfoot trefoil is also important in summer. Small Pi me lea ar idula shrubs occur at low density, and are mainly confined to this vegetation type, and sweet brier is commonest here, with plants 0.5 - 1 m tall at densities of 1 - 3 per 100 m2. Matagouri is present as an insignificant component of the grassland.
2. Haresfoot trefoil herbfield.
In summer, haresfoot trefoil provides about 30% cover over areas of up to a few hundred square metres of silty soil that lack large perennial grasses or shrubs. Patches of scabweed are prominent, but do not provide much ground cover. About 20% of the soil surface is bare, and a mixture of the lichen Chondrops is, small annual grasses, and herbs, provides the balance of cover. In winter Chondrops is covers up to 80% of the ground otherwise left bare by the departed annuals.
3. Danthonia - sweet vernal grassland.
An almost continuous turf, in winter dominated by danthonia, and in summer by danthonia and sweet vernal, covers the floors of most of the drainage channels. Clumps of several other grasses are also prominent, and the common herbs of the terrace reach their greatest stature here.
4. Thyme shrubland.
Thyme shrubs, mostly less than 0.4 m tall, form a few dense stands up to 100 m2 in extent mainly on the eastern rims of drainage channels. In winter the ground between the shrubs is largely bare, whereas in summer haresfoot trefoil and a few other herbs provide a sparse cover.
Many species occur throughout all these vegetation types, varying in importance with the season: perennials are most prominent in winter, and annuals in spring and a summer. Grasses include the native danthonia and blue wheat grass, and the introduced annual silvery hair grass, downy brome, and soft brome. The great majority of herbs are exotic: most prominent in winter are catsear, sheep's sorrel, hawksbeard, suckling clover, and white fuzzweed, joined in spring and summer by St Johns wort, sheep's bar, and viper's bugloss. Geranium sessiliflorum and the sedge Carex breviculmis are the most common native herbs. Small clumps of two moss species are scattered throughout.
Flora.
Vascular plants.
Acaena agnipila* Australian sheep's bur
Aira caryophyllea* silvery hair grass
Anthoxanthum odoratum* sweet vernal
Bromus hordeaceus* soft brome
B. tectorum* downy brome
Capsella bursa-pastoris* shepherd's purse
Carex breviculmis
Crepis capillaris* hawksbeard
Dichelachne crinita plume grass
Discaria toumatou matagouri
Echium vulgare* viper's bugloss
Elymus rectisetus blue wheat grass
Erodium cicutarium* storksbill
Festuca novae-zelandiae hard tussock
F. rubra
Geranium sessiliflorum
Hieracium pilosella* mouse-ear hawkweed
Hymenanthera alpina porcupine shrub
Hypericum perforatum* St John's wort
Hypochaeris radicata* catsear
Leucopogon fraseri patotara
Pimelea aridula
Poa cite silver tussock
Poa colenso blue tussock
Potentilla argentea* hoary cinquefoil
Raoulia australis scabweed
R. parkii
Rosa rubiginosa* sweet brier
Rumex acetosella* sheep's sorrel
Rytidosperma buchananii danthonia
Thymus vulgarism thyme
Trifolium arvense* haresfoot trefoil
T. dubium* suckling clover
Verbascum thapsus* woolly mullein
Veronica arvensis* field speedwell
Vittadinia australis white fuzzweed
Vulpia megalura*
* denotes introduced species
Discussion.
Accounts of the vegetation of semi-arid Central Otago before the advent of pastoralism and rabbit infestation suggest that a complete cover of native grasses clothed most of the lowlands (eg. Buchanan 1868, Petrie 1912, Bathgate 1922), There are few published recent descriptions of the flora and vegetation of the remaining undeveloped semi-arid lowlands in Central Otago, but clearly the former grasslands have been substantially depleted by fire, grazing, and the introduction of exotic plant species.
Plant communities on colluvial slopes in the Old Man Ecological District were noted briefly by Brumley e! al. (1986). Williams (1980) described communities dominated by the introduced purple fuzzweed (vittadinia triloba) on he sandy or stony soils of hill slopes in the Manuherikia and upper Clutha valleys. Watt (1979) included a description of vegetation on the sandy soils of the Cromwell flats in the Clutha valley.
Several species are shared by these and the Waikerikeri site, notably scabweed, silver tussock, and the common introduced annual grasses and perennial herbs. Nevertheless' marked dissimilarities in species density and community composition reflect the considerable differences in topography, substrate, and animal influence, at the different sites.
Vegetation on undeveloped outwash terraces of the last glaciation near Luggate, in the upper Clutha valley, has a similar exotic flora to that at Waikerikeri (Ward ef al. unpublished!. However, the dominant tussock there is hard tussock, scabweed is more prominent, and there is a larger native flora, including several shrubs and herbs not recorded at Waikerikeri. The terraces at Luggate experience nearly twice the rainfall (about 1000 mm/ann.) of Waikerikeri, and their shallow, stony, yellow-brown earth soils are consequently less fertile. These factors are sufficient to account for the differences in flora and vegetation.
Higher densities of silver, hard, and blue tussock survive on parts of the Waikerikeri terrace than occur on any of the other sites described. This probably results from the light intensities of sheep grazing over many years, relatively light use by rabbits, and the relatively fertile and erosion-free soil. Elsewhere on the terraces of the lower Hanuherikia Valley, tussock densities are negligible, and the vegetation is dominated either by haresfoot trefoil, thyme, and annual grasses, or, on developed farmland, by fodder crops and pasture species.
Conclusion.
The vegetation of the part of the Waikerikeri terraces descrLbed in this report is closer to a natural state than that described recently on any other part of the glacial outwash terraces of the upper Clutha and its tributaries. It is the best example of native grassland seen during this survey of the terraces of the lower Manuherikia Valley.
No similar vegetation is protected in the Maniototo Ecological District, and the Cromwell chafer beetle reserve, with extremely depleted vegetation, contains the only example protected in Central Otago.
A reserve on the Waikerikeri terrace, encompassing representative vegetation within the area shown on the accompanying map, would be an important addition to the sparse network of protected natural areas in Central Otago, from both biological and landscape perspectives.
Little, if any, change in management would be required to maintain the present vegetation, and this could be confirmed by a simple monitoring programme. The establishment of a few 10 x 10 m exclosures would provide information of considerable interest and importance on the dynamics of the vegetation in the absence of mammalian herbivores.
References
Bathgate, A. 1922: Some changes in the fauna and flora of Otago in the last sixty years. N.Z. J. Sci.;. Tech.4 (6):273-283.
Brumley, C.F., Stirling, M.W., Manning, M.S. 1938: Old Man Ecological District. Survey report for the New Zealand Protected Natural Areas Programme. New Zealand Natural Areas Programme No. 3. Department of Lands and Survey, Wellington.
Buchanan, J. 1868: Sketch of the botany of Otago. Trans. Roy. Soc. N.Z. 1 (Pt. 3):22-53.
New Zealand Meteorological Service 1980: Meteorological ohservations for 1980. N.Z. Met. S. Misc. Pub. 109 (1980). Ministry of Transport, Wellington.
Orbell, G.E. 1971: Soil map and extended legend of mid Manuherikia Valley, Central Otago, New Zealand. N.Z. Soil Bureau Publication 486, Naps 74/1,, 74/2. Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Wellington.
Petrie, D. 1912: Report on the grass denuded lands of Central Otago. New Zealand Department of Agriculture Industries and Commerce, Bulletin No. 23 (New Series):1 16.
Ward, C.M., Bruce, D.L., Rance, B.D., Roozen, D.A. 1987: Lindis, Pisa and Dunstan Ecological Districts. Unpublished draft survey report for the Protected Natural Areas Programme. Department of Lands and Survey, Wellington.
Williams, P.A. 1980: Vittadinia triloda and Rumx acetosella communities in the semi-arid regions of the South Island. N.Z. J. Ecol. 3:13-22.
Wood, B.L. 1962 Sheet 22 Wakatipu (1st Ed.) Geological Map of New Zealand 1:250,000. Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Wellington.
Manaaki Whenua
Landcare Research
18 March 1993
The Regional Conservator
Department of Conservation
PO Box 5244
Dunedin
Attn D. Gage
Waikerikeri terrace vegetation assessment
Further to our inspection of this area on I7 March 1993, I have th,e following comments on changes in the vegetation since my report on the area in January 1988, and regarding its present condition and conservation value.
There have been no major changes in the types and distribution of Vegetation, but the contribution and condition of some species differ.
Hypericum perforatum (St John's wort) is more common at present than noted in the previous report, largely reflecting natural seasonal variation. Rosa rubiginosa (sweet brier) density may have increased slightly in the north-western corner of the area inspected, although it shows no obvious change elsewhere. Elymus rectisetus (blue wheat grass) is more prominent, possibly indicating an increase in abundance. Hieracium pilosella (mouse-ear hawkweed) was recorded in 1988, but not noted as a species of importance. It is till present as irregularly scattered patches up to 10 m2 in size, but does not appear to be aggressively invasive, perhaps because the rainfall of this area is less than that considered optimal for the species.
Poa coloensoi (blue tussock) and P. cita (silver tussock) plants throughout the area show reduced stature and considerable morbidity compared with their appearance in 1988, and in the south-western part of the area there is up to 50% mortality of these species. Strong regrowth from cropped tussock bases suggests that an episode of heavy grazing is responsibIe for the decline in tussock condition, but that full recovery will occur in the absence of further grazing.
The 1988 report compares the Waikerikeri terrace with similar areas in the upper Clutha basin and notes its high value for biological conservation. Adding to this value is the presence of extensive terrace shoulder habitat apparently suitable for a native cress of restricted distribution, Lepidium sisymbrioides ssp. sisymbrioides, which grows on similar sites and soils at Patearoa and Pisa Flats, and its very 'rare relative L. s. ssp. matau, which is almost entirely restricted to a single site of similar characteristics at Galloway. It is possible that one of these plants is already present at Waikerikeri and may be found by intensive survey, or that the site may prove suitable for its establishment.
In conclusion, the vegetation descriptions and conclusions of the 1988 report are still relevant. -However, if the survival of blue and silver tussocks is to be assured, no further grazing should take place at least until they have regained their former stature and density. In-the absence of grazing, control of sweet: brier will be required. At present its elimination would be a minor management task. The elimination of mouse-ear hawkweed is also feasible at its present low density, and would be of benefit to the long-term conservation value of the area.
Yours faithfully
R.B. Allen
Scientist
Dunstan A7: WAIKERIKERI
LANDFORM
The middle and upper reaches of two adjacent catchments incised into the eastern scarp face of the Dunstan Mountains, together with a small section of the summit plateau culminating in the southern Dunstan summit. Landforms follow a clear altitudinal sequence characteristic of the Moutere land system.
The summit plateau is a spectacular periglacial landscape, dominated by large tors especially in the broad saddle north of Leaning Rock but e' so including well developed soil hummocks and solifluction lobes and terraces. The upper slopes to the east of Leaning Rock are steep, fluvially dissected, relatively stable colluvial slopes, but further north. The upper slopes are extensively slumped, with a transition to generally more stable slopes at lower altitudes. The mid reaches of the streams are deeply entrenched with steep derivative slopes only locally slumped. Waikerikeri Creek flows south and is more deeply gorged than Young Hill Creek and the other SE flowing streams of the Moutere land system. The gorge wells have steep ramps cod bands of bluffs controlled by the moderate southerly dip of the schist here.
Soils are predominantly hydrous yellow-brown earths, Carrick soils on the summit plateau and Dunstan soils on the slopes below grading into dry-subhygrous yellow-gray (Arrow) earths near the lower boundary of the priority area.
VEGETATION
The area features an altitudinal sequence of tussocklands,, with important components of montane - subalpine shrubland-q and alpine cushionfield.
The summit area is predominantly a diverse Dracophyllum muscoides cushionfield, reduced ;o scattered cushion species on stonier and more exposed sites on lag gravels. Localised snowbank vegetation includes Celmisia haastii, Caltha obtuse and Raoulia subulata as common species. Celmisia viscose herbfield and blue tussockland occur in sheltered sites with slim snow tussock occasionally present as small clumps or single tussocks.
Slim snow tussockland occupies a relatively small area above 1500 m on steep slopes east of Leaning Rock. and grades through hybrids over about 150 m altitude into narrow-leaved snow tussockland. North of Leaning Rock an analogous band between cushionfield and narrow-leaved snow tussockland is occupied by discontinuous Dracophyllums pronum dwarf shrubland or blue tussockland.
Narrow-leaved snow tussockland extends down on sunny slopes to about 1100 m and on shady slopes to 900 m with scattered snow tussocks persisting in fescue tussockland to 700 m. At lower aititudes the tussocklands become progressively more depleted of their native component, with increasing proportions of exotic grassland species including over sown clovers.
A variety of woody communities are present, usually associated with rock outcrops or steep, stony deflated soils. Manuka shrubland is relatively extensive, totalling about 30 ha mainly on sunny faces at 600-900 m in the west branch of Young Hill Creek and scattered pockets elsewhere.
The east branch of Young Hill Creek includes several different woody communities as small pockets less than 1 ha - bog pine shrubland, Halls totara treeland, and a snow totara shrubland with an associated Dracophyllum longifolium shrubland. Hall's totara is also scattered and clumped over extensive areas of steep derivative slopes in Waikerikeri Creek.
Mixed shrubland dominated by matagouri with Coprosma propinoua, Olearia odorata and Corokia cotoneaster is widespread below 800 m, usually associated with watercourses.
FLORA
Occasional broadleaf trees and shrubs are scattered over outcrops and steep derivative slopes in Waikerikeri Creek, together with a single specimen of lancewood. Kowhai trees with juveniles occur within mixed shrubland in Waikerikeri Creek.
Other - noteworthy species present, mainly alpine, are Hebe lycopodioides coral broom, Carmichaelia monroi, Corvbas macranthus, Raoulic clabra, Acaena inermis (spired form), Gnaphalium paludosum.
DISCUSSION
The summit tor landscape is probably New Zealand's best (ie, greatest concentration of large and varied tors).
Slim snow tussockland east of Leaning Rock is one of few areas in the southern Dunstans (only other substantial area is in Dunstan B9). Extensive hybridism between slim and narrow-leaved snow tussock here, forming a transitional tussockland, is in notable contra-q; with the clearcut relations in the northern Dunstans {Dunstan A1). With respect to their snow tussockland then, these two priority areas complement rather than duplicate each other. The extensive hybridism is perhaps related to fire-disturbance, which was probably also responsible for the elimination of slim snow tussockland from much of the summit area and its replacement with cushionfield.
The priority area is also important for its woody communities. Manuka shrubland is the most extensive in the district. Kanuka is particularly uncommon here, generally scattered among outcrops on ridge crests. The bog pine shrubland is the largest area of this significant community in the Dunstan district, and the snow totara shrubland is in better condition and is more diverse than is typical. Hall's totara is relatively widespread and vigorous though scattered.
With broadleaf and rare lancawood, these are significant forest relic species characteristically on fire refuges.
The lower boundary of the priority area is placed on strong catchment boundaries which enclose the best examples of the variety of woody communities and provide an adequate buffer of tussockland (of generally low naturalness). Dunstan B10 (Dry Creek) is contiguous and should be considered for protection in combination with this area.
Further downslope from the priority area, fescue tussockland is generally of very low naturalness, but include notable kowhai, Hall's totara. Hall's - snow totara hybrids a celery pine worthy of informal protection.
CRITERIA SUMMARY
| Representativeness | H | Good representation of shrubland, tussockland and high alpine communities of the southern Dunstan |
| Diversity | H | Many vegetation communities over a extensive altitudinal sequence. |
| Naturalness | H | Overall high, despite probably induced nature of most alpine and some depletion and exotic species in fescue tussockland at low altitude. |
| Special Features | H | Several forest relic species and communities, and other uncommon species: spectacular tor landscape |
| Viablity | H | With except on of lancewood, most species and communities vigorous. |
| Buffering | M | Woody vegetation generally in deep incised valleys and concentrated around fire refuges. Vegetation patterns similar in adjacent catchments. |
| Threat | M | Fire, pastoral development at lower altitude. |
| Landform | H | Small area of summit plateau and good representation of the full range of landform types of the fau scarpface of the Moutere land system, with exception of maturely dissected lower ridges. |
DOC Dunstans Landscape Survey - Waikerikeri Station (P 132)
Waikerikeri Station is located entirely within the Eastern Slopes Landscape Management Zone (L.M.Z) (refer zone description).
No priority areas for landcape protection are identified.The lease however does contain significant landscape values. It is important that these values are recognised and that the Department use its advocacy role, and advisory role to Landcorp to promote protection.
Landscape character - description
The lower part of the lease consists of arid terrace flats and a small area of irrigated more intensively farmed valley flats.
The terrace flats consist of mainly thyme, sweet vernal and remnant silver tussock. Trees are clustered around the homestead and farm buildings and along the valley flats. Poplar, Willow and Elderberry are common species.
The hill country is essentially a valley draining into Waikerikeri Creek. The lower slopes are characterised by distinct foothills and relatively gentle slopes in contrast to the steep faces of the upper Dunstans. Vegetation cover is depleted fescue tussock, exotic pasture grasses, matagouri and a moderate infestation of briar. Mid altitude zones have a good cover of fescue tussock. An increasing proportion of exotic grasses occurs on sunny faces and stock camp areas.
Lower slopes along Waikerikeri Creek have a moderately dense cover of shrubland - predominately matagouri which gives a gray/black appearance to the valley sides.
The upper slopes are strongly dissected and rise steeply to Leaning Rock. Waikerikeri Creek is deeply gorged.. Extensive rock bluffs and bands contrast woth the predominant snow tussock cover on the upper slopes. Erosion on steep faces is evident
Man made features include access tracks, communication equipment (including micrwave station on the boundary spur) and fencelines.
Visual and Scenic Values
The natural values (landform and vegetation characteristics) combined with the cultural overlay (i.e farming patterns, early plantings and buildings) together form a diverse and visually interesting landscape. The larger Waikerikeri Valley of which the lease forms a part has considerable scenic value and is easily accessed from Clyde and Alexandra.
The slopes on Waikerikeri Station also form an important backdrop to Alexandra (and the Alexandra basin) and to the appreciation of the South Dunstan Range. The lease area also forms part of the series of spurs which terminate at Leaning Pock. These are a significant visual element on the South end of the Range.
Management Prescription
The following management is recommended:
1. Management to retain or improve the tussock cover from lower to upper altitudes.
2. Retention of remaining indigenous shrubland cover.
3. Tracks and earthworks to be confined to 1ower slopes and carefully sited and integrated with existing landscape character and pattern.
4. Buildings and structures to be sited and designed to minimise impact.
5. Support for tree planting at the base of the range provided appropriate non-spreading species are used.
Comment on Ecological R.A.P Boundary
The boundary for the Ecological R.A.P with respect to Waikerikeri Station is considered appropriate. No adjustment for landscape reasons.
PANZ Submission on Draft Proposal for Exchange of Property Rights Waikerikeri Station
Friday, 23 September 1994
The Manager
Landcorp Property Limited
P O Box 27
ALEXANDRA
Dear Sir,
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the draft proposal.
Prior consultations with our representatives has assisted our consideration of the proposals.
The proposals are presented in seven steps-
(1) surrender of pastoral lease P 132
(2) allocation of 90 ha RAP to DOC with no grazing
(3) public foot access up Lilico Spur
(4) allocation of 50 ha of lowland silver tussock to DOC
(5) public foot access easement to area (4)
(6) special lease over 240 ha adjoining RAP
(7) reclassify and freehold 1279 ha
Overall the presentation of information on natural and recreational values in the proposals is adequate. We believe that this is sufficient for the purposes of tenure review. We have inspected the property.
Summary
We support the proposals but request that provision be made for public foot recreation within the proposed special lease, and provision be made for public recreation at the mouth of the Waikerikeri Creek gorge.
Our detailed comments follow-
RAP, and special Lease
This consists of steep, broken headwaters of the Waikerikeri Creek. Part of the area has been identified as an RAP because of the presence of narrow leaved snow tussock and remnant Halls totara. In addition to significant ecological values, the area has an impressive rock outcrop and tor landscape. The steep rugged nature of this area is more characteristic of a lakes district mountain environment like the Shotover than a Central Otago block mountain. It is impressive when viewed from Lilico Spur and from within.
The area currently receives some use by Alexandra trampers who find it attractive for day trips. Its attraction is due to it being relatively rugged, with plenty of scope for rock climbing and exploration of its intricate valleys and faces. Historically access has mainly been up the Waikerikeri Valley, which, despite plenty of scrub, provides good foot access. To a lesser extent Lilico Spur has also been used.
The Landcorp proposals refer to public access being provided to the RAP. However both the RAP and proposed special lease areas are attractive for tramping. There is only limited appeal for access to the RAP alone.
We strongly recommend that the terms of the special lease provide for public foot recreation within it at all times.
Access to the RAP and special lease
We strongly support the proposed public foot access up Lilico Spur. This provides a direct and interesting route to the above areas. It follows a 4WD track for much of its length which is well grassed and an easy grade. In its upper reaches the Spur has the character of a mountain ridge with rock outcrops and narrow crest. This makes interesting tramping. The Spur provides excellent views of the Waikerikeri valley and the lower Manuherikia basin. There may be some call for vehicular access up the track, however we believe this should remain at the discretion of the owner.
The terms of the easement must provide public right of passage on foot at all times without prior notification or consents required. It must be registered against the title. We do not agree with a Walkways Act easement being used as these have potential for closure of access. The route should be marked and the terms of use signposted at the base.
In regard to the Waikerikeri creek route, this will continue to have appeal for public walking. We believe that in part this could be accommodated by the provision of marginal strips in the lower reaches where the stream appears to be 3 metres or more between banks. If the stream meets the requirements of section 24 of the Conservation Act, in whole or in part, then we believe marginal strips should be laid off. This would at least cater for informal recreational use of the lower stream and its banks (see more below) and provide access for fishing (brown trout present above weir). Provided that the Lilico Spur route is formalised as the guaranteed access to the 'top blocks' we feel that continued 'owner's permission' for access up the valley will be sufficient.
Picnic area desirable
The mouth of the Waikerikeri gorge is popular in summer for picnicking/swimming above the water race weir. The area is located at the end of the formed legal road and is readily accessible. We recommend that marginal strips be laid off in this locality, in addition to the legal road being defined where it crosses the creek. If the area does not qualify for marginal strips, we recommend that a small recreation reserve be created.
Lowland silver tussock reserve
We understand from the information provided that this is the best representative area of undeveloped outwash terraces in the Manuherikia valley. We support its reservation. This will be valuable for ecological studies, as a scientific benchmark, and for educational purposes. We support provision of public foot access by way of registered easement.
Freeholding
The hill blocks proposed for freeholding, although predominantly Land Use Capability Class VII, are in the nature of hill rather than high country. All of the area is below 3500 feet. It is slightly depleted short tussock grassland, and shrublands that has been oversown and topdressed in the past. It is capable of pasture improvement with further inputs. The limitations to farming appear to be the shallow soils and dry climate rather than high altitude. There are not the nature conservation values present which we are concerned about generally in the South island high country. We have no objections to these blocks, and the developed low altitude slopes and terraces, being freeholded.
Game Bird Hunting
There are quail throughout. 'Owner's permission' is sufficient within the area proposed for freeholding.
We would welcome further discussions to resolve any outstanding matters that may stand in the way of completion of this deal.
We wish to extend our thanks to the lessee for his cooperation in allowing us access for inspection and himself and officials for negotiating some very worthwhile proposals for tenure review.
Yours faithfully,
Bruce Mason
Trustee
(Official) ANALYSIS OF PUBLIC SUBMISSIONS
FOR TENURE REVIEW ON WAIKERIKERI STATION
Following the advertising of this proposal on the 6 and 10 of August 1994, eight submissions were received. All were supportive of the proposal. The only two concerns raised were that of formalizing current use of area at base of Waikerikeri Stream and public access within the proposed Special Lease.
A brief summery of each submission follows:
| Public Lands Coalition: |
Supportive Concerns - |
Public access to Special Lease, public use of Waikerikeri Creek Mouth . |
| Otago Regional Council: | Supportive - | Will discharge current LIA. |
| John L Turnbull: | Supportive | |
| Central Otago Tramping Club: | Supportive | |
| Public Access New Zealand: | Supportive - | Comment same as Public Lands Coalition. |
| Otago Tramping and Mountaineering Club: |
Supportive Concerns - |
Public access in Special Lease, public use and access to Lower Waikerikeri Stream. |
| P L Dymock: |
Supportive Concerns - |
Waikerikeri Mouth picnic area. |
| Royal Forest Forest and Bird Protection Society: (Upper Clutha Group) | Supportive |
Knight Frank
Land Resources Division
Our Ref: Po 132/1
13 June 1997
Bruce Mason
Public Access NZ
RD I
OMAKAU
Dear Submitter
RE: TENURE REVIEW - WAIKERIKERI
Thank you for your submission on the above tenure review.
I am pleased to advise that the Commissioner of Crown Lands has approved the following proposal:
1. The surrender of Po 132 (Waikerikeri) following completion of survey.
2. The issue of a Special Lease issued under Section 67 (2) of the Land Act 1948 over approximately 330 ha, and the subsequent transfer of this lease to tbe Department of Conservation. The Iease contains provisions for the RAP area to be fenced out of the lease at a future date if warranted.
3. The classification of an area of 1329 ha (subject to survey) as farmland and the preferential allocation of this land to R G J & J P Parsons.
4. The establishment of an access easement to tbe proposed conservation estate (special lease area) via Lilico Spur. This easement is to be registered under Section 7 (2) of the Conservation Act 1987.
5. The establishment of a 20 metre strip on eitber side of the lower Waikerikeri Creek which will incorporate an area currently used by the public. The status of the strip will depend if upon survey the stream qualifies for a marginal strip. If the creek does not qualify for a marginal strip (ie under 3 metres wide) an easement will be registered against freehold title under Section 7 (2) Conservation Act.
A map of this outcome is attached.
Thank you again for your assistance with the tenure review programme.
Yours faithfully
Lesley Taylor
or for Manager, Alexandra
KNIGHT FRANK (NZ) LIMITED
Map of Commissioner's decision
Gate just short of Waikerikeri Creek and starting point of access up Lilico Spur (yellow-topped marker posts). Marginal strips established either side of creek within paddock the other side of gate and upstream to Conservation Area.
Private Property sign misleading. A public road goes through gate to Creek and over low saddle to right. Lilico Spur easement legally commences at saddle. Public entitled to drive to Creek and picnic along banks.
Terms of Lilico Spur easement: "any member of public...shall have the full free uninterrupted and unrestricted right liberty and privilege from time to time and at all times by day and by night to go pass and repass on foot only".
Walkers wishing to climb beyond the Conservation Area to Leaning Rock should obtain prior permission from Moutere Station pastoral lessee Tony Jopp (03) 447 3726.
This access relies on 20 metre wide marginal strips either side of the Creek which go to an old weir. The strips continue upstream to the boundary of the Conservation Area. This allows an interesting round trip via the Conservation Area and the Lilico Spur easement.
329 hectares of the Conservation Area are subject to a special lease. "The purpose of the lease is to provide for the maintenance and enhancement of nature conservation landscape soil and water and public recreation values whilst allowing for periodic grazing". "The Lessees will at all times allow law abiding members of the public free right of ingress and regress".